- Must visit
Ateneum Art Museum
Finland’s best-known classical art museum, with major Finnish works and selected international art in a central historic building.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Zurich to Helsinki
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Helsinki among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $141. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.8 - 4.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $141, and a flight costs an average of $120.
Distance: 1102 miles (1775 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$228 Average price | $194 Average price Cheapest | $129 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 42h 11m Average total duration 41h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 27h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
5.3 - 10.6kg CO2 emissions | 1.8 - 4.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  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 Helsinki is a bus with an average price of $194 (€159).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Helsinki:
A bus is $34 (€28) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Helsinki costing on average $228 (€187).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Helsinki is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 40m.
Other travel options to Helsinki take longer:
Bus takes on average 41h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Helsinki including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Helsinki among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Helsinki by bus or flight
Compare 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Helsinki
Switzerland
Finland
Take a train from Zurich to Helsinki and enjoy the approximately 1102 miles (1775 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 07:00.
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
Flight from $120 (€98)
Distance 1102 miles (1775 km) |
First train 3:40 AM |
Last train 7:00 AM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Flight from $120 (€98)
Complete guide to Helsinki
Things to do in Helsinki
Discover the best of Helsinki — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Helsinki trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
Leading contemporary art museum in Finland, known for bold exhibitions, architecture, and a strong Nordic focus.
- Must visit
Amos Rex
A highly popular modern art museum famous for immersive exhibitions and its striking roof domes at Lasipalatsi Square.
- Must visit
Senate Square
Helsinki’s grand historic square, framed by major neoclassical buildings and one of the city’s key postcard views.
- Must visit
Esplanadi
The classic central promenade lined with elegant buildings, green space, and a lively local atmosphere in warmer months.
- Must visit
Kauppatori
The waterfront Market Square, popular for harbor views, ferries, and a lively introduction to central Helsinki.
- Vegetarian
Karjalanpiirakka
Karelian pies made with a thin rye crust and a rice porridge filling, traditionally topped with egg butter. They are one of Finland’s most iconic everyday pastries.
- Gluten-free
Lohikeitto
A classic Finnish salmon soup with potatoes, carrots, leeks, and cream, usually finished with dill. It is a comforting staple found across Helsinki.
- Gluten-free
Poronkäristys
Sautéed reindeer, usually served with mashed potatoes, lingonberries, and pickles. Though associated with Lapland, it is a well-known traditional Finnish dish in Helsinki restaurants.
Restaurant Grön
A respected modern Nordic fine dining restaurant known for seasonal Finnish ingredients, polished cooking, and an elegant contemporary setting.
Restaurant Savotta
A well-known traditional Finnish restaurant near Senate Square, serving classics such as reindeer and salmon in a rustic heritage setting.
Sea Horse
An established brasserie-style institution famous for Baltic herring, meatballs, and other old-school Finnish dishes in a classic local atmosphere.
Euro
Helsinki is pricey by European standards, especially for dining and hotels, though public transport is reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 12-18 for lunch or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3.50-5 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Taxis can be rounded up.
HSL
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.20 EUR
- Day pass
- 12.00 EUR
To the city center
Helsinki Central Station, Helsinki -> City Center, Helsinki
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use the HSL app to buy tickets and plan journeys across trams, buses, metro, ferries, and commuter trains.
- Card payment is generally accepted on HSL ticket machines, but bus ticket sales are not available onboard in Helsinki.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Helsinki
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Helsinki 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 Helsinki, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Zurich to Helsinki is 1102 miles (1775 km).
The first train from Zurich to Helsinki leaves at 3:40 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Helsinki leaves at 7:00 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Helsinki.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Helsinki is by flight, with a cost of around $120 (€98).
The train journey from Zurich to Helsinki is not particularly known for scenic views, as it involves multiple transfers and routes through urban and industrial areas. For more scenic options, consider routes passing through the Swiss Alps or the Finnish countryside.
In Helsinki, explore the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum to see traditional Finnish wooden buildings, visit the Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island, and wander through the vibrant Design District. Relax in Esplanadi Park or enjoy a Finnish sauna at Löyly. Discover Suomenlinna's historical sea fortress, admire the architecture of Helsinki Cathedral, and visit the unique Temppeliaukio Church. Don't miss the lively Market Square and contemporary art at Kiasma.
Three to four days in Helsinki is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, experience the local culture, and enjoy the vibrant dining and shopping scenes.
No, you cannot take the train from Zurich to Helsinki.
Since both Zurich and Helsinki 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 Helsinki include Turku, Lahti, Hämeenlinna, Kouvola, Salo.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Helsinki 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.
Finland uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted across Finland, including in public transportation, restaurants, and shops, though having some cash on hand can be useful for small purchases or in remote areas.
In Helsinki, main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing in crowded areas and public transportation, especially near major tourist sites. Scams are relatively rare but travelers should be cautious of unofficial taxi drivers overcharging and false charity collectors. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and be vigilant with personal belongings to avoid common petty theft. Overall, Helsinki is considered a safe city with low crime rates.
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.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Helsinki
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Helsinki and Zurich
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