ESSEN to ZURICH train from $38 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zurich

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21

Cheapest price on Sep 21

$83

Average ticket price on Sep 21

$161

Fastest journey on Sep 21

6 h 18 m

Average journey duration on Sep 21

6 h 24 m

Trains on Sep 21

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 $161 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Essen to Zurich without transferring at least once.

S6 · ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7
12:28 PM7h58
Essen Hbf
8:26 PMZurich HB
$831One-way
4 transfers
S6 · ICE 109 · IC 2046 · ICE 375
1:28 PM7h32
Essen Hbf
9:00 PMZurich HB
$831One-way
4 transfers
S6 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 · IC 581
12:08 PM6h18
Essen Hbf
6:26 PMZurich HB
$921One-way
3 transfers
S6 · ICE 229 · ICE 519 · ICE 373
12:28 PM6h32
Essen Hbf
7:00 PMZurich HB
$941One-way
3 transfers
S6 · ICE 109
1:28 PM6h32
Essen Hbf
8:00 PMZurich HB
$941One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, 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 bus, with an average ticket price of $94 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 25m. 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 bus costs an average of $94, while a flight costs an average of $529.

Distance: 290 miles (468 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Flight	Bus	Driving
$160 Average price	$529 Average price	$94 Average price Cheapest	$187 Average price (fuel + tolls)
6h 39m Average total duration 6h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	16h 19m Average total duration 15h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions	0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular airline	Most popular bus company	Your own car or car rental
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 Essen to Zurich is a bus with an average price of $94.

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Zurich:

A bus is $66 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Zurich costing on average $160.

A bus is $435 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Zurich costing on average $529.

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Zurich is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 25m.

Other travel options to Zurich take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 9m.

Bus takes on average 15h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Zurich including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Zurich among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 48m faster (6h 9m by train vs 6h 57m by car) and roughly $27 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($160 vs $187). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Monday, September 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
9414+9219	5:41 AM Essen Hbf	14h45	8:26 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
9426+9223	7:41 AM Essen Hbf	14h45	10:26 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
9426+9219	7:41 AM Essen Hbf	12h45	8:26 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S6 · ICE 915 · ICE 71+TGV 9211	8:08 AM Essen Hbf	6h18	2:26 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S6 · ICE 915 · IC 187	On time 8:08 AM Essen Hbf	7h15	3:23 PM Zurich HB	2 transfers
S9 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 775	8:20 AM Essen Hbf	6h40	3:00 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
28074 · ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5	8:39 AM Essen Hbf	7h47	4:26 PM Zurich HB	4 transfers
28074 · ICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279	8:39 AM Essen Hbf	6h21	3:00 PM Zurich HB	4 transfers
S6 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 · IC 581	12:08 PM Essen Hbf	6h18	6:26 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S9 · ICE 519 · ICE 373	On time 12:20 PM Essen Hbf	6h40	7:00 PM Zurich HB	2 transfers
S6 · ICE 229 · ICE 519 · ICE 373	On time 12:28 PM Essen Hbf	6h32	7:00 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S6 · ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7	12:28 PM Essen Hbf	7h58	8:26 PM Zurich HB	4 transfers
S6 · ICE 109	On time 1:28 PM Essen Hbf	6h32	8:00 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S6 · ICE 109 · IC 2046 · ICE 375	1:28 PM Essen Hbf	7h32	9:00 PM Zurich HB	4 transfers
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, 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.

Mon
Sep 21

Tue
Sep 22

Wed
Sep 23

Thu
Sep 24

Fri
Sep 25

Sat
Sep 26

Sun
Sep 27

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 train, bus 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 train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Zurich.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Zurich

Germany

Switzerland

Trains from Essen to Zurich run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 but you can travel from only $38 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 $38

Distance

290 miles (468 km)

Average train duration

6h 9m

Cheapest ticket price

$61

Trains per day

Fastest train

5h 18m

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

Tue

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $38

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Eurostar from Essen to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Eurostar trains will get you between Essen and Zurich from $38. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration

5h 18m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$61

Deutsche Bahn frequency

6 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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

9h 2m

Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price

$189

SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency

2 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

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

9h 2m

Cheapest Eurostar Price

$189

Eurostar frequency

2 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

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museum Rietberg

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

View on map Visit website

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.

Train ticket prices from Essen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $160.

The train from Essen to Zurich takes 5h 18m and runs 7 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 cheapest way to get from Essen to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $38.

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.

A day trip from Essen to Zurich is not feasible as the travel time is 5h 18m. However, there are 16 train trips available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 290 miles (468 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 Essen to Zurich.

Since both Essen and Zurich are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.

Popular day trips by train from Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Zurich among Omio's users.

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. 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 Essen Wifi

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.

More about Essen Hbf

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany Wifi

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.

KettwigKettwig, Ruhrtalstr. 345, 45219 Essen Wifi

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.