Zurich, Zurich (Canton) to Heidelberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg from €27: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Zurich to Heidelberg: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$27 by busBest price

329 kmDistance

2h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Zurich to Heidelberg with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Zurich to Heidelberg

Embarking on the journey from Zurich to Heidelberg reveals a fascinating contrast between the modern Swiss cityscape and the charming historical ambiance of a German university town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Heidelberg

Heidelberg features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Old Town (Altstadt)

• Home to historic architecture and vibrant streets.

• Offers countless cafes and shops to explore.

Neuenheim

• A peaceful residential area with scenic riverside paths.

• Features beautiful parks and upscale dining options.

Handschuhsheim

• Known for its medieval village feel and vineyard views.

• Hosts charming wine taverns and local markets.

Best Times To Visit Heidelberg's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Heidelberg's attractions.

Heidelberg Castle

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful light.

Philosopher's Walk (Philosophenweg)

Early spring and fall offer stunning views and pleasant walking temperatures.

Old Bridge (Alte Brücke)

Go at sunrise to enjoy peaceful scenery and fewer tourists.

Heidelberg Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Heidelberg experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with warm summers and mild winters that influence outdoor activities. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, when the weather is pleasant, allowing you to explore the city comfortably.

Dining Recommendation in Heidelberg

Try the hearty "Sauerbraten," a traditional German pot roast, at the historic restaurant Schnitzelhaus, where cozy, rustic charm welcomes you. This culinary experience contrasts with Zurich's refined approach, offering rich flavors and locally sourced ingredients that reflect Heidelberg's vibrant heritage.

Zurich - Heidelberg operators

Explore transport companies operating between Zurich and Heidelberg, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+49 0180 6 99 66 33

Website

bahn.com

Train from Zuerich Hb to Karlsruhe Hbf

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

90-180

Train from Karlsruhe Hauptbahnhof to Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration

34m

Estimated price

27-27

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+49 30 300 137 300

Website

flixbus.de

Bus from Zurich Bus Station to Heidelberg central train station

Average Duration

5h 35m

Estimated price

27-40

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+41 848 44 66 88

Website

sbb.ch

Other from Zuerich Hb to Karlsruhe Hbf

Average Duration

3h 11m

Estimated price

85-180

Other from Zürich Hb to Basel Sbb

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

58-58

Contact phone

07821/9960770

Website

sweg.de

Other from Hauptbahnhof to Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

0-0

Plane Show flights

Website

lufthansa.com

Plane from Zurich (ZRH) to Stuttgart (STR)

Average Duration

50m

Estimated price

85-908

Zurich to Heidelberg: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Zurich and Heidelberg offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Zurich to Heidelberg by car, spanning a driving distance of 204 miles. Enjoy a comfortable ride through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💰 Prices for this road trip range between €60 to €88, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore both Switzerland and Germany. With affordable transportation costs, you can allocate more of your budget towards experiencing the culture and sights of Heidelberg. 🏰 Arrive in Heidelberg after approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes of driving, ready to explore its historic charm, iconic castle, and vibrant university atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of this German city, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Average price

€60 - €88

🚂 Despite the lack of a direct train from Zürich to Heidelberg, travelers can easily reach their destination through a connecting service via Karlsruhe Hauptbahnhof. The journey, which includes transfers, typically takes around 3 hours and 39 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the train journey between Zürich and Heidelberg can range from €93 to €185, depending on the class of service chosen and the booking period.

Departure Point

Zuerich Hb station

Arrival Point

Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof station

🛫 Flying from Zurich to Heidelberg is a quick and convenient way to travel, with a direct flight taking just 40 minutes from Zurich Airport to Stuttgart Airport in Germany.

Departure Point

Zurich Airport

Arrival Point

Stuttgart Airport

🌍 During the 5 hour and 35 minute bus trip, travelers can enjoy scenic views along the route as they make their way from Switzerland to Germany. The FlixBus service offers a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for this international journey. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Heidelberg and Zurich range from €28 to €41, providing an affordable travel option for those looking to explore both cities in an efficient and budget-friendly way.

Departure Point

Zurich Bus Station

Arrival Point

Heidelberg central train station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Zurich to Heidelberg.

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The distance between Zurich and Heidelberg is approximately 142 miles by road. Traveling by train, it usually takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes to reach Heidelberg from Zurich. If you choose to fly from Zurich to Stuttgart and then take a train, the travel time is approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes. By car, it takes about 2 hours and 58 minutes to drive from Heidelberg to Zurich, while a bus journey usually takes around 5 hours and 4 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Zurich to Heidelberg is by bus, with prices ranging from €26-€41. Although the bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes, it offers a budget-friendly alternative for travelers. However, for those seeking a more time-efficient option, driving is the quickest way to reach Heidelberg from Zurich. With a travel time of around 2 hours and 58 minutes, driving allows for more flexibility and saves time compared to other modes of transportation.

The prices for traveling from Zurich to Heidelberg by train range from €45 to €63. Alternatively, taking a bus from Heidelberg to Zurich can cost between €26 and €41. The exact price may depend on factors such as the time of travel and the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to check with specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

To get from Zurich to Heidelberg without using public transportation, the most convenient option is driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 204 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes to drive between them. Rental cars are readily available in Zurich, and prices can range from €59 to €86, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company chosen. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route along the way.

To travel from Zurich to Heidelberg without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes and costs between €45 and €63. There are multiple train services available, making it a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for this route.

Yes, there is a direct link between Zurich and Heidelberg. The most convenient mode of transportation is the train, which departs three times a day and takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes. Another option is to take a direct bus, which departs twice daily and takes approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes. Both options provide a straightforward and comfortable journey between the two cities.

The flight duration from Zurich to Stuttgart is approximately 40 minutes for a direct flight. However, please note that there are no direct flights from Zurich to Heidelberg as Heidelberg does not have its own airport. Travelers can choose to fly to Stuttgart and then take a train or other mode of transportation to Heidelberg. The cost of a flight from Zurich to Stuttgart may vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with different airlines or online travel websites for current prices.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Heidelberg. With over 880 hotels to choose from, you are sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at €51 per night. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you will have a variety of choices for your stay near Heidelberg.