How long is the high-speed train from Munich to Zurich?
The high-speed train journey from Munich to Zurich typically lasts approximately 3.5 hours and is operated by Deutsche Bahn, the national rail service for Germany. Tickets start at 97 EUR and trains leave multiple times per day. Slower, cheaper trains with transfers are also an option.
What is the best way to get from Munich to Zurich?
A private car with Daytrip is the best way to get from Munich to Zurich. Not only do you travel door-to-door, but your English-speaking driver will handle your luggage and share their insights. Even better, you can stop for sightseeing on the way. Trains and buses take about the same amount of time as a car, so these are good options if you're traveling solo on a budget.
Is the train from Munich to Zurich scenic?
The train journey from Munich to Zurich offers scenic views of the Swiss countryside, particularly along Lake Zurich and the Alpine foothills. Book a window seat to guarantee an unobscured view, but be aware that fog is common in mountainous regions and may limit the scenery.
Is Zurich handicapped accessible?
Zurich is mostly handicapped-accessible. Older, inaccessible trams are being replaced with low-floor loading trams, and the historic sites are mostly outfitted with ramps, lifts, and other accessibility aids. The old town is quite compact, so you can see many popular sites within just a short distance. Cobblestones and steep hills are the most common complaints for wheelchair or stroller users, however, the cobblestones are level in most places. For the best experience, call ahead to destinations and ask about which entrances are accessible.
Are there night trains between Munich and Zurich?
No, due to the short travel time (only 3.5 hours for direct trains), no night trains operate between Munich and Zurich. Traveling during the daytime will give you great views of the countryside, so you won’t be missing out on anything by traveling during the day.
The drive from Munich to Zurich can be done in as little as 3.5 hours, so it is an excellent leg of your European vacation to add some day trip destinations. This car trip will take you through 200 miles (320 km) of German and Swiss countryside dotted with castles, ancient trade routes, and stunning religious architecture. See some of the most lush and enchanting stretches of central Europe by stopping at the following towns: Memmingen, Lindau, and St. Gallen.
If you happen to be traveling in July, check the schedule for Fischertag, or Fisherman’s Day, in Memmingen, Germany. During this holiday, the “Fisherman’s King” is declared (the one who catches the heaviest trout) and the town brook is emptied and cleaned. About 40,000 people attend this fun event annually. Any other time of the year, Memmingen is a classic German town with a colorful town square.
Lindau is the last stop you’ll make within Germany. It is a historical resort town on Lake Constance at the German-Austrian-Swiss border. The town is split into two parts: the mainland and the island on the southern end of the lake. The island has a calm harbor and quaint old town with the backdrop of the Alps. It has some of the oldest buildings on Lake Constance and is the second-largest island.
Once you’re over the border to Switzerland, visit St. Gallen with its Baroque abbey and Rococo library. St. Gallen has roots in the 8th century, with the charming aesthetic of a fairytale town. It is a great introduction to Switzerland.
Once you’ve arrived in Zurich, your private driver will get you right to your accommodation and help with your luggage. Now you’re all set to continue your vacation in Zurich!
About Zurich
Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland (but not the capital!), is a quietly prominent financial hub. It traces back to Roman times when it served as a customs station and a Roman fortification, known at the time as Turicum. Over the centuries Zurich evolved into a thriving medieval city-state due to its strategic location on the northern shores of Lake Zurich and along major European trade routes, like the one you took from Munich to Zurich.
Zurich is a linguist’s dream
Zurich is modestly sized, with about 400,000 inhabitants in the city and 1.5 million in the metro area. It attracts 4 million visitors a year. Switzerland has four official languages (French, Italian, German, and Romansh), and Zurich is in the German-speaking region. But don’t worry, the population has a high level of English, French, Italian, and many other languages. Switzerland is also a common destination for foreign workers for its high wages, so you may run into people from your home country as well.
### Swiss Society
Switzerland is a conservative country with strong traditions of independence and neutrality. Its strong internal policy and social consciousness have led to a high quality of life, efficient public services, and a stable economy. However, taxes are quite high and rules are strict. For example, you can only dispose of trash with special trash bags that have taxes built into the price.
The Swiss also value peace and quiet in public spaces. Don’t expect a noisy nightlife scene or loud conversations in public. There are even rules on when to throw away trash and recycling so as to not have loud noise disturb those living nearby.
### EU? Schengen? What’s Happening?
Switzerland has a long-held history of neutrality that is often the butt of jokes and stereotypes. While entirely surrounded by EU countries, Switzerland is not in the EU. It is, however, in the Schengen zone. The EU and Schengen are two different entities that often, but not always, overlap. Countries in the Schengen zone allow free movement of people between the borders.
For your trip to Zurich, this means you will be allowed into Switzerland without showing a passport at the border with Germany. But it also means Switzerland does not use the euro. The Swiss Franc (CHF) is their currency, with an almost 1:1 ratio between EUR and USD. Cash is still the most popular form of payment, so have some cash on you for smaller restaurants and stores as you explore Zurich.
From Munich to Zurich: Travel tips
Germany and Switzerland are both quite comfortable and straightforward to travel through, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Follow these travel tips for the best possible trip from Munich to Zurich.
Leave Munich early in the day
The drive is only about 3.5 hours, however you’ll want to make detours to see the smaller cities and unique local heritage sites. Make the most of your time, and the limited daylight during the colder months, by leaving Munich early in the morning.
Pack most of your bags the night before and lay out your outfit for the morning to avoid last-minute chaos. Plan an early start to the trip, and make sure to have a smaller bag with you with water, sunglasses, a camera, and anything else you may need for the trip.
### Check the criteria for visiting Dachau
The Dachau concentration camp memorial is right outside of Munich and is one of the stops offered by Daytrip. It is not possible to make reservations for guided tours ahead of time, so plan with your driver to arrive with enough time before the tour to get a spot. You are welcome to walk around the grounds before the tour, or without a guided tour at all, but it does add more depth to the visit.
If you’re traveling with children under 13 years of age, they will not be able to take part in the guided tour due to its mature content. Consider the age and sensitivity of your children before taking them, and have a discussion beforehand about the accepted behavior at memorial sites.
### Wear layers
In Zurich, the weather can change quickly thanks to its high elevation and closeness to large bodies of water. It may be very warm during the day in direct sunlight, but the temperature might drop quickly in the evening. To ensure you are always comfortable, wear your clothes in layers and be prepared for wind, rain, and snow for much of the year. Dry, waterproof shoes and socks can go a long way to making you feel warm and comfortable on even the coldest days!
### Be early for reservations
If being in Germany didn’t make you punctual, Switzerland certainly will. Some cultures allow for a bit of tardiness, but the Swiss highly value being on time. For any restaurant reservations or appointments you make during your stay, aim to be about 10 minutes early so you can avoid being late.
This culture of punctuality also means you can reliably trust the public transportation timetables to be accurate and for trains to arrive on time.
### Don’t use taxis in Zurich
You already know Switzerland is not a budget destination, however, the price for taxis is much higher than most other cities in the world. Fees average 9 EUR per mile, so it is best to use public transportation to get everywhere within Zurich. Switzerland invests a lot in its public transportation system, and it is among the best in the world. You can get to even the most remote national parks with public transit. The trains, trams, and buses are mostly wheelchair and disabled-accessible as well.
How to get from Munich to Zurich
The route from Munich to Zurich is quite scenic and this 200-mile (320 km) trip can be done in as little as 3.5 hours. When choosing how to get from Munich to Zurich, consider the size of your luggage, budget, time constraints, and any detours to smaller cities you'd like to see on the way to Zurich.
From Munich to Zurich via Private Driver with Daytrip
Traveling by private car from Munich to Zurich offers flexibility and the opportunity to see historic towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites you’d otherwise miss as they fly by your window on the train.
Your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation in Munich, so there is no rushing to get out the door to a pick-up point or transit station. The journey can be done all on the well-maintained A96 (Germany) and A1 (Switzerland) highways, and you can cover the distance in just over 3.5 hours. The only thing you have to worry about is picking which stops to add.
Adding to the convenience of booking through Daytrip is not having to return a rental car or figure out parking in the city center. Your private driver will get you and your luggage to your accommodation so you can begin the Zurich part of your vacation as soon as possible. It is definitely the best option for those who value flexibility, convenience, and seeing lesser-known cultural landmarks.
### Bus from Munich to Zurich
Buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling from Munich to Zurich. Several bus companies operate regular services between the two cities, with journey durations typically ranging from 4 to 6 hours. FlixBus and Regiojet are among the prominent operators on this route, offering multiple daily departures from bus stations around Munich. Ticket prices for a one-way journey from Munich to Zurich by bus typically start at around 20 EUR, but prices rise during peak travel holidays. Definitely book your tickets in advance.
### Train from Munich to Zurich
High-speed trains can get you and your luggage quickly from Munich to Zurich. With large windows and spacious seating, you can get great views of the Swiss countryside without needing to go hiking first. The fastest trains take 3.5 hours and prices start at 97 EUR, but you can shop around for cheaper options on slower trains, or with transfers required. For example, if you have the whole day available, you can take 3 trains for 33 EUR and it will take about 8 hours.
Check Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and Deutsche Bahn (DB) for the most options. Discounted fares are often available for seniors, students, children, and those using rail passes like the Deutschland Ticket. Trains will have luggage racks, tables, and restrooms. Most trains have electrical sockets and food service cars as well for your convenience. Germany and Switzerland both have a culture of punctuality, so you can expect trains to be relatively on time.
### Flight from Munich to Zurich
Traveling from Munich to Zurich by plane sounds like the fastest option since the flight duration is around 1 hour. Several airlines operate direct flights between Munich Airport (MUC) and Zurich Airport (ZRH) on a regular basis, including Swiss International Air Lines, Lufthansa, and Eurowings. Economy class fares typically start at around 190 EUR, but the average price is even higher.
However, after factoring in 2 hours for check-in and airport security, and traveling to and from airports, ground transportation is more cost-effective with the same(or even faster!) travel time.
Things to do when you get to Zurich
You’ve already seen so much on your trip from Munich to Zurich, but now it’s time to enjoy your destination! Make sure these most popular activities make it onto your itinerary of things to do when you get to Zurich:
Zurich’s natural landscapes
The Swiss love the outdoors and are always hiking, skiing, and enjoying their beautiful natural landscapes. Getting out into nature is possible without even leaving Zurich. Bring a good set of hiking shoes, and comfortable clothes, and do as the locals do: get on the trails.
In the short summer season, unwind along the shores of Lake Zurich, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Walk along the promenade, enjoy a picnic in one of the lakeside parks, enjoy water sports, or take a boat cruise to admire panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. This oblong lake has a very long shore and could be an entire day of your trip.
From just outside of the city, experience breathtaking views of Zurich and the Swiss Alps from the summit of Uetliberg Mountain. It is accessible by a short train ride or simply hike there from your accommodation. The Uetliberg area offers scenic viewpoints and natural trails that are open year-round, but take some precautions if you are not as experienced at hiking in winter.
If you’d like to go a bit further from Zurich, venture north about one hour by train to visit Rhine Falls. It is Europe's most powerful waterfall and makes for a lovely day trip so you can see more of Switzerland outside of Zurich. Take a boat ride to get up close and personal to the powerful falls, and explore the surrounding natural beauty on the hiking trails. Bring a change of clothing just in case you get soaked by the falls!
In winter, it is entirely possible to go to the ski slopes for just a day from Zurich- no need to book a separate resort stay! During ski season, the national rail service SBB has a Snow n Rail pass for day trips to ski slopes. Instead of purchasing the train ticket and slope passes separately, buy them together for a discount.
### Luxury shopping on Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets. Browse luxury boutiques, department stores, and designer shops offering a wide array of fashion, jewelry, and Swiss watches.
### Experience Zurich's rich flavors
Zurich has many international restaurants thanks to its large foreign worker market, however Swiss cuisine itself is incredibly rich. You need a hearty meal to make the long, cold winters bearable. So after a long day of skiing and hiking, have a meal of raclette (melted cheese over potatoes), Malakoff (fried cheese balls), or fondue. Finish off your meal with a rich chocolate dessert and a locally produced wine.
### The Altstadt (Old Town)
Zurich's compact Old Town charms visitors with its narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Admire the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, and explore quaint alleyways lined with shops, cafes, and galleries.
Gain insight into Swiss culture, history, and heritage at the Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich). Housed in a grand historic building, the museum features a vast collection of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the present day.
Kunsthaus Zurich is one of Switzerland's most important art museums, also located in the old town. It is home to a vast collection of European paintings, sculptures, and artworks by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.
### Zurich West
Once you’ve learned the history and seen the older parts of town, discover Zurich's trendy and vibrant district of Zurich West. It is known for its contemporary art galleries, hip cafes, and converted industrial spaces. Visit the Schiffbau Cultural Center, explore the Viadukt market hall, or attend events and exhibitions in this young neighborhood.
When is the best time to visit Zurich
Zurich has plenty of activities year-round, and is even popular in the winter - a time when other European cities lose tourists, thanks to its strong skiing culture and mountain access.
Winters can be quite harsh in the mountains of Switzerland, however, skiing is a popular pastime. If you are visiting in the winter for a ski trip, warm up at the Christkindlimarkt (Christmas Market). With mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, stroll the market of charming wooden chalets selling handmade crafts for you to bring back home. Enjoy live music performances, festive decorations, and a magical atmosphere for all ages.
Summers in Zurich average 65F (19C), with highs of around 75F (25C), so even at the height of summer you should have pleasant weather. With this in mind, the best time to make your trip from Munich to Zurich is whenever you feel like it!
If you visit in spring, try to align your visit with the Sechseläuten Festival. This centuries-old tradition marks the beginning of spring and is usually on the 3rd Monday of April. Watch a colorful parade of horse-drawn carriages, and people in medieval costume. The highlight of the festival is the burning of the Boogg, a snowman effigy symbolizing winter to herald the arrival of warmer weather and longer days.
Every August, Zurich hosts the Zurich Street Parade, one of Europe's largest and most renowned electronic music festivals. This loud, vibrant event attracts thousands of music enthusiasts from around the world who gather to dance to the beats of top DJs and electronic music acts. The Street Parade is a must-visit event for fans of electronic music and nightlife.
沿途参观这些景点
Dachau Memorial
In its ravenous twelve year existence, Germany's first concentration camp swallowed over 200,000 people from all over Europe. The Model for Nazi Concentration Camps
Landsberg am Lech
Twelfth Century Bavarian ruler Henry the Lion put his paw down at the spot where the fast-flowing River Lech could be forded and Landsberg sprang up A charming historic river town
Neuschwanstein Castle in Fussen
Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria is everyone’s fantasy castle. It’s the fairytale image that springs to mind at the mention of the word ‘castle’. Disney without the mouse
Memmingen
Dating back to the Roman Empire, this historic and cozy town remains one of the best-preserved areas in southern Germany. Southern Charm
Lindau Island
At just 0.68 square kilometres, Lindau Island is perfect for exploring on foot while you discover the endless amounts of history lining its narrow streets. Alpine Island
St. Gallen
Its UNESCO listed Abbey houses over 170,000 documents, and a rococo interior that rivals the beauty of the medieval old town. The Beauty of Books
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