The Zurich transport network is considered one of the best in Europe, which makes traveling from Zurich Airport to the city center a breeze. For first-time visitors to Zurich or Switzerland, a Zurich Airport taxi or private Zurich Airport transfer is the most convenient transfer option. Rides are quick, getting you to your hotel in just 10 minutes in light traffic.
The cheapest and most efficient option is the train. This is the most popular choice for most travelers since it reaches Zurich Central Station in the middle of the city in just 10 minutes. You will, however, still need to walk or take a taxi to your hotel.
Lastly, there is the tram option. For the same price as the train, the tram takes 35 minutes to the city center, although it does offer a more scenic route which may be appealing for anyone looking for more of an adventure.
4 options to go from Zurich Airport to city center
We suggest selecting a pickup time at least 40 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival time to ensure you have enough time to pass through Immigration and collect any luggage.
Due to high taxi fare rates in Zurich, people generally avoid regular taxis and opt for private taxi providers like Welcome instead. This way they can get better deals with a fixed price straight to their destination.
Keep in mind that you will still need to walk to your hotel from the station downtown so if you have lots of luggage, a taxi or private transfer may be more suitable.
The tram network isn’t as punctual as the train, so it’s best to avoid this method of travel if you’re on a tight schedule.
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How to get from Zurich Airport to the city center by taxi
The most convenient and direct way to travel from Zurich Airport to Zurich city center is by taxi. A Zurich Airport taxi can reach your hotel in 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic, with ample space for your family or group and all their luggage. Airport Taxi is the official airport provider, offering metered and fixed fare prices for four to eight passengers.
Taxi fare from Zurich Airport to the city center
Zurich taxis typically use a taximeter to calculate their fares, although more and more companies are starting to offer fixed fare rates too. When using a taximeter, the price will be determined by the time and distance traveled, plus any tolls or surcharges.
With this in mind, from Zurich Airport to the city center the taxi cost for up to four passengers should be around €48.80 to €64.50 (CHF 50-60), depending on your destination and the provider.
Where can I catch a taxi from?
The taxi ranks at Zurich Airport are located in front of the Arrival Hall on the Ground Floor of Terminals 1 and 2.
Convenience
Taxis are generally considered a very safe and comfortable means of transportation in Zurich, making them a very convenient choice. However, the price per kilometer is one of the highest in Europe, resulting in overly expensive fares, especially from the airport. Furthermore, the trip duration is almost identical to the train so if you’re traveling light or on a budget, this may be a better option.
Useful Tips
There is a surcharge of €8.60 (CHF 8) for more than 4 passengers.
When traveling with a regular city taxi always ask for a receipt at the end of the trip.
Make sure that the taximeter is set to the base fare when you enter a vehicle.
It's possible to book a different taxi company but they may not be able to collect you from directly outside the terminal building.
How to get from Zurich airport to city center by train
Zurich’s train network is one of the most sophisticated public transport systems in Europe. Run by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), passengers can reach Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Central Station) in the heart of the city in as little as 10 minutes. There are several available lines (S16, S2, IR75, IC5, IC1, IC8, IR37, IR70, IR36) that run regularly 20 hours a day, making this a fast and affordable option for any traveler.
What's the cost of the train from Zurich Airport to the city center?
From Zurich Airport to the city center by train the cost is €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for a single adult ticket (second class) and €3.70 (CHF 3.40) for children (aged 6–16). For a single ticket in first class the cost is €12 (CHF 11.20) for adults and €6 (CHF 5.60) for children.
Tickets for the trains can be purchased online, at SBB ticket machines in the Arrivals Hall, or from the Information and SBB ticket counters. The ticket desk is open from 06:15 to 22:30.
Cost
€7.30
Trip Duration
10 Min.
The average wait time for the next train is 5 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
All train and metro lines are available from 05:00 until 00:45.
Where do I get the train from?
The Zurich Airport Station is located on the underground level of a separate building. As you exit the Arrivals Hall, cross the street, following the signs to the platforms heading to the city center.
Convenience
Zurich’s renowned SBB network of local and intercity trains seamlessly connects visitors with the city center, as well as to all regions and districts across Switzerland. Furthermore, the network offers affordability and frequent departures, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all travelers.
Timetables
Zurich Train Timetables
Zurich Airport – Central Station
Useful Tips
Most trains come with amenities such as free WiFi service, a wheelchair-accessible toilet, food service, quiet areas, and space for storing luggage, prams, and bikes.
Day passes are recommended for visitors who plan on using the train network more than once. A day pass, valid for 24 hours, starts at €14.60 (CHF 13.60) for adults and €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for children.
How to get from Zurich Airport to city center by tram/streetcar
Another cheap alternative to taxis, albeit not as efficient as a train, is the tram system. The Zurich Transport Network (ZVV) operates tram Line 10 to and from the city center, stopping at Zurich Central Station after 35 minutes, where you can transfer to the wider SBB transport network.
How much is the tram from Zurich Airport to the city center?
Since the tram system is integrated into the wider SBB transport network, the cost for a ride into the city center from Zurich Airport is the same as the train, despite taking much longer. You can therefore expect to pay €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for a single adult ticket and €3.70 (CHF 3.40) for a child.
Cost
€7.30
Trip Duration
35 Min.
The wait time between trams is one hour.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The Number 10 tram line is available from 09:00 until 21:00.
Where do I get the tram from?
The tram stop is located right outside the airport terminal, to the right as you exit the Arrivals Hall.
Convenience
The tram is considered the least convenient travel option, especially after a long and tiring flight. However, the upside is that it takes a scenic route, allowing you to experience the city of Zurich as you pass through some popular sightseeing locations on your way to Zurich HB.
Timetables
Tram Line Information
Zurich Airport – Central Station
Useful Tips
The metro day pass is also valid for tram rides in the city up to Zone 3.
Luggage storage space is limited on the tram network.
The only advantage to taking the tram is if it makes a stop along its route that is conveniently located near your hotel. Otherwise, the train is a much faster option.
How to get from Zurich Airport to the city center by private transfer
A Zurich Airport transfer is a great way to travel from the airport to the city, especially if it’s your first time visiting and you don’t speak the language. Our hand-picked local drivers are all English-speaking and will provide a warm welcome to their beautiful city. They’ll even point out some of the city’s highlights on the way to your hotel, and share some local tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
On top of that, you’ll enjoy guaranteed fixed-fare prices, on-time pickups, flight monitoring, an airport meet-and-greet, and access to our customer support team 24 hours a day. Moreover, private transfers, like those offered by Welcome, are fully customizable to ensure you receive a vehicle that suits your needs.
How much is a Zurich Airport transfer to the city center?
Unlike a taxi, you’ll be charged a fixed fare rate from the airport, although there won’t be any hidden extra charges for luggage or additional passengers. Instead, you’ll be provided an upfront quote inclusive of all charges that you can pay for in advance either through our website or with our easy-to-use app.
For 3 people, a transfer into town will cost €73 (CHF 68) for a stylish sedan with room for a standard suitcase each. For larger groups, our spacious minivans are perfect for up to 7 people, with a cost of €85 (CHF 79) for a transfer to your downtown accommodation.
To book, simply head to our website or download the app, enter a few personal details, along with your flight information, and everything else will be taken care of.
Cost
€73
Trip Duration
10 Min.
*When booked in advance a private vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers are available 24/7 from Zurich Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
Once you’ve passed through the Baggage Claim area and into the Arrivals Hall, you’ll find your driver waiting for you holding up a sign with your name on it. To help you recognize them, you’ll also have been sent a photo of them the day before. Following a warm introduction, your driver will lend a hand with any luggage and show you to your pre-selected private vehicle so that you can be on your way!
Convenience
Private transfers are a great way to elevate your travel experience. While they are more costly than regular taxis and other transport options, they provide a completely personalized and customizable journey which is perfect for families or groups who might require a larger vehicle or extra add-ons like a baby seat.
Useful Tips
You'll be emailed all of your driver's details including their name, number, and a photo a day before you travel.
A credit or debit card payment will be taken at the time of booking so you won't need to worry about anything on the day you travel.
In case your flight is delayed, your driver will immediately be notified so that they can adjust your pickup time and still be there to greet you.
Zurich Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
How do I get from Zurich Airport to the city center?
There are four transport options from Zurich Airport to the city; you can either take a taxi, a private transfer, a train, or a tram. Aside from using the tram, all options are fairly fast, reaching the city in just 10 minutes, if there is no traffic. The tram, on the other hand, takes 35 minutes and is just as cheap as the train so it is only recommended if you feel like taking the scenic route.
How much does it cost to get from Zurich Airport to the city?
The average taxi fare from Zurich Airport to the city center is €48.80 (CHF 50), whereas the cost of the train or the tram is €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for a single adult ticket.
How much is the train ticket from Zurich Airport to city center?
Regular one-way train tickets cost €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines inside the airport, at the SBB ticket counters, at the Information counter, or online.
How far is it from Zurich Airport to the city center?
From Zurich Airport to the city center, the distance is 11 km which takes between 10 and 20 minutes to cover when traveling by car or taxi.
The most convenient and direct way to travel from Zurich Airport to Zurich city center is by taxi. A Zurich Airport taxi can reach your hotel in 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic, with ample space for your family or group and all their luggage. Airport Taxi is the official airport provider, offering metered and fixed fare prices for four to eight passengers.
Taxi fare from Zurich Airport to the city center
Zurich taxis typically use a taximeter to calculate their fares, although more and more companies are starting to offer fixed fare rates too. When using a taximeter, the price will be determined by the time and distance traveled, plus any tolls or surcharges.
With this in mind, from Zurich Airport to the city center the taxi cost for up to four passengers should be around €48.80 to €64.50 (CHF 50-60), depending on your destination and the provider.
Where can I catch a taxi from?
The taxi ranks at Zurich Airport are located in front of the Arrival Hall on the Ground Floor of Terminals 1 and 2.
Convenience
Taxis are generally considered a very safe and comfortable means of transportation in Zurich, making them a very convenient choice. However, the price per kilometer is one of the highest in Europe, resulting in overly expensive fares, especially from the airport. Furthermore, the trip duration is almost identical to the train so if you’re traveling light or on a budget, this may be a better option.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreZurich’s train network is one of the most sophisticated public transport systems in Europe. Run by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), passengers can reach Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Central Station) in the heart of the city in as little as 10 minutes. There are several available lines (S16, S2, IR75, IC5, IC1, IC8, IR37, IR70, IR36) that run regularly 20 hours a day, making this a fast and affordable option for any traveler.
What's the cost of the train from Zurich Airport to the city center?
From Zurich Airport to the city center by train the cost is €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for a single adult ticket (second class) and €3.70 (CHF 3.40) for children (aged 6–16). For a single ticket in first class the cost is €12 (CHF 11.20) for adults and €6 (CHF 5.60) for children.
Tickets for the trains can be purchased online, at SBB ticket machines in the Arrivals Hall, or from the Information and SBB ticket counters. The ticket desk is open from 06:15 to 22:30.
All train and metro lines are available from 05:00 until 00:45.
Where do I get the train from?
The Zurich Airport Station is located on the underground level of a separate building. As you exit the Arrivals Hall, cross the street, following the signs to the platforms heading to the city center.
Convenience
Zurich’s renowned SBB network of local and intercity trains seamlessly connects visitors with the city center, as well as to all regions and districts across Switzerland. Furthermore, the network offers affordability and frequent departures, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all travelers.
Timetables
Zurich Train Timetables
Zurich Airport – Central Station
Useful Tips
Another cheap alternative to taxis, albeit not as efficient as a train, is the tram system. The Zurich Transport Network (ZVV) operates tram Line 10 to and from the city center, stopping at Zurich Central Station after 35 minutes, where you can transfer to the wider SBB transport network.
How much is the tram from Zurich Airport to the city center?
Since the tram system is integrated into the wider SBB transport network, the cost for a ride into the city center from Zurich Airport is the same as the train, despite taking much longer. You can therefore expect to pay €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for a single adult ticket and €3.70 (CHF 3.40) for a child.
The Number 10 tram line is available from 09:00 until 21:00.
Where do I get the tram from?
The tram stop is located right outside the airport terminal, to the right as you exit the Arrivals Hall.
Convenience
The tram is considered the least convenient travel option, especially after a long and tiring flight. However, the upside is that it takes a scenic route, allowing you to experience the city of Zurich as you pass through some popular sightseeing locations on your way to Zurich HB.
Timetables
Tram Line Information
Zurich Airport – Central Station
Useful Tips
A Zurich Airport transfer is a great way to travel from the airport to the city, especially if it’s your first time visiting and you don’t speak the language. Our hand-picked local drivers are all English-speaking and will provide a warm welcome to their beautiful city. They’ll even point out some of the city’s highlights on the way to your hotel, and share some local tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
On top of that, you’ll enjoy guaranteed fixed-fare prices, on-time pickups, flight monitoring, an airport meet-and-greet, and access to our customer support team 24 hours a day. Moreover, private transfers, like those offered by Welcome, are fully customizable to ensure you receive a vehicle that suits your needs.
How much is a Zurich Airport transfer to the city center?
Unlike a taxi, you’ll be charged a fixed fare rate from the airport, although there won’t be any hidden extra charges for luggage or additional passengers. Instead, you’ll be provided an upfront quote inclusive of all charges that you can pay for in advance either through our website or with our easy-to-use app.
For 3 people, a transfer into town will cost €73 (CHF 68) for a stylish sedan with room for a standard suitcase each. For larger groups, our spacious minivans are perfect for up to 7 people, with a cost of €85 (CHF 79) for a transfer to your downtown accommodation.
To book, simply head to our website or download the app, enter a few personal details, along with your flight information, and everything else will be taken care of.
Private transfers are available 24/7 from Zurich Airport.
Where will my private transfer depart from?
Once you’ve passed through the Baggage Claim area and into the Arrivals Hall, you’ll find your driver waiting for you holding up a sign with your name on it. To help you recognize them, you’ll also have been sent a photo of them the day before. Following a warm introduction, your driver will lend a hand with any luggage and show you to your pre-selected private vehicle so that you can be on your way!
Convenience
Private transfers are a great way to elevate your travel experience. While they are more costly than regular taxis and other transport options, they provide a completely personalized and customizable journey which is perfect for families or groups who might require a larger vehicle or extra add-ons like a baby seat.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 3 passengers
€73Starting from 24.3 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 7 passengers
€85Starting from 12.1 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Zurich Airport to the city center?
There are four transport options from Zurich Airport to the city; you can either take a taxi, a private transfer, a train, or a tram. Aside from using the tram, all options are fairly fast, reaching the city in just 10 minutes, if there is no traffic. The tram, on the other hand, takes 35 minutes and is just as cheap as the train so it is only recommended if you feel like taking the scenic route.
How much does it cost to get from Zurich Airport to the city?
The average taxi fare from Zurich Airport to the city center is €48.80 (CHF 50), whereas the cost of the train or the tram is €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for a single adult ticket.
How much is the train ticket from Zurich Airport to city center?
Regular one-way train tickets cost €7.30 (CHF 6.80) for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines inside the airport, at the SBB ticket counters, at the Information counter, or online.
How far is it from Zurich Airport to the city center?
From Zurich Airport to the city center, the distance is 11 km which takes between 10 and 20 minutes to cover when traveling by car or taxi.
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