City, Switzerland
Getting around Zurich
How to get around Zurich
Trams, buses and S-Bahn trains on one ZVV ticket cover the city and lake boats; the center is compact enough to walk or cycle.
Ways to get around Zurich
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Tram and bus (ZVV) | CHF 2.80–4.80 per ride | Buy in the ZVV or SBB app; tickets need validating before boarding |
| S-Bahn | From CHF 4.40 in the city zone | Same ticket system; connects to the airport and lake villages |
| Lake boats (ZSG) | From about CHF 4.80 within the city | Included in ZVV zone tickets for shorter lake trips |
| Bike share | Varies by operator | Several operators; pay in app |
Ride-hailing apps in Zurich
A 5 km ride costs about CHF30–45 ($36–54).
- Taxis are metered but very expensive (CHF 6+ base); trams and trains are better value. Street hailing is rare, so book by app or phone.
Arriving in Zurich
Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Train to Hauptbahnhof in 10–15 min for about CHF 7–8; tram 10 to the city about 30 min; taxi CHF 60–90.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rare for visitors; e-scooter rentals exist, and riders need a valid licence for mopeds. Public transport is better.
- Driving: on the right. Foreign licences valid 12 months; IDP needed unless in German, French, Italian or English. Motorway vignette CHF 40.
- Onward travel in Switzerland: Trains run on time and reach nearly every valley, with connecting buses, boats and cable cars. Fares are high; the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card cuts costs.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Zurich?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, Bolt.
What's the best way to get around Zurich?
Trams, buses and S-Bahn trains on one ZVV ticket cover the city and lake boats; the center is compact enough to walk or cycle.
How do I get from the airport to Zurich?
Train to Hauptbahnhof in 10–15 min for about CHF 7–8; tram 10 to the city about 30 min; taxi CHF 60–90.
Is Zurich walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Zurich
Going to Zurich solo?
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.