Zurich to Munich by train

Direct EuroCity trains link Zürich HB and Munich Hbf in about 3½ hours, with eight daily departures and selected 2nd-class fares from CHF 37.

Zurich to Munich train at a glance

The fastest direct journey is 3 hours 32 minutes, with eight direct trains a day in the current schedule. Times, fares, and the service pattern can vary by date, so choose from the date-specific timetable.

Direct trains and the route

Direct EuroCity trains cross eastern Switzerland, the Allgäu, and the Lake Constance area before reaching Bavaria. You stay on the same train across the border. You can buy this corridor through SBB, SBB Mobile, Deutsche Bahn, or an authorised seller.

Direct departures from Zürich HB currently run from 05:35 to 17:32. These are not fixed times for every weekday or season, and a later journey may involve a change or a different service pattern.

Stations in Zurich and Munich

Direct trains leave from Zürich Hauptbahnhof, usually written as Zürich HB. It is the main station in the city centre, with tram, S-Bahn, and other local connections. If you arrive on another service, allow time to find the departure board and platform.

The destination is Munich Hauptbahnhof, or Munich Hbf, just west of the city centre. U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses serve the station. Munich Hbf is large, so leave a few minutes for an onward platform or exit.

Tickets and fares

Selected Zurich to Munich fares start at CHF 37 in 2nd class and CHF 50 in 1st class. These are limited starting fares for particular trains and dates. An advance fare can suit fixed plans, while a flexible ticket may be worth the higher price if your plans could change.

Before paying, check the class, currency, change and refund rules, and the named departure and arrival stations. The seller and fare determine the transaction currency and final conditions.

Reservations, passes, and onboard comfort

SBB lets you add a seat reservation to the ticket. Whether it is included or optional depends on the fare and service. A reservation is useful when you want a guaranteed seat, are travelling together, or expect a busy Friday, Sunday, or holiday train. It does not replace a valid ticket.

Interrail and other rail passes can suit a wider Germany and Switzerland itinerary. The pass must cover both countries, and the selected EuroCity service may require or recommend a reservation. For one journey, compare the pass day cost with an advance point-to-point fare.

EuroCity trains on the corridor have comfortable seating, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and dining options, although the exact facilities vary by train composition. For a three-and-a-half-hour trip, bring what you need. Bicycle, pet, and unusually large luggage rules can differ on cross-border services.

Engineering works and timetable changes

Engineering works on the Munich to Buchloe section continue through 12 December 2026, adding around 10 extra minutes to some EuroCity journeys. Your itinerary shows the adjusted journey times and routes.

From 6 September to 4 October 2026, construction in the Munich area changes the corridor in both directions. EuroCity trains from Zürich towards Munich are due to arrive at Munich Hbf late. In the opposite direction, all EC trains towards Zürich leave Munich Hbf around 20 minutes earlier. If you are connecting at Munich, allow for the late arrival; if you start there, use the earlier time shown in your itinerary.

Further works run from 4 to 12 October 2026. Some trains are cancelled on 4 and 12 October, and all EC trains between Lindau-Reutin and Munich are cancelled from 5 to 11 October. Replacement buses run between Lindau-Reutin and Munich ZOB Hackerbrücke for most cancelled EC services. The exact service for your date determines whether you travel by train or replacement bus.

Choosing the train

For most city-centre journeys, the direct train is the simplest option. You avoid airport transfers and stay on one service through the Allgäu and Lake Constance landscapes. A connecting itinerary can help when the direct timetable does not fit, but weigh the total journey time, transfer margin, and ticket conditions.