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Taking the train from Zürich to Kiel in 9 hours 18 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Zürich to Kiel? We’ve got you covered.

It usually takes around 10 hours 31 minutes to travel the 484 miles (779 km) from Zürich to Kiel by train, although you can get there in as little as 9 hours 18 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 19 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 1 change along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Train tickets from Zürich to Kiel are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.

Keen to book your train tickets to Kiel? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.

Trains to Kiel from Zürich

First train

00:08

Last train

21:59

Departure stationZürich
Arrival stationKiel
Journey time

From 9h 18m

Distance

484 miles (779 km)

Frequency

19 trains per day

Changes

1 change

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Zürich to Kiel?

Want to know more about your journey from Zürich to Kiel? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Kiel from Zürich?

To get to Kiel from Zürich, why not take the train? With 19 trains per day and an average journey time of 10 hours and 31 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. You can also catch the bus from Zürich to Kiel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Zürich to Kiel by train?

On average, it takes around 10 hours and 31 minutes to travel from Zürich to Kiel by train, although you can get there in 9 hours and 18 minutes on the fastest services. With 19 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Zürich to Kiel?

The fastest time a train can travel the 484 miles (779 km) from Zürich to Kiel is 9 hours and 18 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Zürich to Kiel?

There are no direct trains that run between Zürich and Kiel. You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

What are the train times from Zürich to Kiel?

Check out the next trains departing from Zürich to Kiel for Tuesday 13th January 2026. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
06:5916:409h 41m, 1 change
08:3417:529h 18m, 2 changes
08:5918:409h 41m, 1 change
10:3419:529h 18m, 2 changes
10:3720:5210h 15m, 2 changes
10:5920:529h 53m, 3 changes
12:3421:589h 24m, 2 changes
13:3422:589h 24m, 3 changes
13:3423:339h 59m, 2 changes
14:3423:529h 18m, 2 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Zürich to Kiel?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Zürich to Kiel starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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