The Zurich Airport is often regarded as the best in Europe, having recently won the World Travel Awards. It’s located north of Switzerland’s largest city, near the town of Kloten. Zurich has a population of 380,000 and serves as the country’s economic hub.
Zurich Airport is 12 kilometers from the city center, so it takes just over 15 minutes to reach by car.
The main airlines that fly to Zurich Airport include:
- Iberia
- Swiss
- British Airways
- easyJet
- Austrian
How to get from Zurich Airport to the city center
Getting to Zurich may seem challenging, especially from the airport, but after reading this guide, you’ll find it one of the easiest cities to navigate. First, keep in mind that the airport is connected to various transportation options, including the tram, train, and bus.
There are three main ways to get to Zurich, aside from taking a taxi, although the latter is not recommended as it can be quite expensive (about 70 euros to the center).
Private Transfer
This is the most comfortable and convenient way to reach your hotel from the airport. A vehicle will be waiting for you outside the terminal to take you directly to your hotel door. It’s an ideal option if you arrive late at night, are tired, or have a lot of luggage. While a bit more expensive than the tram or bus, it’s often worth the added comfort.
You can check availability and prices through this link from Civitatis.
Here are two additional options:
Tram
Getting from Zurich Airport to the city center is straightforward. Look inside the airport for tram signs (a drawing of a tram, not to be confused with the train).
Only one tram, line 10, runs from the airport to the center, taking around 45 minutes to reach the main station, Hauptbahnhof. The tram stop is located on the upper level, where you’ll also find buses.
This is the most leisurely way to reach downtown Zurich, as it’s slower, allowing you to take in the sights of the city streets, houses, and other interesting landmarks along the way.
It’s a good idea to check Google Maps for your hotel address. If line 10 stops nearby, you won’t need to change trams. If you do need to transfer, take note of the names, as they can be similar and confusing if you’re not familiar with German.
Train
The train is the quickest way to reach the city center, arriving at Hauptbahnhof (HB). In just 10 minutes, the train covers the distance from the airport to HB, sometimes without even stopping along the way.
If your accommodation is close to the station, this is the most convenient choice. Those farther from the station can easily continue to their destination by tram or train.
The train station is inside Zurich Airport, with a large information center nearby. It’s located on the lower level, where you’ll find ticket machines and counters. Trains to HB depart approximately every 20 minutes.
Bus
The bus is another option, connecting hotels near the airport. It’s a convenient choice for those staying in nearby suburbs or attending events where there’s no need to go downtown.
Buses depart from Zurich Airport every 10 minutes and are quite comfortable. To find the right bus, use Google Maps to check your hotel address and calculate the public transport route.
Information Points
The Service Centre: This is the main point of contact for any questions you may have.
Information desks are located in the arrivals hall, parking P2, and in the check-in area 2.
These resources ensure that arriving at Zurich Airport and reaching your destination in the city is simple and convenient.
Fastpoint terminals are located throughout the airport, offering maps, information on shops and restaurants, as well as schedules for flights, trains, and other services.
Zurich Airport Services
- Money: There are banks throughout the airport for currency exchange, as well as multiple exchange offices where these transactions can be made.
- Communications: A post office and 9 Fastpoint terminals are available, equipped with phone, fax, and photocopying services. Wireless Internet access points are located throughout the airport. Visitors can also use Internet terminals in various areas, with the first hour free of charge.
- Bars and restaurants: There is a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, bars, and fast-food stalls both before and after the security checkpoint.
- Shopping: Zurich Airport has numerous shops and a variety of duty-free stores. The Airport Shopping Centre, located one level above check-in 3, has a range of interesting stores. In the public area, you’ll also find clothing shops.
We hope this information makes it clear how to reach the city center from the airport and gives you an idea of the facilities available. As we mentioned earlier, you’re in one of Europe’s top airports, so the amenities are exceptional.
The only downside is the generally high prices. On top of Switzerland’s already high cost of living, airport prices tend to be even higher, so if you’re on a budget, it’s best to be mindful of spending during wait times, as prices can be double or more than what you’d pay elsewhere.
The good news is that transportation from Zurich Airport is excellent, and with Zurich being a relatively small city, getting around is quite easy.