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Trains from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)

About the train journey from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)

Want to travel from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) usually takes 4 hours 59 minutes on average to travel 184 miles (296 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 4 hours 14 minutes. You can expect to find 31 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Zurich Airport and Frankfurt (Main), you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Frankfurt (Main).

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Frankfurt (Main), including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Trains to Frankfurt (Main) from Zurich Airport

First train

05:38

Last train

23:45

Departure stationZurich Airport
Arrival stationFrankfurt (Main)
Journey time

From 4h 14m

Distance

184 miles (296 km)

Frequency

31 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

BlaBlaCar Bus, Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

Want to know more about your journey from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I get from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

You can travel from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) by train in about 4 hours and 59 minutes. With around 31 trains running each day, taking the train is easy. Find out more in our Journey Planner.

How long is the train journey from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

On average, the train journey from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) takes around 4 hours and 59 minutes, with 31 trains per day. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific train and any potential delays. Use our Journey Planner to check out more information.

What is the fastest train from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

The fastest trains from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) can cover the distance of 184 miles (296 km) in as little as 4 hours and 14 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

No, you can’t travel from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) on a direct train, you’ll need to make at least 1 change during the journey.

What are the train times from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

Check out the next trains departing from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) for Tuesday 14th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
10:3814:524h 14m, 2 changes
10:5616:085h 12m, 1 change
11:3816:084h 30m, 2 changes
12:3816:524h 14m, 1 change
13:1517:444h 29m, 1 change
13:3818:084h 30m, 2 changes
14:1818:524h 34m, 1 change
14:3818:524h 14m, 2 changes
15:3820:084h 30m, 1 change
15:4621:085h 22m, 2 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main)?

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 Zurich Airport to Frankfurt (Main) 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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