Nyon Railway Station

NyonSwitzerland 46° N · 6° E

Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, Nyon Railway Station stands as a crucial gateway to the charming Swiss town of Nyon and its culturally rich…

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Nyon Railway Station
Nyon railway station building with covered platforms in Nyon, Switzerland
Image of Nyon railway station showing the station building and covered platforms in the town of Nyon, Switzerland

Nyon Railway Station

Nyon Railway Station, at Chemin du Bochet 10, 1260 Nyon, is a key interchange on the Lausanne–Geneva line operated by Swiss Federal Railways. Established in the 19th century, it connects Nyon with major Swiss cities and is the terminus of the narrow-gauge Nyon–St-Cergue–Morez Railway. It also links regional trains, buses, the Léman Express and CGN boat services, serving commuters, tourists and cross-border travelers (Lake Geneva Switzerland; MySwitzerland: Nyon; Nyon public transport).

The station is an important part of Nyon’s economic, cultural and tourism life. It supports local commerce and the community, including during major events such as the Paléo Festival. Regional transport links also support travel to France and neighboring Swiss regions.

History

Nyon’s original 19th-century station became a key node on the main Swiss rail line between Geneva and Lausanne, facilitating passenger and freight movement. Its central location helped Nyon develop as a commuter town and tourist destination, close to Lake Geneva and the Jura mountains (Lake Geneva Switzerland; Wikivoyage).

The narrow-gauge Nyon–St-Cergue–Morez Railway (NStCM) opened in stages from 1916 to 1921. Electrified from the start, it climbs from 400 m in Nyon to 1,228 m at the Col de la Givrine, making it the highest railway in the Jura Mountains. It initially connected Swiss and French railways; after the French section closed in 1958, the line’s terminus became La Cure. The railway opened up the Jura for hiking, skiing and nature excursions. Its modern underground Nyon terminus opened in 2004, improving transfers and passenger flows (Wikipedia).

The station combines classic Swiss architecture with modern upgrades, including digital information displays, improved platforms and enhanced safety. SBB modernization projects include passenger-comfort enhancements and sustainability initiatives. The NStCM continues to preserve regional railway heritage, complemented by museum exhibits and scenic views.

What to see

Nyon’s Old Town has medieval streets, cafés and boutiques. The Roman Museum presents the town’s Roman heritage and archaeological displays. The lakeside promenade and port offer access to CGN boat services and excursions, including to Yvoire, France.

Nyon Castle

Dating back to the 12th century and rebuilt in the 17th, Nyon Castle has served as a fortress and governor’s residence. It houses the Musée du Léman, which celebrates the culture and ecology of Lake Geneva. Its fortified walls and terraces offer panoramic views of the lake, the Alps and the Jura. Highlights include medieval towers, battlements and period details (Official Nyon Castle Website).

Practical visiting information

Station hours and tickets

The station building is generally open daily from early morning, approximately 5:00 AM, to late evening, approximately midnight. Station hours are also listed as 5:00 AM–midnight. Ticket machines are accessible 24/7. Ticket counters are staffed during most station hours, though exact times may vary; check the Swiss Federal Railways website for up-to-date information.

Tickets are available at station counters, multilingual automated machines, through the SBB Mobile app or online. NStCM tickets are available in a dedicated station area. Options include single tickets, day passes, the regional Léman Pass, the Swiss Travel Pass for tourists and Mobilis fare network tickets for combined use on trains, buses and boats.

Getting there and station facilities

Direct trains take 15 minutes from Geneva and 20 minutes from Lausanne. Regional trains link Nyon with Geneva, Lausanne, Basel, Zürich and St. Gallen. Local buses connect the station with neighborhoods and attractions. Parking and bike-sharing stations are available nearby, and bike parking is provided at the station.

Station facilities include waiting rooms, restrooms, including accessible restrooms, luggage lockers, shops and free Wi-Fi. Accessibility features include ramps, elevators, tactile guidance paths and step-free access. Signage is in French, German and English, with digital displays.

A tourist office near the station provides maps and guides (La Côte Tourisme: City Tour of Nyon).

Nyon Castle visiting information

The castle is a short walk from the station. Its opening hours are:

  • April–October Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00
  • November–March Closed

Tickets cost CHF 10 for adults and CHF 5 at the reduced rate for students, seniors and groups. Children under 16 enter free. Guided tours are available on weekends and public holidays, and seasonal cultural events are held. Facilities include a visitor center, gift shop and picnic area. Accessibility efforts include ramps and adapted restrooms.

Tips

Arrive early, use the SBB Mobile app and store luggage if exploring. During holidays, check schedules; extra trains may run during festivals such as the Paléo Festival. For the castle, buy tickets in advance during peak season, consider visiting on a weekday when it is quieter and bring a camera. You can combine a castle visit with a stroll through the Old Town and lakeside park. Historical-site visits, including to Nyon Castle and the Roman Museum, can be arranged through the local tourist office. A suggested greeting for station staff is “Bonjour.”

Nearby places

  • Old Town Medieval streets, cafés and boutiques; about a 5-minute walk from the station.
  • Nyon Castle About a 10-minute walk from the station.
  • Roman Museum Exhibits on Nyon’s Roman heritage.
  • Lakeside promenade and port Promenades and CGN boat tours, including excursions to Yvoire, France.

Frequently asked questions

What are Nyon Railway Station’s visiting hours?
The station is open daily, approximately 5:00 AM–midnight. Ticket machines are available 24/7.

How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are available at counters, machines, through the SBB Mobile app or online.

Is the station accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes. The station has ramps, elevators, tactile paths and step-free access.

Are there parking and bike facilities?
Yes. Parking and bike-sharing stations are available nearby, and the station has bike parking.

What can I visit near the station?
Nearby sights include Nyon Castle, the Roman Museum, the lakeside promenade and port, and the Old Town.

Are guided tours of Nyon Castle available?
Yes, on weekends and public holidays.

Is the castle suitable for children?
Yes. Children under 16 enter free, and the museum has interactive exhibits.

Is Nyon Castle wheelchair accessible?
Most main areas are accessible, though some historical sections may not be.