- Must visit
Mathematikum
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages, especially popular with families and curious adults.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Giessen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€53
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€110
Fastest journey on Sep 19
5 h
Average journey duration on Sep 19
5 h 35 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
358 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Giessen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Giessen will cost around €110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €53.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 4 trains from Zurich to Giessen, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 358 km distance in an average of 5 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 7 h 19 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.
6:59 AM5h00Zurich11:59 AMGiessen€531One-way0 transfers- 9:34 AM5h00Zurich2:34 PMGiessen€821One-way0 transfers
- 9:59 AM7h19Zurich5:18 PMGiessen€1451One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM5h00Zurich12:59 PMGiessen€1621One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 AM5h00Zurich11:59 AMGiessen€531One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM5h00Zurich12:59 PMGiessen€1621One-way0 transfers
- 9:34 AM5h00Zurich2:34 PMGiessen€821One-way0 transfers
- 9:59 AM7h19Zurich5:18 PMGiessen€1451One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Giessen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Giessen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €105 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 0m. 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 train costs an average of €105, while a flight costs an average of €604.
Distance: 222 miles (358 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€105 Average price Cheapest | €604 Average price | €122 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 25m Average total duration 4h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.1 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Giessen is a train with an average price of €105.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Giessen:
A train is €499 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Giessen costing on average €604.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Giessen is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 0m.
Other travel options to Giessen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Giessen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Giessen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 16m faster (4h 55m by train vs 5h 11m by car) and roughly €17 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€105 vs €122). 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 Giessen train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Giessen trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:59 AM Zurich | 5h00 | 12:59 PM Giessen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:59 AM Zurich | 5h00 | 1:59 PM Giessen | 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 Giessen 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
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
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Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Zurich to Giessen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Zurich to Giessen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Giessen.
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 SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Giessen.
- 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 Giessen.
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 Giessen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Giessen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Giessen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €59 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:59. The fastest train covers the 222 miles (358 km) distance in 4h 24m.
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
Distance 222 miles (358 km) |
Average train duration 4h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price €59 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 4h 24m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 10:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Giessen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Giessen from €59. 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 24m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€59
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 Giessen
Things to do in Giessen
Discover the best of Giessen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Giessen trip today.
- Recommended
Oberhessisches Museum Wallenfels-Haus
Giessen’s leading art museum with changing exhibitions, regional works, and modern presentation in a central location.
- Recommended
Röntgen-Gedenkstätte
Birthplace memorial museum for physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, highlighting his life, discoveries, and scientific impact.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Giessen
Botanical garden founded in the university tradition, valued for plant diversity, calm atmosphere, and seasonal beauty.
- Must visit
Kloster Schiffenberg Grounds
Historic monastery hill on the city edge, popular for walks, views, and combining nature with heritage architecture.
- Recommended
Berliner Platz
Central square framed by major civic buildings, useful as an orientation point and hub for events and city walks.
Hessische Kartoffelsuppe
A Hessian potato soup often served with sausage. It is simple regional comfort food long linked to home cooking in central Hesse.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäse Mit Musik
A rustic sour milk cheese from Hesse, usually served with onions, vinegar and oil. It is one of the region's most iconic tavern dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frankfurter Grüne Soße
Green sauce made with seven fresh herbs, traditionally eaten with eggs and potatoes. A classic Hessian spring and summer dish.
Bootshaus Giessen
Refined restaurant known for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant atmosphere, suited for a higher-end dinner.
Knossos Giessen
Popular beer garden and casual dining spot with German dishes and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere by the Lahn.
Brauhaus Giessen
Traditional Hessian brewery restaurant serving regional classics and beer in a lively rustic setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are fairly priced, and local transit is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than Frankfurt or Munich.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
RMVgo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.65
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Giessen Bahnhof -> Marktplatz Giessen
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in RMVgo or at ticket machines before boarding; bus drivers may not always offer the full ticket range.
- Contactless card payment is available in RMVgo and at many ticket machines, but onboard bus payment options can vary.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Giessen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Giessen 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 Giessen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Giessen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €59, while the average price is around €105.
The train from Zurich to Giessen takes 4h 24m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Giessen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Giessen is 222 miles (358 km).
The last train from Zurich to Giessen leaves at 10:59 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Giessen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Giessen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Giessen is Zurich HB, which connects to Giessen station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Giessen is by train, with a cost of around €59.
The train journey from Zurich to Giessen offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Swiss countryside, featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of the distant Alps, making it a visually pleasant experience.
A day trip from Zurich to Giessen is not feasible due to the journey duration of 4h 24m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 222 miles (358 km).
To fully explore Giessen, including its key attractions such as the Mathematikum science museum, the Botanical Garden of the University of Giessen, and the Liebig Museum, a two-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Giessen.
Since both Zurich and Giessen 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 Giessen include Frankfurt am Main, Kassel, Mannheim, Marburg, Heidelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Giessen 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 Giessen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and markets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of surroundings. There are no widespread scams reported, but standard precautions against overcharging or misleading offers at local vendors are recommended. Overall, Giessen is considered a safe destination with typical urban safety concerns.
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 Giessen
Most Zurich to Giessen trains use the Zürich HB to Gießen station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Giessen 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 Giessen
Which Zurich station do trains to Giessen leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Giessen 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.
Which Giessen station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Giessen arrive at Gießen. Gießen is 0 miles (1 km) from Giessen city centre.
GießenGießen, Bahnhofstr. 102, 35390 Gießen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gießen from Giessen city centre
Bus2 · 6m · every ~7 min
371 · 8m · every ~2 min
Gießen train station facilities and services
Gießen 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: Aydin Grill, Südwinde, Subway, Alt Giessen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gießen. ATMs are available at Gießen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gießen. Information desks are available at Gießen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gießen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gießen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gießen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gießen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Liebig-Hotel, Hotel Flamingo, Hotel Köhler, Hotel Adler.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Giessen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Giessen and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Giessen
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