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






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)
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 |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() 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.
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).
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 40m.
Bus takes on average 15h 43m.
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.
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.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 4:59 AM Zurich | 9h41 | 2:40 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:59 AM Zurich | 9h41 | 3:40 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:59 AM Zurich | 11h22 | 8:21 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
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.
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 |
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
Major art museum of Kiel University with paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibitions from the 19th century to contemporary art.
Kiel’s maritime museum in a historic fish auction hall, covering naval, port, and shipping history closely tied to the city.
University museum with notable zoological collections, including marine specimens, skeletons, and exhibits linked to Baltic Sea research.
Kiel’s signature waterfront promenade along the fjord, ideal for walks, harbor views, naval atmosphere, and major event watching.
Historic market square in the old center, anchored by St. Nikolai Church and surrounded by shops and city life.
Central square by the town hall and opera house, often used for events and a practical orientation point in central Kiel.
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked with Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or as a snack and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring, pickles and fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, usually with potatoes. A beloved northern coastal dish strongly associated with Schleswig-Holstein.
Refined dining venue in Kiel recognized for contemporary German cuisine, careful service and an elegant atmosphere suited to a special meal.
Stylish restaurant in Kiel with a more upscale feel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and well-presented seasonal menus.
Established waterfront restaurant at Kiellinie known for fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Moderate by German standards. Daily costs are manageable, with mid-range dining and hotels priced below Munich or Hamburg.
Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
Official public transport app
Kiel Hbf, Kiel -> Kiel Rathaus, 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.

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