How to get to Zurich

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, harmoniously combining the status of a global financial center with the comfort of historic streets and a picturesque lakeside location. Situated in the very heart of Europe, this metropolis boasts excellent transport accessibility and is open to visitors arriving by any convenient means. Whether you choose a plane, a high-speed train, or a car, a journey to Zurich will be a comfortable start to your exploration of Alpine culture.

The fastest way to reach the city is by air via the international Zurich Airport (ZRH), which is renowned for its efficiency and is located very close to the city limits. This is the country's main hub, receiving flights from all over the world.

If direct flights are unavailable, nearby regional airports offer a convenient alternative. German Friedrichshafen is just 76 km away, and Swiss Altenrhein is 78 km from the city. Both options allow you to reach Zurich quite quickly using the well-developed ground transport network.

A rail journey to Zurich allows you to enjoy magnificent landscapes and arrive right in the center of the metropolis. Trains from many European countries, including routes from the Austrian town of Lauterach and German Friedrichshafen, arrive at the main station, Zurich Hauptbahnhof.

For those traveling from the north or planning transfers within the city, Oerlikon Railway Station can be a convenient point. The Swiss railway system is famous for its precision, so a trip from neighboring regions, for example, from the town of Altenrhein, will be an experience of maximum comfort.

For budget-conscious travelers, an excellent option is a bus trip connecting the metropolis with neighboring regions. The route from the Swiss town of Altenrhein (about 107 km) takes approximately 2.4 hours, and the journey from German Friedrichshafen (102 km) lasts about 2.8 hours.

There are also convenient routes from Austria: a bus from the town of Lauterach covers a distance of 126 km in an average of 2.6 hours. Modern bus carriers offer comfortable amenities, making this mode of transport a worthy alternative to the train.

Traveling by car offers you complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to appreciate the quality of local roads. If you are departing from the town of Altenrhein, the 104 km journey will take just 1.2 hours, while the route from Austrian Lauterach (119 km) requires about 1.5 hours behind the wheel.

The route from Germany, for example, from the city of Friedrichshafen (132 km), takes approximately 1.8 hours. When traveling by car, please remember the requirement to purchase a vignette for driving on the motorways of Switzerland and the high cost of parking in the city center.

Preparing for your trip to Zurich will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and feel confident in this cosmopolitan city. Here are some practical recommendations for the perfect journey:

1. Seasonal clothing. The weather here is changeable, so even in summer, it is advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater. For walking on the cobblestones of the Old Town, choose the most comfortable footwear.
2. Transport and savings. Public transport works flawlessly. It is recommended to purchase the Zürich Card, which provides unlimited travel and free entry to many museums.
3. Finances. The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but a small amount of cash may be useful at markets or small kiosks.
4. Drinking water. Do not spend money on bottled water. There are more than 1,200 fountains with the purest drinking water in the city — simply carry a reusable bottle with you.
5. Language barrier. The official language is German (Swiss dialect), but locals speak excellent English, so communication will not be an issue.
6. Local etiquette. The Swiss value politeness. It is customary to greet staff when entering a shop (say "Grüezi"), and speaking loudly on the phone in public transport is generally frowned upon.
7. Sunday quiet. Remember that on Sundays most shops are closed, with the exception of those located at the main station and at the airport.
8. Avoid taxis. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around the city. Given the efficiency and comfort of trams and trains, a taxi is rarely a justified choice for a tourist.

Following these simple rules will allow you to enjoy the atmosphere of one of the most comfortable cities in the world without being distracted by minor inconveniences.