- Must visit
RothenburgMuseum
Major local museum in a former convent, covering art, history, crafts, and everyday life. The best all-round museum introduction to Rothenburg.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
zł283
Average ticket price on Sep 18
zł332
Fastest journey on Sep 18
6 h 14 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
6 h 14 m
Trains on Sep 18
5
Distance
254 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber will cost around zł332 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł283.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber without transferring at least 3 times.
IC 282 · IC 2069 · 57034 · 589038:37 AM6h14Zurich HB2:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł2831One-way3 transfers- IC 280 · IC 2161 · 57042 · 5890710:37 AM6h14Zurich HB4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3201One-way3 transfers
- IC 188 · IC 2163 · 57050 · 5891112:37 PM6h14Zurich HB6:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3531One-way3 transfers
- IC 186 · IC 2165 · 57164 · 589172:37 PM6h14Zurich HB8:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3531One-way3 transfers
- IC 184 · IC 2167 · 57078 · 589214:37 PM6h14Zurich HB10:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3531One-way3 transfers
- IC 280 · IC 2161 · 57042 · 5890710:37 AM6h14Zurich HB4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3201One-way3 transfers
- IC 188 · IC 2163 · 57050 · 5891112:37 PM6h14Zurich HB6:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3531One-way3 transfers
- IC 282 · IC 2069 · 57034 · 589038:37 AM6h14Zurich HB2:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł2831One-way3 transfers
- IC 186 · IC 2165 · 57164 · 589172:37 PM6h14Zurich HB8:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3531One-way3 transfers
- IC 184 · IC 2167 · 57078 · 589214:37 PM6h14Zurich HB10:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber stationzł3531One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of zł383 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 50m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of zł383, while a flight costs an average of zł2408.
Distance: 157 miles (254 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
zł383 Average price Cheapest | zł2408 Average price | zł486 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 4m Average total duration 5h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a train with an average price of zł383.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber:
A train is zł2026 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber costing on average zł2408.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 50m.
Other travel options to Rothenburg ob der Tauber take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Rothenburg ob der Tauber including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 zł383 compared to roughly zł486 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about zł103. The journey takes 5h 34m versus 3h 38m 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 282 · IC 2069 · 57034 · 58903 | On time 8:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h14 | 2:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 280 · IC 2161 · 57042 · 58907 | On time 10:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h14 | 4:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 188 · IC 2163 · 57050 · 58911 | On time 12:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h14 | 6:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 186 · IC 2165 · 57164 · 58917 | On time 2:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h14 | 8:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 184 · IC 2167 · 57078 · 58921 | On time 4:37 PM Zurich HB | 6h14 | 10:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train or flight
Compare 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
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Why should you book Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł190 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (254 km) distance in 5h 8m.
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
Distance 157 miles (254 km) |
Average train duration 5h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price zł190 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 5h 8m |
First train 4:44 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 84 days |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Rothenburg ob der Tauber from zł190. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
5h 8m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
zł190
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
Complete guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Discover the best of Rothenburg ob der Tauber — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rothenburg ob der Tauber trip today.
- Must visit
Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum
Interactive crime museum with legal history, punishments, and social control from the Middle Ages onward. Unusual, memorable, and very popular.
- Recommended
Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum
Large Christmas museum and shop complex celebrating German festive traditions. A distinctive stop that is especially atmospheric in winter.
- Must visit
Plönlein
The most famous picture spot in Rothenburg, where narrow lanes and half-timbered houses create the classic fairy-tale Old Town scene.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square framed by the town hall and historic facades. It is the main orientation point and often hosts seasonal events and markets.
- Must visit
Stadtmauer Walk
Walkable fortification route with towers, gates, and elevated views. One of the best ways to understand Rothenburg’s preserved medieval layout.
- Vegetarian
Schneeballen
Schneeballen are Rothenburg's signature pastry: strips of shortcrust dough fried into a ball and dusted with sugar or chocolate. A famous local specialty sold across the old town.
Fränkische Bratwurst
Franconian bratwurst is a regional grilled pork sausage, often served with sauerkraut or potato salad. It is a staple of local taverns and beer gardens.
Fränkisches Schäufele
Schäufele is Franconian roast pork shoulder with a crispy crust, usually paired with dumplings and gravy. It is one of the area's classic Sunday dishes.
Reichsküchenmeister Restaurant
Casual long-running tavern popular for sausages, schnitzel, and regional beer in a lively medieval atmosphere.
Baumeisterhaus
Historic traditional inn in the old town known for Franconian classics, local wine, and atmospheric timbered dining rooms.
Restaurant M - Hotel Eisenhut
Well-known restaurant in a heritage hotel serving refined Franconian and German cuisine in an elegant historic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: lodging in the walled old town can be pricey, but dining is reasonable and the compact center keeps local transport costs low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-14 for fast food, bakery items, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-90 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
VGN Fahrplan & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Bahnhof -> Marktplatz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local buses are integrated into VGN fares; buy tickets in the VGN app or check whether the bus accepts cash only before boarding.
- Rothenburg’s old town is compact and walkable from the station. Card or contactless payment on board is not reliably available on all regional buses.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł190, while the average price is around zł383.
The train from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes 5h 8m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is 157 miles (254 km).
The first train from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 4:44 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Zurich HB, which connects to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by train, with a cost of around zł190.
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, rolling hills, and charming Bavarian landscapes as you travel through picturesque towns and lush greenery.
A day trip from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 8m. The distance is 157 miles (254 km), and there are 7 train trips available per day.
In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, explore the Old Town with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Experience the Night Watchman Tour for historical insights, and visit the festive Rothenburg Christmas Market. Enjoy Franconian cuisine at local restaurants. Take a scenic bike ride along the Tauber Valley. Key sights include the Rothenburg Town Walls for panoramic views, the iconic Plönlein street corner, St. Jakob's Church with the Holy Blood altarpiece, the striking Rothenburg Town Hall, and the intriguing Medieval Crime and Justice Museum.
Typically, a stay of 1 to 2 days is sufficient to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber, allowing time to visit its medieval old town, walk along the city walls, and enjoy local attractions like the Christmas Museum and the Crime Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Since both Zurich and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber include Nuremberg, Würzburg, Bamberg, Erlangen, Aschaffenburg.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing risks, especially in crowded areas like the town center and popular attractions. Scams are rare, but it is advisable to be cautious when approached by street vendors or individuals offering unsolicited services. Always use official ticket counters for transportation and guided tours to avoid overcharging or counterfeit tickets.
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Most Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains use the Zürich HB to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Which Zurich station do trains to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 · zł14 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · zł5 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · zł9 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · zł9
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · zł9 · 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber arrive at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre.
Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
City-centre transport
Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre
Bus854 · 5m · zł14
Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station facilities and services
Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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: Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten, Imbiss Heller, Brothaus Café im Schlachthof, Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ATMs are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Information desks are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schranne, Villa Mittermeier, Hotel Hornburg Garni, Glocke.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Rothenburg ob der TauberZurich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train
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