- Must visit
BPS22
A major contemporary art museum in Charleroi, noted for large-scale exhibitions in an industrial-style setting. One of the city’s best-known cultural venues.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Charleroi
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$120
Average price
$132
Fastest journey
9 h 7 m
Average duration
9 h 32 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
452 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Charleroi is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Charleroi will cost around $132 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $120.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Charleroi without transferring at least 3 times.
IR 2072 · ECE 4 · ICE 10 · IC 38441:10 PM9h56Zurich HB11:06 PMCharleroi-Sud$1201One-way3 transfers- IC 770 · ICE 106 · ICE 12 · IC 384211:59 AM9h07Zurich HB9:06 PMCharleroi-Sud$1441One-way3 transfers
- IC 770 · ICE 106 · ICE 12 · IC 384211:59 AM9h07Zurich HB9:06 PMCharleroi-Sud$1441One-way3 transfers
- IR 2072 · ECE 4 · ICE 10 · IC 38441:10 PM9h56Zurich HB11:06 PMCharleroi-Sud$1201One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Zurich to Charleroi
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Charleroi among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, and a flight costs an average of $95.
Distance: 280 miles (452 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$219 Average price | $260 Average price | $90 Average price Cheapest | $209 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 52m Average total duration 8h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 38m Average total duration 18h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Charleroi is a bus with an average price of $90 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Charleroi:
A bus is $129 (€106) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Charleroi costing on average $219 (€179).
A bus is $170 (€139) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Charleroi costing on average $260 (€213).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Charleroi is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 40m.
Other travel options to Charleroi take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 22m.
Bus takes on average 18h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Charleroi including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Charleroi 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 $219 (€179) compared to roughly $209 (€171) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.48 (€-8.57). The journey takes 8h 22m versus 6h 29m 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 Zurich to Charleroi by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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 Zurich to Charleroi trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Charleroi.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Charleroi.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Charleroi.
- 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Charleroi.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Charleroi.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Charleroi
Switzerland
Belgium
Trains from Zurich to Charleroi run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $110 (€90) but you can travel from only $56 (€46) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:05, the last at 22:03. The fastest train covers the 280 miles (452 km) distance in 6h 14m.
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 $56 (€46)
Distance 280 miles (452 km) |
Average train duration 8h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€90) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 6h 14m |
First train 5:05 AM |
Last train 10:03 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 5 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 $56 (€46)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Charleroi trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Charleroi from $56 (€46). 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 Duration
8h 34m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€90)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 36m
Cheapest Price
$213 (€174)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Charleroi
Things to do in Charleroi
Discover the best of Charleroi — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charleroi trip today.
- Must visit
Musée de la Photographie
One of the largest photography museums in Europe, housed in a former Carmelite convent in Mont-sur-Marchienne. It is highly regarded for both permanent and temporary exhibitions.
- Must visit
Bois du Cazier
A former coal mine and memorial site with museum spaces on mining, industry, and immigration. It is Charleroi’s most important heritage attraction and a UNESCO-listed site.
- Must visit
Place Charles II
The historic central square of the upper town, surrounded by major civic and religious landmarks. It is a natural starting point for exploring central Charleroi.
- Must visit
Terril des Piges
A former mining slag heap turned viewpoint and walking spot, offering broad views over Charleroi. It is one of the city’s most distinctive outdoor experiences.
- Must visit
Bois du Cazier Site
Beyond its museum role, the wider site is also a powerful heritage area for walking through industrial structures, memorial spaces, and landscaped surroundings.
Boulets à la Liégeoise
Belgian meatballs served in a sweet-savory sauce often made with onions and sirop de Liège. A Walloon brasserie classic commonly found around Charleroi.
Carbonnade Flamande
Slow-braised beef stew cooked with Belgian beer and onions. Though associated with Belgium broadly, it is a staple comfort dish in local brasseries.
Mitraillette
A beloved Belgian street-food sandwich filled with meat, fries, and sauce in a baguette. It is especially common in snack bars across Charleroi.
Le Grand Ryeu
Established fine-dining restaurant offering seasonal French-Belgian cooking in an upscale, classic setting with attentive service.
L'Impératif d'Eole Charleroi
Refined restaurant known for elegant Belgian-French cuisine, careful wine pairing, and a polished atmosphere suited to a special meal.
La Manufacture Urbaine
Popular local brewery and dining venue where visitors can try regional beer alongside casual Belgian dishes in an industrial-chic space.
Euro
Generally cheaper than Brussels. Hotels and dining are moderate, while budget food and public transport are fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not required. Round up taxi fares.
TEC
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.20 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.50 EUR
To the city center
Charleroi-Sud, Charleroi -> Rive Gauche, Charleroi
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy TEC tickets in the official TEC app or from ticket machines where available. Validate your ticket when required before or immediately after boarding.
- On many TEC buses, contactless card payment is not consistently available, so buy your ticket in advance in the app or from a machine.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Charleroi
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Charleroi 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 Charleroi, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Charleroi can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $110 (€90), while the average price is around $219 (€179).
The train from Zurich to Charleroi takes 6h 14m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Charleroi is 280 miles (452 km).
The first train from Zurich to Charleroi leaves at 5:05 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Charleroi leaves at 10:03 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Charleroi.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Charleroi.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Charleroi is Zurich HB, which connects to Charleroi-Sud.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Charleroi is by bus, with a cost of around $56 (€46).
The train journey from Zurich to Charleroi offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Swiss countryside, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Zurich to Charleroi is not feasible, as the journey takes 6h 14m and the distance is 280 miles (452 km). The frequency is 2 per day for trains.
In Charleroi, you can enjoy the Charleroi Street Art Tour to explore vibrant murals and urban art, shop and dine at the modern Rive Gauche shopping center, or catch a basketball game or concert at the Spiroudome. For outdoor activities, visit Parc Reine Astrid for a stroll or picnic, and explore the scenic Les Aulniats nature reserve. Noteworthy sights include the historical Bois du Cazier, the extensive Musée de la Photographie, contemporary performances at Charleroi Danses, diverse art collections at BPS22, and the architecturally stunning Saint-Christophe Church.
A day or two in Charleroi is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Art Deco architecture, the Museum of Photography, and the Bois du Cazier industrial site.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Charleroi.
Since both Zurich and Charleroi 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 Charleroi include Brussels, Antwerp, Lille, Ghent, Maastricht.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Charleroi 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Charleroi, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the train station and city center. Avoid poorly lit or isolated places at night. Scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging taxi drivers can occur, so it is advised to use licensed taxis and verify fares beforehand. Staying alert 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 Charleroi
Most Zurich to Charleroi trains use the Zürich HB to Bruxelles-Midi station pair, with some services arriving at Charleroi-Sud. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Charleroi 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 Charleroi
Which Zurich station do trains to Charleroi leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Charleroi 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 Charleroi station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Charleroi most often arrive at Bruxelles-Midi. Some services arrive at Charleroi-Sud, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Charleroi arrival station.
Charleroi-SudPlace Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Charleroi-Sud from Charleroi city centre
SubwayM2, M3 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
Charleroi-Sud train station facilities and services
Charleroi-Sud 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: La Manufacture Urbaine, Le Pain Quotidien
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charleroi-Sud. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Sud. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charleroi-Sud: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charleroi-Sud: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Sud: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare, Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Novotel Charleroi Centre.
Lodelinsart6042 Charleroi, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Lodelinsart from Charleroi city centre
Lodelinsart is 2 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainL, S61 · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusBus · 11m
18 · 20m · $2 · every ~5 min
Lodelinsart train station facilities and services
Lodelinsart has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lodelinsart.
Bike and car services
Available at Lodelinsart: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lodelinsart.
Marchienne-au-Pont6030 Charleroi, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Marchienne-au-Pont from Charleroi city centre
Marchienne-au-Pont is 3 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIc, S62, S19, L, S1, P, T, Ext · 4m · $1 · every ~12 min
Bus43, 71, 83 · 12m · $2 · every ~9 min
Marchienne-au-Pont train station facilities and services
Marchienne-au-Pont has practical services for this route, including Dining and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Marchienne-au-Pont.
Bike and car services
Available at Marchienne-au-Pont: Bike Parking.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Charleroi
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charleroi and Zurich
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