Private car transfer from Salzburg to Zurich

The drive takes 4 hours and 50 minutes without any stops, but given the unique landscape and charming villages along the way, you won’t be able to resist stretching your legs in Landsberg am Lech or having lunch in St. Gallen.

On this journey, you'll traverse 280 miles (453 km) through the heart of Central Europe and the majestic Alps before finally arriving in the city of Zurich. Daytrip makes it simple to travel in a foreign country by car on your schedule, so what are you waiting for? Let’s see Zurich!

Initially founded by the Romans as a customs post and fort named Turicum, Zurich’s location on the northern shores of Lake Zurich and along major European trade routes has helped it grow from a prosperous medieval city-state into a modern city with international reach.

Zurich as an international capital

Switzerland’s stance on neutrality and financial privacy puts it in a unique position as the bank of the world. Many institutions set up their finances and central offices in Zurich. Although it is located in a German-speaking canton, Zurich has many residents proficient in English, French, and Italian. The city’s international allure and attractive salaries draw a diverse workforce, so you're likely to encounter fellow expats or travelers from dozens of countries.

Why we love Zurich all year round

Zurich attracts around 4 million visitors annually, which is quite significant for a city with a population of about 400,000 and 1.5 million in the metro area. Its mild summers, proximity to ski resorts, and access to hiking trails make it a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Combine this with luxury shopping and tranquil surroundings, and you have the makings of an elite travel destination that is popular throughout the year.

Layer your clothing

The Alps are known for their unpredictable weather due to their high elevation and many large lakes. A warm day can quickly cool down in the evening, so dress in layers and be ready for wind, rain, or even snow throughout much of the year.

Keep your passport close for the border crossing

Despite being surrounded by EU countries like Austria and Germany, Switzerland is not an EU member. However, it is part of the Schengen Zone, which allows for the free movement of people across borders without routine passport checks. This means you may need to declare goods such as cigarettes and alcohol at the border. Keep your passport within easy reach and be prepared for a potential border stop.

Driving from Salzburg to Zurich

Hiring a private driver offers unparalleled flexibility. It enables you to visit historic towns and palaces that you would otherwise miss as they whiz by on the train—all without having to navigate the mountainous roads yourself!

Once your Daytrip driver picks you up from your address in Salzburg, you can take advantage of the freedom to explore. Consider stopping at one of the many charming lakeside towns, like Lindau Island, or take a ferry to Herrenchiemsee to see Ludwig II’s palace on a lake.

Convenience means everything when you’re on vacation, and with Daytrip you won’t need to worry about returning rental cars, calling taxis, or finding parking in Zurich’s city center. Your private driver will drop you off directly at your accommodation.

Driving is the ideal choice for those who value flexibility, convenience, and the chance to discover lesser-known cultural landmarks.

Trains from Salzburg to Zurich

You have 5 direct trains per day to choose from through OBB, Austria’s national rail service. These trains can take you to Zurich in as little as 5 hours 24 minutes, and tickets range from $48 to $91 (€45-€85). When you arrive at Zurich's train station, a quick ride on the public transit network will get you to your hotel.

Buses from Salzburg to Zurich

Traveling by bus is not the most convenient option for this route, but it is the cheapest. Flixbus has one direct bus per day that leaves at 5:05 AM from Salzburg and the trip is 7 hours and 15 minutes. All other bus options require a transfer in Munich and you will be on the road for 8 to 10 hours. Ticket prices from Flixbus start at $40 (€37), with an average of $43 (€40) per passenger.

Zurich’s Altstadt (Old Town)

The Old Town in Zurich is an enchanting trip back in time with its narrow cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Wander through its charming lanes to see iconic landmarks like the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, and discover quaint alleyways filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries.

National Museum Zurich (Landesmuseum Zurich)

Visit the Swiss National Museum for a deep dive into Swiss culture—the National Museum Zurich. This grand historic building houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that trace Swiss history from prehistoric times to the modern era.

Kunsthaus Zurich

Don’t miss Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland’s premier art museums, also located in the Old Town. It features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and contemporary works by masters like Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.

Get outdoors in Zurich

The Swiss have a deep-rooted passion for the great outdoors, and it is easy to see why! Switzerland’s stunning landscapes are the perfect backdrop for hiking, skiing, and swimming. In Zurich, you don't even have to leave the city to immerse yourself in nature. Slip into some sturdy hiking shoes, wear comfortable attire, and hit the trails just as the locals do.

During the fleeting summer months, unwind along the serene shores of Lake Zurich. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoy a leisurely picnic in a lakeside park, or rent equipment for water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.

Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse

Reach the height of luxury on Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. Here, you can browse a stunning array of high-end boutiques, upscale department stores, and designer shops, all showcasing an impressive selection of luxury goods (and, of course, Swiss watches)!