ESSEN to ZURICH train from £28 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zurich

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 16 Oct

Cheapest price on 16 Oct

£76

Average ticket price on 16 Oct

£130

Fastest journey on 16 Oct

5 h 50 m

Average journey duration on 16 Oct

6 h 31 m

Trains on 16 Oct

Distance

468 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Zurich will cost around £130 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £76.

Fast trains

On Fri 16 Oct, we found 6 trains from Essen to Zurich, including 6 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 468 km distance in an average of 6 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 50 m .

The slowest trains will take 7 h 46 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.

7:007h00
Essen
14:00Zurich
£761One-way
0 changes
6:006h00
Essen
12:00Zurich
£1291One-way
0 changes
7:407h46
Essen
15:26Zurich
£1301One-way
0 changes
10:006h00
Essen
16:00Zurich
£1401One-way
0 changes
6:365h50
Essen
12:26Zurich
£1421One-way
0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Zurich

Germany

Switzerland

Trains from Essen to Zurich run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £45 but you can travel from only £28 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 468 km distance in 5h 18m.

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 £28

Distance

468 km

Average train duration

6h 9m

Cheapest ticket price

£45

Trains per day

Fastest train

5h 18m

First train

0:08

Last train

23:30

Cheapest Month

Nov

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Coach from £28

Live departures

Essen to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Friday 16 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
	6:00 Essen	6h00	12:00 Zurich	0 changesdirect
	6:36 Essen	5h50	12:26 Zurich	0 changesdirect
	7:00 Essen	7h00	14:00 Zurich	0 changesdirect
	7:03 Essen	7h50	14:53 Zurich	0 changesdirect
	7:40 Essen	7h46	15:26 Zurich	0 changesdirect
	10:00 Essen	6h00	16:00 Zurich	0 changesdirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Zurich trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCF | TGV Lyria or Eurostar offer trains services from Essen to Zurich.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Zurich.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | TGV Lyria or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Zurich.
Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Zurich.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | TGV Lyria or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Zurich.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Zurich.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Eurostar from Essen to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Eurostar trains will get you between Essen and Zurich from £28. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Duration

5h 18m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

£45

Deutsche Bahn frequency

6 a day

Luggage included

Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves

Luggage storage

Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.

Cancellation Policy

Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?

Refund

If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.

Seat reservation

Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.

Pets

Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.

Quiet zone

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

SNCF | TGV Lyria

About

TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration

9h 2m

Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price

£138

SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policies vary by ticket type

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks

Seat reservation

First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free

Quiet zone

Eurostar

About

Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Eurostar Duration

9h 2m

Cheapest Eurostar Price

£138

Eurostar frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket

Luggage storage

Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks

Cancellation Policy

Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled trains

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes

Seat reservation

Included in ticket price for all classes

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs

Quiet zone

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

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museum für Gestaltung Zürich

Leading design museum with changing exhibitions on architecture, graphics, fashion, and product design in a well-run central venue.

View on map Visit website

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.

FAQs: Essen to Zurich train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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 Essen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £45, while the average price tends to be around £117.

The train journey from Essen to Zurich covers a distance of 468 km and takes approximately 5h 18m. Trains run 7 per day.

The train distance from Essen to Zurich is 468 km.

The first train from Essen to Zurich leaves at 0:08.

The last train from Essen to Zurich departs at 23:30.

Trains from Essen to Zurich run approximately 7 times per day.

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Zurich.

There is no night train service from Essen to Zurich.

The train station in Essen that goes to Zurich is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Zurich HB.

Booking trains from Essen 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 Essen to Zurich offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the rolling hills of southern Germany before reaching the beautiful Swiss countryside.

Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Zurich.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Zurich

Most Essen to Zurich trains use the Essen Hbf to Zürich HB station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen

Arrival train stations in Zurich

Which Essen station do trains to Zurich leave from?

Trains from Essen to Zurich leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 1 km from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.

Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre

BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min

Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min

Essen Hbf train station facilities and services

Essen Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.

More about Essen Hbf

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre

TRUE

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.

KettwigKettwig, Ruhrtalstr. 345, 45219 Essen Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Kettwig from Essen city centre

Kettwig is 11 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 15m · £3 · every ~6 min

BusS6 · 22m · £5

142, Ne13 · 39m · every ~7 min

Kettwig train station facilities and services

Kettwig has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.