Zurich to Potsdam train with Deutsche Bahn

Sat, Jun 20
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Deutsche Bahn
SBB
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
SBB
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Potsdam

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$150

Average price

$173

Fastest journey

9 h 43 m

Average duration

12 h 5 m

Trains per day

6

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 $173 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $150.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Zurich to Potsdam without transferring at least 2 times.

  • SBB GmbH
    7:59 AM10h43
    Zurich
    6:42 PMPotsdam
    $1501One-way
    2 transfers
  • SBB GmbH
    10:59 AM9h43
    Zurich
    8:42 PMPotsdam
    $1501One-way
    2 transfers
  • SBB GmbH
    2:34 PM9h43
    Zurich
    12:17 AMPotsdam
    $1751One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    8:59 PM17h52
    Zurich
    2:51 PMPotsdam
    $1761One-way
    2 transfers
  • SBB GmbH
    6:59 PM14h03
    Zurich
    9:02 AMPotsdam
    $1811One-way
    3 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 $101. 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 $101, and a flight costs an average of $171.

Distance: 401 miles (646 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$222

Average price

$225

Average price

$154

Average price

Cheapest

$169

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 $154 (€126).

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

A bus is $68 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Potsdam costing on average $222 (€182).

A bus is $72 (€59) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Potsdam costing on average $225 (€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 $222 (€182) compared to roughly $169 (€138) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-53.17 (€-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 tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SBB GmbH7:59 AM Zurich
10h43
6:42 PM Potsdam2 transfers
SBB GmbH10:59 AM Zurich
9h43
8:42 PM Potsdam2 transfers
SBB GmbH2:34 PM Zurich
9h43
12:17 AM Potsdam2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

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

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Potsdam run on average 7 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $181 (€148) but you can travel from only $101 (€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 $101 (€83)
Distance
401 miles (646 km)
Average train duration
9h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$181 (€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 $101 (€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 $101 (€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
$219 (€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.
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
9h 43m
Cheapest Price
$150 (€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
$175 (€143)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Potsdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $181 (€148), while the average price is around $222 (€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 $101 (€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

Zurich
Potsdam
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 Potsdam.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
26
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Au Premier
  • Brasserie Federal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
  • Hotel St. Gotthard
  • Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
Shower
  • Cost CHF 12
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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

More options for your journey from Zurich to Potsdam

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