- Must visit
Mémorial de Caen
Major museum covering the Second World War, D-Day, and peace. One of Normandy’s essential visits for context, reflection, and powerful exhibits.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Caen
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$221
Average price
$255
Fastest journey
7 h 26 m
Average duration
7 h 29 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
689 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Caen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Caen will cost around $255 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $221.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Zurich for Caen on Thu, Jul 16, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 689 km distance in an average of 7 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 26 m .
On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 7 h 31 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.
2:34 PM7h26Zurich10:00 PMCaen$2211One-way0 transfers- 11:34 AM7h31Zurich7:05 PMCaen$2891One-way0 transfers
- 2:34 PM7h26Zurich10:00 PMCaen$2211One-way0 transfers
- 11:34 AM7h31Zurich7:05 PMCaen$2891One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Caen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Caen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $194.
Distance: 428 miles (689 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$198 Average price | $98 Average price Cheapest | $524 Average price | $321 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 40m Average total duration Fastest 6h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 28m Average total duration 14h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31h 44m Average total duration 28h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Caen is a bus with an average price of $98 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Caen:
A bus is $100 (€82) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Caen costing on average $198 (€163).
A bus is $426 (€350) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Caen costing on average $524 (€430).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Caen is by train with an average journey time of 6h 10m.
Other travel options to Caen take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 58m.
Flight takes on average 28h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Caen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Caen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 23m faster (6h 10m by train vs 8h 33m by car) and roughly $123 (€101) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($198 (€163) vs $321 (€263)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Caen 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.
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Caen
Switzerland
France
Trains from Zurich to Caen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $77 (€63) but you can travel from only $58 (€47) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:46, the last at 18:34. The fastest train covers the 428 miles (689 km) distance in 7h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $58 (€47)
Distance 428 miles (689 km) |
Average train duration 6h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€63) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 7h 15m |
First train 6:46 AM |
Last train 6:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $58 (€47)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Caen trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Caen from $58 (€47). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 15m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€63)
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$320 (€263)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Caen
Things to do in Caen
Discover the best of Caen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Caen trip today.
- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen
Fine arts museum inside Caen Castle, known for European paintings, engravings, and thoughtful exhibitions in a prestigious historic setting.
- Recommended
Musée de Normandie
Archaeology museum in the castle presenting regional finds from prehistory to the Middle Ages, ideal for understanding Normandy’s long history.
- Must visit
Quartier du Vaugueux
Lively old quarter below the castle, loved for its stone houses, narrow lanes, and atmosphere that preserves a strong sense of historic Caen.
- Recommended
Place Saint-Sauveur
Grand central square lined with historic buildings and terraces, ideal for orienting yourself and experiencing Caen’s daily urban life.
- Recommended
Rue Saint-Pierre
Main pedestrian-friendly shopping street linking major monuments, useful for strolling between old center highlights and civic landmarks.
- Gluten-free
Tripes À La Mode De Caen
Tripe simmered with cider, calvados and aromatics in the traditional Caen style. It is the city’s signature Norman dish with deep local roots.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Camembert De Normandie
Soft-ripened Norman cow’s milk cheese from nearby villages. Its creamy center and washed rind make it a classic taste of the Caen area.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pont-L’Évêque
Raw milk Norman cheese with a stronger, saltier character than Camembert. Traditionally made in Calvados and widely enjoyed around Caen.
Ivan Vautier
Elegant Michelin-starred dining known for refined Norman ingredients and polished service in a contemporary fine dining setting.
Le Bouchon Du Vaugueux
Historic brasserie near the center, appreciated for seafood, oysters, choucroute de la mer and classic French service.
Crêperie Le Moulin Du Vaugueux
Traditional crêperie in the Vaugueux area serving galettes, crêpes and Normandy cider in a relaxed old-town atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: hotels and restaurants are mid-priced, while local transit is affordable and many sights are low-cost versus Paris or the Riviera.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food, crêpes, or simple lunches.
- Mid-range
- €18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.20-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; small change for cafés. Taxis can be rounded up.
Twisto
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.60
- Day pass
- €4.50
To the city center
Gare de Caen -> Place Saint-Pierre, Caen
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tickets can be bought in the Twisto app, at ticket machines, or onboard buses. Contactless bank card payment availability varies, so check before boarding.
- Validate your ticket when boarding or entering the tram platform area. A 1-hour ticket usually allows transfers within the Twisto network.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Caen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Caen 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 Caen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Caen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $77 (€63), while the average price is around $198 (€163).
The train from Zurich to Caen takes 7h 15m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Caen is 428 miles (689 km).
The first train from Zurich to Caen leaves at 6:46 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Caen leaves at 6:34 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Zurich to Caen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Caen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Caen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Caen is Zurich HB, which connects to Gare de Caen.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Caen is by bus, with a cost of around $58 (€47).
The train journey from Zurich to Caen offers scenic views, particularly through Switzerland and parts of France, where travelers can enjoy picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming countryside vistas.
A day trip from Zurich to Caen is not feasible as the travel time is 7h 15m, and there are only 3 trains per day for this journey, covering a distance of 428 miles (689 km).
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Caen is typically sufficient to explore its key attractions, including the Normandy Museum, the Caen Castle, and the famous Memorial de Caen.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Caen.
Since both Zurich and Caen 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 Caen include Rouen, Bayeux, Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, Saint-Lô, Lisieux.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Caen 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Caen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at tourist sites can occur, so it’s advisable to agree on prices beforehand. Overall, Caen is considered safe, but staying alert in busy spots helps prevent common petty crimes.
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 Caen
Most Zurich to Caen trains use the Zürich HB to Gare de Caen station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Caen 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 Caen
Which Zurich station do trains to Caen leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Caen 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 Caen station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Caen most often arrive at Gare de Caen. Some services arrive at Bretteville-l'Orgueilleuse, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Caen arrival station.
Gare de Caen15 Place de la gare, 14000 Caen, France+33 2 31 15 55 55
City-centre transport
Getting to Gare de Caen from Caen city centre
Gare de Caen is 1 km from Caen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 12 · 7m · $2 · every ~7 min
101, 102, 103 · 18m · $4 · every ~3 min
TramT1, T3 · 5m · $2 · every ~15 min
Gare de Caen train station facilities and services
Gare de Caen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Bistrot de la Gare, La Ficelle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gare de Caen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gare de Caen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gare de Caen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gare de Caen: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gare de Caen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Bristol, Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare, Hotel de la Paix.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Caen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Caen and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Caen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
