- Must visit
Villa Romana e Antiquarium di Desenzano del Garda
Archaeological museum complex with one of Northern Italy’s most important late Roman villas, known for extensive floor mosaics and finds from ancient Desenzano.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda
Showing times and prices for Jun 09
Cheapest price
$115
Average price
$125
Fastest journey
4 h 32 m
Average duration
4 h 44 m
Trains per day
30
Distance
260 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda will cost around $125 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $115.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda without transferring at least once.
EuroCity 21+
89971:33 PM6h52Zurich HB8:25 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1151One-way1 transfer- EuroCity 11+89836:33 AM6h52Zurich HB1:25 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1151One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 23+89973:33 PM4h52Zurich HB8:25 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1151One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 151+
Regionale TRENORD 263312:33 PM5h15Zurich HB5:48 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1161One-way1 transfer - EuroCity 21+Regionale TRENORD 26351:33 PM5h15Zurich HB6:48 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1161One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 21+
FRECCIAROSSA 97491:33 PM4h32Zurich HB6:05 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1481One-way1 transfer - EuroCity 23+FRECCIAROSSA 97573:33 PM4h33Zurich HB8:06 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1481One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 23+89973:33 PM4h52Zurich HB8:25 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1151One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 21+89931:33 PM4h52Zurich HB6:25 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1171One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 31+89838:33 AM4h52Zurich HB1:25 PMDesenzano del Garda-Sirmione$1341One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Zurich to Desenzano del Garda
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 15m. 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 $30, and a flight costs an average of $97.
Distance: 161 miles (260 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$121 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $272 Average price | $153 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration Fastest 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 52m Average total duration 7h 52m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg 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 Desenzano del Garda is a bus with an average price of $57 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda:
A bus is $65 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda costing on average $121 (€99).
A bus is $215 (€176) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda costing on average $272 (€222).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 15m.
Other travel options to Desenzano del Garda take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 47m.
Flight takes on average 7h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Desenzano del Garda including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda 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 $121 (€99) compared to roughly $153 (€125) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $32 (€26). The journey takes 4h 47m versus 4h 32m 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 Desenzano del Garda train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Desenzano del Garda trains for today, Monday, June 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:33 PM Zurich | 5h15 | 8:48 PM Desenzano del Garda | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:33 PM Zurich | 5h15 | 9:48 PM Desenzano del Garda | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, June 9 | |||||
| EuroCity 11+8983 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h52 | 1:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 11+8993 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 11h52 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+8983 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h52 | 1:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+8993 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 10h52 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+Regionale TRENORD 2623 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h15 | 12:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 31+Regionale TRENORD 2625 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h15 | 1:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 31+8993 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 9h52 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 31+8997 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 11h52 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 31+8983 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 4h52 | 1:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+Regionale TRENORD 2627 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h15 | 2:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+8997 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 10h52 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+8993 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 8h52 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 153+Regionale TRENORD 2629 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h15 | 3:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Desenzano del Garda by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Why should you book Zurich to Desenzano del Garda trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, 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 Desenzano del Garda.
- 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda run on average 12 times per day, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 (€50) but you can travel from only $30 (€25) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:35, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 5h 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 $30 (€25)
Distance 161 miles (260 km) |
Average train duration 4h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 (€50) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 5h 15m |
First train 3:35 AM |
Last train 9:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 91 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 $30 (€25)
Train companies: Trenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda trainsTrenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Desenzano del Garda from $30 (€25). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€50)
Trenitalia frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
$143 (€117)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Desenzano del Garda
Things to do in Desenzano del Garda
Discover the best of Desenzano del Garda — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Desenzano del Garda trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Archeologico Giovanni Rambotti
Local archaeological museum famous for the Bronze Age pile-dwelling finds from Lake Garda, including the Lavagnone plough, an important prehistoric artifact.
Galleria Civica Gian Battista Bosio
Small civic gallery used for temporary art exhibitions and cultural shows, offering a local perspective on Desenzano’s contemporary cultural life.
- Must visit
Lungolago Cesare Battisti
Scenic lakeside promenade ideal for walking, photos, and sunset views, linking major central sights with a relaxed Lake Garda atmosphere.
- Must visit
Centro Storico di Desenzano
The historic center combines shopping streets, lively squares, and old buildings, making it the main area for strolling and absorbing the town’s atmosphere.
- Recommended
Piazza Malvezzi
Elegant central square facing the old harbor, surrounded by historic arcades and often considered the social heart of Desenzano.
- Gluten-free
Risotto Con Il Pesce Persico
Creamy risotto topped with Lake Garda perch fillets, a classic Garda dish that highlights the lake's freshwater fish tradition.
Bigoli Con Le Sarde Di Lago
Thick pasta served with sardines from Lake Garda, reflecting the area's long fishing and pasta-making traditions.
- Gluten-free
Lavarello Alla Griglia
Grilled whitefish from the lake, usually simply dressed with olive oil and herbs to showcase local ingredients.
Esplanade
Refined lakeside restaurant and hotel dining room known for elegant seafood, polished service, and panoramic Garda views.
Osteria SaporediVino
Well-regarded osteria in the historic center, appreciated for seasonal Italian cuisine, seafood, and an extensive wine selection.
Trattoria Al Fattore
Traditional trattoria with a long-standing reputation for local dishes, hearty portions, and a classic Lombard atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Italy. Lakeside dining and summer stays cost more, but cafés, pizza, and local bars stay fairly reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for pizza, panini, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale lakeside restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxis.
Arriva MyPay
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione -> Desenzano del Garda Centro
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Urban and regional buses around Desenzano del Garda are commonly operated by Arriva; check timetables and mobile tickets in the official app before travel.
- Card payment onboard buses is not consistently available, so buy tickets in advance or carry cash as a backup.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda 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 Desenzano del Garda, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62 (€50), while the average price is around $121 (€99).
The train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda takes 5h 15m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda is 161 miles (260 km).
The first train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda leaves at 3:35 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Desenzano del Garda is Zurich HB, which connects to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda is by bus, with a cost of around $30 (€25).
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming Italian countryside along the way.
A day trip from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda is not feasible due to a travel time of 5h 15m. The journey covers a distance of 161 miles (260 km) and there are 11 train trips available per day.
To fully experience Desenzano del Garda, including its historical sites, lakefront activities, and local cuisine, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Since both Zurich and Desenzano del Garda 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 Desenzano del Garda include Milan, Verona, Venice, Bergamo, Brescia.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Desenzano del Garda, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the ferry terminal and markets. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official transportation services and be vigilant with personal belongings in busy spots.
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 Desenzano del Garda
Zurich
Desenzano del Garda
The major train station for departures in Zurich is Zürich HB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich HB for your trip from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda.
Amenities at train station
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
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
- Cost CHF 12
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transit options for Zürich HB
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
The major train station for arrivals in Desenzano del Garda is Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione for your journey to Desenzano del Garda from Zurich.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Piazza Einaudi.
Dining
- Ristorante Esplanade
- Trattoria Alessi
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Hotel Mayer & Splendid
- Hotel Piroscafo
- Hotel Bonotto
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and restrooms
Public transit options for Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione
- Bus: Line LN026
- Ferry: Desenzano del Garda ferry terminal is a 15-minute walk away
More options for your journey from Zurich to Desenzano del Garda
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Desenzano del Garda and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Desenzano del Garda
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