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How to get from Colmar to Zurich
By train, Colmar to Zurich takes about 2 h with a change in Basel: a French TER regional train to Basel SBB (about 45 min to 1 h), then a Swiss train to Zürich HB (about 55 min). Driving via Mulhouse and Basel takes about 1 h 45 to 2 h.
Best option: Train. Frequent trains and a single easy change at Basel get you to central Zurich in about two hours with no city parking.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train TER Grand Est regional train from Colmar via Mulhouse to Basel SBB, then SBB train from Basel to Zürich HB | about 2 h including the change | TER trains roughly every hour; Basel–Zurich trains about every 30 minutes | about €20–30 to Basel plus about CHF 20–35 to Zurich | No reservation needed on either train; buy the Swiss leg on the SBB app. |
| car A35 south via Mulhouse to Basel, then Swiss A3 to Zurich (about 160 km) | about 1 h 45 to 2 h | fuel plus the Swiss motorway vignette | Traffic around Basel and Zurich is heavy at peak hours; parking in central Zurich is costly. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- In Basel the French trains arrive at the same station (Basel SBB) as Swiss trains, so the change is quick.
- Switzerland uses Swiss francs; buy the Swiss part of the ticket separately if it is cheaper.
- Swiss Supersaver fares on the SBB app can reduce the Basel–Zurich price.
- Carry a passport or ID card, as Switzerland occasionally checks at the border.
Common questions
Is there a direct train from Colmar to Zurich?
Usually not. The normal route is a TER regional train from Colmar to Basel SBB, via Mulhouse, followed by a Swiss train to Zürich HB. Both trains run often, so the change is easy and the whole trip takes about 2 h. Occasionally a long-distance train links the two, so check current timetables.
Do I need a vignette to drive from Colmar to Zurich?
Yes. Once you cross into Switzerland near Basel, the A3 to Zurich is a motorway that requires the Swiss vignette, valid for a calendar year. You can buy it online or at border points. The French A35 between Colmar and Basel is toll-free. Without a vignette you risk a fine.
What is the cheapest way from Colmar to Zurich?
The train is usually the cheapest for one person, especially if you buy the Swiss leg as a Supersaver on the SBB app. For two or more travellers, driving may cost less per person, but add the vignette and Zurich parking. Coaches between the two cities are limited, so check if one suits your dates.
Can I do a day trip from Colmar to Zurich?
It is possible, with about 2 h each way, giving you around six hours in Zurich for the old town, the lake and Bahnhofstrasse. It is a long day, though, and Basel is closer if you want a shorter Swiss trip. If you are heading on to Lucerne or the Alps, a night in Zurich makes more sense.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.