- Must visit
Deutsches Museum
One of the world's largest science and technology museums, with extensive interactive exhibits and landmark collections spanning physics, aviation, energy, and engineering.
Cheapest price
$87
Average price
$131
Fastest journey
3 h 32 m
Average duration
3 h 39 m
Trains per day
23
Distance
242 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Munich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Munich will cost around $131 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Of the 23 trains that leave Zurich for Munich on Sun, May 31, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 242 km distance in an average of 3 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 32 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 3 h 44 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.
EC 97
EC 195
EC 199
EC 197
EC 191
EC 199
EC 199
EC 191
EC 99
EC 97Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Munich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a flight costs an average of $161.
Distance: 150 miles (242 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$115 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $449 Average price | $123 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 34m Average total duration 5h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Munich:
A bus is $83 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Munich costing on average $115 (€93).
A bus is $416 (€335) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Munich costing on average $449 (€361).
Other travel options to Munich take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 2m.
Train takes on average 5h 4m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Munich trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EC 197 | On time 5:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 9:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 197 | On time 5:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 9:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 199 | On time 7:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h32 | 11:04 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 199 | On time 7:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h32 | 11:04 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 60402 · S5 · 19539 · ICE 619 | On time 9:59 PM Zurich HB | 8h35 | 6:34 AM Munich Hbf | 3 transfers | |
EC 97 | On time 7:32 AM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 11:16 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 97 | On time 7:32 AM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 11:16 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 388 · ICE 563 | On time 7:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h12 | 12:49 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
EC 99 | On time 9:32 AM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 1:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 99 | On time 9:32 AM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 1:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 380 · ICE 565 | On time 9:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h12 | 2:49 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 165 · RB54 | 10:40 AM Zurich HB | 5h39 | 4:19 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
EC 191 | On time 11:32 AM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 3:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 191 | On time 11:32 AM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 3:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 488 · ICE 567 | On time 11:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h12 | 4:49 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 167 · RB54 | 12:40 PM Zurich HB | 5h35 | 6:15 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
EC 193 | On time 1:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 5:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 193 | On time 1:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 5:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 486 · ICE 569 | On time 1:37 PM Zurich HB | 5h12 | 6:49 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
EC 195 | On time 3:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 7:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 195 | On time 3:32 PM Zurich HB | 3h44 | 7:16 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 484 · ICE 691 | On time 3:37 PM Zurich HB | 5h38 | 9:15 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
By Nonstop Eurotrip
Zurich, Switzerland, and Munich, Germany, are probably closer together than you might think. And if that wasn’t enough, they’re linked by a fast and convenient train service. I took this international route to see how comfortable it is and if it can really beat flying (spoiler: yes, it can).

A red and white SBB New Pendolino train at Munich's main station, München Hbf, with a platform in the foreground.
This Zurich to Munich route crosses three countries, from Switzerland to Austria to Germany, without any issues thanks to the wonders of the Schengen border-free zone. It is operated by SBB, the Swiss national railway, using one of their New Pendolino electric multiple units. These trains can tilt in curves, allowing them to reach a higher average speed during their journey and, in this case, to travel the 326 kilometers (203 miles) between Zurich and Munich in 3 hours and 30 minutes. It’s not that fast, but it certainly is VERY scenic!
Book your tickets on the Omio app. Trains rarely sell out, but I recommend you book in advance in order to benefit from reduced advance fares, as I was able to.

A red and white SBB New Pendolino train at Munich's main station, München Hbf, with a platform in the foreground.
In Zurich, trains leave from the city’s main station Zürich HB. This being Switzerland, it couldn’t be better connected to the rest of the city, thanks to many tram and suburban rail lines connecting here, offering seamless transfers to mainline trains. The station is also conveniently located very centrally within the city.
The same could be said in Munich: trains also terminate at the city’s principal station, München Hbf. Served by six metro lines, it is only a 15-minute walk away from the famous Marienplatz.
Trains run every two hours throughout the day, from 05:33 to 19:33. I opted for the 09:33 departure.
The train features First and Second Class. I opted for First Class, which is laid out in a 2+1 configuration. The seats are wider than in Second Class and feature a nice recline, reading lights, plug sockets, and a large table, ideal for working on. The train has free Wi-Fi, although the connection can be quite patchy, especially when passing between countries. There is also a fantastic sit-down SBB restaurant car onboard serving full meals, as well as smaller snacks, desserts, and drinks, including alcohol. It’s well worth a visit, even though the prices are on the expensive side. Everything is very good quality, though, and traditionally Swiss.

A view inside the sit-down restaurant car on an SBB Pendolino train, showing tables with tablecloths and a clean, modern design.
To get cheaper advance but non-flexible fares, I recommend booking as far in advance as you can. I paid around €51 for First Class, booking a week before departure. On the same day, fares are over double this, but they are fully flexible. Seat reservations cost €5 each, which isn’t usually required but advisable, especially at peak times, weekends, or holidays.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €51 |
| Food & drinks | € |
| Travel to departure station | € |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 51 |
This train is an excellent regular connection between Zurich and Munich. On top of that, it benefits from Swiss-German efficiency, with a train running every two hours in each direction. And on top of that, you don’t even have to reserve a seat, as it isn’t compulsory; if you really need to turn up and go, you can! I recommend the First Class seating and onboard Restaurant experience to maximize your comfort as you seamlessly travel from Switzerland, through Austria, and onwards to Germany.

A profile picture of the travel content creator, Nonstop Eurotrip.

Trains from Zurich to Munich run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 150 miles (242 km) distance in 3h 32m.
Distance 150 miles (242 km) |
Average train duration 5h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 3h 32m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Munich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Munich trip today.
One of the world's largest science and technology museums, with extensive interactive exhibits and landmark collections spanning physics, aviation, energy, and engineering.
Major old masters gallery featuring European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries, including works by Durer, Rubens, and Raphael.
Leading museum complex for modern and contemporary art, design, architecture, and works on paper, all under one roof.
One of the world's largest urban parks, popular for long walks, river views, open lawns, and the Eisbach surfers.
Historic open-air market area in the old town, popular for atmosphere, local character, and people-watching even if you are not shopping.
Large park and event zone built for the 1972 Olympics, known for its sweeping landscape design, stadium architecture, and city views from Olympic Hill.
Traditional Munich veal and pork sausage, gently heated and typically eaten in the morning with sweet mustard and a pretzel. It is one of the city’s most iconic specialties.
Roasted pork knuckle with crisp skin, usually served with potato dumplings or cabbage. A classic hearty Bavarian beer hall dish strongly associated with Munich.
A Bavarian cheese spread made from Camembert, butter, paprika, and onion, commonly served with bread or pretzels in beer gardens. It is a beloved Munich snack.
Refined dining restaurant linked to the famous delicatessen, offering upscale cuisine and polished service. Suitable for a more elegant Munich food experience.
Established Bavarian beer garden and restaurant known for Augustiner beer, roast meats, and a classic local atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating.
Respected traditional inn particularly known for dumplings and regional Bavarian cooking, with a warm and authentic neighborhood feel.
Prices are high by German standards, especially for hotels and dining, but transit and bakeries remain manageable.
Service is usually included. Round up in cafés and taxis. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service and tell the server the total when paying.
Official public transport app
Munich Hbf, Munich -> Marienplatz, Munich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Munich 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 Munich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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