Trains from Vienna to Zurich

Are you ready for an unforgettable train adventure from Vienna to Zurich? Hop on board and experience the charm of Europe as you traverse through picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities. In this guide, we will provide you with all the essential information about this exciting journey, including the shortest duration, major stations, notable destinations along the way, and iconic highlights at the departure and arrival.

The journey from Vienna to Zurich covers a distance of approximately 800 kilometers, and the fastest train connections take around 7 hours. Departing from Vienna's grand Hauptbahnhof, you'll pass through the scenic Austrian countryside, glimpsing charming towns like Vienna and Amstetten.

As the train crosses the border into Germany, it will make stops at Linz, Salzburg, and Munich, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of these renowned cities. Make sure to explore places like Linz's Ars Electronica Center, Salzburg's historic Old Town, and Munich's vibrant Marienplatz.

Continuing your journey, the train will venture into Switzerland, with stops at Basel and Zurich Flughafen before reaching the vibrant city of Zurich. Look out for iconic landmarks such as Rhine River views in Basel and the scenic Lake Zurich upon arrival.

Throughout the trip, don't miss the chance to savor delicious regional cuisines offered on board, such as traditional Austrian pastries and hearty German dishes. These culinary delights will enhance your journey with flavors unique to each region.

Once you arrive in Zurich, take a moment to revel in the city's cosmopolitan ambiance, explore its charming Old Town, visit the renowned Bahnhofstrasse for a dose of retail therapy, or simply relax by the picturesque Lake Zurich.

Traveling from Vienna to Zurich by train is not only convenient but also provides you with an opportunity to explore the diverse and captivating cities and towns along the way. So pack your bags, embrace the charm of Europe, and embark on an unforgettable train adventure from Vienna to Zurich.

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city of culture and elegance. With its ornate architecture, rich history, and a vibrant culinary scene, it's no surprise that Vienna is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. No matter how long you have to spend in Vienna, there's no shortage of incredible sites, activities, and food to explore! Here are 7 must-see historical and architectural sites and what to eat in Vienna.

Schonbrunn Palace: The grand Schonbrunn Palace is one of the most iconic and breathtaking sites in Vienna. With its Baroque décor and beautiful gardens, it's the perfect place to explore Vienna's past. Open daily from 8AM-7PM, with tickets ranging from €13-20. Insider tip: Don't miss the maze in the grounds!

St. Stephen's Cathedral: St. Stephen's Cathedral is a Gothic beauty that stands tall in the center of Vienna. With intricate details throughout, it's a site to behold. Open Monday-Saturday 8AM-7PM, and Sundays and holidays 1PM-7PM, with tickets for €12. Insider tip: Pay the extra €2 fee to access the catacombs.

Vienna State Opera House: The Vienna State Opera House is a renowned venue for music and theater. Take a tour and experience the grand architecture, or take a seat and enjoy a performance. Open daily from 10AM-6PM, free self-guided tours available. Insider tip: Keep an eye out for public tickets, they often go on sale a few days before a performance.

Kunsthistorisches Museum: The Kunsthistorisches Museum houses a plethora of stunning artifacts and artworks from around the world. A must-see for any art lover, with tickets for €13-17. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10AM-6PM. Insider tip: Be sure to check out the unique arms and armory collection.

Vienna Prater: The Vienna Prater is an old entertainment park with tons of attractions including a Ferris wheel and rollercoasters. Open Monday-Friday 10AM-11PM, Saturday-Sunday 10AM-12AM, with various prices for attractions. Insider tip: Get the all-day ticket so that you can enjoy the park all day!

Vienna Zoo: Vienna Zoo is home to over 500 species from around the world. Open Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5PM, Saturday-Sunday 8:30AM-6PM, with tickets for €22. Insider tip: Don't forget to visit the aquarium, it's a must-see for any animal lover.

Vienna International Centre: The Vienna International Centre (VIC) is the headquarters of the United Nations in Vienna. Take a guided tour to learn more about the work of the UN and its mission. Open Wednesday-Friday 10AM-5PM, with tickets for €16. Insider tip: Don't miss the spectacular view from the rooftop terrace.

No trip to Vienna is complete without tasting its famous cuisine. From classic schnitzel to decadent cakes, Vienna has something to suit every palate. Be sure to try traditional dishes like gulasch, Wiener schnitzel, and tafelspitz. And don't forget to save some room for a slice of the famous Sachertorte! 

Whether you have a day or a week in Vienna, there's no shortage of incredible historical sites and activities to explore. From the grand Schonbrunn Palace to the bustling Vienna Prater, you won't be at a loss for something to do!

Zurich, the beautiful capital city of Switzerland, is a paradise for anyone looking to explore a stunning mix of historical and architectural sites. From its sparkling lakes and its scenic hills to its cobbled streets and old bridges, Zurich offers a wide range of attractions for tourists of all tastes and budgets. Here are seven of the most popular must-visit sites in Zurich. 

The Old Town (Altstadt): Dating back to the 12th century, this medieval old city offers a wealth of colorful old houses, winding lanes, bustling squares, and picturesque gothic churches. Take an afternoon to explore this area and marvel in its beauty. Its narrow streets are full of shops, galleries, and restaurants, providing the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Grossmünster: Located in the heart of Zurich, Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque-style church dating back to the 11th century. With its impressive twin towers, it is considered the symbol of the city. Entrance is free, and it is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

Uetliberg: With its striking summit of 871m, Uetliberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Zurich. The mountain can be accessed by train or cable car, and it is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the views of the city. There are several trails of different difficulty levels, making Uetliberg the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fraumünster: Located next to the Grossmünster, Fraumünster is a beautiful gothic church dating from the 14th century. Visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, designed by renowned painter, Augusto Giacometti. Its entrance is free, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Zurich Zoo: The Zurich Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from exotic birds to playful monkeys. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and admission fees start at CHF13 for adults and CHF7 for children.

Lindenhof: Located within the Old Town, the Lindenhof offers some of the best views of the city and its stunning lake. It is a great spot for admiring the sunset, and it is also a popular place for jogging and relaxing. Entrance is free, and it is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Rathaus (Town Hall): Built in 1694, the Rathaus is an impressive baroque building located in the main square of the city. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture. Entrance is free, and it is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

When visiting Zurich, don’t forget to try some of its delicious local specialties such as Rosti, fondue, or apple-pie. With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural and historical attractions, Zurich is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.