Gelsenkirchen to Zurich train with Deutsche Bahn

Sat, Jun 20
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$142

Average price

$165

Fastest journey

6 h 26 m

Average duration

7 h 22 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

472 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 2007 · IC 2013 · ICE 371 · IC 779
    9:13 AM7h47
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    5:00 PMZurich HB
    $1421One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10114 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 775
    8:34 AM6h26
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    3:00 PMZurich HB
    $1601One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10114 · ICE 515 · IC 187
    8:34 AM6h49
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    3:23 PMZurich HB
    $1601One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10206 · ICE 646 · ICE 27 · ICE 225
    8:09 AM8h40
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    4:49 PMZurich HB
    $1791One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 225 · ECE 5 · IR 2077+VIAS Rail GmbH52251
    9:39 AM7h10
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    4:49 PMZurich HB
    $1841One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Gelsenkirchen to Zurich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $69. 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 $69, and a train costs an average of $168.

Distance: 293 miles (472 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$188

Average price

$179

Average price

$108

Average price

Cheapest

$135

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 50m

Average total duration

6h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 40m

Average total duration

6h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 5m

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

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Smartwings

Most popular airline

BlaBlaCar

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 Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is a bus with an average price of $108 (€89).

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

A bus is $70 (€58) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich costing on average $179 (€146).

A bus is $80 (€65) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich costing on average $188 (€154).

The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.

Other travel options to Zurich take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 10m.

Train takes on average 6h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Zurich including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 45m sooner (6h 20m by train vs 7h 5m by car). Tickets start at around $188 (€154) compared to roughly $135 (€110) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Gelsenkirchen to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn10206 · ICE 646 · ICE 27 · ICE 2258:09 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
8h40
4:49 PM Zurich HB5 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10114 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 7758:34 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
6h26
3:00 PM Zurich HB3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10114 · ICE 515 · IC 187
On time
8:34 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
6h49
3:23 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2007 · IC 2013 · ICE 371 · IC 779
On time
9:13 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
7h47
5:00 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
VIAS Rail GmbH52251+Deutsche BahnICE 225 · ECE 5 · IR 20779:39 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
7h10
4:49 PM Zurich HB3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen 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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Zurich trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen 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 Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Zurich.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $168 (€138) but you can travel from only $69 (€56) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 293 miles (472 km) distance in 7h 29m.

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 $69 (€56)
Distance
293 miles (472 km)
Average train duration
6h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$168 (€138)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
7h 29m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
6 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 $69 (€56)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Zurich from $69 (€56). 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
7h 29m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€138)
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

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 26m
Cheapest Price
$176 (€144)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
12 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

Zurich’s leading art museum, known for major Swiss and European collections from medieval works to modern and contemporary art.

  • Must visit

Swiss National Museum

The country’s main cultural history museum, presenting Swiss history, design, and craftsmanship in a landmark neo-Gothic building.

  • Recommended

Museum Rietberg

A respected museum for non-European art, with strong collections from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania in a villa park setting.

Swiss Franc

Zurich is among Europe’s most expensive cities. Hotels, dining, and transport cost well above average.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 30-60 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is included by law. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or adding 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxis and leave small change in cafes if service was good.

FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $168 (€138), while the average price is around $188 (€154).
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich takes 7h 29m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is 293 miles (472 km).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Zurich is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $69 (€56).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is quite scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, charming German towns, and the lush landscapes of Baden-Württemberg before reaching the stunning Swiss Alps.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 29m. There are 8 trains available per day, covering a distance of 293 miles (472 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 Gelsenkirchen to Zurich.
Since both Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Zurich

Most Gelsenkirchen to Zurich trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Zürich HB station pair, with some services arriving at Zürich Stadelhofen. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Arrival train stations in Zurich

Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Zurich leave from?

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich leave from Gelsenkirchen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Gelsenkirchen city centre at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 GelsenkirchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min

Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services

Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.

Wanne-Eickel HbfWanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 HerneWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb, Re · 4m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusRe42x, Re42, S2, Rb32 · 18m · $5
E40, 340 · 21m · every ~5 min

Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services

Wanne-Eickel Hbf 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: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Zurich

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