- Must visit
Kunsthaus Zürich
Zurich’s leading art museum with major Swiss and international collections, from Old Masters to modern and contemporary works.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Birmingham to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $93. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $93, and a train costs an average of $641.
Distance: 582 miles (938 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$641 Average price | $209 Average price | $172 Average price Cheapest | $219 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 49m Average total duration 13h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 28h 0m Average total duration 27h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 2.8 - 5.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Birmingham to Zurich is a bus with an average price of $172 (€139).
This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Zurich:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Birmingham to Zurich costing on average $209 (€169).
A bus is $469 (€377) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Zurich costing on average $641 (€516).
The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Zurich is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Zurich take longer:
Train takes on average 13h 19m.
Bus takes on average 27h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Birmingham and Zurich including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Zurich among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $641 (€516) compared to roughly $219 (€177) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-421.69 (€-339.48). The journey takes 13h 19m versus 12h 43m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Zurich by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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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Why should you book Birmingham to Zurich trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Birmingham to Zurich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Zurich.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Zurich.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Zurich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Zurich
United Kingdom
Switzerland
Trains from Birmingham to Zurich run on average 2 times per day, taking around 13h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $641 (€516) but you can travel from only $93 (€75) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:47, the last at 23:21. The fastest train covers the 582 miles (938 km) distance in 10h 39m.
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
Bus from $93 (€75)
Distance 582 miles (938 km) |
Average train duration 13h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $641 (€516) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 10h 39m |
First train 8:47 AM |
Last train 11:21 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Bus from $93 (€75)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Birmingham to Zurich trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Birmingham and Zurich from $93 (€75). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 39m
Cheapest Price
$641 (€516)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
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
Swiss National Museum
The country’s principal museum of cultural history, housed in a castle-like building near the main station.
- Recommended
Museum Rietberg
A respected museum for non-European art set in a villa and modern pavilion within Rieterpark.
- Must visit
Bahnhofstrasse
One of the world’s best-known shopping streets, ideal for strolling between the main station and the lake.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Zurich’s old town, packed with medieval lanes, churches, river views, and many of the city’s classic sights.
- Must visit
Lake Zurich Promenade
A scenic walking area along the lake with sweeping water views, swans, and popular sunset spots.
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Zurich’s signature dish of sliced veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, traditionally served with rösti.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
A classic Swiss potato dish, pan-fried until crisp and golden. In Zurich it is often served as a side or topped with cheese, egg, or meat.
- Vegetarian
Fondue
A traditional Swiss pot of melted cheese served with bread for dipping. It is a communal meal strongly associated with Swiss food culture.
Kronenhalle
Legendary upscale Zurich restaurant celebrated for refined Swiss and continental cuisine, classic service, and an elegant art-filled dining room.
Zeughauskeller
Historic, traditional Swiss restaurant in a former armory, known for sausages, schnitzel, and hearty Zurich classics in a lively setting.
Haus Hiltl
Famous historic vegetarian restaurant with Swiss and international dishes, known for its buffet and long-standing place in Zurich dining culture.
Swiss Franc
Zurich is among Europe’s priciest cities. Hotels, dining, and transport are costly, though supermarkets and lunch deals can lower daily spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-60 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
ZVV Fahrplan
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.60
- Day pass
- CHF 9.20
To the city center
Zurich HB -> Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets must be valid before boarding; spot checks are common across trams, buses, and trains.
- You can buy tickets in the ZVV app, at machines, or by contactless card at many newer machines, but not reliably on board all vehicles.
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Zurich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham 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.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $641 (€516), while the average price is around $641 (€516).
The train from Birmingham to Zurich takes 10h 39m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Zurich is 582 miles (938 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Zurich leaves at 8:47 AM.
The last train from Birmingham to Zurich leaves at 11:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Zurich.
There is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Zurich.
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $93 (€75).
The train journey from Birmingham to Zurich offers diverse scenery, including the rolling hills of the English countryside, picturesque French landscapes, and the breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alps.
A day trip from Birmingham to Zurich is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 39m with a frequency of 4 per day for trains over a distance of 582 miles (938 km).
In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and Alps, shop along the exclusive Bahnhofstrasse, explore diverse wildlife at Zurich Zoo, and enjoy performances at the Opera House. Wander through the Botanical Garden, offering a variety of plant species. Visit Lake Zurich for scenic views and recreational activities, explore the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings, and admire artworks at Kunsthaus Zurich. Discover Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum and enjoy a peaceful moment at Lindenhof with views over the city.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Zurich's main attractions, including the Old Town, Lake Zurich, museums, and nearby Uetliberg Mountain.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Zurich.
Zurich is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Zurich among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Zurich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxis can also occur. It is advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant with personal belongings to ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Zurich
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Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Birmingham
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