Zurich to Erlangen train with Deutsche Bahn (EC,ICE,IC)

Sat, Aug 01
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Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Erlangen

Showing times and prices for Aug 01

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

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 $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.

Fast trains

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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:05 AM6h50
    Zurich
    1:55 PMErlangen
    $391One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:08 AM6h47
    Zurich
    1:55 PMErlangen
    $571One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:08 AM6h47
    Zurich
    12:55 PMErlangen
    $641One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:32 AM6h45
    Zurich
    3:17 PMErlangen
    $1371One-way
    0 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 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)

Compare train with

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Erlangen is a bus with an average price of $50 (€41).

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).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Erlangen is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 1m.

Other travel options to Erlangen take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 16m.

Train takes on average 5h 25m.

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 $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.

Live departures

Zurich to Erlangen train times

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.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 282 · IC 2069 · 49708:37 AM Zurich HB
6h18
2:55 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 99 · ICE 624 · 4918
On time
9:32 AM Zurich HB
5h56
3:28 PM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 99 · ICE 504
On time
9:32 AM Zurich HB
6h45
4:17 PM Erlangen station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 380 · 88619 · 4992
On time
9:37 AM Zurich HB
6h18
3:55 PM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 280 · IC 2161 · 497210:37 AM Zurich HB
6h18
4:55 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 191 · ICE 502
On time
11:32 AM Zurich HB
6h45
6:17 PM Erlangen station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnEC 191 · ICE 620 · 492211:32 AM Zurich HB
5h54
5:26 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 488 · 88621 · 499411:37 AM Zurich HB
6h18
5:55 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 188 · IC 2163
On time
12:37 PM Zurich HB
6h01
6:38 PM Erlangen station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnEC 193 · ICE 500
On time
1:32 PM Zurich HB
6h45
8:17 PM Erlangen station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnEC 193 · ICE 526 · 49261:32 PM Zurich HB
5h54
7:26 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 486 · 89687 · 49961:37 PM Zurich HB
6h18
7:55 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 186 · IC 2165 · 4976
On time
2:37 PM Zurich HB
6h18
8:55 PM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 195 · 3299 · ICE 700
On time
3:32 PM Zurich HB
5h46
9:18 PM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 484 · 88625 · 49983:37 PM Zurich HB
6h18
9:55 PM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 102 · ICE 592 · ICE 929 · 46293:59 PM Zurich HB
7h02
11:01 PM Erlangen station4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 184 · IC 2167 · S1
On time
4:37 PM Zurich HB
6h30
11:07 PM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 197 · ICE 1080 · S15:32 PM Zurich HB
7h15
12:47 AM Erlangen station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 197 · ICE 904
On time
5:32 PM Zurich HB
8h07
1:39 AM Erlangen station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 482 · IC 2382 · 88647 · S15:37 PM Zurich HB
6h30
12:07 AM Erlangen station3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 482 · RE 52382 · 88647 · S15:37 PM Zurich HB
6h30
12:07 AM Erlangen station3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIR 3279 · REX 25895 · 3295 · ICE 904
On time
6:08 PM Zurich HB
7h31
1:39 AM Erlangen station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 182 · 88649 · 23415 · S4
On time
6:37 PM Zurich HB
7h02
1:39 AM Erlangen station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 199 · 78962 · 57521 · 59110
On time
7:32 PM Zurich HB
10h21
5:53 AM Erlangen station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 60470 · ICE 827 · 4902
On time
8:59 PM Zurich HB
10h27
7:26 AM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 60402 · ICE 698 · ICE 501
On time
9:59 PM Zurich HB
9h50
7:49 AM Erlangen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 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 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.

Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07

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

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

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.

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 $34 (€28)
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
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 $34 (€28)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Erlangen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Erlangen from $34 (€28). 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
5h 56m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 1m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€117)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day

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

Stadtmuseum Erlangen

The city's main museum presents Erlangen's Huguenot origins, urban growth, and everyday life through objects, models, and changing exhibitions.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Erlangen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€32), while the average price is around $99 (€81).
The train from Zurich to Erlangen takes 5h 56m and runs 8 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 $34 (€28).
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 5h 56m. 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 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

Zürich StadelhofenStadelhoferstrasse 8, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

More options for your journey from Zurich to Erlangen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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