- Must visit
National Museum of Art of Romania
Romania’s premier art museum, housing European masters and major national collections inside the former Royal Palace.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Bucharest
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$414
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$414
Fastest journey on Sep 19
1 d 4 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
1 d 4 h 2 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
1394 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Bucharest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Bucharest will cost around $414 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $414.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Bucharest without transferring at least 2 times.
EC 95 · RJX 65 · IC 4735:35 AM28h02Zurich HB10:37 AMBucharest$4141One-way2 transfers
- EC 95 · RJX 65 · IC 4735:35 AM28h02Zurich HB10:37 AMBucharest$4141One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Bucharest
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Bucharest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $89 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 54m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 1.4 - 3.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $89, while a flight costs an average of $812.
Distance: 866 miles (1394 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$89 Average price Cheapest | $812 Average price | $153 Average price | $483 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
25h 59m Average total duration 25h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 54m Average total duration Fastest 4h 54m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 33h 32m Average total duration 33h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 4.2 - 8.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 3.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Bucharest is a train with an average price of $89.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Bucharest:
A train is $64 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Zurich to Bucharest costing on average $153.
A train is $723 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Bucharest costing on average $812.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Bucharest is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 54m.
Other travel options to Bucharest take longer:
Train takes on average 25h 29m.
Bus takes on average 33h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Bucharest including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Bucharest 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 $89 compared to roughly $483 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $394. The journey takes 25h 29m versus 19h 26m 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.
Live departures
Zurich to Bucharest train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Bucharest trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 191 · RJX 261 · IC 73 | On time 11:32 AM Zurich HB | 34h05 | 10:37 PM Bucharest | 2 transfers | |
| IC 488 · ICE 567 · RJX 261 · IC 73 | On time 11:37 AM Zurich HB | 34h00 | 10:37 PM Bucharest | 3 transfers | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| EC 95 · RJX 65 · IC 473 | On time 5:35 AM Zurich HB | 28h02 | 10:37 AM Bucharest | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Bucharest 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Bucharest
Switzerland
Romania
Trains from Zurich to Bucharest run on average 4 times per day, taking around 25h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:35, the last at 03:35. The fastest train covers the 866 miles (1394 km) distance in 25h 15m.
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 866 miles (1394 km) |
Average train duration 25h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 25h 15m |
First train 3:35 AM |
Last train 3:35 AM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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: ÖBB, Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Bucharest trainsÖBB, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Bucharest from $61. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
ÖBB
About
ÖBB is Austria’s national railway company, offering a comprehensive network of train services across the country and to neighboring nations. Its fleet includes high-speed InterCity Express (ICE) trains for the fastest and most comfortable journeys, EuroCity (EC) trains for international connections, InterCity (IC) trains for reliable long-distance travel, and Regional Express (REX) trains for frequent local stops. Ticket types include Standard Ticket, Comfort-Ticket, ÖBB Sparschiene-Ticket, and ÖBB Sparschiene Comfort-Ticket, along with options for single, return, and group travel. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and food and beverage services. Popular routes include Vienna–Salzburg, Vienna–Innsbruck, and Vienna–Graz
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB Duration
25h 15m
Cheapest ÖBB Price
$61
ÖBB frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at carriage ends
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 long-distance trains), bistro service, at-seat service in first class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance, and special seating areas
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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
25h 24m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$429
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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 Bucharest
Things to do in Bucharest
Discover the best of Bucharest — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bucharest trip today.
- Must visit
National Village Museum Dimitrie Gusti
An outstanding open-air museum of traditional Romanian village life, with historic houses, churches, and windmills.
- Recommended
Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History
A leading natural history museum with fossils, geology, and biodiversity displays, popular with families and science fans.
- Must visit
Old Town
Bucharest’s atmospheric old center, packed with historic streets, churches, nightlife, and restored merchant buildings.
- Must visit
Calea Victoriei
The city’s grand central boulevard connects major landmarks, museums, and elegant historic architecture.
- Recommended
King Mihai I Park
Bucharest’s largest park offers lakeside walks, bike paths, gardens, and access to major museums and leisure areas.
Mici
Grilled skinless sausages made with beef, pork, and garlic. A beloved Romanian street and barbecue staple, especially popular with mustard and bread.
- Gluten-free
Ciorbă de burtă
Sour soup with beef tripe, garlic, vinegar, and cream. One of Romania's most iconic comfort dishes, widely eaten in Bucharest.
- Gluten-free
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, usually slow-cooked and served with sour cream. A festive Romanian classic.
Kane World Food Studio
Elegant fine dining restaurant focused on refined Romanian cuisine and local ingredients in a polished setting.
Caru' cu Bere
Historic beer hall and restaurant known for Romanian classics, grilled meats, and traditional atmosphere in the Old Town.
Lacrimi și Sfinți
Popular modern Romanian bistro serving regional dishes and desserts in a casual, welcoming space.
Romanian leu (lei)
Budget-friendly for Europe: hotels, meals, and public transit usually cost less than in Western EU capitals, though central areas and upscale venues cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 35-60 lei for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- 70-140 lei per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- 180+ lei per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 12-18 lei for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare or add about 5%.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Bucharest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Bucharest 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 Bucharest, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Bucharest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $89.
The train from Zurich to Bucharest takes 25h 15m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Bucharest is 866 miles (1394 km).
The first train from Zurich to Bucharest leaves at 3:35 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Bucharest leaves at 3:35 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Bucharest.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Bucharest.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Bucharest is Zurich HB, which connects to Bucharest.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Bucharest is by flight, with a cost of around $107.
The train journey from Zurich to Bucharest offers scenic views, especially through the Swiss Alps and Transylvania, showcasing picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and dramatic mountain vistas.
A day trip from Zurich to Bucharest is not feasible as the journey takes 25h 15m and covers 866 miles (1394 km). The trip frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Bucharest, you can explore the National Museum of Art of Romania, stroll through the historic Cismigiu Gardens, and enjoy a guided tour of the Palace of the Parliament. Attend a concert at the Romanian Athenaeum and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bucharest's Old Town. Don't miss the iconic sights like the Palace of the Parliament, Romanian Athenaeum, Village Museum, Herăstrău Park, and the lively Old Town district.
Typically, spending three to four days in Bucharest allows visitors to explore major attractions like the Palace of the Parliament, the Old Town, and Herăstrău Park, and experience the local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Bucharest.
Since both Zurich and Bucharest 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.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Bucharest 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.
The currency used in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards for most purchases, especially in cities and larger establishments, though carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors, rural areas, and transportation where card acceptance may be limited.
In Bucharest, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and tourist attractions. Common scams include taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes, so using authorized taxi services or ride-hailing apps is recommended. Additionally, travelers should avoid unofficial currency exchange booths to prevent counterfeit bills. Staying vigilant in busy places and securing personal belongings helps 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 Zurich to Bucharest
Most Zurich to Bucharest trains use the Zürich HB to Bucharest station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Bucharest 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 Bucharest
Which Zurich station do trains to Bucharest leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Bucharest leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
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 · $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.
Which Bucharest station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Bucharest arrive at Bucharest. Bucharest is 1 miles (3 km) from Bucharest city centre.
BucharestPta Gara de Nord, 3, Bucuresti-Sector 1, Bucuresti, București, Romania+40 31 805 7890
City-centre transport
Getting to Bucharest from Bucharest city centre
Bucharest is 3 km from Bucharest city centre. Public transport options include:
Train85 · 15m · every ~11 min
Bus123 · 17m · $1 · every ~15 min
123 · 19m · $1 · every ~15 min
SubwayM1 · 16m · every ~16 min
Bucharest train station facilities and services
Bucharest has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bucharest.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bucharest. ATMs are available at Bucharest.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bucharest: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bucharest: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bucharest.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Bucharest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bucharest and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Bucharest
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