- Must visit
Museum Barberini
Major art museum in Barberini Palace, renowned for impressionism and changing exhibitions in a reconstructed baroque setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Potsdam
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€123
Average price
€146
Fastest journey
13 h 3 m
Average duration
14 h 38 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
646 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Potsdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Potsdam will cost around €146 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 Potsdam without transferring at least 2 times.
3:59 PM13h03Zurich5:02 AMPotsdam€1231One-way2 transfers.png)
9:59 PM16h52Zurich2:51 PMPotsdam€1441One-way2 transfers- 6:59 PM13h53Zurich8:52 AMPotsdam€1481One-way3 transfers
- 9:59 PM14h43Zurich12:42 PMPotsdam€1681One-way3 transfers
- 3:59 PM13h03Zurich5:02 AMPotsdam€1231One-way2 transfers
- 6:59 PM13h53Zurich8:52 AMPotsdam€1481One-way3 transfers
- 9:59 PM14h43Zurich12:42 PMPotsdam€1681One-way3 transfers
- 9:59 PM16h52Zurich2:51 PMPotsdam€1441One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Zurich to Potsdam
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Potsdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €83. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 40m. 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 €83, and a flight costs an average of €140.
Distance: 401 miles (646 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€182 Average price | €185 Average price | €126 Average price Cheapest | €138 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 28h 49m Average total duration 28h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.9 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.6kg 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 Potsdam is a bus with an average price of €126.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Potsdam:
A bus is €56 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Potsdam costing on average €182.
A bus is €59 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Potsdam costing on average €185.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Potsdam is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 40m.
Other travel options to Potsdam take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 20m.
Bus takes on average 28h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Potsdam including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Potsdam 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 €182 compared to roughly €138 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-43.53. The journey takes 9h 20m versus 8h 37m 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 Potsdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Potsdam trains for today, Tuesday, August 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 · ICE 2590 · S7 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h23 | 5:22 PM Potsdam Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 200 · ICE 2590 · ICE 1508 · S7 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h13 | 5:12 PM Potsdam Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 200 · ICE 2590 · ICE 1508 · S41 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h03 | 5:02 PM Potsdam Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · IC 2431 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h00 | 5:59 PM Potsdam Hbf | 2 transfers | |
 IC 794+ ICE 372+IC 2431 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h00 | 5:59 PM Potsdam Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| EC 99 · ICE 1506 · S41 · S7 | On time 9:32 AM Zurich HB | 9h30 | 7:02 PM Potsdam Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| EC 99 · ICE 1506 · S7 | On time 9:32 AM Zurich HB | 9h40 | 7:12 PM Potsdam Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 108 · ICE 2588 · ICE 1506 · S7 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h13 | 7:12 PM Potsdam Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 108 · ICE 2588 · S7 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h23 | 7:22 PM Potsdam Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 108 · ICE 2588 · ICE 1506 · S41 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 9h03 | 7:02 PM Potsdam Hbf | 4 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Potsdam by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Wed
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Aug 11
Why should you book Zurich to Potsdam trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Zurich to Potsdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Potsdam.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Potsdam.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Potsdam.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Potsdam.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Potsdam
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Potsdam run on average 7 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €148 but you can travel from only €83 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:48, the last at 23:24. The fastest train covers the 401 miles (646 km) distance in 9h 17m.
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 €83
Distance 401 miles (646 km) |
Average train duration 9h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price €148 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 9h 17m |
First train 12:48 AM |
Last train 11:24 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €83
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Zurich to Potsdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Zurich and Potsdam from €83. 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 17m
Cheapest Price
€179
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
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
9h 43m
Cheapest Price
€123
SBB frequency
4 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 43m
Cheapest Price
€143
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Potsdam
Things to do in Potsdam
Discover the best of Potsdam — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Potsdam trip today.
- Must visit
Cecilienhof Palace Museum
Palace museum in the former residence of Kaiser Wilhelm II, presenting royal apartments and Prussian court history.
- Recommended
Villa Schöningen
Exhibition on Potsdam’s Cold War past at the famous spy-swap bridge, with documents, stories, and media installations.
- Must visit
Sanssouci Park
Vast UNESCO park surrounding Sanssouci palaces, ideal for long walks among gardens, follies, and grand vistas.
- Must visit
Dutch Quarter
Charming quarter of red-brick gabled houses built in Dutch style, now lined with boutiques and quiet courtyards.
- Recommended
Old Market Square
Historic square at Potsdam’s core, framed by rebuilt baroque facades, St. Nicholas Church, and major museums.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Brandenburger Kartoffelgerichte
Potatoes are central to Brandenburg cooking. In Potsdam they appear boiled, roasted, or in salads, reflecting the region's long link to Frederick the Great and local farming.
- Vegetarian
Kartoffelsuppe
A rustic potato soup common in Brandenburg, often enriched with root vegetables and herbs. It reflects the region's simple farm cuisine and local potato tradition.
Gebratener Zander
Brandenburg-style fried freshwater fish, often pike-perch or perch from nearby lakes. It is a classic regional dish tied to Potsdam's lake landscape.
Kochzimmer
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in historic Potsdam. Known for refined seasonal tasting menus and polished service in a formal atmosphere.
Die Garage
Well-known Austrian and regional restaurant on the Schiffbauergasse waterfront. Popular for schnitzel, fish, and relaxed lakeside views.
Brauhausberg
Historic brewery restaurant serving German classics and house beer. Lively, traditional setting near the Dutch Quarter with a strong local following.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are usually a bit cheaper than Berlin, while transit and museum costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included, but rounding up or tipping 5-10% is standard. Round up in cafes and taxis; tip directly when paying.
VBB Bus & Bahn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.30
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Potsdam Hbf -> Brandenburger Tor, Potsdam
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the VBB app or from ticket machines before boarding; validation rules depend on the ticket type.
- On Potsdam trams and buses, contactless card payment is generally not available onboard, so use the app or ticket machines.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Potsdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Potsdam 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 Potsdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Potsdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €148, while the average price is around €182.
The train from Zurich to Potsdam takes 9h 17m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Potsdam is 401 miles (646 km).
The first train from Zurich to Potsdam leaves at 12:48 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Potsdam leaves at 11:24 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Potsdam.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Potsdam.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Potsdam is Zurich HB, which connects to Potsdam Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Potsdam is by bus, with a cost of around €83.
The train journey from Zurich to Potsdam offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes as it traverses through the Swiss countryside, the Black Forest in Germany, and along the Rhine River, providing travelers with a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Zurich to Potsdam is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 17m. Trains run 8 times per day, covering a distance of 401 miles (646 km).
To fully explore Potsdam, including its palaces, gardens, and historic sites, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Potsdam.
Since both Zurich and Potsdam 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 Potsdam include Berlin, Magdeburg, Leipzig, Halle, Brandenburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Potsdam 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Potsdam, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist sites. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides can occur, so always use licensed taxis or official ride services. It's advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid accepting unsolicited offers from street vendors or strangers. Overall, Potsdam is considered safe, but standard travel vigilance is recommended.
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 Potsdam
Most Zurich to Potsdam trains use the Zürich HB to Potsdam Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Potsdam 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 Potsdam
Which Zurich station do trains to Potsdam leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Potsdam 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 · €3 · 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.
Which Potsdam station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Potsdam arrive at Potsdam Hbf. Potsdam Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Potsdam city centre.
Potsdam HbfPotsdam Hbf, Friedrich-Engels-Str. 99, 14473 Potsdam
City-centre transport
Getting to Potsdam Hbf from Potsdam city centre
TrainRb22 · 7m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus631 · 19m · every ~7 min
697 · 26m · every ~3 min
Tram91, 94 · 15m · every ~9 min
Potsdam Hbf train station facilities and services
Potsdam Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Smiley's Pizza Profis, Addy's Bistro und Café, Bao An, Theo's Inselcafé
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Potsdam Hbf. ATMs are available at Potsdam Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Potsdam Hbf. Information desks are available at Potsdam Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Potsdam Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Potsdam Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Potsdam Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Potsdam Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express, The niu Amity.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Potsdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Potsdam and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Potsdam
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