- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mainz to Zurich
Showing times and prices for Jul 21
Cheapest price
$58
Average price
$94
Fastest journey
4 h 18 m
Average duration
4 h 31 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
292 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mainz to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mainz to Zurich will cost around $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Mainz for Zurich on Tue, Jul 21, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jul 21 the direct trains cover the 292 km distance in an average of 4 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 18 m .
On Tue, Jul 21 the slowest trains will take 4 h 54 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.
8:32 AM4h54Mainz1:26 PMZurich$581One-way0 transfers- 8:22 AM5h04Mainz1:26 PMZurich$721One-way0 transfers
- 6:42 AM4h18Mainz11:00 AMZurich$771One-way0 transfers
- 9:42 AM4h18Mainz2:00 PMZurich$1121One-way0 transfers
- 8:42 AM4h18Mainz1:00 PMZurich$1181One-way0 transfers
- 9:42 AM4h18Mainz2:00 PMZurich$1121One-way0 transfers
- 6:42 AM4h18Mainz11:00 AMZurich$771One-way0 transfers
- 8:42 AM4h18Mainz1:00 PMZurich$1181One-way0 transfers
- 5:37 PM4h47Mainz10:24 PMZurich$1291One-way0 transfers
- 8:32 AM4h54Mainz1:26 PMZurich$581One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Mainz to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mainz to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $134.
Distance: 181 miles (292 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$98 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $286 Average price | $136 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 39m Average total duration 4h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 22m Average total duration 5h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration Fastest 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Mainz to Zurich is a bus with an average price of $56 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Mainz to Zurich:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mainz to Zurich costing on average $98 (€80).
A bus is $230 (€189) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mainz to Zurich costing on average $286 (€235).
The fastest way to travel from Mainz to Zurich is by flight with an average journey time of 51m.
Other travel options to Zurich take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 9m.
Bus takes on average 5h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mainz and Zurich including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mainz to Zurich among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 32m faster (4h 9m by train vs 4h 41m by car) and roughly $38 (€31) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($98 (€80) vs $136 (€111)). 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.
Direct services run with Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Mainz to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Zurich trains for today, Monday, July 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:22 AM Mainz | 5h04 | 12:26 PM Zurich | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:37 AM Mainz | 4h23 | 12:00 PM Zurich | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:22 AM Mainz | 5h04 | 1:26 PM Zurich | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:42 AM Mainz | 4h18 | 1:00 PM Zurich | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:42 PM Mainz | 4h42 | 12:24 AM Zurich | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mainz 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.
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Jul 25
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Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Jul 27
Why should you book Mainz to Zurich trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), vlexx and more offer trains services from Mainz to Zurich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mainz 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 ÖBB | ICE, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) or vlexx to find the best option for your trip from Mainz 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 Mainz 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 Mainz to Zurich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mainz to Zurich
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Mainz to Zurich run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) but you can travel from only $36 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 21:59. The fastest train covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 4h 10m.
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 $36 (€30)
Distance 181 miles (292 km) |
Average train duration 4h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 (€40) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 10m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 9:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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 $36 (€30)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), vlexx from Mainz to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), vlexx trains will get you between Mainz and Zurich from $36 (€30). 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
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€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.
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.
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.
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
4h 44m
Cheapest Price
$210 (€172)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
1 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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 22m
Cheapest Price
$183 (€150)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day
vlexx
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 2m
Cheapest Price
$233 (€191)
vlexx frequency
1 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
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.
- Must visit
Bahnhofstrasse
Zurich's famous old town shopping street links the main station to the lake. It is ideal for strolling, people-watching, and seeing the city's polished center.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic riverside old town with lanes, guild houses, churches, and viewpoints. It is the essential area for Zurich's medieval atmosphere.
- Must visit
Lake Zurich Promenade
Beautiful lakeside promenade lined with trees, gardens, and views across Lake Zurich. Perfect for a scenic walk in any season.
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Sliced veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, usually served with rösti. It is Zurich’s signature dish and a classic in traditional brasseries.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Pan-fried grated potato cake with a crisp crust and soft center. A Swiss staple closely tied to Zurich and often served with meat, eggs, or cheese.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
Swiss cheese fondue made by melting local cheeses with wine and garlic, then dipping bread. It is a beloved cold-weather social meal across Zurich.
Restaurant Kronenhalle
Refined Swiss fine dining in a historic setting, led by a renowned chef. Known for modern tasting menus and polished service.
Zeughauskeller
Historic casual restaurant by Lake Zurich, known for Zürich classics like rösti and veal dishes in a traditional guild-house setting.
Zunfthaus zur Waag
Elegant old-town restaurant with classic Swiss and French cuisine. A strong choice for fondue, seasonal dishes, and a formal atmosphere.
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.
ZVV Fahrplan
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.60
- Day pass
- CHF 9.20
To the city center
Zurich HB -> Central, Zurich
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 3 min
- Buy tickets in the ZVV app, at ticket machines, or online before boarding. Zurich trams and buses use proof-of-payment inspections.
- Contactless card payment works at many ZVV ticket machines, but not directly on most trams or buses. Keep your ticket until your trip ends.
FAQs: Trains from Mainz to Zurich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz 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 Mainz to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $98 (€80).
The train from Mainz to Zurich takes 4h 10m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Mainz to Zurich leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Mainz to Zurich is 181 miles (292 km).
The last train from Mainz to Zurich leaves at 9:59 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Mainz to Zurich. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mainz to Zurich.
The train station in Mainz that goes to Zurich is Mainz Hbf, which connects to Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Mainz to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€30).
Yes, the train journey from Mainz to Zurich is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Rhine Valley, rolling vineyards, charming towns, and the impressive landscapes of the Upper Rhine region.
A day trip from Mainz to Zurich is not feasible as the travel duration of 250 exceeds the 120 limit. There are 8 trips per day available for trains.
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 Mainz to Zurich.
Since both Mainz 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 Mainz 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.
Most popular train connections from Mainz
More options for your journey from Mainz to Zurich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Mainz
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