- Must visit
Kunsthaus Zürich
Major art museum with Swiss and European works from the Middle Ages to today, ideal for a broad overview of Zurich’s cultural life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Zurich
Showing times and prices for 16 Aug
Cheapest price
£120
Average price
£139
Fastest journey
5 h 51 m
Average duration
5 h 53 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
225 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Zurich will cost around £139 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £120.
Fast trains
Of the 8 trains that leave Cologne for Zurich every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 225 km distance in an average of 5 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 51 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
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9:315h52Köln Messe/deutz Bf15:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes- 9:586h25Köln Messe/deutz Bf16:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 13:305h53Köln Messe/deutz Bf19:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 15:305h53Köln Messe/deutz Bf21:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 17:325h51Köln Messe/deutz Bf23:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 17:325h51Köln Messe/deutz Bf23:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 9:315h52Köln Messe/deutz Bf15:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 13:305h53Köln Messe/deutz Bf19:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
- 15:305h53Köln Messe/deutz Bf21:23Zurich£1201One-way2 changes
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11:285h55Koeln Hbf17:23Zurich£2021One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £22, and a flight costs an average of £117.
Distance: 225 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£89 Average Price | £25 Average Price Cheapest | £127 Average Price |
5h 37m Average total duration 5h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 27m Average total duration 7h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration Fastest 4h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Zurich trains for today, Saturday 15 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19:30 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 12h53 | 8:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
| 23:53 Köln Hbf | 8h12 | 8:05 Zurich | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 16 August | |||||
| 9:31 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 5h52 | 15:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
| 9:58 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 6h25 | 16:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
| 11:28 Koeln Hbf | 5h55 | 17:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
| 13:30 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 5h53 | 19:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
| 15:30 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 5h53 | 21:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
| 17:32 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 5h51 | 23:23 Zurich | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Zurich by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Zurich
Italy
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Zurich run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £80 but you can travel from only £22 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 06:15, the last at 19:33. The fastest train covers the 225 km distance in 5h 7m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £22
Distance 225 km |
Average train duration 5h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price £80 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 5h 7m |
First train 6:15 |
Last train 19:33 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £22
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Zurich from £22. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 51m
Cheapest Price
£113
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
3 a day
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 55m
Cheapest Price
£189
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Zurich
Things to do in Zurich
Discover the best of Zurich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zurich trip today.
- Must visit
Landesmuseum Zürich
National museum in a castle-like building near the main station, presenting Swiss history, design, and everyday life through varied displays.
- Recommended
Museum für Gestaltung Zürich
Leading design museum with changing exhibitions on architecture, graphics, fashion, and product design in a well-run central venue.
- Must visit
Bahnhofstrasse
Zurich’s best-known shopping boulevard, lined with elegant buildings, trams, and easy walks between the station, lake, and old town.
- Must visit
Niederdorf
Historic old-town quarter of lanes, squares, churches, and river views, ideal for walking, sightseeing, and discovering Zurich’s medieval core.
- Must visit
Lindenhof
Hilltop viewpoint and green area above the city, known for broad panoramas, woodland paths, and a quick escape from the urban centre.
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, traditionally served with rösti. It is Zurich’s signature dish and a classic of local taverns.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Pan-fried grated potato cake, crisp outside and soft inside. A Swiss staple closely linked with Zurich and often served with meat, eggs or cheese.
- Vegetarian
Käsefondue
Melted cheese blended with white wine and kirsch, eaten by dipping bread. A beloved Swiss communal dish, especially in colder months.
Restaurant Kronenhalle
Classic Zurich restaurant known for Zürcher Geschnetzeltes and other Swiss specialities in an elegant old-town atmosphere.
Restaurant Zeughauskeller
Traditional Swiss beer hall serving fondue, rösti and sausages in a lively, wood-panelled setting near the station.
Hiltl
Long-running vegetarian restaurant with a large buffet and Swiss-international dishes in a bright, central setting.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Very high prices for hotels, dining and transport. Zurich costs more than most European city breaks, especially in central tourist areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Round up taxi fares and small café bills.
ZVV App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.70
- Day pass
- CHF 9.40
To the city centre
Zürich HB -> Zürich HB
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Zurich city travel is usually in ZVV zones 110 and 121, counted as 2 zones for fares. Buy before boarding via the ZVV App, a ticket machine, or online.
- ZVV ticket machines sell tram, bus and train tickets. Trams and buses generally do not sell standard tickets on board, so purchase before you travel.
FAQs: Cologne to Zurich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Zurich by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Zurich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £80, while the average price tends to be around £89.
The train journey from Cologne to Zurich covers a distance of 225 km and takes approximately 5h 7m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Zurich is 225 km.
The first train from Cologne to Zurich leaves at 6:15.
The last train from Cologne to Zurich departs at 19:33.
Trains from Cologne to Zurich run approximately 11 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cologne to Zurich.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Zurich. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
To get from Cologne to Zurich, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Zurich.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Zurich is Cologne station, and it arrives at Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Zurich is by coach, costing approximately £22.
Booking trains from Cologne to Zurich in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cologne to Zurich is indeed scenic, as it takes you through picturesque landscapes, including the beautiful Rhine Valley with its vineyards, castles, and charming towns.
A day trip from Cologne to Zurich is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 7m. Trains run 11 times per day covering a distance of 225 km.
In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to the summit of Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps. Indulge in shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets. Explore the diverse habitats and wildlife at Zurich Zoo, or enjoy a performance at the renowned Opera House. Wander through the serene Botanical Garden with its wide variety of plant species. Visit the picturesque Lake Zurich for recreational activities, or stroll through the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings and cultural landmarks. Discover art at Kunsthaus Zurich and explore Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum. Relax in Lindenhof park, offering beautiful city views and a glimpse into Zurich's Roman history.
To fully experience Zurich, spending three to four days allows time to explore its cultural landmarks, enjoy the picturesque Lake Zurich, and visit nearby attractions like Uetliberg Mountain.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Zurich.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Zurich
Most Cologne to Zurich trains use the Cologne to Zürich HB station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Zurich
Which Cologne station do trains to Zurich leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Zurich leave from Cologne. The station is 1 km from Cologne city centre at 25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy.
Cologne25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne from Cologne city centre
TrainRe · 17m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · £4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · £4
Cologne train station facilities and services
Cologne has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne.
Which Zurich station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Zurich arrive at Zürich HB. Zürich HB is 2 km from Zurich city centre.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · £3 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · £0.90 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · £2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · £2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · £2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Zurich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Zurich
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