- Must visit
Vatican Museums
A vast complex of papal collections with masterpieces from antiquity to the Renaissance. A global essential for art, history, and iconic galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Vatican
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$138
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$155
Fastest journey on Sep 19
12 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
13 h 35 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
681 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Vatican is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Vatican will cost around $155 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $138.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Zurich to Vatican, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 681 km distance in an average of 13 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 42 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 14 h 28 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.
7:33 AM12h42Zurich8:15 PMVatican$1381One-way0 transfers- 5:33 AM14h28Zurich8:01 PMVatican$1711One-way0 transfers
- 7:33 AM12h42Zurich8:15 PMVatican$1381One-way0 transfers
- 5:33 AM14h28Zurich8:01 PMVatican$1711One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Vatican
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Vatican among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $121 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 36m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $121, while a flight costs an average of $708.
Distance: 423 miles (681 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$224 Average price | $708 Average price | $121 Average price Cheapest | $192 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 52m Average total duration 7h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 16h 24m Average total duration 15h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Vatican is a bus with an average price of $121.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Vatican:
A bus is $103 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Vatican costing on average $224.
A bus is $587 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Vatican costing on average $708.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Vatican is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 36m.
Other travel options to Vatican take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 22m.
Bus takes on average 15h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Vatican including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Vatican among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 52m sooner (7h 22m by train vs 9h 14m by car). Tickets start at around $224 compared to roughly $192 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich to Vatican train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Vatican 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:33 AM Zurich | 14h28 | 8:01 PM Vatican | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:33 AM Zurich | 12h42 | 8:15 PM Vatican | 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 Vatican 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.
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Why should you book Zurich to Vatican trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Frecciarossa or Trenitalia offer trains services from Zurich to Vatican.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Frecciarossa or Trenitalia to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Vatican.
- 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 Intercity with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Vatican.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Vatican
Switzerland
Vatican City State
Trains from Zurich to Vatican run on average 15 times per day, taking around 7h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $161 but you can travel from only $75 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:40, the last at 21:28. The fastest train covers the 423 miles (681 km) distance in 6h 40m.
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 $75
Distance 423 miles (681 km) |
Average train duration 7h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $161 |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 6h 40m |
First train 5:40 AM |
Last train 9:28 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $75
Train companies: Frecciarossa, Trenitalia, Intercity from Zurich to Vatican trainsFrecciarossa, Trenitalia, Intercity trains will get you between Zurich and Vatican from $75. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Frecciarossa Duration
7h 11m
Cheapest Frecciarossa Price
$174
Frecciarossa frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
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
6h 40m
Cheapest Trenitalia Price
$161
Trenitalia frequency
5 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
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
10h 57m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$194
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Vatican
Things to do in Vatican
Discover the best of Vatican — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Vatican trip today.
- Must visit
Raphael Rooms
Home to Raphael’s fresco cycles, including The School of Athens. These rooms are among the Vatican’s greatest artistic highlights and a major museum draw.
- Must visit
Gallery of Maps
This gallery presents maps of Italy in a long frescoed corridor. It is both visually striking and historically fascinating within the museum route.
- Must visit
St. Peter's Square
This broad ceremonial piazza is Vatican City’s main gathering place, offering classic basilica views, fountains, and a powerful sense of scale.
- Must visit
Bernini's Colonnades
Bernini’s embracing colonnades create one of the world’s great urban spaces. Walk here for architecture, symmetry, and changing light across the square.
- Must visit
St. Peter's Dome
The basilica dome terraces deliver one of Rome’s most famous viewpoints, with close-up architecture and sweeping city vistas.
- Vegetarian
Cacio E Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is a Roman pasta with Pecorino Romano and black pepper. It is a local staple around Vatican City for its simplicity and strong regional identity.
Pasta Alla Carbonara
Carbonara is pasta with egg, Pecorino Romano, guanciale, and pepper. It is one of Rome's most famous dishes and widely served in trattorias near the Vatican.
Pasta All'Amatriciana
Amatriciana is pasta with tomato, guanciale, and Pecorino Romano. Though linked to Amatrice, it is a classic Roman favorite commonly eaten near the Vatican.
Il Sorpasso
Traditional Roman trattoria in Prati known for pasta classics and a lively local atmosphere, convenient for Vatican visitors.
Da Vito e Dina
Long-established Roman restaurant near the Vatican serving cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and other regional staples in a classic setting.
La Zanzara
Refined dining room in Prati with polished Roman and Italian dishes, strong wine list, and a more upscale atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Very high tourist demand and limited lodging nearby make stays pricey. Dining is similar to central Rome, while transit costs are low if using Rome buses and metro.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is fine at cafés.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Vatican
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Vatican 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 Vatican, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Vatican can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $161, while the average price is around $224.
The train from Zurich to Vatican takes 6h 40m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Vatican is 423 miles (681 km).
The first train from Zurich to Vatican leaves at 5:40 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Vatican leaves at 9:28 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Zurich to Vatican.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Vatican.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Vatican.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Vatican is Zurich HB, which connects to Rome S. Pietro.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Vatican is by bus, with a cost of around $75.
The train journey from Zurich to Vatican offers scenic views, especially as you travel through the Swiss Alps and the picturesque Italian countryside, providing a visually stunning experience with mountains, lakes, and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Zurich to Vatican is not feasible due to the journey taking 6h 40m. However, there are 17 train trips available per day for this route.
One day is typically sufficient to explore the main attractions of Vatican City, including St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Vatican.
Since both Zurich and Vatican 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 Vatican include Civitavecchia, Fiumicino, Rome, Santa Marinella, Tivoli.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Vatican 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.
Vatican City uses the euro (€) as its official currency. Travelers find it convenient to use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred for small purchases and in places where card acceptance may be limited.
In the Vatican, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums. Scams involving unofficial ticket sellers offering overpriced or fake entry passes are common, so purchasing tickets from official sources is recommended. Additionally, travelers should be aware of aggressive vendors selling souvenirs outside key sites. Security checks are strict, so following all regulations and respecting dress codes is important to avoid 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 Vatican
Most Zurich to Vatican trains use the Zürich HB to Roma San Pietro station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Vatican 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 Vatican
Which Zurich station do trains to Vatican leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Vatican leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Vatican
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Vatican and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Vatican
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