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

Thu, Aug 06
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zurich

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

€120

Average price

€143

Fastest journey

6 h

Average duration

6 h

Trains per day

23

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 €143 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €120.

Fast trains

Of the 23 trains that leave Essen for Zurich on Thu, Aug 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 468 km distance in an average of 6 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h .

On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 6 h 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 1013 · IC 2167 · IC 285
    4:36 PM6h47
    Essen Hbf
    11:23 PMZurich HB
    1201One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 2040 · ICE 279 · IC 775
    8:00 AM7h00
    Essen Hbf
    3:00 PMZurich HB
    1341One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 279 · IC 775
    8:36 AM6h24
    Essen Hbf
    3:00 PMZurich HB
    1401One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 795
    8:00 AM6h00
    Essen Hbf
    2:00 PMZurich HB
    1401One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 775
    8:53 AM6h07
    Essen Hbf
    3:00 PMZurich HB
    1401One-way
    3 transfers

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 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €52 but you can travel from only €32 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 50m.

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 €32
Distance
290 miles (468 km)
Average train duration
6h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
€52
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
5h 50m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
4 days
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 €32

Live departures

Essen to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Thursday, August 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
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 · IC 775
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
7h00
3:00 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 279 · IC 775
On time
8:36 AM Essen Hbf
6h24
3:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 646 · ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5
On time
8:40 AM Essen Hbf
7h46
4:26 PM Zurich HB
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 775
On time
8:53 AM Essen Hbf
6h07
3:00 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10208 · 28511 · ICE 2013 · ICE 3719:20 AM Essen Hbf
7h40
5:00 PM Zurich HB4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 105
On time
10:00 AM Essen Hbf
6h00
4:00 PM Zurich HB
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn26812 · ICE 225 · ECE 5+TGVTGV 921310:09 AM Essen Hbf
6h17
4:26 PM Zurich HB3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1521 · ICE 517 · ICE 371 · IC 77910:56 AM Essen Hbf
6h04
5:00 PM Zurich HB3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2156 · IC 2544 · ICE 373
On time
11:40 AM Essen Hbf
7h20
7:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · IC 781
On time
12:00 PM Essen Hbf
6h00
6:00 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 919 · ICE 373
On time
12:36 PM Essen Hbf
6h24
7:00 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 629 · ICE 519 · ICE 373
On time
12:53 PM Essen Hbf
6h07
7:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10216 · 28519 · IC 2546 · ICE 3751:20 PM Essen Hbf
7h40
9:00 PM Zurich HB4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 109
On time
2:00 PM Essen Hbf
6h00
8:00 PM Zurich HB
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1011 · ICE 375 · IC 787
On time
2:36 PM Essen Hbf
6h24
9:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 723 · ICE 611 · ICE 375 · IC 787
On time
2:51 PM Essen Hbf
6h09
9:00 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10220 · 28523 · IC 2508 · ICE 3773:20 PM Essen Hbf
7h41
11:01 PM Zurich HB5 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 201 · IC 789
On time
4:00 PM Essen Hbf
6h00
10:00 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1013 · IC 2167 · IC 285
On time
4:36 PM Essen Hbf
6h47
11:23 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1013 · ICE 377 · IC 989 · IC 837
On time
4:36 PM Essen Hbf
6h25
11:01 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 727 · ICE 613 · ICE 377 · IC 989
On time
4:53 PM Essen Hbf
6h08
11:01 PM Zurich HB
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 727 · ICE 613 · ICE 377 · IR 1991
On time
4:53 PM Essen Hbf
6h31
11:24 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers

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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Zurich.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Zurich.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Zurich from €32. 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
€52
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
€117
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day

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.

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
Train ticket prices from Essen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €52, while the average price is around €117.
The train from Essen to Zurich takes 5h 50m 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.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Zurich.
The train station in Essen that goes to Zurich is Essen Hbf, which connects to Zurich HB.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Zurich.
Popular day trips by train from Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to Zurich

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.

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.

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 · €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.

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.

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

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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.

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