- Must visit
Groninger Museum
Groningen’s flagship museum, known for bold postmodern architecture and changing exhibitions on art, design, and regional history.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Groningen
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$97
Average price
$178
Fastest journey
10 h 26 m
Average duration
11 h 34 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
666 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Groningen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Groningen will cost around $178 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $97.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Zurich for Groningen on Fri, Jun 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 666 km distance in an average of 11 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 26 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 13 h 12 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.
8:00 PM13h12Zurich9:12 AMGroningen$971One-way0 transfers- 7:37 AM11h05Zurich6:42 PMGroningen$2101One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 AM10h26Zurich5:25 PMGroningen$2271One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 AM10h26Zurich5:25 PMGroningen$2271One-way0 transfers
- 7:37 AM11h05Zurich6:42 PMGroningen$2101One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM13h12Zurich9:12 AMGroningen$971One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Zurich to Groningen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $64. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 11h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $64, and a train costs an average of $97.
Distance: 413 miles (666 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$187 Average price | $104 Average price Cheapest | $243 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 32m Average total duration Fastest 11h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 24m Average total duration 12h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | 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 Groningen is a bus with an average price of $104 (€85).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Groningen:
A bus is $83 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Groningen costing on average $187 (€152).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Groningen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.
Other travel options to Groningen take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 2m.
Bus takes on average 12h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Groningen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Groningen 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 $187 (€152) compared to roughly $243 (€197) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $56 (€45). The journey takes 11h 2m versus 9h 18m 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 Groningen train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Groningen trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:59 AM Zurich | 10h26 | 4:25 PM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:59 AM Zurich | 10h26 | 5:25 PM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:34 AM Zurich | 10h08 | 5:42 PM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:59 PM Zurich | 13h13 | 9:12 AM Groningen | 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 Groningen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Why should you book Zurich to Groningen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Zurich to Groningen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Groningen.
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 Groningen.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Groningen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Groningen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Groningen
Switzerland
Netherlands
Trains from Zurich to Groningen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 11h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $97 (€78) but you can travel from only $64 (€52) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:47, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 413 miles (666 km) distance in 9h 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 $64 (€52)
Distance 413 miles (666 km) |
Average train duration 11h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€78) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 9h 43m |
First train 1:47 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $64 (€52)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Zurich to Groningen trainsDeutsche Bahn, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Zurich and Groningen from $64 (€52). 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
9h 43m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€78)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 43m
Cheapest Price
$257 (€208)
SBB frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 43m
Cheapest Price
$321 (€260)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Groningen
Things to do in Groningen
Discover the best of Groningen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Groningen trip today.
- Recommended
Universiteitsmuseum Groningen
University museum with compact exhibits on science, medicine, and academic history, including interactive displays and historic instruments.
- Recommended
Storyworld
Museum and experience space about comics, animation, and games, especially appealing to families and contemporary visual culture fans.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
The central square of Groningen, surrounded by major landmarks and a natural starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Folkingestraat
One of Groningen’s most loved streets, known for independent shops, heritage façades, and a photogenic atmosphere.
- Must visit
Noorderplantsoen
Popular city park built on former fortifications, ideal for walks, picnics, and experiencing local daily life.
- Vegetarian
Eierbal
A Groningen snack of ragout-coated boiled egg, breaded and deep-fried. It is one of the city’s best-known local specialties, often eaten from snack bars.
- Vegetarian
Groninger Mosterdsoep
A creamy mustard soup made with the region’s sharp Groningen mustard. It is a classic northern Dutch starter and a local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Poffert
A traditional steamed cake from Groningen, usually made with flour, yeast, eggs, milk, and dried fruit. It is often served sliced with butter or syrup.
Bistro 't Gerecht
An established bistro in the city center known for refined French-Dutch dishes in an elegant historic setting. Suitable for a more upscale dinner.
De Uurwerker
A well-known café-restaurant near the university area, popular for casual meals, local beers, and a relaxed Groningen atmosphere.
Mr. Mofongo
A stylish, established venue with an international menu and broad drinks selection, set in a historic canal-side building. Known for its distinctive atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by Dutch standards. Groceries and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and nightlife can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Small tips for taxis are appreciated, but tipping is not expected in cafes or bars.
Qbuzz
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.50
- Day pass
- EUR 7.50
To the city center
Groningen Eelde Airport, Groningen -> Groningen Hoofdstation, Groningen
- Distance
- 11 km
- Travel time
- 30 min
- Check in and out with your OV-chipkaart or contactless bank card on buses and trains.
- You can usually pay by contactless card on local buses, but carry a backup payment method in case a validator is unavailable.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Groningen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Groningen 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 Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $97 (€78), while the average price is around $187 (€152).
The train from Zurich to Groningen takes 9h 43m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Groningen leaves at 1:47 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Groningen is 413 miles (666 km).
The last train from Zurich to Groningen leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Groningen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Groningen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Groningen is Zurich HB, which connects to Groningen station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $64 (€52).
The train journey from Zurich to Groningen offers scenic views, especially through the Swiss countryside and parts of Germany, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages enhancing the experience.
No, a day trip from Zurich to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 43m. Trains operate 12 times per day.
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Groningen.
Since both Zurich and Groningen 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 Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Groningen 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
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 Groningen
Zurich
Groningen
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 Groningen.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Groningen is Groningen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Groningen for your journey to Groningen from Zurich.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Stationsweg.
Dining
- De Drie Gezusters
- Mr. Mofongo
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- NH Groningen Hotel
- The Student Hotel Groningen
- City Hotel Groningen
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 6500 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: regional train platforms
- Hall 3: bus connections
Public transit options for Groningen
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: NS services to various destinations
Groningen Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- Free of charge
Bike Parking
- 80 places, covered
Station Plan
- The station is a small regional station with two platforms and a simple layout.
Public transit options for Groningen Noord
- Bus: Line 3, Line 4
- Train: Arriva services to Groningen Central and Delfzijl
Groningen Europapark
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingBike RentalMore options for your journey from Zurich to Groningen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Groningen and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Groningen
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