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Madrid, Community of Madrid to Zurich, Zurich (Canton) from $625: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Madrid, Spain
to
Zurich, Switzerland

How to Get from Madrid 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.

$625 - Train, BusBest price
1254 kmDistance
5h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madrid 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
Plane
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
66-247
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1254 km
Duration: 5h 15m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  31m
Estimated price
90-289
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  32m
Estimated price
131-360
Company
ALSA
Bus
Average Duration
23h  45m
Estimated price
134-620
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
14h  16m
Estimated price
158-347
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
25h  23m
Estimated price
621-622
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
15h  33m
Estimated price
623-624

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $129 $77 $87 $84 $83 $96 $83
Fly $69 $56 $50 $52 $57 $55 $94

Traveling From Madrid to Zurich

Traveling from Madrid to Zurich offers you a fascinating contrast between the vibrant energy of Spain’s capital and the serene beauty of Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Zurich

Zurich boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Historic charm with narrow, cobblestone streets.
• Home to the iconic Grossmünster church.
Zurich West
• Trendy area known for vibrant nightlife.
• Features contemporary art galleries and boutiques.
Lake Zurich
• Scenic waterfront perfect for leisurely walks.
• Great spots for cafes with stunning lake views.

Best Times To Visit Zurich's Attractions

Timing your visits to Zurich's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Swiss National Museum
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
Uetliberg Mountain
Weekdays offer a quieter experience with stunning panoramic views.
Bahnhofstrasse Shopping District
Early mornings on weekdays are ideal for a relaxed shopping experience.

Zurich Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Zurich experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making each time unique for visitors. Spring and early autumn typically offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while winter's snow transforms the city into a picturesque wonderland.

Dining Recommendation in Zurich

Try fondue at the charming Restaurant Swiss Chuchi, where melted cheese served with fresh bread provides a comforting culinary experience that contrasts with Madrid's vibrant tapas culture. The cozy atmosphere and focus on local Swiss ingredients offer a taste of tradition that makes each bite a delightful exploration of Zurich's culinary heritage.

Madrid - Zurich operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
2471-2472

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Geneva (GVA)

Average Duration
1h 58m
Estimated price
2473-2475
Website
vueling.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
2471-2472

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Geneva (GVA)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
2473-2475
Website
easyjet.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Basel (BSL)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
2471-2478

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Geneva (GVA)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
2479-900
Website
swiss.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
901-902
Website
aireuropa.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
2471-2472
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
renfe.com

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
906-2476

Train from Madrid-Chamartin to Valladolid

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
907-905
Contact phone
+41 848 44 66 88
Website
sbb.ch

Train from Basel Sbb to Zürich Hb

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
903-627

Train from Genève-Aéroport to Zürich Hb

Average Duration
2h 52m
Estimated price
2479-904

Train from Mulhouse to Zürich Hb

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
905-2479
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
alsa.es

Bus from Estación Sur de Autobuses to Zurich

Average Duration
23h 45m
Estimated price
134-620
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
blablacar.fr

Bus from Valladolid to Zürich

Average Duration
22h 15m
Estimated price
2896-134

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

Traveling between Madrid 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 road trip from Madrid to Zurich, spanning 1030 miles of diverse landscapes and charming towns. The journey offers a unique chance to witness the gradual transition from the vibrant Spanish culture to the picturesque Swiss scenery. 💰 Depending on your preferences and route choices, the cost of driving from Madrid to Zurich ranges between €304 to €443. This flexibility allows travelers to tailor their expenses according to their budget and desired level of comfort. ⏰ Plan for a thrilling 15-hour and 33-minute drive filled with adventure and discovery as you make your way from the bustling streets of Madrid to the serene beauty of Zurich.
Average price
€304 - €442
🛤️ The total travel time for this adventure is approximately 14 hours and 16 minutes, spanning a distance of 1,704 kilometers. With multiple transfers along the way, passengers will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of different regions and cultures as they make their way to Zurich.
Departure Point
Estación de tren de Atocha station
Arrival Point
Zürich Hb station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train service from Madrid to Zurich is operated mainly by Renfe-SNCF and Lyria. Onboard catering includes a bistro service offering a range of meals, snacks, and beverages, such as tapas, sandwiches, coffee, and local Swiss chocolate, enhancing your travel experience.
• You can choose from three seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class offers spacious seats with more legroom and complimentary meals; Business Class provides a comfortable experience with snacks and drinks available for purchase; Economy Class is budget-friendly and still comfortable with decent seating and access to onboard services.
• Throughout your journey, you can check the schedule and amenities of the train service at renfe-sncf.com for Renfe-SNCF, or visit lyria.fr for Lyria services. For local transport in Zurich, visit zvv.ch for updated tram and bus schedules.
🛫 Flying from Madrid to Zurich is a convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 2 hours and 15 minutes. Airlines like Vueling, Air Europa, Swiss, and Iberia operate this route. 🌍 The journey from Madrid to Zurich by air typically lasts around 5 hours and 15 minutes. Travelers can choose from various carriers offering different flight options. 💸 The cost of a flight between Zurich and Madrid can range from €64 to €255, so travelers can find a suitable option based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Madrid Airport
Arrival Point
Zurich Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Before your flight, check the status of options like Vueling, Air Europa, Swiss, and Iberia, as flight frequency can vary; booking earlier may secure better prices from €62 upwards.
• Upon arrival at Zurich Airport (ZRH), follow the clearly marked signs for public transportation to access trains and trams, which provide efficient links to the city center; a direct train ride to Zurich HB takes around 10-15 minutes and usually runs every 30 minutes.
• Expect taxi fares from Zurich Airport to the city center to range between CHF 40 and CHF 60, depending on traffic; consider using the SBB Mobile app for real-time transport schedules from the airport to save both time and money.
🚌 The journey from Madrid to Zurich by bus takes approximately 23 hours and 45 minutes. The services operate three times a week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 🌍 Route options vary in duration and transfers, with one requiring 3 transfers and the others 2 or 3 transfers. Distances range from 1,574 km to 1,772 km, providing passengers with different travel experiences. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Madrid to Zurich bus range from €138 to €203, offering travelers affordable options for this long but scenic journey through multiple countries.
Departure Point
Estación Sur de Autobuses station
Arrival Point
Zurich station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madrid to Zurich.

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The distance between Madrid and Zurich is approximately 779 miles or 1030.3 miles if driving. By train, it takes about 14 hours and 34 minutes to reach Zurich from Madrid. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Basel and then a train, which takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes. If you prefer flying directly, the travel time is about 5 hours and 16 minutes. Driving from Zurich to Madrid takes approximately 15 hours and 33 minutes by car, while taking a bus would take approximately 24 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Madrid to Zurich is by flying. It takes 5 hours and 16 minutes and cost between €60-€269. In comparison to other modes of transportation such as driving, taking a train, or a bus, flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Zurich from Madrid. It offers a balance between cost and travel time.
When traveling from Madrid to Zurich the prices for a train ticket can range from €172 to €339. Alternatively, if you prefer to take the bus, the prices for a ticket from Zurich to Madrid can vary from €124 to €177. It's important to check with different transportation providers to find the best option that fits your budget.
One possible option to travel from Madrid to Zurich without using public transportation is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1030 miles, and it takes around 15 hours and 33 minutes to complete the journey. However, it is important to consider the cost of fuel and tolls, as well as any potential visa or permit requirements for crossing borders by car.
To travel from Madrid to Zurich without a car, the best options are to take a train or a flight. It takes approximately 14 hours and 34 minutes to reach Zurich from Madrid by train, with ticket prices ranging from €167 to €343. The alternative is to fly, which takes around 5 hours and 16 minutes, with ticket prices between €60 and €269. Another option is to take a bus via Lyon, which takes 24 hours and 10 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €121 to €186.
Yes, there is a direct link between Madrid and Zurich. However, there is no direct train from Madrid to Zurich. The journey includes transfers and takes approximately 14 hours and 34 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service that departs from Madrid and arrives in Zurich, with a journey time of approximately 3 days and 8 hours.
The flight between Madrid and Zurich typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, ranging from €64 to €265. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals and prices for this route.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Zurich. With over 647 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to fit their budget and preferences. Prices start at €72 per night, providing a range of options for different travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or boutique accommodations, Zurich has a diverse selection of places to stay.