Zurich to Milan train with Trenitalia

Transportation experience

You can arrive at Zürich Hauptbahnhof just minutes before departure. With no security checks or boarding procedures, you can simply walk onto the train, store your luggage, and get comfortable in your seat. It was really a stress-free and straightforward experience.

Schedule & frequency

Zürich to Milan trains run at least every two hours, often increasing to hourly at various points of the day. I took the 07:33 EC 11, scheduled to complete the trip in 3h 17m. After the 2023 tunnel closure, trains were rerouted over the mountains, adding an hour to the journey. But in 2025, all trains are back to using the Gotthard Base Tunnel.

Onboard experience & services

SBB Giruno Train Most Zürich–Milan trains use the SBB Giruno Train, which offers: Low-floor entry for easy boarding, especially with luggage. Power outlets, tables and free Wi-Fi in both classes. A restaurant car serving freshly prepared hot meals and light snacks, like sandwiches and cheese platters, plus a wide range of hot, cold, and alcoholic drinks. I traveled in First Class, but Standard Class is very comfortable and perfectly suitable for most. Both offer open seating, either in airline-style rows or around tables. First Class provides more space, a quieter atmosphere and solo seats, making it ideal for solo travellers. There’s no additional service beyond the better seating, so I would only choose First Class again if the price difference is small. Scenery Tips Sit on the left side for views of Lake Zürich when leaving the city. Switch to the right before Zug for the best Alpine views. Inside the 57-kilometer-long Gotthard Base Tunnel, there's nothing to see, but it’s pretty impressive to be traveling at 200 km/h deep below the Alps! After emerging from the tunnel, views are good on either side. The scenery in Italy is less dramatic, but Lake Como is visible briefly on the left.

Beautiful scenery near Zurich

Ticketing advice & budget breakdown

Prices vary based on demand: Second Class: from €29 First Class: from €49 (what I paid) Most tickets include the mandatory seat reservation for Italy. Booking in advance is key. First Class is sometimes only €10–15 more than Second, while it’s double at other times. I would not recommend you pay more than €20 extra for First Class unless, of course, you really value space and a quiet environment. Buses are also available and often a bit cheaper, but they take about 4 hours and are less comfortable on mountain roads. You can compare Zürich to Milan travel options on Omio, but I'd personally stick with the smooth and fast train.

Top tips & recommendations

• Book early to secure the best prices.
• Sit on the right for mountain views and then the left for Lake Zürich and Como.
• Early or late train? Save time by having breakfast or dinner in the restaurant car.
• Double-check which part of the train goes to Italy. Oftentimes, only the front section of the train continues past the border.

Conclusion

Taking the train from Zürich to Milan is the best way to travel between the two cities. It’s fast, scenic and comfortable with modern trains, good amenities and great value if booked in advance. You can easily check schedules and buy tickets through Omio.