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About the train journey from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb
Want to travel from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb by train? Start your journey with us.
The train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb usually takes 7 hours 23 minutes on average to travel 290 miles (466 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 6 hours 39 minutes. You can expect to find 44 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Essen Hbf and Zurich Hb, you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Zurich Hb. DB are the main train operator on this route and will whisk you to Zurich Hb in no time.
To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save, as advance tickets start from £26.42.
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Zurich Hb, 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.
Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb by train
It takes an average of 7h 23m to travel from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb by train, over a distance of around 290 miles (466 km). There are normally 44 trains per day travelling from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb and tickets for this journey start from £26.42 when you book in advance.
Deutsche Bahn and EC (Eurocity) trains from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb
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.
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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.
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- Eurocity /
- Trenitalia /
- Deutsche Bahn /
- SBB /
- ÖBB
Eurocity (EC) classes from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb
Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurocity (EC) when travelling from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb.
Second Class
Travelling in Second Class? Enjoy air-conditioning, power sockets and a bar carriage where you can buy snacks and drinks.
- Air-conditioning
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Seat reservation
First Class
Fancy treating yourself? Upgrade to First Class and enjoy more legroom, a quiet area and at-seat catering service.
- Air-conditioning
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Seat reservation
Onboard services on Eurocity (EC)
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb.
You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.
Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.
Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.
With EC, you can enjoy food and drink in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you opt for the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.
In First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.
DB trains offer a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on their EC trains.
When travelling with EC, children under 5 years old travel free of charge and don’t require a ticket. Also, children up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.
On board most EC trains, you will find a family compartment or area suitable for families with babies and children up to the age of 3 years old.
When travelling with EC, you need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle with you. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.
Usually, bike storage spaces are located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.
If you’re travelling on a EC train, you can take your pet with you. If you have a small dog or pet, you do not need an additional ticket and they can travel for free in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an extra ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.
Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.
The Mobility Service can help you with board, disembark and change trains. In addition, staff are happy to answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.
Cheap train tickets from Essen 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 Essen 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.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb take?
The average journey time by train between Essen Hbf and Zurich Hb is 7 hours and 23 minutes, with around 44 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 Essen Hbf and Zurich Hb by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb is 6 hours and 39 minutes.
How much does the train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb cost?
Train ticket prices from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb can start from as little as £26.42 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb?
No, there are no direct train services from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb. Travelling from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb leave?
The first train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb leaves at 02:09. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb leave?
The last train from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb leaves at 22:00. 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 Essen Hbf and Zurich Hb by train?
Trains travelling from Essen Hbf to Zurich Hb cover a distance of around 290 miles (466 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Zurich Hb to Essen Hbf.