- Recommended
Castello di Masnago - Museo d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea
Municipal art museum inside a medieval castle, showing frescoes, paintings, and decorative arts tied to Varese's local history.
.png){kind=small}
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 Varese
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$63
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$100
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 31 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 45 m
Trains on Sep 19
6
Distance
173 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Varese is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Varese will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 6 trains from Zurich to Varese, including 6 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 173 km distance in an average of 4 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 18 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:05 AM2h31Zurich10:36 AMVarese$631One-way0 transfers
1:15 PM5h36Zurich6:51 PMVarese$891One-way0 transfers- 4:33 AM5h18Zurich9:51 AMVarese$931One-way0 transfers
- 1:33 PM5h18Zurich6:51 PMVarese$1111One-way0 transfers
- 2:33 PM5h18Zurich7:51 PMVarese$1231One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM2h31Zurich10:36 AMVarese$631One-way0 transfers
- 1:33 PM5h18Zurich6:51 PMVarese$1111One-way0 transfers
- 2:33 PM5h18Zurich7:51 PMVarese$1231One-way0 transfers
- 12:33 PM5h18Zurich5:51 PMVarese$1231One-way0 transfers
- 4:33 AM5h18Zurich9:51 AMVarese$931One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Varese
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Varese among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $29 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 4h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, while a flight costs an average of $717.
Distance: 107 miles (173 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$112 Average price | $29 Average price Cheapest | $717 Average price | $106 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 54m Average total duration 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 42m Average total duration 2h 42m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Varese is a bus with an average price of $29.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Varese:
A bus is $84 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Varese costing on average $112.
A bus is $688 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Varese costing on average $717.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Varese is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 42m.
Other travel options to Varese take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 4m.
Train takes on average 4h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Varese including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Varese 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 $112 compared to roughly $106 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-6.90. The journey takes 4h 24m versus 3h 11m 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 Varese train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Varese trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:33 AM Zurich | 5h18 | 9:51 AM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:05 AM Zurich | 2h31 | 10:36 AM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:33 PM Zurich | 5h18 | 5:51 PM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:15 PM Zurich | 5h36 | 6:51 PM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:33 PM Zurich | 5h18 | 6:51 PM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:33 PM Zurich | 5h18 | 7:51 PM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Varese by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Zurich to Varese trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Südostbahn offer trains services from Zurich to Varese.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Varese.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Südostbahn to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Varese.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Varese.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Varese.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Varese
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Zurich to Varese run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 but you can travel from only $12 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 2h 19m.
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 $12
Distance 107 miles (173 km) |
Average train duration 4h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 19m |
First train 12:12 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $12
Train companies: Trenitalia, SBB from Zurich to Varese trainsTrenitalia, SBB trains will get you between Zurich and Varese from $12. 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 Trenitalia Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest Trenitalia Price
$64
Trenitalia frequency
7 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
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 SBB Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest SBB Price
$73
SBB frequency
15 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
Complete guide to Varese
Things to do in Varese
Discover the best of Varese — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varese trip today.
- Recommended
Villa Mirabello - Musei Civici
Museum in a lakeside Liberty villa presenting contemporary works and exhibitions in one of Varese's most architecturally distinctive settings.
- Recommended
Museo Baroffio e del Santuario del Sacro Monte
Archaeological displays in a former monastery at Sacro Monte, illuminating regional prehistory and the long settlement of the Varese area.
- Must visit
Pista ciclopedonale del Lago di Varese
Scenic lakeside nature route through reeds and woodland on Lake Varese. Popular for walking, cycling, and sunset views.
- Recommended
Giardini Estensi
Grand public gardens behind Palazzo Estense, loved for flowerbeds, fountains, and a calm promenade near the center.
- Recommended
Corso Matteotti
Central pedestrian avenue lined with shops and historic buildings. It is ideal for a first walk through the city's daily life.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Con Asparagi Di Cantello
Creamy risotto cooked with local asparagus from Cantello, prized in the Varese area for its delicate flavor and spring harvest tradition.
- Gluten-free
Stracotto D'Asino
Slow-braised donkey stew, a Lombard specialty found around Varese, traditionally served with polenta and valued for its rustic mountain character.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Polenta E Formaggi
Soft polenta enriched with local Alpine cheeses, common in Varese's prealpine cuisine and loved as a hearty cold-season comfort dish.
Il Sole Di Ranco
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in nearby Sacro Monte, known for refined seasonal cuisine and a polished historic setting.
Ristorante Al Belvedere
Historic lakeside restaurant in Varese, appreciated for seafood, classic Italian dishes, and a traditional atmosphere by Lake Varese.
Premiata Gnoccheria E Risotteria
Well-known casual spot in Varese serving Lombard and Italian staples, valued for reliable cooking and a welcoming local feel.
Euro (€)
Moderate for northern Italy. Hotels and dining cost more than smaller towns, but local transit and casual meals are reasonable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for pizza slices, panini, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included via coperto. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
MooneyGo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.60
- Day pass
- €4.40
To the city center
Varese Nord Station -> Piazza Monte Grappa, Varese
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Urban tickets are valid on Varese city buses operated within the CTPI system; validate your ticket when boarding if required.
- Mobile tickets are available in MooneyGo. Contactless bank card payment on board is not reliably documented, so buy before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Varese
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Varese 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 Varese, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Varese can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64, while the average price is around $112.
The train from Zurich to Varese takes 2h 19m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Varese leaves at 12:12 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Varese is 107 miles (173 km).
The last train from Zurich to Varese leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Varese.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Varese.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Varese.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Varese is Zurich HB, which connects to Varese Casbeno.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Varese is by bus, with a cost of around $12.
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Varese is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss Alps, lush landscapes, and charming villages along the way, especially as it traverses through the stunning region of Ticino before reaching the Italian border.
A day trip from Zurich to Varese is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 19m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Varese, allowing time to visit its beautiful gardens, historic villas, and the scenic Sacro Monte di Varese.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Varese.
Since both Zurich and Varese 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 Varese include Milan, Como, Turin, Gallarate, Porto Ceresio.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Varese 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 Varese, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides. It’s advisable to use official transportation services and keep valuables secure to avoid theft. Overall, Varese is considered safe, but staying alert in busy spots helps prevent common travel-related issues.
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 Varese
Most Zurich to Varese trains use the Zürich HB to Varese Casbeno station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Varese 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 Varese
Which Zurich station do trains to Varese leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Varese 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.
Zürich OerlikonOerlikon, Zurich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Oerlikon from Zurich city centre
Zürich Oerlikon is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS8, S2, S24, Ir36, S14, Re48, S19, S, Ir13, Ic1, S21, S15, S9, Sn8, Ir, N1 · 4m · $2 · every ~31 min
9, S · 12m · $5 · every ~3 min
BusE · 13m · $4
N10 · 14m · $4
Tram10, 11, 17, 50, 51, 8 · 12m · $4 · every ~19 min
Zürich Oerlikon train station facilities and services
Zürich Oerlikon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Negishi Sushi Bar, Le Muh
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Oerlikon. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Oerlikon. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Oerlikon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Oerlikon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Oerlikon: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Courtyard Zurich North, Swissotel Zurich, Hotel Sternen Oerlikon.
Zürich AltstettenZürich Altstetten railway station, Altstetten, Zurich, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Altstetten from Zurich city centre
Zürich Altstetten is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS5, S11, S12, Sn1, Sn5, Sn11, Sn · 12m · $4 · every ~14 min
Bus31 · 14m · $4 · every ~16 min
N17, N1 · 18m · $4
31 · 22m · $4 · every ~16 min
Tram51 · 14m · $4 · every ~16 min
Zürich Altstetten train station facilities and services
Zürich Altstetten has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Markthalle, Restaurant LaSalle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Altstetten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Altstetten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Altstetten: Elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Placid Hotel Zurich, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, H+ Hotel Zürich.
Which Varese station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Varese most often arrive at Varese Casbeno. Some services arrive at Stabio, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Varese arrival station.
Varese Casbeno21100 Varese, VA, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese Casbeno from Varese city centre
Varese Casbeno is 1 km from Varese city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR22, Re1 · 4m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusB, Ab · 3m · every ~3 min
Bus · 10m
Varese Casbeno train station facilities and services
Varese Casbeno has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Varese Casbeno.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varese Casbeno: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Varese Casbeno: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese Casbeno.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Varese
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varese and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Varese
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.
