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Whether you’re in Munich for the museums or Oktoberfest, there’s no better city trip to take than a train journey to Zurich. This route from Germany to Switzerland is popular with both locals and tourists alike, travelling by train means you can swap lager for lakesides in under four hours. Perfect for those who are recovering from a few too many steins the day before, or don’t fancy the stress of driving or waiting around at the airport, this train route is the stress-free way to travel.
There are nine direct trains between Munich and Zurich a day, depending on the route you take, you’ll travel with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB or EuroCity trains – all of which offer comfy and convenient alternatives to air travel or driving. Just sit back, relax and get into the laidback mindset that will be right at home when you arrive in Zurich.
Once you arrive into Zurich Hbf station (the main station in the city), Lindenhof Hill is just a half-mile wander away. This previous site of an old Roman fort offers amazing views over the city. Feeling hungry? Check out our favorite restaurants in Zurich.
Keen to know more? Find train times. Ticket prices and FAQs about the journey from Munich Hbf to Zurich Hbf below.
First train | 2:37 am | |
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Last train | 11:39 pm | |
Departure station | Munich Hbf | |
Arrival station | Zurich Hb | |
Journey time | From 3h 32m | |
Distance | 150 miles (241 km) | |
Frequency | 24 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From $36.85 | |
Train and bus operators | Deutsche Bahn, BlaBlaCar Bus, ÖBB, Flixbus |
The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.
ÖBB is the major railway company for Austria, subdivided into several subsidiaries, responsible for certain areas of transport, such as long distance and local transport, the operation of postal buses and the transport of goods. Railjet is ÖBB's high-speed train, which travels at speeds of up to 143 mph (230 km/h) and connects the main Austrian cities with Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Italy.
The Economy Class on ÖBB's Eurocity trains is perfect if you’re looking for spacious seats and generous baggage allowance at an affordable price.
There are plenty of amenities in First Class on ÖBB's Eurocity trains, including adjustable seats, additional legroom and an in-seat meal service.
What baggage limits are there? | You can take your baggage free of charge onboard all ÖBB Eurocity trains, provided that it is stowed in the luggage racks above or below your seat or in the areas provided for hand luggage. The pieces of luggage must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 90 x 60 x 40cm (35.4 x 23.6 x 15.7''). These dimensions can only be exceeded if you’re traveling with skis and snowboards, ski and hiking poles, wind, string or plucked instruments, wheelchairs, or strollers. |
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What food and drink is available? | A restaurant car is available on most ÖBB Eurocity trains and offers a wide range of snacks and drinks. Vegan and vegetarian options are available too. If you upgrade to First Class, your meal of choice will be served straight to your seat. |
What onboard entertainment is available? | Unfortunately, ÖBB Eurocity trains do not offer an entertainment portal on board. Also, WiFi is not always available. |
What facilities are there for travel with children? | If you’re traveling with your child, you’ll get a discounted ticket. Kids aged 0-5 travel for free on ÖBB Eurocity trains, while those aged 6-14 get a half-price ticket. Kids aged 15 or over need a full-price ticket. Many ÖBB Eurocity trains offer special compartments for kids in Economy Class – they come with 6 seats and can be booked for any route. Breastfeeding compartments are available too – they have curtains that block the view for more privacy. These seats can’t be booked. |
Can I bring a bike on board? | You can travel with your bike for free on ÖBB Eurocity trains if it can be folded and is not larger than 90 x 60 x 40cm (35.4 x 23.6 x 15.7''). You won’t need to book a space for your bike. If you can’t fold your bike, you’ll need to buy a bike ticket to reserve your space. You can book your ticket up to 6 months in advance from ÖBB Ticketshop online. If possible, we recommend you print out your bike reservation and attach it to your bike so it's clearly visible to the ticket inspector. |
Can I bring pets on board? | Small pets can travel for free on ÖBB Eurocity trains if they’re placed in a carrier or cage. If you can’t carry them in a carrier or cage, you’ll need to buy a ticket for them. They must also be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle. Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost and don’t need to wear a muzzle. |
What special assistance is available? | ÖBB Eurocity trains come with accessible toilets. Depending on the type of car, several wheelchair bays, including one seat for an accompanying person, can be booked free of charge. On many trains, the wheelchair bays are in First Class. However, passengers with wheelchairs and the person accompanying them can travel in First Class with their Second Class tickets and can also make use of the in-seat meal service on offer there. |
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.