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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zurich
Showing times and prices for 04 Dec
Cheapest price
£81
Average price
£109
Fastest journey
5 h 55 m
Average duration
6 h 17 m
Trains per day
6
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 £109 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £81.
Fast trains
To travel from Essen to Zurich you need to make at least one change.
EC 7 · IR 227308:006h52
Essen Hbf14:52Zurich HB
£811One-way
1 change
ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 55508:146h12
Essen Hbf14:26Zurich HB
£1121One-way
2 changes
ICE 515 · ICE 277 · IC 77509:055h55
Essen Hbf15:00Zurich HB
£1121One-way
2 changes
ICE 515 · IC 18709:056h18
Essen Hbf15:23Zurich HB
£1121One-way
1 change
ICE 915 · ICE 71 · STR 2 · IR 197308:146h10
Essen Hbf14:24Zurich HB
£1121One-way
3 changes
ICE 515 · ICE 277 · IC 77509:055h55
Essen Hbf15:00Zurich HB
£1121One-way
2 changes
ICE 915 · ICE 71 · STR 2 · IR 197308:146h10
Essen Hbf14:24Zurich HB
£1121One-way
3 changes
ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 55508:146h12
Essen Hbf14:26Zurich HB
£1121One-way
2 changes
ICE 515 · IC 18709:056h18
Essen Hbf15:23Zurich HB
£1121One-way
1 change
EC 7 · IR 227308:006h52
Essen Hbf14:52Zurich HB
£811One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Essen to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £26. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £26, and a flight costs an average of £55.
Distance: 468 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£101 Average Price | £128 Average Price | £45 Average Price Cheapest |
7h 4m Average total duration 6h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 48m Average total duration 9h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Essen to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Thursday 4 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 13:57
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 7 · IR 2273 | On time 07:00 Essen Hbf | 6h52 | 13:52 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 555 | On time 07:14 Essen Hbf | 6h12 | 13:26 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 71 · STR 2 · IR 1973 | On time 07:14 Essen Hbf | 6h10 | 13:24 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 73 | On time 08:00 Essen Hbf | 7h00 | 15:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| ICE 515 · ICE 277 · IC 775 | On time 08:05 Essen Hbf | 5h55 | 14:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| ICE 515 · IC 187 | On time 08:05 Essen Hbf | 6h18 | 14:23 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen 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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04 Dec
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Zurich
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Essen to Zurich run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £46 but you can travel from only £26 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 468 km distance in 6h 0m.
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 £26
Distance 468 km |
Average train duration 6h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £46 |
Trains per day 16 |
Fastest train 6h 0m |
First train 00:08 |
Last train 23:39 |
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 £26
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Zurich from £26. 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 Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
£35
Deutsche Bahn frequency
18 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
A day trip from Essen to Zurich is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 0m, covering a distance of 468 km. Trains run 16 times per day.
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.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £46, while the average price tends to be around £101.
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.
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.
The train journey from Essen to Zurich covers a distance of 468 km and takes approximately 6h 0m. Trains run 16 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Zurich is by coach, costing approximately £26.
The train distance from Essen to Zurich is 468 km.
The train station in Essen that goes to Zurich is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Zurich HB.
The first train from Essen to Zurich leaves at 0:08.
The last train from Essen to Zurich departs at 23:39.
Trains from Essen to Zurich run approximately 16 times per day.
There is no night train service from Essen to Zurich.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Zurich.
To get from Essen to Zurich, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Zurich
Essen
Zurich
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Zurich.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Essen West
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
The major train station for arrivals in Zurich is Zürich Stadelhofen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich Stadelhofen for your journey to Zurich from Essen.
Zürich Stadelhofen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
Dining
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1000 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
Public transport options for Zürich Stadelhofen
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
Zürich Hardbrücke
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking available nearby with several parking options
Dining
- Brisket Southern BBQ & Bar
- Les Halles
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- 25hours Hotel Zürich West
- Sheraton Zürich Hotel
- Novotel Zurich City West
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located on the main concourse
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-8 for S-Bahn and regional trains
Public transport options for Zürich Hardbrücke
- Tram: Line 4, Line 8
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
ShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
- Cost CHF 12
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transport options for Zürich HB
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Zurich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Essen
Most popular train connections to Zurich
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