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Transport guide

Tram · Switzerland

Zurich Trams & S-Bahn (ZVV)

Zurich has no metro. Instead, trams, buses and S-Bahn trains share one fare system called ZVV, and they run on time. The city of Zurich is zone 110, and the airport is a short train ride away.

Official website
Fare systemZVV (city trams and buses run by VBZ; trains by SBB and others)
City zoneZone 110 covers the city of Zurich; the airport is in zone 121
Single ticket zone 110About CHF 4.60, 2nd class, valid 1 hour
Short-distance ticketCHF 2.80
24-hour ticket zone 110About CHF 9.20
9 O'Clock Day Pass, all zonesCHF 28 (from 9:00 on weekdays)
ZürichCARDCHF 29 (24h), CHF 56 (72h), includes the airport
ChildrenUnder 6 free; 6–15 reduced fare

Routes and stations

Zürich HB (main station) is the hub for S-Bahn and long-distance trains. Trams run along Bahnhofstrasse to Paradeplatz and Bellevue on the lake, and up to the old town and the university.

S-Bahn trains and the Uetliberg railway reach viewpoints and lake towns. ZVV tickets are also valid on lake boats within your zones.

Tickets and fares

Prices depend on the zones you cross. A one-hour ticket for zone 110 costs about CHF 4.60 in 2nd class, and a short-distance ticket CHF 2.80. A 24-hour ticket for zone 110 costs about CHF 9.20.

The ZürichCARD costs CHF 29 for 24 hours or CHF 56 for 72 hours. It covers public transport in the whole ZVV area, including the airport, and gives discounts at museums.

The current price list is valid from 14 December 2025. Check the ZVV app or a machine for the exact fare.

How to buy

Buy tickets at machines at every stop, in the ZVV or SBB Mobile app, or at station counters. Machines accept bank cards and Swiss francs.

Tickets must be bought before boarding. There are no gates, and travelling without a ticket leads to a high surcharge.

Tips for travellers

From Zurich Airport, frequent trains reach Zürich HB in about 10–15 minutes. You need a ticket covering zones 121 and 110, or a ZürichCARD.

Night buses and trains run on Friday and Saturday nights with a normal valid ticket.

Switzerland is expensive. A day pass or ZürichCARD often pays off after three or four trips.

Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Does Zurich have a metro?

No. Trams, buses and S-Bahn trains form the network under one ZVV fare system.

How much is a tram ticket in Zurich?

About CHF 4.60 for one hour in zone 110, or CHF 2.80 for a short distance.

How do I get from Zurich Airport to the city?

Take a train to Zürich HB, about 10–15 minutes. Buy a ticket for zones 121 and 110.

Is the ZürichCARD worth it?

Often yes for sightseeing. It costs CHF 29 for 24 hours, covers the airport and gives museum discounts.

Do children pay in Zurich?

Children under 6 travel free. Ages 6 to 15 pay a reduced fare.

Sources: zvv.ch