4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport
Cheapest price on Sep 17
$79
Average ticket price on Sep 17
$140
Fastest journey on Sep 17
4 h 4 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
4 h 4 m
Trains on Sep 17
35
Distance
298 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 35 trains from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport, including 7 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 298 km distance in an average of 4 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 4 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 4 h 4 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.
ICE 1023:59 PM4h09Zurich HB8:08 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$791One-way0 transfers- IC 780 · ICE 274 · ICE 5124:59 PM4h09Zurich HB9:08 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$791One-way2 transfers
- IC 184 · ICE 9104:37 PM5h01Zurich HB9:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$811One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1089:59 AM4h09Zurich HB2:08 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$861One-way0 transfers
- IC 282 · ICE 9188:37 AM5h01Zurich HB1:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$901One-way1 transfer
TGV 9210+
ICE 6 · ICE 9189:34 AM4h04Zurich HB1:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$1941One-way2 transfers
TGV 9210+ICE 6 · ICE 9189:34 AM4h04Zurich HB1:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$1031One-way2 transfers- TGV 9218+ICE 72 · ICE 91611:34 AM4h04Zurich HB3:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$1941One-way2 transfers
- TGV 9222+
EC 4+ICE 2241:34 PM4h04Zurich HB5:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$1941One-way2 transfers - TGV 9218+ICE 72 · ICE 91611:34 AM4h04Zurich HB3:38 PMFrankfurt Airport long-distance station$931One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $52 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, while a flight costs an average of $731.
Distance: 185 miles (298 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$139 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $731 Average price | $139 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 54m Average total duration 7h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 8m Average total duration 3h 8m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport:
A bus is $88 (€71) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport costing on average $139 (€113).
A bus is $679 (€553) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport costing on average $731 (€595).
Other travel options to Frankfurt am Main Airport take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 59m.
Bus takes on average 7h 24m.
Tickets start at around $139 (€113) compared to roughly $139 (€113) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-0.49 (€-0.40). The journey takes 3h 59m versus 3h 56m 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 Frankfurt am Main Airport train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 108 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h09 | 2:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 108 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h09 | 2:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 370 · ICE 518 | 10:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h09 | 3:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, September 17 | |||||
| ICE 200 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h09 | 12:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 282 · ICE 918 | On time 8:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h01 | 1:38 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
 IC 794+ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h09 | 1:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h09 | 1:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9210+ICE 6 · ICE 918 | On time 9:34 AM Zurich HB | 4h04 | 1:38 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9210+ICE 6 · ICE 918 | On time 9:34 AM Zurich HB | 4h04 | 1:38 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport 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.
Sep 17
Sep 18
Sep 19
Sep 20
Sep 21
Sep 22
Sep 23
Why should you book Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport trains with Omio?
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 ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or Trenitalia EuroCity to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport.
- 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 Frankfurt am Main Airport.
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 Frankfurt am Main Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:59, the last at 09:59. The fastest train covers the 185 miles (298 km) distance in 3h 29m.
Distance 185 miles (298 km) |
Average train duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 29m |
First train 5:59 AM |
Last train 9:59 AM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Zurich and Frankfurt am Main Airport from $22 (€18). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport 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 Frankfurt am Main Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport
Most Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport trains use the Zürich HB to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Frankfurt am Main Airport train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Zürich Stadelhofen from Zurich city centre
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.
Getting to Zürich Altstetten from Zurich city centre
Zürich Altstetten is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich Altstetten train station facilities and services
Zürich Altstetten 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: Restaurant Markthalle, Restaurant LaSalle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Altstetten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Altstetten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Altstetten: Elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Placid Hotel Zurich, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, H+ Hotel Zürich.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Frankfurt am Main Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Frankfurt am Main Airport and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Frankfurt am Main Airport
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
