- 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.
Cheapest price on 01 Sept
£36
Average ticket price on 01 Sept
£91
Fastest journey on 01 Sept
6 h 28 m
Average journey duration on 01 Sept
6 h 36 m
Trains on 01 Sept
48
Distance
468 km
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 £91 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £36.
To travel from Essen to Zurich you need to make at least 2 changes.
ICE 523 · ICE 911 · ICE 275
26806 · 10613 · IC 2040 · ICE 279
26844 · ICE 827 · ICE 273
26805 · ICE 103 · IC 795
26806 · 10613 · ICE 103 · IC 795
89706 · ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 277
ICE 119 · ICE 71+
TGV 9211
26712 · S8 · 17418 · ICE 919
ICE 523 · ICE 911 · ICE 275
10126 · 17418 · ICE 919 · ICE 73Omio 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 an average ticket price of £42 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 8m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £42, while a flight costs an average of £98.
Distance: 468 km
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£85 Average Price | £98 Average Price | £42 Average Price Cheapest |
6h 35m Average total duration 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 8m Average total duration Fastest 1h 8m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 11m Average total duration 9h 41m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 1 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
26844 · ICE 827 · ICE 273 | 1:09 Essen Hbf | 8h51 | 10:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
ICE 921 · ECE 151 | 2:26 Essen Hbf | 9h34 | 12:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 523 · ECE 151 | 4:20 Essen Hbf | 7h40 | 12:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 523 · ICE 911 · ICE 275 | 4:20 Essen Hbf | 6h40 | 11:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
ICE 1028 · ICE 101 · EC 151 | On time 4:59 Essen Hbf | 7h01 | 12:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
26802 · 10609 · IC 2348 · ICE 277 | 5:09 Essen Hbf | 7h51 | 13:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26802 · 10609 · ICE 101 · EC 151 | 5:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 12:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
ICE 541 · 33082+ 15105+ ICE 593 | 5:19 Essen Hbf | 8h41 | 14:00 Zurich HB | 5 changes | |
30759 · ICE 513 · ICE 277 | 6:07 Essen Hbf | 6h53 | 13:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
89706 · ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 277 | 6:32 Essen Hbf | 6h28 | 13:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26805 · ICE 103 · IC 795 | 7:05 Essen Hbf | 6h55 | 14:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
26806 · 10613 · ICE 103 · IC 795 | 7:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 14:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26806 · 10613 · IC 2040 · ICE 279 | 7:09 Essen Hbf | 7h51 | 15:00 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
ICE 119 · ICE 71+ TGV 9211 | On time 7:52 Essen Hbf | 6h34 | 14:26 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
30763 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 775 | 8:07 Essen Hbf | 6h53 | 15:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26808 · 10615 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 | 8:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 15:00 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
ICE 1545 · ICE 105 | On time 8:47 Essen Hbf | 7h13 | 16:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
26810 · 10617 · ICE 2013 · ICE 371 | 9:09 Essen Hbf | 7h51 | 17:00 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
26810 · 10617 · ICE 105 | On time 9:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 16:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
26711 · ICE 797 · ICE 597 · ICE 107 | 9:13 Essen Hbf | 8h47 | 18:00 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
30767 · ICE 517 · ICE 371 · IC 779 | 10:07 Essen Hbf | 6h53 | 17:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
ICE 1547 · ICE 107 · IC 781 | On time 10:47 Essen Hbf | 7h13 | 18:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
26814 · S19 · ICE 107 · IC 781 | 11:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 18:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26814 · S19 · IC 1144 · ICE 373 | 11:09 Essen Hbf | 7h51 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26715 · ICE 799 · ICE 599 · ICE 109 | On time 11:13 Essen Hbf | 8h47 | 20:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
ICE 919 · ICE 373 | On time 11:41 Essen Hbf | 7h19 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 919 · ICE 73 · IC 581 | On time 11:41 Essen Hbf | 6h45 | 18:26 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
10126 · 17418 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 | 11:46 Essen Hbf | 6h40 | 18:26 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
26712 · S8 · 17418 · ICE 919 | 11:47 Essen Hbf | 6h39 | 18:26 Zurich HB | 5 changes | |
30771 · ICE 519 · ICE 373 | 12:07 Essen Hbf | 6h53 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
26816 · 10623 · ICE 519 · ICE 373 | 12:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 3 changes | |
26818 · 10625 · ICE 109 | On time 13:09 Essen Hbf | 6h51 | 20:00 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
26818 · 10625 · IC 1146 · ICE 375 | 13:09 Essen Hbf | 7h51 | 21:00 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
ICE 1747 · ICE 993 · ICE 691 · ICE 201 | 13:15 Essen Hbf | 8h45 | 22:00 Zurich HB | 4 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Essen to Zurich run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £47 but you can travel from only £30 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 468 km distance in 5h 50m.
Distance 468 km |
Average train duration 6h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £47 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 50m |
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 |
Discover the best of Zurich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zurich trip today.
Major art museum with Swiss and European works from the Middle Ages to today, ideal for a broad overview of Zurich’s cultural life.
National museum in a castle-like building near the main station, presenting Swiss history, design, and everyday life through varied displays.
Leading design museum with changing exhibitions on architecture, graphics, fashion, and product design in a well-run central venue.
Zurich’s best-known shopping boulevard, lined with elegant buildings, trams, and easy walks between the station, lake, and old town.
Historic old-town quarter of lanes, squares, churches, and river views, ideal for walking, sightseeing, and discovering Zurich’s medieval core.
Hilltop viewpoint and green area above the city, known for broad panoramas, woodland paths, and a quick escape from the urban centre.
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.
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.
Melted cheese blended with white wine and kirsch, eaten by dipping bread. A beloved Swiss communal dish, especially in colder months.
Classic Zurich restaurant known for Zürcher Geschnetzeltes and other Swiss specialities in an elegant old-town atmosphere.
Traditional Swiss beer hall serving fondue, rösti and sausages in a lively, wood-panelled setting near the station.
Long-running vegetarian restaurant with a large buffet and Swiss-international dishes in a bright, central setting.
Very high prices for hotels, dining and transport. Zurich costs more than most European city breaks, especially in central tourist areas.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Round up taxi fares and small café bills.
Official public transport app
Zürich HB -> Zürich HB
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.

Most Essen to Zurich trains use the Essen Hbf to Zürich HB station pair, with some services arriving at Zürich Stadelhofen. 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.
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 options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Kettwig is 11 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Food options include: Döbbe, Der Bonner Hof, Pino's Bar & Restaurant und Eventlocation, Pizza Pasta
Wi-Fi is available at Kettwig. ATMs are available at Kettwig.
Ticket office support is available at Kettwig. Information desks are available at Kettwig.
Luggage storage is available at Kettwig. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Kettwig: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Kettwig: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kettwig.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Zürich Stadelhofen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Outback Lodge, Tibits
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.
Zürich Altstetten is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich Altstetten has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Markthalle, Restaurant LaSalle
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Altstetten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Altstetten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Altstetten: Elevators.
Nearby hotels include Placid Hotel Zurich, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, H+ Hotel Zürich.
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