Zurich Main Station Zurich
A grand, efficient, and architecturally stunning hub connecting Switzerland and Europe, offering shops, dining, and easy access to city sights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical festive atmosphere
Zurich Main Station Zurich
Best Time
Magical festive atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand, efficient, and architecturally stunning hub connecting Switzerland and Europe, offering shops, dining, and easy access to city sights.
"Wonderful train station with clear signage albeit many many platforms, it has a mix of modernity, German efficiency, French grace, and traditional architecture."
🎯 Download the SBB App
Essential for planning journeys and checking real-time train information.
💳 Buy Tickets in Advance
For longer journeys, Saver Day Passes bought in advance can save hundreds!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Main Hall
Main Hall
Marvel at the impressive architecture, a blend of modernity and tradition. It's a bustling hub with shops and eateries.
Christkindlimarkt
Main Hall
Experience the magical Christmas market held annually in the main hall, featuring festive stalls and a giant Christmas tree.
Underground Shopping & Dining
Below Ground Level
Discover a vast array of shops, cafes, and restaurants offering everything from quick snacks to souvenirs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate with the SBB App
Consider the Zurich Card
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Download the SBB App
Essential for planning journeys and checking real-time train information. +1
💳 Buy Tickets in Advance
For longer journeys, Saver Day Passes bought in advance can save hundreds!
🧳 Luggage Lockers Available
Store your bags conveniently at the station if you have a layover. +1
💧 Free Water Fountains
Refill your water bottle at numerous fountains located on each platform.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Download the SBB App
Essential for planning journeys and checking real-time train information. +1
💳 Buy Tickets in Advance
For longer journeys, Saver Day Passes bought in advance can save hundreds!
🧳 Luggage Lockers Available
Store your bags conveniently at the station if you have a layover. +1
💧 Free Water Fountains
Refill your water bottle at numerous fountains located on each platform.
📸 Photography Friendly
Capture the station's stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zurich Main Station is lauded for its impressive architecture, efficiency, and extensive amenities, serving as a clean and safe transit hub. While the sheer number of platforms can be daunting, clear signage and the SBB app help navigate the system. It's praised as more than just a station, offering a wide array of shops and dining options below ground.
"Wonderful train station with clear signage albeit many many platforms, it has a mix of modernity, German efficiency, French grace, and traditional architecture.
The downside however is an integration of the suburban network into the wider network, it makes a headache for entertainers and whilst not tied to the station there should be better signage and ability to purchase suburban tickets."
Alex Russell
"Well-organized and efficient station, even with the heavy traffic of people. The architecture is impressive, especially the main hall. Below ground, there’s a wide selection of shops and places to eat, making it more than just a transit hub. Clean, safe, and very convenient."
Grzegorz S
"This is a big junction at the heart of the Zurich city. I travelled from the airport to this station to explore the Zurich during my layover and the station itself was marvelous with the distinct architecture. The station has more than 40 platforms in a multi-floor setup, and is easily accessible. They have vending machines to book tickets which are very simple and hassle free. From the outside the building is beautiful."
Akash Bhattacharjee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The train is the most efficient way. Trains run frequently from Zurich Airport station to Zurich HB (Main Station) and take about 10-15 minutes. You can purchase tickets at vending machines or via the SBB app. +1
Yes, the station is well-organized with clear signage, though it has many platforms. The SBB app is highly recommended for real-time platform information. +1
Absolutely! The station offers luggage lockers and a left-luggage service, perfect for layovers or day trips. +1
Yes, Zurich HB is a major hub with frequent connections to virtually all major Swiss cities and many international destinations. +1
From the bus station (Ausstellungsstrasse 5), it's a short walk (5-10 minutes) to the train station. Take a train to Zurich Airport (ZRH), which takes about 10-15 minutes. Ensure you allow ample time for this transfer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets from vending machines located throughout the station or use the SBB Mobile app for a seamless experience.
The Saver Day Pass offers unlimited travel across Switzerland for a day. Buying it in advance, not on the same day, can significantly reduce the cost compared to point-to-point tickets.
If you plan to visit multiple attractions and use public transport frequently, the Zurich Card is often a cost-effective option, offering free or discounted entry to many sites.
Yes, you can walk through the Old Town, visit the ETH Zurich terrace for city views, or explore the free Zoological Museum. +1
For international trains, it's advisable to book in advance, especially for popular routes. Platforms are usually known well in advance, unlike in some other European countries. +1
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Explore the main hall, shop at the underground stores, grab a bite to eat, or take a short train ride to Uetliberg for panoramic views.
Yes, the station has a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets offering various cuisines and quick bites. +1
The station is generally considered safe and well-maintained, with a constant flow of people and staff presence.
Yes, photography and videography are generally permitted, allowing you to capture the impressive architecture.
The Old Town, Lake Zurich, the National Museum, and the ETH Zurich terrace are all within walking distance or a short public transport ride. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The grand main hall with its high ceilings and intricate details, the semi-open air tracks on the top floor, and the exterior architecture offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, with numerous platforms and good lighting, it's relatively easy to capture shots of the various trains, including international ones.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other travelers and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a Zurich Card for easy access to public transport and attractions like boat trips on Lake Zurich, which are usually a big hit with children.
💰 Budget Travelers
For travel outside the city, look into the Saver Day Pass, which can offer significant savings if booked in advance for longer train journeys.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Switzerland's Public Transport
When it comes to intercity and international travel, booking tickets in advance can lead to significant savings. The Saver Day Pass is a prime example; purchasing it ahead of time can drastically reduce the cost of unlimited travel across Switzerland for a day, a tip frequently shared by budget-conscious travelers.
Key takeaway: Embrace public transport! It's reliable, punctual, and offers stunning views. Whether you're heading to the Alps or exploring the city, the Swiss system is designed for ease of use. Remember to validate your tickets if required and be aware of platform changes, though these are usually well-communicated via the SBB app and station displays.
Exploring Zurich from the Station
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, take the Polybahn funicular up to the ETH Zurich terrace. This short, scenic ride is often included with the Zurich Card and offers a fantastic vantage point.
During the festive season, the station itself transforms into a winter wonderland with the Christkindlimarkt, a popular Christmas market held annually in the main hall, complete with a giant Christmas tree and numerous stalls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit