- 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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Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €66 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 49m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €66, while a flight costs an average of €390.
Distance: 157 miles (254 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€66 Average price Cheapest | €390 Average price | €105 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 29m Average total duration 5h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich is a train with an average price of €66.
This is compared to other travel options from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich:
A train is €324 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich costing on average €390.
The fastest way to travel from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Zurich take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Zurich including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €66 compared to roughly €105 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €39. The journey takes 5h 59m versus 3h 37m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich by train or flight
Compare train 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.
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Why should you book Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €36 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 21:59. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (254 km) distance in 5h 9m.
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
Distance 157 miles (254 km) |
Average train duration 5h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price €36 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 9m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 9:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 91 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Zurich from €36. 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 9m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€36
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €36, while the average price is around €66.
The train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich takes 5h 9m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich is 157 miles (254 km).
The first train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich leaves at 9:59 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
The train station in Rothenburg ob der Tauber that goes to Zurich is Rothenburg ob der Tauber station, which connects to Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich is by train, with a cost of around €36.
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich.
Since both Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich
Most Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich trains use the Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zürich HB station pair. Use this guide to compare Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Arrival train stations in Zurich
Which Rothenburg ob der Tauber station do trains to Zurich leave from?
Trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich leave from Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The station is from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre at Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
City-centre transport
Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre
Bus854 · 5m · €3
Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station facilities and services
Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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: Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten, Imbiss Heller, Brothaus Café im Schlachthof, Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ATMs are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Information desks are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schranne, Villa Mittermeier, Hotel Hornburg Garni, Glocke.
Which Zurich station do trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber arrive at?
Trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich arrive at Zürich HB. Zürich HB is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · €3 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · €1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · €2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · €2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · €2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Rothenburg ob der Tauber
More options for your journey from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Zurich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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