Trains from Zurich to Hamburg

Travelling by train from Zurich to Hamburg is an incredible way to explore the beauty of Europe. The journey takes around nine hours and thirty minutes, covering a distance of about 800km (500 miles). Along the way, you will go through some of the most iconic cities and towns including Zurich, Basel, Freiburg, Karlsruhe, Frankfurt, Hanover and Hamburg.

As your journey begins in Zurich, you will have the opportunity to explore its iconic sights such as the Grossmünster church, the Stadelhofen Railway Station and the Zurich Lake. From Zurich, you take a non-stop train to Basel, one of Switzerland's largest cities. This train ride only takes approximately an hour, so take the time to appreciate the scenes of the beautiful Swiss Alps as you pass through.

From Basel, you can take an direct train to Freiburg, a town in the Black Forest region. This trip takes around 5 hours and you can see the iconic stone cottages, peaceful villages and evergreen pine forests of the Schwarzwald (Black Forest). As you approach Freiburg, look out for the Kaiserstuhl mountain, a volcano close to the border of Germany.

From Freiburg, you take a direct train to Karlsruhe, a vibrant city near the French border. Here, you can explore the various botanical gardens, museums, galleries and churches that are scattered throughout the city. Karlsruhe is also known for its unique architecture – the city centre is shaped in the form of a fan due to its radial streets.

From Karlsruhe, you take a direct train to Frankfurt. On your way, you can see the beautiful countryside of Germany and marvel at the Rhine River. After one hour, you arrive in Frankfurt, one of Germany's largest cities. Here, you can find plenty of attractions, including the illustrious Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Frankfurt Main Station), the historic Alte Oper (Old Opera House) and the iconic Römer building.

You then continue on to Hannover, the capital of Lower Saxony. Here, you can visit iconic sites such as the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) and the Herrenhäuser Garden. From Hannover, you take a direct train to Hamburg, the city which takes 7 hours to reach. During this time, you can observe the picturesque landscapes of the North Sea coast. When you finally arrive in Hamburg, make sure to visit the historic Miniatur Wunderland, an incredible model railway that spans across 1,300 square metres.

A train journey from Zurich to Hamburg is an incredible experience, allowing travellers to explore some of Europe's most iconic cities and towns. Along the way, you can marvel at some of the most breathtaking landscapes, with something new to discover around each and every corner.

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.

As one of Germany’s most inviting cities, Hamburg offers a unique combination of culture, history, and modernity. From magnificent churches, to medieval streets, to bustling city squares, there’s plenty to explore in this city. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing getaway, Hamburg is sure to offer an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers. 

St. Nikolai Memorial: The St. Nikolai Memorial is the tallest building in all of Hamburg and is the main attraction of the historical Speicherstadt district. Located in the heart of the city, the memorial was originally built as a church in 1874, but was damaged in the Second World War. Now a memorial, visitors are able to ascend the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Admission is free and the memorial is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Town Hall: Located in the city center, the Town Hall is the seat of the city’s government and a symbol of Hamburg’s autonomy throughout its long history. Constructed in the Gothic Revival style, the building is home to the Senate and Parliament, and its landmark clock tower can be seen from throughout the city. Entrance to the building is free and visitors can enjoy daily tours from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Hamburg Rathausmarkt: This public square serves as the focal point of the city. Lined with restaurants and artisan boutiques, the market is the perfect place to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. At the center of the square is a historic fountain, surrounded by a colorful array of seasonal plants and flowers. The Rathausmarkt is open daily, and visitors should be sure to sample some local delicacies like Labskaus, Hamburg’s signature potato dish. 

Altona Fish Market: Located on the banks of the Elbe River, the Altona Fish Market is a lively weekend tradition. Since 1703, the market has been attracting locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, stroll along the stalls, and take part in one of the traditional auctions. The market is open early on Sundays, and visitors should be sure to get there early to beat the crowds. 

St. Michael’s Church: One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the St. Michael’s Church. Construction of the church began in the early 19th century and it now stands as an impressive example of Gothic-revival architecture. While the exterior is stunning, the church also houses a beautiful interior, complete with stained glass windows, a pipe organ, and intricate paintings. Entrance is free and visitors can enjoy free guided tours on weekends. 

Hamburg Dungeon: An interactive museum, the Hamburg Dungeon is a great way to learn about the city’s dark past. Through an immersive experience, visitors are taken on a journey through Hamburg’s history, and recounted the tales of darkness, torture, and destruction that defined the city’s past. The dungeon is open throughout the year, and tickets are available online. 

International Maritime Museum: Located in the historic Speicherstadt district, the International Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. This museum is dedicated to Hamburg’s seafaring history, with an impressive collection of artifacts, models, and interactive exhibits. The museum is open daily, and visitors should be sure to check out the iconic model of the Flying P-Liner Potomac, the largest model ship in the world. 

From awe-inspiring churches to lively markets, Hamburg offers a wealth of fascinating attractions and activities. With its vibrant culture, captivating history, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder the city has been capturing the hearts of travelers for centuries.