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Taking the train from Bern to Zurich
Bern, baby, Bern, this awesome train route is all about the best of Switzerland. Explore all the wonders of this capital city, including the Zytglogge, a beautiful astronomical clock you should definitely try and view on the hour so you can see the ornate bears parade below its face. Once you’re ready to adventure onwards, simply board a train for less than an hour to arrive at the home of Switzerland’s most famous lake.
SBB trains connect the cities, with comfy seats, sleek and modern design and handy ticket options for easy round trips so that you can enjoy stress-free travel. Once you’re in Zurich, you can head to the lakeside to take in your glorious new surroundings, or if you are already missing the cute and cuddly bears, Zurich has a zoo! Meet the bears of Bern - check out our FAQs below!
FAQs about the train journey from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb
Want to know more about your journey from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How close is Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb by train?
Which train companies operate from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb?
Is it possible to get from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb?
What time does the first train from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb leave?
What time does the last train from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb leave?
How often are trains from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb?
Do you need to book the train from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb?
SBB trains from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb
The Swiss rail network is operated by SBB. SBB train ticket prices are based on travel and not on the type of trains. You will find available return tickets (standard price, one way or round trip), Multiple journey tickets (for six individual trips on a pre-determined itinerary) and the City-Ticket (including a one-day transportation pass from the city of departure or arrival).
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Intercity classes from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity when travelling from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb.
Economy
Take advantage of the restaurant carriage which offers a menu made of high-quality produce. Travelling with kids? Choose your seats in the dedicated Family Zone.
- Free WiFi
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Family area
- Power sockets at each seat
- Extra luggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
First Class
In First Class, you'll get to travel in comfortable seats, enjoy free WiFi, as well as more space for your luggage and individual plug sockets (German + Swiss).
- Free WiFi
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Family area
- Power sockets at each seat
- Extra luggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
Onboard services on Intercity
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb.
You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.
Many SBB Intercity trains will have a restaurant or bistro carriage so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.
There are plug sockets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.
There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard. On Intercity trains, there is also a dedicated family carriage.
You can take your bicycle onboard SBB Intercity trains. Between 21st March and 31st October, it's compulsory to reserve a bike space on some Intercity trains. You must also buy a ticket for your bike at a ticket office, ticket machine or online.
Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.
SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet.
There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains.
Cheap train tickets from Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb
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 Bern Hbf to Zurich Hb 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.