- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK)
Ghent’s principal fine-arts museum, known for Flemish masters and a strong collection from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Ghent
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$194
Average price
$234
Fastest journey
7 h 13 m
Average duration
8 h 3 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
539 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Ghent will cost around $234 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $194.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Zurich for Ghent on Wed, Jun 03, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 03 the direct trains cover the 539 km distance in an average of 8 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 13 m .
On Wed, Jun 03 the slowest trains will take 8 h 20 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.
7:59 AM8h12Zurich4:11 PMGhent$1941One-way0 transfers- 8:59 AM8h12Zurich5:11 PMGhent$2001One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 AM8h20Zurich3:19 PMGhent$2001One-way0 transfers
- 3:59 AM8h20Zurich12:19 PMGhent$2231One-way0 transfers
2:34 PM7h13Zurich9:47 PMGhent$2591One-way0 transfers
- 2:34 PM7h13Zurich9:47 PMGhent$2591One-way0 transfers
- 8:59 AM8h12Zurich5:11 PMGhent$2001One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM8h12Zurich4:11 PMGhent$1941One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 AM8h20Zurich3:19 PMGhent$2001One-way0 transfers
- 5:59 AM8h20Zurich2:19 PMGhent$3281One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Ghent
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Ghent among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a flight costs an average of $90.
Distance: 334 miles (539 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$210 Average price | $85 Average price Cheapest | $273 Average price | $232 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 3m Average total duration 7h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 7m Average total duration 15h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 36m Average total duration Fastest 1h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.2kg 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 Ghent is a bus with an average price of $85 (€69).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Ghent:
A bus is $125 (€101) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Ghent costing on average $210 (€169).
A bus is $188 (€152) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Ghent costing on average $273 (€221).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Ghent is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 36m.
Other travel options to Ghent take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 33m.
Bus takes on average 15h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Ghent including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Ghent among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 5m faster (7h 33m by train vs 7h 38m by car) and roughly $22 (€18) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($210 (€169) vs $232 (€187)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich to Ghent train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Ghent trains for today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:59 AM Zurich | 8h20 | 3:19 PM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:59 PM Zurich | 8h20 | 9:19 PM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, June 3 | |||||
| 3:59 AM Zurich | 8h20 | 12:19 PM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:59 AM Zurich | 8h20 | 2:19 PM Ghent | 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 Ghent 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.
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Thu
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Jun 04
Fri
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Jun 05
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Jun 06
Jun 06
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Jun 09
Why should you book Zurich to Ghent trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Ghent.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Ghent.
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 Ghent.
- 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 Ghent.
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 Ghent.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Ghent
Switzerland
Belgium
Trains from Zurich to Ghent run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $99 (€80) but you can travel from only $49 (€39) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 334 miles (539 km) distance in 6h 43m.
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 $49 (€39)
Distance 334 miles (539 km) |
Average train duration 7h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $99 (€80) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 6h 43m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 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 $49 (€39)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Ghent trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Ghent from $49 (€39). 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
8h 12m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
$234 (€189)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Ghent
Things to do in Ghent
Discover the best of Ghent — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ghent trip today.
- Recommended
S.M.A.K.
Ghent’s leading contemporary art museum, featuring Belgian and international modern and contemporary works in rotating exhibitions.
- Recommended
Design Museum Gent
A stylish museum covering decorative arts and contemporary design, set in an elegant historic house and modern extension.
- Must visit
Graslei and Korenlei
Ghent’s most photogenic riverfront quays, lined with guild houses and busy with walkers, boat tours, and evening views.
- Recommended
Patershol
A beautiful historic quarter of narrow cobbled lanes and old houses, ideal for wandering and atmosphere.
- Recommended
Korenmarkt
A lively central square surrounded by landmark buildings, tram lines, and easy access to the historic core.
Gentse Waterzooi
Ghent’s signature creamy stew, traditionally made with fish and now often with chicken, vegetables, cream, and egg yolk.
Gentse Stoverij
A rich Flemish beef stew slow-cooked with dark beer, commonly served with fries and strongly associated with local tavern cooking.
- Vegetarian
Mastellen
Traditional ring-shaped sweet buns from the Ghent area, lightly spiced and linked to local fairs and seasonal baking traditions.
Publiek
Modern fine dining restaurant with a Michelin star, offering creative seasonal tasting menus in a refined but relaxed setting.
Pakhuis
Large, stylish brasserie in a former warehouse, known for Belgian classics, seafood, and a lively historic setting.
Du Progres
Well-known classic brasserie on Korenmarkt serving Flemish favorites such as waterzooi and stew in a central, bustling atmosphere.
Euro
Prices are moderate by Western European standards. Meals and drinks are manageable, but central hotels can be pricey in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; no tip needed for counter service.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.50
- Day pass
- EUR 7.50
To the city center
Gent Sint-Pieters -> Korenmarkt, Ghent
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can usually pay contactless by card or mobile on De Lijn trams and buses; the fare is the same as a standard ticket product where accepted.
- Validate your ticket and use the De Lijn app for live departures, route planning, and mobile tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Ghent
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Ghent 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 Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Ghent can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $99 (€80), while the average price is around $210 (€169).
The train from Zurich to Ghent takes 6h 43m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Ghent leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Ghent is 334 miles (539 km).
The last train from Zurich to Ghent leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Ghent.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Ghent.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Ghent is Zurich HB, which connects to Ghent St Pieters.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Ghent is by bus, with a cost of around $49 (€39).
The train journey from Zurich to Ghent is quite scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, before transitioning through the scenic landscapes of France and Belgium.
A day trip from Zurich to Ghent is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 43m, covering a distance of 334 miles (539 km). Trains run 2 times per day.
In Ghent, explore the charming Patershol neighborhood with its narrow streets and diverse dining options, and discover the vibrant street art scene with murals throughout the city. Visit the Design Museum Ghent for contemporary and historical design, and take a boat tour along the canals for a unique city view. Don't miss the medieval Gravensteen castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral with the Ghent Altarpiece, and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei streets. The Belfry of Ghent offers panoramic views, and the Museum of Fine Arts showcases Flemish art. Enjoy a bike ride through Ghent's extensive cycling paths.
Spending 2 to 3 days in Ghent is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Ghent.
Since both Zurich and Ghent 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 Ghent include Brussels, Bruges, Lille, Antwerp, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Ghent 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Ghent, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and near major attractions. Common scams include distraction techniques where individuals create a commotion to divert attention while accomplices steal belongings. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Additionally, travelers should use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent fare scams.
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 Ghent
Zurich
Ghent
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 Ghent.
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
Zürich Stadelhofen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
Dining
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1000 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
Public transit options for Zürich Stadelhofen
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmThe major train station for arrivals in Ghent is Gent St Pieters. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gent St Pieters for your journey to Ghent from Zurich.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Restaurant Patrick Foley's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- NH Gent Sint Pieters
- Hotel Carlton
- Astoria Hotel Gent
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-12 for regional and local trains
Public transit options for Gent St Pieters
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 4
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Kasteellaan.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Amadeus Ghent 1
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
- Hotel Cathedral
- Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal
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, platform 1-4 for trains to Antwerp, Brussels, and local destinations
Public transit options for Gent-Dampoort
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 4
More options for your journey from Zurich to Ghent
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ghent and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Ghent
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