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Frankfurt am Main, Hesse to Zurich, Zurich (Canton) from $20: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
to
Zurich, Switzerland

How to Get from Frankfurt am Main 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.

$20 RideshareBest price
414 kmDistance
2h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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
4h  34m
Estimated price
$95-115
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$20-32
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 414 km
Duration: 2h 43m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
$33-50
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  24m
Estimated price
$44-65
Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
5h  58m
Estimated price
$67-78
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$67-78
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  36m
Estimated price
$880-881
Company
Swiss, Lufthansa
Plane
Average Duration
2h  43m
Estimated price
$882-883
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$882-886
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$884-885
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$887-888

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $23 $22 $25 $22 $24 $23 $23
Train $46 $44 $41 $46 $47 $49 $48
Fly $192 $250 $179 $214 $284 $307 $227
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Frankfurt am Main to Zurich

The journey from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich offers a fascinating contrast between the vibrant financial hub of Germany and the picturesque charm of Switzerland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Zurich

Zurich’s neighborhoods each offer a distinct mix of culture and charm.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Rich history with narrow, cobblestone streets.
• Vibrant cafés and local shops abound.
Enge
• Scenic views of Lake Zurich and the Alps.
• Great for leisurely strolls along the waterfront.
Wiedikon
• Known for its trendy vibe and artistic scene.
• Lively markets and parks for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Zurich's Attractions

Timing your visits to Zurich’s attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Lake Zurich
Visit early morning or late afternoon for peaceful views and fewer tourists.
Swiss National Museum
Weekdays offer quieter hours, perfect for exploring without distractions.
Bahnhofstrasse
Shop on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll.

Zurich Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Zurich experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making it an appealing destination year-round. Spring and early autumn provide mild temperatures, ideal for exploring, while winter offers enchanting snowy landscapes perfect for winter sports.

Dining in Zurich: A Culinary Contrast

Try the traditional Swiss dish, fondue, at Swiss Chuchi, where you can savor rich, melted cheese served in a cozy, rustic atmosphere. This dining experience contrasts with Frankfurt's hearty, meat-focused cuisine, offering a warm, communal vibe that highlights local ingredients and flavors.

Frankfurt am Main - Zurich operators

Explore transport companies operating between Frankfurt am Main and Zurich, with prices starting at . 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 Frankfurt(Main)Hbf to Basel SBB

Average Duration
3h 9m
Estimated price
63-76

Train from Frankfurt to Zürich hbf

Average Duration
5h 58m
Estimated price
63-76

Train from Frankfurt(Main)Hbf to Zürich hbf

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
63-76
Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Frankfurt central train station to Zurich Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
31-49

Bus from Frankfurt to Konstanz Döbeleplatz

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
31-198
Plane
Website
https://www.lufthansa.com

Plane from Frankfurt (FRA) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
1212-760

Plane from Frankfurt (FRA) to Basel (BSL)

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
1214-1215
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Frankfurt to Zurich

Average Duration
4h 18m
Estimated price
19-31

Frankfurt am Main to Zurich: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Frankfurt am Main 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The train service from Frankfurt to Zurich, primarily operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) and EuroCity (EC), offers a variety of catering services. In First Class, you can enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks served at your seat, as well as an onboard restaurant service in some trains. In Economy Class, you'll find a bistro service where you can purchase light meals, sandwiches, and beverages. It's advisable to check the menu options on the train's website for the most current offerings.
• Seating Options: When traveling on this route, you have three main options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary beverages, and access to quiet zones. Business Class, available on certain trains, provides added comfort and amenities typical of a premium experience. Economy Class features standard seating with overhead luggage space, and it's the most cost-effective option. Be sure to reserve your seats in advance, particularly if traveling during peak hours.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arrival at Zurich Hauptbahnhof (HB), you’ll find that the station is large and well-signposted. Luggage storage facilities are available, allowing you to leave your bags securely while you explore the city. Additionally, restrooms are located throughout the station, and refreshing showers can be found at nearby wellness facilities if you desire a cleanup after your journey. Make sure to follow the signs for the luggage storage (Gepäckaufbewahrung) for easy access.
• Fastest Way to City Center: To get from Zurich HB to the city center, the quickest option is to take tram line 4 or 6. These trams run frequently and will take you directly to major attractions in about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch a number of local buses that connect various city regions, but trams are generally the fastest and most convenient option.
• Operators & Useful Links: The main operators for this route are Deutsche Bahn (DB) [bahn.com EuroCity [sbb.ch and the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) [sbb.ch You can find local transport schedules, station maps, dining options, and more at these websites.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Frankfurt am Main and Zurich is approximately 191 miles or 257.1 miles by road. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes. By flying to Basel and then taking a train, it takes about 3 hours and 39 minutes. By plane, the travel time is about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Alternatively, driving takes approximately 3 hours and 36 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 6 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich is to rideshare, which usually costs between €19 and €32 and takes around 4 hours and 18 minutes. This option allows you to share the cost of transportation with others, making it more affordable. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel between the two cities is by flying. Flights from Frankfurt to Zurich typically take around 2 hours and 45 minutes and can cost between €111 and €352.
The prices for a train ticket between Frankfurt am Main and Zurich can range from €31 to €97, depending on the class of service and type of ticket. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Zurich and Frankfurt am Main typically range from €32 to €46, with slight variations based on the bus company and travel time. It is advisable to check for specific prices and promotions before making a booking.
To get from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich without using public transportation, you can consider using carpooling services like BlaBlaCar. This allows you to ride with someone who is driving in the same direction, providing an economical and convenient option. The driving distance between Frankfurt am Main and Zurich is 257 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 36 minutes to drive from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich. The prices for carpooling from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich range from €74 to €111.
To travel from Frankfurt am Main to Zurich without a car, the best option is to take a train via Basel. This journey takes approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes and costs between €28 and €102. Another option is to take a bus, which takes 6 hours and 15 minutes and costs between €32 and €46. Lastly, flying is also an option, with a flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes and costs ranging from €111 to €352.
Yes, there is a direct link between Frankfurt am Main and Zurich. There is a daily train service that operates between the two cities, taking approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes. Additionally, there is a bus service that departs twice daily from Frankfurt central train station and arrives at Zurich Bus Station, with a travel time of around 6 hours and 15 minutes. These direct transportation options provide convenient and efficient travel between Frankfurt and Zurich.
The flight between Frankfurt am Main and Zurich typically takes about 55 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, with prices ranging from €118 to €352. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals on flights between these two cities.
There are 647+ hotels available in Zürich offering a range of options for visitors. Prices start at €72, providing options for different budgets. From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly hotels, there is a wide variety of choices available to suit everyone's preferences. Whether you are looking for a centrally located hotel or one with scenic views, Zürich has numerous options for a comfortable stay.

Trips from Frankfurt am Main