- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Erlangen
The city's main museum presents Erlangen's Huguenot origins, urban growth, and everyday life through objects, models, and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Erlangen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15
Cheapest price on Sep 15
€100
Average ticket price on Sep 15
€101
Fastest journey on Sep 15
6 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
6 h 29 m
Trains on Sep 15
2
Distance
306 km
Cheap tickets
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 €101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €100.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 2 trains from Zurich to Erlangen, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 306 km distance in an average of 6 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 18 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 6 h 40 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.
7:37 AM6h40Zurich2:17 PMErlangen€1001One-way0 transfers- 8:37 AM6h18Zurich2:55 PMErlangen€1021One-way0 transfers
- 8:37 AM6h18Zurich2:55 PMErlangen€1021One-way0 transfers
- 7:37 AM6h40Zurich2:17 PMErlangen€1001One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Erlangen
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 an average ticket price of €53 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €53, while a flight costs an average of €538.
Distance: 190 miles (306 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€88 Average price | €53 Average price Cheapest | €538 Average price | €114 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 17m Average total duration 5h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 49m Average total duration 11h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 59m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 2h 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 |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Erlangen is a bus with an average price of €53.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Erlangen:
A bus is €34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Erlangen costing on average €88.
A bus is €485 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Erlangen costing on average €538.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Erlangen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 59m.
Other travel options to Erlangen take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 47m.
Bus takes on average 11h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Erlangen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Erlangen 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 €88 compared to roughly €114 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €26. The journey takes 5h 47m 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.
Live departures
Zurich to Erlangen train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Erlangen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:37 AM Zurich | 6h40 | 2:17 PM Erlangen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:37 AM Zurich | 6h18 | 2:55 PM Erlangen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Erlangen 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.
Tue
Sep 15
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Why should you book Zurich to Erlangen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Erlangen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Erlangen.
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 Erlangen.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Erlangen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Erlangen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Erlangen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Erlangen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €36 but you can travel from only €36 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 4h 44m.
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 €36
Distance 190 miles (306 km) |
Average train duration 5h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price €36 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 4h 44m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 €36
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Erlangen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Erlangen from €36. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€36
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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 Erlangen
Things to do in Erlangen
Discover the best of Erlangen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Erlangen trip today.
- Recommended
Medizinhistorisches Museum Erlangen
Museum on medical history and anatomy at the university. It is a niche but fascinating stop for science, medicine, and research heritage.
- Recommended
Kunstpalais
Art space in a historic tower showing contemporary exhibitions. It is a local favorite for small-scale, thoughtful programs in an unusual venue.
- Must visit
Schlossgarten
Formal baroque palace garden with broad lawns, sculptures, and event spaces. It is Erlangen's classic promenade and a top place to relax.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten
University botanical garden with outdoor collections and greenhouses. A peaceful, educational retreat close to the historic center.
- Recommended
Schlossplatz
Large central square framed by major civic buildings. It hosts events and offers the best overall view of Erlangen's planned baroque layout.
Schäufele
Smoked pork shoulder cured with spices and slow-cooked. A Franconian specialty often served with sauerkraut and bread or dumplings.
Fränkische Bratwurst
Coarse Franconian bratwurst, usually grilled and served with sauerkraut or potato salad. It is a classic local pub and beer garden dish.
- Vegetarian
Fränkische Klöße
Potato dumplings common across Franconia, served with roasts and rich gravy. They are a staple of traditional Sunday meals.
Schlotfeger
Established fine dining restaurant with a Michelin-level reputation. Expect seasonal tasting menus and polished modern service.
Steinbach Bräu
Historic brewery inn known for Franconian classics and house-brewed beer. Traditional atmosphere and a reliable choice in the old town.
Kulmbacher Bierkeller
Well-known traditional venue serving Franconian and Bavarian dishes with its own beer. Rustic setting and popular beer garden.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, local transit is reasonable, and student-oriented spots help keep daily tourist costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.20 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
VGN Fahrplan & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Erlangen Hbf -> Schlossplatz, Erlangen
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the VGN app, at machines, or on DB channels before boarding. Validate paper tickets if required.
- Contactless card payment is available in the VGN app and at many ticket machines, but not reliably on board Erlangen buses.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to 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.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Erlangen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €36, while the average price is around €88.
The train from Zurich to Erlangen takes 4h 44m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Erlangen is 190 miles (306 km).
The first train from Zurich to Erlangen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Erlangen leaves at 11:49 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Erlangen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Erlangen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Erlangen is Zurich HB, which connects to Erlangen station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Erlangen is by bus, with a cost of around €36.
The train journey from Zurich to Erlangen offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland and southern Germany, with glimpses of the Swiss Alps and charming countryside.
A day trip from Zurich to Erlangen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 44m. Trains run 12 times per day.
Erlangen is a charming city where you can explore its historical sites, botanical gardens, and cultural attractions comfortably in 1 to 2 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Erlangen.
Since both Zurich and Erlangen 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 Erlangen include Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Erfurt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Erlangen 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Erlangen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. While the city is generally safe, it is advisable to stay alert in busy spots and avoid displaying valuables openly. Scams are rare but travelers should be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers. Staying informed about local safety guidelines enhances a secure 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 Erlangen
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.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Erlangen
Which Zurich station do trains to Erlangen leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Erlangen 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 · €3 · 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.
Zürich StadelhofenStadelhoferstrasse 8, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Stadelhofen from Zurich city centre
TramLine 11, Line 15
BusSeveral lines available
S-BahnLines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
Zürich Stadelhofen train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Outback Lodge, Tibits
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.
Which Erlangen station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Erlangen most often arrive at Erlangen. Some services arrive at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Erlangen arrival station.
ErlangenErlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen from Erlangen city centre
Bus295, 290, 289 · 4m · €3 · every ~14 min
Erlangen train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-StraßeErlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße, Paul-Gossen-Straße 25, 91051 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße from Erlangen city centre
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße is 1 km from Erlangen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1 · 2m · €1 · every ~6 min
BusS1 · 7m · €3
281S, 289, 281 · 8m · every ~9 min
209 · 9m · €3
289, 281, 281S · 10m · every ~9 min
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Bistro bareva, Zum Angerwirt, Turandot, Hoang Kim Imbiss
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. ATMs are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Information desks are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Art Hotel, The niu Cure.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Erlangen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erlangen and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Erlangen
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