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

Thu, Nov 06
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
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1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
Italo
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Frecciarossa
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Zurich

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$121

Average price

$162

Fastest journey

6 h

Average duration

6 h 29 m

Trains per day

6

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 $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $121.

Fast trains

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

Deutsche BahnEC 7 · IR 2273
08:00AM6h52
Essen Hbf
02:52PMZurich HB
$1211One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 555
08:14AM6h12
Essen Hbf
02:26PMZurich HB
$1681One-way
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 515 · ICE 277 · IC 775
09:00AM6h00
Essen Hbf
03:00PMZurich HB
$1681One-way
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · IC 187
08:14AM7h09
Essen Hbf
03:23PMZurich HB
$1681One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 515 · IC 187
09:00AM6h23
Essen Hbf
03:23PMZurich HB
$1681One-way
2 transfers

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 prices starting from €28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €28, and a flight costs an average of €60.

Distance: 290 miles (468 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€109

Average price

€139

Average price

€49

Average price

Cheapest

7h 4m

Average total duration

6h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

9h 48m

Average total duration

9h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to Zurich train times

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

Last updated at 4:29 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnEC 7 · IR 2273
On time
7:00 AM Essen Hbf
6h52
1:52 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 555
On time
7:14 AM Essen Hbf
6h12
1:26 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 915 · IC 187
On time
7:14 AM Essen Hbf
7h09
2:23 PM Zurich HB
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 27 · ICE 515 · ICE 277 · IC 775
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
6h00
2:00 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 27 · ICE 515 · IC 187
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
6h23
2:23 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 73
On time
8:00 AM Essen Hbf
7h00
3:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Friday, November 7
deutsche_bahn2:30 AM Essen
6h30
9:00 AM Zurich0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn4:00 AM Essen
7h00
11:00 AM Zurich0 transfersDirect

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.

Thu
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Zurich

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Zurich run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€50) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 290 miles (468 km) distance in 6h 0m.

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 $34 (€28)
Distance
290 miles (468 km)
Average train duration
6h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$61 (€50)
Trains per day
16
Fastest train
6h 0m
First train
00:08
Last train
23:39
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 $34 (€28)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Zurich from $34 (€28). 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
$47 (€38)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
18 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

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
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Zurich's main attractions, including the Old Town, Lake Zurich, museums, and nearby Uetliberg Mountain.
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.
A day trip from Essen to Zurich is not feasible as the travel time is 6h 0m. However, there are 16 train trips available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 290 miles (468 km).
Train ticket prices from Essen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€50), while the average price is around $134 (€109).
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€28).
The distance by train from Essen to Zurich is 290 miles (468 km).
The train from Essen to Zurich takes 6h 0m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from Essen to Zurich leaves at 12:08 AM.
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.
The train station in Essen that goes to Zurich is Essen Hbf, which connects to Zurich HB.
The last train from Essen to Zurich leaves at 11:39 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Zurich.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Zurich.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to Zurich

Essen
Zurich
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Zurich.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Werner
  • Bückmannsmühle
  • Muckel-Eis
Essen-EibergWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
Dining
Dining
  • Zur Krone
  • Hannappel
  • Pizzeria Roma
  • Horster Döner

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