- Must visit
Fries Museum
The main museum of Friesland, known for regional history, art, and major temporary exhibitions in the city center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Leeuwarden
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$213
Average price
$248
Fastest journey
10 h 28 m
Average duration
10 h 28 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
677 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Leeuwarden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Leeuwarden will cost around $248 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $213.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Zurich for Leeuwarden on Fri, Jun 05, 2 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 677 km distance in an average of 10 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 28 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 10 h 28 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 AM10h28Zurich5:27 PMLeeuwarden$2131One-way0 transfers- 5:59 AM10h28Zurich4:27 PMLeeuwarden$2831One-way0 transfers
- 6:59 AM10h28Zurich5:27 PMLeeuwarden$2131One-way0 transfers
- 5:59 AM10h28Zurich4:27 PMLeeuwarden$2831One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Leeuwarden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Leeuwarden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $73. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 13m. 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 $73, and a flight costs an average of $108.
Distance: 420 miles (677 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$209 Average price | $266 Average price | $109 Average price Cheapest | $195 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 43m Average total duration 11h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 31m Average total duration 24h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.0 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Leeuwarden is a bus with an average price of $109 (€88).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Leeuwarden:
A bus is $100 (€81) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Leeuwarden costing on average $209 (€169).
A bus is $157 (€127) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Leeuwarden costing on average $266 (€215).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Leeuwarden is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 13m.
Other travel options to Leeuwarden take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 13m.
Bus takes on average 24h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Leeuwarden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Leeuwarden 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 $209 (€169) compared to roughly $195 (€157) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.49 (€-11.72). The journey takes 11h 13m versus 8h 33m 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 Leeuwarden train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Leeuwarden 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 200 · 20220 · IC 17962 · RE 9059 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 10h28 | 6:27 PM Leeuwarden station | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Leeuwarden 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.
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Jun 05
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Jun 11
Why should you book Zurich to Leeuwarden trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Zurich to Leeuwarden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Leeuwarden.
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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Leeuwarden.
- 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 Leeuwarden.
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 Leeuwarden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Leeuwarden
Switzerland
Netherlands
Trains from Zurich to Leeuwarden run on average 7 times per day, taking around 11h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $125 (€101) but you can travel from only $73 (€59) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:46. The fastest train covers the 420 miles (677 km) distance in 9h 10m.
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 $73 (€59)
Distance 420 miles (677 km) |
Average train duration 11h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $125 (€101) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 9h 10m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 10:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $73 (€59)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Zurich to Leeuwarden trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Zurich and Leeuwarden from $73 (€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 Duration
9h 10m
Cheapest Price
$125 (€101)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 10m
Cheapest Price
$307 (€248)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
5 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 45m
Cheapest Price
$315 (€255)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Leeuwarden
Things to do in Leeuwarden
Discover the best of Leeuwarden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leeuwarden trip today.
- Recommended
Keramiekmuseum Princessehof
A respected ceramics museum in a historic palace, with collections ranging from Asian porcelain to modern design.
- Recommended
Natuurmuseum Fryslân
A family-friendly natural history museum with interactive displays about wildlife, landscapes, and nature in Friesland.
- Must visit
Oldehoofsterkerkhof
The square around Oldehove is a key gathering space and one of the best places for classic city views and photos.
- Recommended
Nieuwestad
The city’s best-known shopping and canal street, lively for strolling and a practical base for exploring the center.
- Recommended
Prinsentuin
A popular waterside park with gardens, walking paths, and marina views, especially pleasant in warmer months.
- Vegetarian
Suikerbrood
Frisian sugar bread baked with pearl sugar and cinnamon. A beloved regional specialty often eaten at breakfast or with coffee.
- Vegetarian
Fryske Dmkes
Traditional Frisian cookies made with anise, ginger and sometimes candied peel. They are closely associated with the province and local baking traditions.
- Vegetarian
Oranjekoek
A classic Frisian cake flavored with citrus and topped with a pink glaze. It is especially popular at celebrations and in local bakeries.
Stek Leeuwarden
Stylish casual venue with strong local support, appreciated for brunch, lunch and seasonal dishes in a cozy canal-side atmosphere.
Restaurant Wannee
Well-regarded restaurant in Leeuwarden focused on Dutch and Frisian ingredients with a refined, modern approach and polished atmosphere.
Proefverlof
Popular all-day dining spot set in a former prison complex, known for creative plates, local products and a lively yet relaxed setting.
Euro
Prices are typical for the Netherlands: supermarkets are fair, while restaurants and hotels cost more than in smaller Dutch towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for takeaway 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. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxis; small tips for hotel staff are optional.
9292
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.95
- Day pass
- EUR 7.00
To the city center
Leeuwarden Station, Leeuwarden -> Leeuwarden City Center, Leeuwarden
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can check real-time journeys and fares across buses and trains in Leeuwarden with the 9292 app. OVpay lets you tap in and out with a contactless bank card on Dutch public transport.
- At Leeuwarden Station, the city center is also walkable in about 10 min. For local buses in Fryslân, Arriva is the main operator.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Leeuwarden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Leeuwarden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $125 (€101), while the average price is around $209 (€169).
The train from Zurich to Leeuwarden takes 9h 10m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Leeuwarden leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Leeuwarden is 420 miles (677 km).
The last train from Zurich to Leeuwarden leaves at 10:46 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Leeuwarden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Leeuwarden.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Leeuwarden is Zurich HB, which connects to Leeuwarden station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Leeuwarden is by bus, with a cost of around $73 (€59).
The train journey from Zurich to Leeuwarden offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland and the rolling hills and countryside of Germany and the Netherlands.
A day trip from Zurich to Leeuwarden is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 10m. The distance is 420 miles (677 km), and there are 9 train trips per day.
In Leeuwarden, you can visit AquaZoo Friesland to enjoy a variety of aquatic and land animals, explore vibrant local markets for unique Dutch treats and crafts, and take a canal tour for a different perspective of the city. Discover the historic Waagplein, a lively square with cafes and shops, and enjoy a cycling tour through the scenic Frisian countryside. For cultural experiences, visit the Fries Museum, Oldehove tower, and Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics. Blokhuispoort offers a cultural hub with shops and cafes, while De Groene Ster provides a recreational area with lakes and walking trails for outdoor activities.
For a well-rounded experience in Leeuwarden, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days to explore its historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant local scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Leeuwarden.
Since both Zurich and Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden include Utrecht, Groningen, Arnhem, Heerenveen, Zwolle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it is advisable to use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Additionally, travelers should watch out for counterfeit tickets or unauthorized sellers when purchasing transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Leeuwarden
Zurich
Leeuwarden
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 Leeuwarden.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Leeuwarden is Leeuwarden. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leeuwarden for your journey to Leeuwarden from Zurich.
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
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Stationsweg.
Dining
- Brasserie Oranje
- Restaurant Wannee
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Oranje Hotel Leeuwarden
- Post-Plaza Hotel & Grand Café
- Fletcher Hotel-Paleis Stadhouderlijk Hof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 252 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-6 for regional and intercity trains
Public transit options for Leeuwarden
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Connections to major Dutch cities
More options for your journey from Zurich to Leeuwarden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leeuwarden and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Leeuwarden
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