- Must visit
Castello Brown Museum
The Historic Castle Above Portofino also functions as a small museum, with period rooms, gardens, and exhibitions on the village and its maritime past.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Portofino
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$123
Average price
$143
Fastest journey
5 h 43 m
Average duration
5 h 51 m
Trains per day
33
Distance
344 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Portofino is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Portofino will cost around $143 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $123.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Portofino without transferring at least once.
EuroCity 153+
Regionale Veloce 3029 · Regionale 1241910:33 AM7h04Zurich HB5:37 PMSanta Margherita Ligure-Portofino$1231One-way2 transfers- EuroCity 153+Regionale Veloce 3029 · Regionale 1241910:33 AM7h14Zurich HB5:47 PMZoagli station$1241One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 153+Regionale Veloce 3029 · Regionale 1241910:33 AM7h09Zurich HB5:42 PMRapallo station$1241One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 151+Regionale Veloce 3073 · Regionale 1243912:33 PM7h07Zurich HB7:40 PMSanta Margherita Ligure-Portofino$1311One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 151+Regionale Veloce 3073 · Regionale 1243912:33 PM7h12Zurich HB7:45 PMRapallo station$1321One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 301+
Intercity 6658:33 AM5h43Zurich HB2:16 PMSanta Margherita Ligure-Portofino$1461One-way1 transfer - EuroCity 25+Intercity 6875:33 PM5h44Zurich HB11:17 PMSanta Margherita Ligure-Portofino$1461One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 301+Intercity 6658:33 AM5h48Zurich HB2:21 PMRapallo station$1471One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 25+Intercity 6875:33 PM5h49Zurich HB11:22 PMRapallo station$1471One-way1 transfer
- EuroCity 301+Intercity 665+Regionale 124048:33 AM6h12Zurich HB2:45 PMZoagli station$1501One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Zurich to Portofino
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Portofino among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 5h 47m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $82.
Distance: 213 miles (344 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$130 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $272 Average price | $178 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 24m Average total duration 5h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 17m Average total duration Fastest 5h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 5m Average total duration 9h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.1kg 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 Portofino is a bus with an average price of $49 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Portofino:
A bus is $81 (€66) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Portofino costing on average $130 (€106).
A bus is $223 (€183) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Portofino costing on average $272 (€223).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Portofino is by bus with an average journey time of 5h 47m.
Other travel options to Portofino take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 54m.
Flight takes on average 9h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Portofino including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Portofino 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 Trenitalia.
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 Portofino train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Portofino trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:33 PM Zurich | 6h36 | 8:09 PM Portofino | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| EuroCity 11+Intercity 1549+Regionale 12375 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h38 | 1:11 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 11+Intercity 1549+Regionale 12375 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h28 | 1:01 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 11+Intercity 1549 · Intercity 511 | 6:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h28 | 1:01 PM Rapallo station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 13+Intercity 637+Regionale 12385 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h36 | 2:09 PM Rapallo station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 13+Intercity 637+Regionale 12385 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h32 | 2:05 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 13+Intercity 637+Regionale 12385 | 7:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h41 | 2:14 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 301+Intercity 665 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h43 | 2:16 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 301+Intercity 665 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 5h48 | 2:21 PM Rapallo station | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 301+Intercity 665+Regionale 12404 | 8:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h12 | 2:45 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 15+Intercity 669+Regionale 12422 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h15 | 4:48 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 15+Intercity 669 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h46 | 4:19 PM Rapallo station | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+Intercity 669+Regionale Veloce 3274 | 9:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h12 | 4:45 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 153+Regionale Veloce 3029 · Regionale 12419 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h14 | 5:47 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 153+Regionale Veloce 3029 · Regionale 12419 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h09 | 5:42 PM Rapallo station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 153+Regionale Veloce 3029 · Regionale 12419 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h04 | 5:37 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 19+Intercity 673 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h46 | 6:19 PM Rapallo station | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+Intercity 673 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 6h41 | 6:14 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+Intercity 673+Regionale 12442 | 11:33 AM Zurich HB | 7h12 | 6:45 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 151+Regionale Veloce 3073 · Regionale 12439 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 7h07 | 7:40 PM Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 151+Regionale Veloce 3073 · Regionale 12439 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 7h17 | 7:50 PM Zoagli station | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 151+Regionale Veloce 3073 · Regionale 12439 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 7h12 | 7:45 PM Rapallo station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Portofino 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
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Zurich to Portofino trains with Omio?
Trenitalia operates all trains services from Zurich to Portofino.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Portofino.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Portofino.
Why book with Omio over 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 Portofino.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Portofino
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Zurich to Portofino run on average 24 times per day, taking around 5h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€55) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:14, the last at 17:36. The fastest train covers the 213 miles (344 km) distance in 5h 41m.
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 $36 (€29)
Distance 213 miles (344 km) |
Average train duration 5h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 (€55) |
Trains per day 24 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 41m |
First train 4:14 AM |
Last train 5:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 $36 (€29)
Train companies: Trenitalia from Zurich to Portofino trainsTrenitalia trains will get you between Zurich and Portofino from $36 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Trenitalia frequency
23 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Portofino
Things to do in Portofino
Discover the best of Portofino — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portofino trip today.
- Must visit
Abbazia di San Fruttuoso Museum
A Celebrated Abbey Museum in the protected bay near Portofino, known for cloisters, medieval history, and an exceptional coastal setting reached by boat or hike.
- Recommended
Museo del Parco
An Open-Air Contemporary Sculpture Museum set among olive trees and terraces above the harbor, featuring works by international artists with sea views.
- Must visit
Piazzetta di Portofino
The Iconic Harbor Square lined with pastel buildings and yachts, central to the village atmosphere and the most recognizable view in Portofino.
- Must visit
Portofino Harbor
The Famous Waterfront Basin is ideal for strolling, photography, and watching boats come and go in one of Italy’s most glamorous seaside settings.
- Must visit
Sentiero per il Faro
The Walking Path to the Lighthouse is a highly popular coastal route with viewpoints, Mediterranean vegetation, and strong social-media appeal.
- Vegetarian
Trofie Al Pesto
Hand-rolled Ligurian pasta traditionally served with basil pesto, a signature flavor of the Riviera and one of the region’s most iconic dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Focaccia Ligure
Classic Ligurian flatbread baked with olive oil and salt, prized for its crisp surface and soft interior and eaten throughout the day.
- Vegetarian
Focaccia Di Recco Col Formaggio
A thin, delicate focaccia filled with soft cheese, a celebrated Ligurian specialty from nearby Recco often found around Portofino.
Ristorante Puny
One of Portofino’s best-known classic restaurants, serving Ligurian seafood, pasta, and regional specialties in an elegant but traditional setting.
Da I Gemelli
Established harbor-side restaurant known for seafood dishes, pasta, and scenic terrace dining with a polished Portofino atmosphere.
Trattoria Tripoli
Historic, casual trattoria in the center of Portofino, appreciated for traditional Ligurian dishes and a more relaxed local feel.
Euro
Portofino is a luxury resort. Hotels and waterfront dining are pricey, with limited budget options nearby.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 15-25 for focaccia, panini, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 30-60 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 90+ per person at upscale seafood or hotel restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2-4 for an espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or covered by a coperto. Leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up for taxis and leave small change at cafes if you wish.
AMT Genova
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.00
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino Railway Station, Portofino -> Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta, Portofino
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Validate your ticket when boarding regional buses to avoid fines.
- Card payment may not always be available on local buses, so buy tickets in advance or carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Portofino
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Portofino 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 Portofino, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Portofino can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€55), while the average price is around $130 (€106).
The train from Zurich to Portofino takes 5h 41m and runs 24 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Portofino is 213 miles (344 km).
The first train from Zurich to Portofino leaves at 4:14 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Portofino leaves at 5:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Portofino.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Portofino. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Trenitalia.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Portofino.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Portofino is Zurich HB, which connects to Rapallo station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Portofino is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Portofino is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming Italian countryside landscapes.
A day trip from Zurich to Portofino is not feasible due to the travel time of 5h 41m and a distance of 213 miles (344 km). However, there are 24 trains per day available for this journey.
In Portofino, you can hike to the Lighthouse of Portofino for stunning views over the Ligurian Sea, relax at Paraggi Beach, visit the secluded Abbey of San Fruttuoso, and enjoy a boat tour along the Ligurian coast. Don't miss indulging in local cuisine at a traditional Italian trattoria. For best sights, explore Castello Brown, Portofino Marina, the Church of San Giorgio, and the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino.
To fully experience Portofino, including its scenic harbor, nearby hiking trails, and luxury shopping, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Portofino.
Since both Zurich and Portofino 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 Portofino include Genoa, Pisa, La Spezia, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Portofino 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Portofino, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and near popular attractions. Overpriced taxis and unlicensed tour operators may also pose risks. It's advisable to use official services and stay alert in busy spots to avoid scams.
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 Portofino
Most Zurich to Portofino trains use the Zürich HB to Rapallo station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Portofino 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 Portofino
Which Zurich station do trains to Portofino leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Portofino 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 11
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.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Portofino
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portofino and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Portofino
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.
