Trains from Zürich to Dortmund
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Travel from Zürich to Dortmund by train in 6 hours 22 minutes
If you want to know more about the journey from Zürich to Dortmund by train, look no further!
The average journey time from Zürich to Dortmund by train is 7 hours 13 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 6 hours 22 minutes. You'll usually find 21 trains per day traveling the 467 km between these two destinations. You'll need to make 1 change along the way as there are no direct services to Dortmund. As the main train operator on this route, you're likely to be traveling on a service operated by DB for all or at least part of your journey to Dortmund.
Book train tickets from Zürich to Dortmund in advance instead of buying them on the day and they can start from $22.76. We'll always highlight the cheapest prices when you search in our Journey Planner.
Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information, including our train schedule where you can view first and last train times, as well as tips on how to find cheap train tickets.
Zürich to Dortmund by train
It takes an average of 7h 13m to travel from Zürich to Dortmund by train, over a distance of around 290 miles (467 km). There are normally 21 trains per day traveling from Zürich to Dortmund and tickets for this journey start from $22.76 when you book in advance.
| First train | 00:08 |
|---|---|
| Last train | 21:59 |
| Departure station | Zürich |
| Arrival station | Dortmund |
| Journey time | 6h 22m |
| Distance | 467 miles (290 km) |
| Frequency | 21 trains per day |
| Changes | 1 change |
| Price | From $22.76 |
| Train and bus operators |
Deutsche Bahn and EC (Eurocity) trains from Zürich to Dortmund
Deutsche Bahn
EC (Eurocity)
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.
More information
EuroCity (EC) trains offer convenient European cross-border connections between major cities in Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria – it's often a good alternative to air travel.
More information
- Eurocity /
- Trenitalia /
- Deutsche Bahn /
- SBB /
- ÖBB
Cheap train tickets from Zürich to Dortmund
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Zürich to Dortmund by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
FAQs for Zürich to Dortmund
How long does the train from Zürich to Dortmund take?
The average journey time by train between Zürich and Dortmund is 7 hours and 13 minutes, with around 21 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Zürich and Dortmund by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Zürich to Dortmund is 6 hours and 22 minutes.
How much does the train from Zürich to Dortmund cost?
Train tickets from Zürich to Dortmund can start from as little as $22.76 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Zürich to Dortmund?
No, there are no direct train services from Zürich to Dortmund. Travelling from Zürich to Dortmund by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Zürich to Dortmund leave?
The first train from Zürich to Dortmund leaves at 00:08. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Zürich to Dortmund leave?
The last train from Zürich to Dortmund leaves at 21:59. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Zürich and Dortmund by train?
Trains travelling from Zürich to Dortmund cover a distance of around 290 miles (467 km) during the journey.