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

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Zurich, Switzerland

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$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.

Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
€114-142
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  2m
Estimated price
€53-88
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 576 km
Duration: 3h 27m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
8h  29m
Estimated price
€53-161
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
€86-342
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  56m
Estimated price
€106-162
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  50m
Estimated price
€157-342
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
€1150-1152
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  26m
Estimated price
€1150-1157
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  25m
Estimated price
€1151-1153
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  31m
Estimated price
€1153-1154

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 14/04Tu 15/04We 16/04Th 17/04Fr 18/04Sa 19/04Su 20/04
Bus $35 $34 $29 $30 $39 $35 $43
Train $125 $118 $89 $72 $96 $133 $101
Fly $95 $84 $74 $87 $84 $237 $141
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

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 €53. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
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
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
Website
swiss.com

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

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1424-1425
Website
eurowings.com

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

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1424-1425
Website
lufthansa.com

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

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1424-1425
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.

Or choose the category:
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.

Trips from Cologne