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

Wed, Dec 03
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB Nightjet
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB Nightjet
Regionale
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Zurich

Showing times and prices for Dec 04

Cheapest price

$50

Average price

$89

Fastest journey

8 h 49 m

Average duration

10 h 7 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

781 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Kiel to Zurich will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Kiel for Zurich on Thu, Dec 04, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Dec 04 the direct trains cover the 781 km distance in an average of 10 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 49 m .

On Thu, Dec 04 the slowest trains will take 12 h 47 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 Bahn
01:12PM9h12
Kiel
10:24PMZurich
$501One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
03:02PM12h47
Kiel
03:49AMZurich
$831One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
11:23AM10h38
Kiel
10:01PMZurich
$831One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
04:38PM13h27
Kiel
06:05AMZurich
$941One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
01:23PM15h37
Kiel
05:00AMZurich
$1371One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Kiel to Zurich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 46m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €43, and a flight costs an average of €50.

Distance: 485 miles (781 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€110

Average price

€154

Average price

€62

Average price

Cheapest

11h 1m

Average total duration

10h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 46m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

15h 35m

Average total duration

15h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.3 - 4.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 2.0kg

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

Kiel to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Zurich trains for today, Wednesday, December 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:02 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn9:11 AM Kiel
8h49
6:00 PM Zurich0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn11:23 AM Kiel
10h38
10:01 PM Zurich0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn1:12 PM Kiel
9h12
10:24 PM Zurich0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn1:23 PM Kiel
15h37
5:00 AM Zurich0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Kiel 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
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10

Journey information

Overview: Train from Kiel to Zurich

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Kiel to Zurich run on average 11 times per day, taking around 10h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) but you can travel from only $53 (€43) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 485 miles (781 km) distance in 8h 47m.

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 $53 (€43)
Distance
485 miles (781 km)
Average train duration
10h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
$54 (€44)
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
8h 47m
First train
00:02
Last train
23:57
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 $53 (€43)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet from Kiel to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Kiel and Zurich from $53 (€43). 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
8h 47m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
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

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 29m
Cheapest Price
$315 (€255)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

ÖBB Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 48m
Cheapest Price
$265 (€214)
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Zurich

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel 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
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.
A day trip from Kiel to Zurich is not feasible due to the travel duration of 8h 47m and distance of 485 miles (781 km). The train frequency is 11 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Zurich is 485 miles (781 km).
Yes, the train journey from Kiel to Zurich offers scenic views, as it passes through picturesque landscapes in Germany and Switzerland, including rolling hills, charming villages, and beautiful countryside.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Zurich is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Zurich HB.
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€44), while the average price is around $136 (€110).
The train from Kiel to Zurich takes 8h 47m and runs 11 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $53 (€43).
The last train from Kiel to Zurich leaves at 11:57 PM.
The first train from Kiel to Zurich leaves at 12:02 AM.
Yes, there is a night train from Kiel to Zurich.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Zurich.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kiel to Zurich. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Kiel to Zurich

Kiel
Zurich
The major train station for departures in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your trip from Kiel 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: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
Dining
  • MUM&DAD
  • Lunatique
  • McDonald's
  • Campus Suite
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Wiking
  • Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
  • Astor
  • InterCityHotel Kiel
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
8
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Kaistraße.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Pier 16
  • Vapiano Kiel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • €1
Hotel
Hotel
  • IntercityHotel Kiel
  • Atlantic Hotel Kiel
  • Hotel Berliner Hof
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Sixt
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for regional and long-distance trains
  • Hall 2: bus connections
  • Hall 3: ferry connections
Public transit options for Kiel, Hbf Kaistraße
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Ferry: SFK Fjord Ferry connections
  • Train: Regional and long-distance services

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