Zurich to Kiel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, May 24
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
SBB
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
SBB
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Kiel

Showing times and prices for May 24

Cheapest price

$182

Average price

$196

Fastest journey

9 h 41 m

Average duration

10 h 15 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

781 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Zurich to Kiel will cost around $196 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $182.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Zurich for Kiel on Sun, May 24, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 24 the direct trains cover the 781 km distance in an average of 10 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 41 m .

On Sun, May 24 the slowest trains will take 11 h 22 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    4:59 AM9h41
    Zurich
    2:40 PMKiel
    $1821One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:59 AM11h22
    Zurich
    8:21 PMKiel
    $1951One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:59 AM9h41
    Zurich
    3:40 PMKiel
    $2111One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Kiel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 44m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $91.

Distance: 485 miles (781 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$154

Average price

$195

Average price

$89

Average price

Cheapest

$266

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 10m

Average total duration

9h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 44m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

16h 13m

Average total duration

15h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.3 - 4.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 2.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

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 Kiel is a bus with an average price of $89 (€72).

This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Kiel:

A bus is $65 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Kiel costing on average $154 (€124).

A bus is $106 (€86) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Kiel costing on average $195 (€158).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Kiel is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 44m.

Other travel options to Kiel take longer:

Train takes on average 9h 40m.

Bus takes on average 15h 43m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Kiel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Kiel 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE.

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 Kiel train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn4:59 AM Zurich
9h41
2:40 PM Kiel0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn5:59 AM Zurich
9h41
3:40 PM Kiel0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:59 AM Zurich
11h22
8:21 PM Kiel0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Kiel 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.

Sun
May 24
Mon
May 25
Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30

Why should you book Zurich to Kiel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Zurich to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Kiel.

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, SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Kiel.
  • 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 Kiel.

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 Kiel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Kiel

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Kiel run on average 11 times per day, taking around 9h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) but you can travel from only $58 (€47) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 485 miles (781 km) distance in 9h 18m.

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 $58 (€47)
Distance
485 miles (781 km)
Average train duration
9h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$65 (€52)
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
9h 18m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
4 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 $58 (€47)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Zurich to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Zurich and Kiel from $58 (€47). 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 18m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 39m
Cheapest Price
$354 (€287)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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 53m
Cheapest Price
$175 (€142)
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 22m
Cheapest Price
$200 (€162)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Kiel

Things to do in Kiel

Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.

  • Must visit

Kunsthalle zu Kiel

Major art museum of Kiel University with paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibitions from the 19th century to contemporary art.

  • Recommended

Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel

Kiel’s maritime museum in a historic fish auction hall, covering naval, port, and shipping history closely tied to the city.

  • Recommended

Zoologisches Museum Kiel

University museum with notable zoological collections, including marine specimens, skeletons, and exhibits linked to Baltic Sea research.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Daily costs are manageable, with mid-range dining and hotels priced below Munich or Hamburg.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.

FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Kiel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $154 (€124).
The train from Zurich to Kiel takes 9h 18m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Kiel is 485 miles (781 km).
The first train from Zurich to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Kiel leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Kiel. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Kiel.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Kiel is Zurich HB, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $58 (€47).
The train journey from Zurich to Kiel offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Swiss landscapes, lush German countryside, and along the shores of Lake Constance, providing travelers with glimpses of charming towns and natural beauty.
A day trip from Zurich to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 18m and covers 485 miles (781 km). There are 11 trips per day by train.
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Kiel.
Since both Zurich and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Kiel 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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Kiel

Zurich
Kiel
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 Kiel.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
26
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Au Premier
  • Brasserie Federal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
  • Hotel St. Gotthard
  • Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
Shower
  • Cost CHF 12
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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 StadelhofenWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
3
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Outback Lodge
  • Tibits
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Opera Zurich
  • Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
  • Hotel Seehof
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 1000 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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 NordAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km

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