- Must visit
AfricaMuseum
Distinctive museum in Tervuren showcasing Central Africa collections, architecture, and landscaped park surroundings.
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 Zaventem
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$170
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$200
Fastest journey on Sep 18
7 h 56 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
8 h 1 m
Trains on Sep 18
14
Distance
491 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Zaventem is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Zaventem will cost around $200 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $170.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Zaventem without transferring at least 3 times.
7:59 AM9h56Zurich5:55 PMZaventem$1701One-way3 transfers- 10:59 AM8h54Zurich7:53 PMZaventem$1701One-way3 transfers
- 2:34 PM9h21Zurich11:55 PMZaventem$1701One-way3 transfers
- 6:59 PM14h54Zurich9:53 AMZaventem$1701One-way3 transfers
- 7:59 AM7h56Zurich3:55 PMZaventem$1951One-way4 transfers
- 7:59 AM7h56Zurich3:55 PMZaventem$1951One-way4 transfers
- 9:59 AM7h56Zurich5:55 PMZaventem$1951One-way4 transfers
- 1:59 PM7h56Zurich9:55 PMZaventem$1951One-way4 transfers
- 3:59 PM7h56Zurich11:55 PMZaventem$1951One-way4 transfers
.png)
1:34 PM8h21Zurich9:55 PMZaventem$2731One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Zurich to Zaventem
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Zaventem among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $384 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 44m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $384, while a flight costs an average of $898.
Distance: 305 miles (491 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$384 Average price Cheapest | $898 Average price | $140 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 32m Average total duration 6h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Zaventem is a train with an average price of $384 (€314).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Zaventem:
A train is $514 (€420) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Zaventem costing on average $898 (€734).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Zaventem is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 44m.
Other travel options to Zaventem take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 2m.
Yes, you can take a train between Zurich and Zaventem.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Zaventem 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 40m sooner (6h 2m by train vs 6h 42m by car). Tickets start at around $384 (€314) compared to roughly $140 (€114) 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 Zaventem train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Zaventem trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:59 PM Zurich | 14h56 | 9:55 AM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
.png) | 9:59 PM Zurich | 11h56 | 9:55 AM Zaventem | 4 transfers | |
| 9:59 PM Zurich | 13h56 | 11:55 AM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
| 7:59 AM Zurich | 7h56 | 3:55 PM Zaventem | 4 transfers | |
| 7:59 AM Zurich | 9h56 | 5:55 PM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
| 9:59 AM Zurich | 7h56 | 5:55 PM Zaventem | 4 transfers | |
| 10:59 AM Zurich | 8h54 | 7:53 PM Zaventem | 4 transfers | |
| 10:59 AM Zurich | 8h54 | 7:53 PM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
| 1:34 PM Zurich | 8h21 | 9:55 PM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
| 1:59 PM Zurich | 7h56 | 9:55 PM Zaventem | 4 transfers | |
| 2:34 PM Zurich | 9h21 | 11:55 PM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
| 3:59 PM Zurich | 7h56 | 11:55 PM Zaventem | 4 transfers | |
| 6:34 PM Zurich | 15h44 | 10:18 AM Zaventem | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Zaventem by train
Compare train 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
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
Why should you book Zurich to Zaventem trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCF offer trains services from Zurich to Zaventem.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Zaventem.
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 SNCF to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Zaventem.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Zaventem.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Zaventem
Switzerland
Belgium
Trains from Zurich to Zaventem run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $214 (€175) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:47, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 305 miles (491 km) distance in 5h 30m.
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 305 miles (491 km) |
Average train duration 6h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $214 (€175) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 5h 30m |
First train 12:47 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 21 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: SNCF, Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Zaventem trainsSNCF, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Zaventem from $214 (€175). 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
7h 7m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$214 (€175)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
SNCF
About
SNCF is France’s national railway company, operating a vast network of high-speed, regional, and local train services across the country and into neighboring nations. Its flagship TGV trains reach speeds of up to 320 km/h, connecting major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lille in just a few hours. SNCF also runs popular regional services like TER and international routes including Eurostar, Thalys, and TGV Lyria. Ticket options range from budget-friendly fares to flexible and premium classes, catering to every type of traveler. Onboard amenities may include spacious seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and catering services, making SNCF a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to explore France and beyond.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF Duration
5h 30m
Cheapest SNCF Price
$333 (€272)
SNCF frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Zaventem
Things to do in Zaventem
Discover the best of Zaventem — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zaventem trip today.
- Must visit
Oldmasters Museum
Leading old masters museum in Brussels, featuring Bruegel, Rubens, and Flemish painting highlights.
- Recommended
Autoworld Sky Hall Brussels Airport
Major aviation museum at nearby Brussels Airport with preserved aircraft and exhibits on Belgian civil and military flying history.
- Must visit
Park van Tervuren
Large public park and arboretum in nearby Tervuren, perfect for scenic walks, cycling, and classic landscape views.
- Recommended
Heldenplein
Central square of Zaventem with shops, events, and an easy base for seeing the town’s everyday character.
- Recommended
Park van Zaventem
Popular urban park with sports areas, paths, and open lawns, ideal for a relaxed walk close to the center.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Belgian Fries
Crisp twice-fried potato fries, a Belgian staple often served with mayonnaise. They are iconic street food eaten across Flanders and Brussels.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Mussels cooked with white wine, celery, onion, and herbs, usually served with fries. A classic Belgian brasserie dish popular nationwide.
Carbonnade Flamande
A hearty Flemish beef stew simmered with dark Belgian beer and onions. It is a beloved comfort dish with rich regional beer flavor.
Brasserie Rigolett
Casual local brasserie serving Belgian comfort food and grills in an approachable neighborhood setting close to central Zaventem.
Le Grand Comptoir
Refined fine dining near Brussels Airport, known for elegant French-Belgian cooking and polished service in a contemporary setting.
Black Pearl
Well-known airport dining spot with Belgian beers, brasserie classics, and a relaxed atmosphere suited to travelers and locals.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: stays and dining cost more than smaller towns, but transit is efficient and everyday meals remain manageable for most travelers.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Zaventem -> Brussels-North Station
- Distance
- 12 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless bank card payment works on De Lijn buses and trams via onboard validators; buy before boarding if you want the lowest fare.
- For Brussels Airport trips, compare De Lijn buses with SNCB/NMBS trains, as trains are often faster to central Brussels but cost more.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Zaventem
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Zaventem 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 Zaventem, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Zaventem can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $214 (€175), while the average price is around $384 (€314).
The train from Zurich to Zaventem takes 5h 30m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Zaventem is 305 miles (491 km).
The first train from Zurich to Zaventem leaves at 12:47 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Zaventem leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Zaventem.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Zaventem.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Zaventem is Zurich HB, which connects to Brussels-Midi.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Zaventem is by train, with a cost of around $214 (€175).
The train journey from Zurich to Zaventem offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Swiss countryside, with its rolling hills and charming villages, and traverses parts of the scenic Rhine Valley before reaching Belgium.
A day trip from Zurich to Zaventem is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 30m and the frequency is 2 per day for trains.
Zaventem, primarily known for Brussels Airport, generally requires just one day for travelers transiting through or exploring the airport and its immediate surroundings.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Zaventem.
Since both Zurich and Zaventem 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 Zaventem include Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Breda, Ghent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Zaventem 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Zaventem, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the airport and public transport. Be wary of unofficial taxi drivers and always use licensed services to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for counterfeit ticket sellers and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to prevent fraud. Staying alert and securing belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Zaventem
Most Zurich to Zaventem trains use the Zürich HB to Bruxelles-Midi station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Zaventem 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 Zaventem
Which Zurich station do trains to Zaventem leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Zaventem 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.
Which Zaventem station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Zaventem most often arrive at Bruxelles-Midi. Some services arrive at Brussels Airport-Zaventem, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Zaventem arrival station.
Zaventem1930 Zaventem, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Zaventem from Zaventem city centre
BusR26, 82, 530 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Zaventem train station facilities and services
Zaventem has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Belair, Black Pearls
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zaventem. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zaventem. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zaventem: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zaventem: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zaventem: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel, Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport, NH Brussels Airport.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Zaventem
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zaventem and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Zaventem
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.
