- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Erlangen
The city's main museum presents Erlangen's Huguenot origins, urban growth, and everyday life through objects, models, and changing exhibitions.
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$74
Fastest journey
6 h 45 m
Average duration
6 h 47 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
306 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Erlangen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Erlangen will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Of the 4 trains that leave Zurich for Erlangen on Sat, Aug 01, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 306 km distance in an average of 6 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 45 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 6 h 50 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.








Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Erlangen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a flight costs an average of $209.
Distance: 190 miles (306 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$99 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest | $753 Average price | $139 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 46m Average total duration 4h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 1m Average total duration Fastest 4h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 1.8kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Erlangen:
A bus is $49 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Erlangen costing on average $99 (€81).
A bus is $703 (€573) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Erlangen costing on average $753 (€613).
Other travel options to Erlangen take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 16m.
Train takes on average 5h 25m.
Tickets start at around $99 (€81) compared to roughly $139 (€113) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $40 (€32). The journey takes 5h 25m versus 5h 1m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Erlangen trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 282 · IC 2069 · 4970 | 8:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 2:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
EC 99 · ICE 624 · 4918 | On time 9:32 AM Zurich HB | 5h56 | 3:28 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
EC 99 · ICE 504 | On time 9:32 AM Zurich HB | 6h45 | 4:17 PM Erlangen station | 1 transfer | |
IC 380 · 88619 · 4992 | On time 9:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 3:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 280 · IC 2161 · 4972 | 10:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 4:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
EC 191 · ICE 502 | On time 11:32 AM Zurich HB | 6h45 | 6:17 PM Erlangen station | 1 transfer | |
EC 191 · ICE 620 · 4922 | 11:32 AM Zurich HB | 5h54 | 5:26 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 488 · 88621 · 4994 | 11:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 5:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 188 · IC 2163 | On time 12:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h01 | 6:38 PM Erlangen station | 1 transfer | |
EC 193 · ICE 500 | On time 1:32 PM Zurich HB | 6h45 | 8:17 PM Erlangen station | 1 transfer | |
EC 193 · ICE 526 · 4926 | 1:32 PM Zurich HB | 5h54 | 7:26 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 486 · 89687 · 4996 | 1:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 7:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 186 · IC 2165 · 4976 | On time 2:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 8:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
EC 195 · 3299 · ICE 700 | On time 3:32 PM Zurich HB | 5h46 | 9:18 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 484 · 88625 · 4998 | 3:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h18 | 9:55 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 102 · ICE 592 · ICE 929 · 4629 | 3:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h02 | 11:01 PM Erlangen station | 4 transfers | |
IC 184 · IC 2167 · S1 | On time 4:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h30 | 11:07 PM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
EC 197 · ICE 1080 · S1 | 5:32 PM Zurich HB | 7h15 | 12:47 AM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
EC 197 · ICE 904 | On time 5:32 PM Zurich HB | 8h07 | 1:39 AM Erlangen station | 1 transfer | |
IC 482 · IC 2382 · 88647 · S1 | 5:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h30 | 12:07 AM Erlangen station | 3 transfers | |
IC 482 · RE 52382 · 88647 · S1 | 5:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h30 | 12:07 AM Erlangen station | 3 transfers | |
IR 3279 · REX 25895 · 3295 · ICE 904 | On time 6:08 PM Zurich HB | 7h31 | 1:39 AM Erlangen station | 3 transfers | |
IC 182 · 88649 · 23415 · S4 | On time 6:37 PM Zurich HB | 7h02 | 1:39 AM Erlangen station | 4 transfers | |
EC 199 · 78962 · 57521 · 59110 | On time 7:32 PM Zurich HB | 10h21 | 5:53 AM Erlangen station | 4 transfers | |
IC 60470 · ICE 827 · 4902 | On time 8:59 PM Zurich HB | 10h27 | 7:26 AM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 60402 · ICE 698 · ICE 501 | On time 9:59 PM Zurich HB | 9h50 | 7:49 AM Erlangen station | 2 transfers | |
IC 60402 · ICE 778 · ICE 827 · 4902 | On time 9:59 PM Zurich HB | 9h27 | 7:26 AM Erlangen station | 3 transfers | |
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.
Trains from Zurich to Erlangen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 190 miles (306 km) distance in 5h 56m.
Distance 190 miles (306 km) |
Average train duration 5h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 56m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Erlangen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Erlangen trip today.
The city's main museum presents Erlangen's Huguenot origins, urban growth, and everyday life through objects, models, and changing exhibitions.
Museum on medical history and anatomy at the university. It is a niche but fascinating stop for science, medicine, and research heritage.
Art space in a historic tower showing contemporary exhibitions. It is a local favorite for small-scale, thoughtful programs in an unusual venue.
Formal baroque palace garden with broad lawns, sculptures, and event spaces. It is Erlangen's classic promenade and a top place to relax.
University botanical garden with outdoor collections and greenhouses. A peaceful, educational retreat close to the historic center.
Large central square framed by major civic buildings. It hosts events and offers the best overall view of Erlangen's planned baroque layout.
Smoked pork shoulder cured with spices and slow-cooked. A Franconian specialty often served with sauerkraut and bread or dumplings.
Coarse Franconian bratwurst, usually grilled and served with sauerkraut or potato salad. It is a classic local pub and beer garden dish.
Potato dumplings common across Franconia, served with roasts and rich gravy. They are a staple of traditional Sunday meals.
Established fine dining restaurant with a Michelin-level reputation. Expect seasonal tasting menus and polished modern service.
Historic brewery inn known for Franconian classics and house-brewed beer. Traditional atmosphere and a reliable choice in the old town.
Well-known traditional venue serving Franconian and Bavarian dishes with its own beer. Rustic setting and popular beer garden.
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, local transit is reasonable, and student-oriented spots help keep daily tourist costs manageable.
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
Official public transport app
Erlangen Hbf -> Schlossplatz, Erlangen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Erlangen 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 Erlangen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Zurich to Erlangen trains use the Zürich HB to Erlangen station pair, with some services arriving at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Erlangen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Zürich Stadelhofen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Outback Lodge, Tibits
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.
Erlangen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.
Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße is 1 km from Erlangen city centre. Public transport options include:
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Bistro bareva, Zum Angerwirt, Turandot, Hoang Kim Imbiss
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. ATMs are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Information desks are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Nearby hotels include Art Hotel, The niu Cure.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need