Essen to Zurich train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Thu, Nov 05
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
SNCF | TGV Lyria
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
SNCF | TGV Lyria
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zurich

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 05
Cheapest price on Nov 05
$54
Average ticket price on Nov 05
$103
Fastest journey on Nov 05
5 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Nov 05
6 h 5 m
Trains on Nov 05
13
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 traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Zurich will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.

Fast trains

On Thu, Nov 05, we found 13 trains from Essen to Zurich, including 1 direct services.

On Thu, Nov 05 the direct trains cover the 468 km distance in an average of 6 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 50 m .

On Thu, Nov 05 the slowest trains will take 6 h 24 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 71+TGVTGV 9211
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 2040 · ICE 279
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 105
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 795
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Zurich

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Zurich run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€45) but you can travel from only $33 (€28) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 290 miles (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
Bus from $33 (€28)

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance290 miles (468 km)
  • Average train duration6h 24m
  • Cheapest ticket price$54 (€45)
  • Trains per day8
  • Fastest train5h 18m
  • First train12:08 AM
  • Last train11:30 PM
  • Cheapest MonthNov
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayMon
  • Least Busy DayTue
  • Best time to book1 day

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $33 (€28)

Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Zurich trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Zurich.

Train ticket prices from Essen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€45), while the average price is around $153 (€127).
The train from Essen to Zurich takes 5h 18m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Essen to Zurich leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Zurich is 290 miles (468 km).
The last train from Essen to Zurich leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Zurich.

Live departures

Essen to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Thursday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Eurostar9414+SNCF | TGV Lyria92135:41 AM Essen Hbf
10h45
4:26 PM Zurich HB1 transfer
Eurostar9414+SNCF | TGV Lyria92195:41 AM Essen Hbf
14h45
8:26 PM Zurich HB1 transfer
Eurostar9426+SNCF | TGV Lyria92237:41 AM Essen Hbf
14h45
10:26 PM Zurich HB1 transfer
Eurostar9426+SNCF | TGV Lyria92197:41 AM Essen Hbf
12h45
8:26 PM Zurich HB1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 795
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
6h00
2:00 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 2040 · ICE 279
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
7h00
3:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 279
On time
8:36 AM Essen Hbf
6h24
3:00 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 71+TGVTGV 9211
On time
8:36 AM Essen Hbf
5h50
2:26 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5
On time
8:49 AM Essen Hbf
7h37
4:26 PM Zurich HB
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279
On time
8:49 AM Essen Hbf
6h11
3:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS9 · IC 2042 · ICE 2013 · ICE 3719:20 AM Essen Hbf
7h40
5:00 PM Zurich HB4 transfers
VIAS Rail GmbH31308+Deutsche Bahn33086+Hessische Landesbahn15109+Deutsche BahnICE 5979:34 AM Essen Hbf
8h26
6:00 PM Zurich HB5 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 105
On time
10:00 AM Essen Hbf
6h00
4:00 PM Zurich HB
0 transfersDirect

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 Eurostar or SNCF | TGV Lyria 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 Eurostar or SNCF | TGV Lyria 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 Eurostar or SNCF | TGV Lyria 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

Train companies from Essen to Zurich

Trains from Essen to Zurich with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, and SNCF | TGV Lyria. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, and SNCF | TGV Lyria. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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
$54 (€45)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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

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
8h 28m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$59 (€49)
Eurostar frequency
3 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

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
8h 50m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
$90 (€75)
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
3 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Zurich

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Essen to Zurich.
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.

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

Switzerland's leading art museum with major works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including Monet, Giacometti, and important Swiss collections.

  • Must visit

Swiss National Museum

National museum in a castle-like building near the main station. It offers essential insight into Swiss cultural history, design, and nationhood.

  • Recommended

Museum Rietberg

Remarkable private collection in a villa, featuring Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early modern masterpieces in an intimate lakeside setting.

Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)

Zurich is pricier than most European cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are costly, though supermarkets and takeaway spots can help lower daily spend.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for fast food or takeaway.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Small rounding is common in cafes and taxis.

Plan your visit to Zurich

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Zurich.

The train journey from Essen to Zurich offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling landscapes of the Ruhr area and the picturesque Rhine Valley, providing glimpses of charming towns, lush countryside, and the majestic river.
Popular day trips by train from Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Zurich

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.

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

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to 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 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, GermanyWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Kettwig from Essen city centre

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

TrainS6 · 15m · $4 · every ~6 min
BusS6 · 22m · $6
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.

Food and drink

Food options include: Döbbe, Der Bonner Hof, Pino's Bar & Restaurant und Eventlocation, Pizza Pasta

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Kettwig. ATMs are available at Kettwig.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Kettwig. Information desks are available at Kettwig.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Kettwig. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kettwig: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Kettwig: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kettwig.

Train stations for Essen to Zurich

Check train stations information for Essen and Zurich, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Essen that goes to Zurich is Essen Hbf, which connects to Zürich HB.

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