Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station train with ÖBB | ICE

Mon, Sep 21
+ Add return
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB | Nightjet
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ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB | Nightjet
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21

Cheapest price on Sep 21

$40

Average ticket price on Sep 21

$110

Fastest journey on Sep 21

4 h 26 m

Average journey duration on Sep 21

4 h 54 m

Trains on Sep 21

5

Distance

303 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 21, we found 5 trains from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station, including 5 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 21 the direct trains cover the 303 km distance in an average of 4 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 26 m .

On Mon, Sep 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 12 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 BahnIC 60409
    7:59 PM4h26
    Zurich HB
    12:25 AMFrankfurt South station
    $401One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 60470
    8:59 PM5h12
    Zurich HB
    2:11 AMFrankfurt South station
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • ÖBB | NightjetNJ 470
    8:59 PM5h12
    Zurich HB
    2:11 AMFrankfurt South station
    $671One-way
    0 transfers
  • ÖBB | InterCityIC 60409
    7:59 PM4h26
    Zurich HB
    12:25 AMFrankfurt South station
    $1971One-way
    0 transfers
  • ÖBB | InterCityIC 60470
    8:59 PM5h12
    Zurich HB
    2:11 AMFrankfurt South station
    $1971One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $50 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 56m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, while a flight costs an average of $802.

Distance: 188 miles (303 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$181

Average price

$802

Average price

$50

Average price

Cheapest

$137

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 59m

Average total duration

4h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 56m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 56m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

7h 20m

Average total duration

6h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

ÖBB | ICE

Most popular train company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station is a bus with an average price of $50.

This is compared to other travel options from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station:

A bus is $131 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station costing on average $181.

A bus is $752 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station costing on average $802.

The fastest way to travel from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 56m.

Other travel options to Frankfurt South station take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 29m.

Bus takes on average 6h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich HB and Frankfurt South station including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station 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 11m sooner (4h 29m by train vs 4h 40m by car). Tickets start at around $181 compared to roughly $137 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.

Direct services run with ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet.

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

Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station trains for today, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 280 · 17652 · ICE 518+Hessische Landesbahn24349
On time
10:37 AM Zurich HB
5h21
3:58 PM Frankfurt South station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 186 · 17662 · ICE 514+Hessische Landesbahn24359
On time
2:37 PM Zurich HB
5h21
7:58 PM Frankfurt South station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 184 · 17672 · ICE 512+Hessische Landesbahn24367
On time
4:37 PM Zurich HB
5h21
9:58 PM Frankfurt South station
3 transfers
ÖBB | NightjetNJ 4707:34 PM Zurich HB
6h37
2:11 AM Frankfurt South station0 transfersDirect
ÖBB | InterCityIC 604707:34 PM Zurich HB
6h37
2:11 AM Frankfurt South station0 transfersDirect
ÖBB | InterCityIC 60409
Delayed
7:59 PM Zurich HB
4h26
11:03 PM 11:03 PMFrankfurt South station
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 60409
Delayed
7:59 PM Zurich HB
4h26
11:03 PM 11:03 PMFrankfurt South station
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 60409
On time
7:59 PM Zurich HB
5h04
1:03 AM Frankfurt South station
0 transfersDirect
ÖBB | InterCityIC 60409
On time
7:59 PM Zurich HB
5h04
1:03 AM Frankfurt South station
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station 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.

Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sun
Sep 27

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 but you can travel from only $26 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 07:34. The fastest train covers the 188 miles (303 km) distance in 3h 45m.

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 $26
Distance
188 miles (303 km)
Average train duration
4h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
$67
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
3h 45m
First train
3:20 AM
Last train
7:34 AM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $26

Train companies: ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station trainsÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Zurich HB and Frankfurt South station from $26. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 ÖBB | ICE Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
$163
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 | InterCity

About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | InterCity Duration
4h 21m
Cheapest ÖBB | InterCity Price
$163
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
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 ÖBB | Nightjet Duration
5h 10m
Cheapest ÖBB | Nightjet Price
$67
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

ÖBB | Euro City (EC)

About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City 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 ÖBB | Euro City (EC) Duration
3h 51m
Cheapest ÖBB | Euro City (EC) Price
$193
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station 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 Frankfurt South station, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67, while the average price is around $181.
The train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station takes 3h 45m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station leaves at 3:20 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station is 188 miles (303 km).
The last train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station leaves at 7:34 AM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet.
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station is by bus, with a cost of around $26.
Yes, the train journey from Zürich HB to Frankfurt (Main) Süd is scenic, offering views of picturesque Swiss landscapes, rolling hills, charming villages, and the Rhine River, especially as the train travels through the Upper Rhine Valley.
A day trip from Zürich HB to Frankfurt (Main) Süd is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 45m. Trains run 10 times per day over a distance of 188 miles (303 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station.
Since both Zurich HB and Frankfurt South station 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 Frankfurt South station include Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Karlsruhe, Göttingen.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
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 Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station

Most Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station trains use the Zürich HB to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich HB and Frankfurt South station train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Frankfurt am Main
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · $4 · 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.

More options for your journey from Zurich HB to Frankfurt South station

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Frankfurt South station and Zurich HB

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