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

Sun, Jul 19
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Mechelen

Showing times and prices for Jul 19

Cheapest price

$215

Average price

$215

Fastest journey

7 h 59 m

Average duration

7 h 59 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

503 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Zurich to Mechelen will cost around $215 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $215.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Zurich for Mechelen on Sun, Jul 19, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jul 19 the direct trains cover the 503 km distance in an average of 7 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 59 m .

On Sun, Jul 19 the slowest trains will take 7 h 59 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
    6:59 AM7h59
    Zurich
    2:58 PMMechelen
    $2151One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, flight, and bus for Zurich to Mechelen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Mechelen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $90. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 7h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $90, and a flight costs an average of $183.

Distance: 312 miles (503 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$246

Average price

$365

Average price

$129

Average price

Cheapest

$141

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 56m

Average total duration

9h 56m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

14h 20m

Average total duration

13h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 29m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.5 - 3.0kg

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 Mechelen is a bus with an average price of $129 (€106).

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

A bus is $116 (€96) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Mechelen costing on average $246 (€202).

A bus is $236 (€193) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Mechelen costing on average $365 (€299).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Mechelen is by train with an average journey time of 7h 7m.

Other travel options to Mechelen take longer:

Flight takes on average 9h 56m.

Bus takes on average 13h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Mechelen including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Mechelen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 22m sooner (7h 7m by train vs 7h 29m by car). Tickets start at around $246 (€202) compared to roughly $141 (€116) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Zurich to Mechelen train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Mechelen trains for today, Saturday, July 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)1:08 AM Zurich
10h50
11:58 AM Mechelen3 transfers
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)6:59 AM Zurich
8h59
3:58 PM Mechelen3 transfers
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)9:34 AM Zurich
8h24
5:58 PM Mechelen3 transfers
SBB GmbH10:59 AM Zurich
8h59
7:58 PM Mechelen3 transfers
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)1:34 PM Zurich
8h24
9:58 PM Mechelen3 transfers
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)2:59 PM Zurich
8h59
11:58 PM Mechelen3 transfers
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)6:34 PM Zurich
15h49
10:23 AM Mechelen3 transfers
SBB GmbH6:59 PM Zurich
14h59
9:58 AM Mechelen3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Mechelen by train, flight, or bus

Compare train, flight, and bus 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
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25

Why should you book Zurich to Mechelen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as SBB or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Mechelen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Mechelen.

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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Mechelen.
  • 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Mechelen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Mechelen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Mechelen

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Mechelen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $188 (€154) but you can travel from only $90 (€74) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 16:03. The fastest train covers the 312 miles (503 km) distance in 7h 48m.

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 $90 (€74)
Distance
312 miles (503 km)
Average train duration
7h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$188 (€154)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
7h 48m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
4:03 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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 $90 (€74)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Mechelen trainsDeutsche Bahn, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Mechelen from $90 (€74). 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
7h 48m
Cheapest Price
$188 (€154)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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

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
8h 59m
Cheapest Price
$166 (€136)
SBB frequency
1 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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 13m
Cheapest Price
$221 (€181)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
6 a day

FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Mechelen

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Mechelen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $188 (€154), while the average price is around $246 (€202).
The train from Zurich to Mechelen takes 7h 48m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Mechelen is 312 miles (503 km).
The first train from Zurich to Mechelen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Mechelen leaves at 4:03 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Mechelen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Mechelen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Mechelen is Zurich HB, which connects to Mechelen station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Mechelen is by bus, with a cost of around $90 (€74).
The train journey from Zurich to Mechelen offers scenic views of the Swiss and German countryside, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, particularly as it passes through the regions near Zurich and the Rhine Valley in Germany.
A day trip from Zurich to Mechelen is not feasible as the travel time is 7h 48m. However, there are 3 train trips available per day for this journey. The distance is 312 miles (503 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Mechelen's historical sites, museums, and local cuisine, while also enjoying its charming atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Mechelen.
Since both Zurich and Mechelen 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 Mechelen include Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Paris, Breda.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Mechelen 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Mechelen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unauthorized ticket sellers can also occur. Staying vigilant in busy places and using official transportation services 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 Mechelen

Most Zurich to Mechelen trains use the Zürich HB to Mechelen station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Mechelen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Mechelen

Which Zurich station do trains to Mechelen leave from?

Trains from Zurich to Mechelen leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre

Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min

Zürich HB train station facilities and services

Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including 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, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.

Zürich StadelhofenStadelhoferstrasse 8, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich Stadelhofen from Zurich city centre

TramLine 11, Line 15
BusSeveral lines available
S-BahnLines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16

Zürich Stadelhofen train station facilities and services

Zürich Stadelhofen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Outback Lodge, Tibits

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone