Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Zurich, Zurich (Canton) from €53: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$53 by busBest price

576 kmDistance

3h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Zurich 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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Type	Mo 06/01	Tu 07/01	We 08/01	Th 09/01	Fr 10/01	Sa 11/01	Su 12/01
Bus	$32	$31	$27	$27	$36	$32	$39
Train	$114	$108	$81	$66	$88	$122	$93
Fly	$87	$77	$68	$80	$77	$217	$129

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Traveling From Cologne to Zurich

The journey from Cologne to Zurich takes you from the vibrant streets filled with rich history and culture, to the serene landscapes and sleek modernity of Switzerland's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Zurich

Zurich boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Old Town (Altstadt)

• Charming cobblestone streets and historical architecture.

• Lively cafes and shops line every corner.

Zurich West

• Trendy area known for its creative scene.

• Packed with stylish bars and restaurants.

Lake Zurich Area

• Scenic promenades perfect for leisurely walks.

• Stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Best Times To Visit Zurich's Attractions

Visiting Zurich can be a delightful experience with the right timing for each attraction.

Swiss National Museum

Early mornings on weekdays offer quieter exploration of exhibits.

Bahnhofstrasse

Visit during weekdays to enjoy a more leisurely shopping experience.

Uetliberg Mountain

Sunrise hikes provide stunning views and minimal foot traffic.

Zurich Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Zurich enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making it a year-round destination. Understanding the weather patterns can help you choose the best times to visit, whether you're enjoying outdoor festivals in the warmer months or cozying up in a café during the snowy season.

Dining in Zurich: A Flavorful Contrast

Try Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a classic Swiss dish made with thinly sliced veal in a creamy white wine sauce, served with Rösti. This hearty yet delicate meal and the inviting bistros offer a distinct atmosphere that celebrates local ingredients, setting it apart from the spicier and more beer-focused dishes often found in Cologne.

Cologne - Zurich operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Zurich, 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

https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Köln Hbf to Basel SBB

Average Duration

3h 52m

Estimated price

107-1420

Train from Koeln Hbf to Zuerich Hb

Average Duration

8h 29m

Estimated price

49-161

Train from Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration

59m

Estimated price

832-833

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration

29m

Estimated price

834-835

Train from Köln Hbf to Bruxelles-Nord

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

836-837

Contact phone

+41 848 44 66 88

Website

https://www.sbb.ch/en

Train from Basel Sbb to Zürich Hb

Average Duration

1h 13m

Estimated price

838-839

all-pages.transport_night train

Contact phone

+43 51717

Website

https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Koeln Hbf to Zuerich Hb

Average Duration

8h 23m

Estimated price

49-161

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+49 30 300 137 300

Website

https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Cologne Airport CGN to Zurich Bus Station

Average Duration

8h 50m

Estimated price

1077-1423

Plane Show flights

Website

swiss.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration

Estimated price

1424-1425

Website

eurowings.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration

Estimated price

1424-1425

Website

lufthansa.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration

Estimated price

1424-1425

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

0221 13 999 444

Website

nationalexpress.de

Other from Koeln Hbf to Duesseldorf Flughafen

Average Duration

54m

Estimated price

1613-1614

Contact phone

+33 1 84 94 36 35

Website

https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Other from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration

32m

Estimated price

1615-1616

Contact phone

+31 30 751 5155

Website

https://www.ns.nl/en

Other from Koeln Hbf to Zuerich Hb

Average Duration

8h 29m

Estimated price

1610-490

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

Traveling between Cologne and Zurich 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 Cologne to Zurich by car, covering a distance of 358 miles in approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes. Experience the beauty of the German and Swiss landscapes as you drive through charming cities and lush countryside. ⛰️ Explore the varying prices for the road trip from Cologne to Zurich, ranging from €101 to €156. Take advantage of the flexibility of traveling by car, allowing you to stop at picturesque rest stops and discover hidden gems along the way.

Average price

€101 - €157

🚂 Experience a scenic journey from Cologne to Zurich by train. Departing from Köln Hbf, the overnight train operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express offers a convenient option for travelers. Arriving at Zürich Hb after approximately 8 hours and 29 minutes. 💰 Prices for a train ticket between Cologne and Zurich range from €110 to €146, with various fare options available. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a leisurely trip, this train journey offers a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for anyone exploring the beautiful cities of Cologne and Zurich.

Departure Point

Köln Hbf station

Arrival Point

Zürich Hb station

🛫 Flying from Cologne Bonn Airport to Zurich Airport is a convenient option for a quick trip, with the direct flight taking just 1 hour. Airlines like Swiss, Eurowings, and Lufthansa provide flights on this route. 🧳 The journey by plane from Cologne to Zurich typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes, offering travelers a relatively short travel time to reach their destination. It's a popular route for both business and leisure travelers. 💸 Prices for flights between Zurich and Cologne can vary, with options ranging from €85 to €318 depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors.

Departure Point

Cologne Bonn Airport

Arrival Point

Zurich Airport

🚌 Prepare for a scenic journey from Cologne to Zurich by bus, with a travel time of approximately 10 hours and 2 minutes. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the bus between Zurich and Cologne can range from €51 to €85, offering budget-friendly options for travelers exploring these vibrant European cities.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Zurich.

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The distance between Cologne and Zurich is approximately 258 miles by air. By train, it takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you prefer to combine train and flight, it takes about 3 hours and 18 minutes by taking a train to Frankfurt and then flying to Zurich. Other options include flying directly, which takes around 3 hours and 47 minutes, or driving, which can take roughly 4 hours and 56 minutes. Taking a bus is the longest mode of transportation, with a travel time of about 10 hours and 47 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cologne to Zurich is by bus, which costs approximately €45-€72 and takes 10 hours and 47 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take a train and then fly, which takes about 3 hours and 18 minutes and costs around €127-€389. When considering both cost and time, it is important to evaluate personal preferences and priorities to determine the most suitable transportation option.

The prices of a train ticket from Cologne to Zurich can range from €68 to €129, depending on factors such as ticket type and availability. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket from Zurich to Cologne can vary from €50 to €71. It is always recommended to check with different transportation providers and book in advance to find the best prices for your journey.

To travel from Cologne to Zurich without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The driving distance is approximately 358 miles and it usually takes around 4 hours and 56 minutes to reach Zurich from Cologne. However, it is important to note that the prices for renting a car and fuel costs can vary from €100 to €154.

To travel from Cologne to Zurich without a car, the best option is to take the train. It takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes and costs between €68 and €136. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 10 hours and 47 minutes and costs between €45 and €72. If you prefer to fly, it takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes and costs between €77 and €290.

Yes, there is a direct link between Cologne and Zurich. There is an overnight train that operates every day, departing from Koeln Hbf and arriving at Zuerich Hb. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 12 minutes. The train services are operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express and Swiss Railways.

The flight between Cologne and Zurich typically takes around 55 minutes. Prices for this flight can vary between €79 and €282, depending on factors such as the airline and time of booking. It's recommended to check with different airlines and travel agencies to find the best deals and options for your specific travel dates and preferences.

There are plenty of hotels available in Zurich with a wide range of options to choose from. Prices for accommodation start at €71 per night. With over 647 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay based on their budget, preferences, and location preferences. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.