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Trip Summary
There are 9 daily trains from Zurich to Kassel. Traveling by train from Zurich to Kassel usually takes around 7 hours and 13 minutes, but the fastest Deutsche Bahn train can make the trip in 6 hours and 20 minutes.
| Distance | 275 mi (443 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 20m |
| Lowest price | $73.09 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Deutsche Bahn |
| Train lines | 2 |
Which train should you take from Zurich to Kassel?
2 train services operate from Zurich to Kassel. Deutsche Bahn usually has more trains scheduled, with 8 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| DB Intercity-Express | 3 | 6h 31m | $199.59 |
| Deutsche Bahn | 8 | 7h 34m | $119.49 |
The most popular Deutsche Bahn ICE routes travel to Berlin, Cologne, Paris, and Munich. Seating is spacious with a good amount of legroom, and onboard amenities include complimentary WiFi, restrooms, and a restaurant car selling beverages, snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals. Unlike the rest of the Deutsche Bahn network, ticket prices on Deutsche Bahn ICE services are not based on a per-kilometer rate but on specific station-to-station links.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Zurich and Kassel is approximately 275 miles, or 443 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 13 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 20 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Trains from Zurich to Kassel are the most crowded on Friday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Zurich at 12:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 9:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 9 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Zurich to Kassel. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Kassel to Zurich.
City Information
Zurich
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Located in the heart of Europe, the Swiss capital lies at the northwestern tip of the eponymous Lake Zurich. This cosmopolitan city is buzzing year-round with vibrant city life, while the relaxing and peaceful Alps are less than an hour away.
Lake Zurich provides an elegant focal point of the city, with daily cruises available to explore this vast lake. Many chic cafes and restaurants are dotted along the banks, epitomizing Zurich's urban and cosmopolitan vibe.
The Old Town, or Altstadt, is arguably one of the city's most beautiful areas, characterized by winding cobblestone streets and medieval-style architecture. Here, you'll discover some of Zurich's most iconic landmarks, such as St Peter's church with its impossibly large clock face, the largest clock in Europe.
If the weather isn't suited to wandering, there are over 50 museums within Zurich to explore. Go traditional with the Swiss National Museum, or opt for something a bit more exhilarating at the FIFA Museum.
Zurich's airport is the largest in Switzerland, and it is just 10 kilometers from the city center. Several train carriers, including the German Deutsche Bahn network, operate routes to Zurich from across Europe. Long-distance buses also make it easy to reach Zurich from cities like Bern, Stuttgart, Munich, and Milan.
Kassel
Image credit: Pixabay
Image credit: Pixabay
Image credit: Pixabay
Located in central Germany, Kassel is a city with roots dating to the 10th century. These days, Kassel is perhaps best known for hosting documenta, a remarkable contemporary art exhibition that takes place every five years. However, if you're visiting outside of a documenta year, Kassel has many other exciting experiences to offer.
One of the most popular sites in Kassel is the Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a landscape park covering over 2.5 square kilometers of hillside. Construction of the park began in 1689, and the Baroque style of the Bergpark took 150 years to complete. The park's defining feature is a giant statue of Hercules, surrounded by a system of fountains and waterworks.
Kassel is also famed for being near the hometown of the legendary writers, the Brothers Grimm, and Grimm World is the newest attraction in the city. It commemorates the brothers’ legacy through interactive and multimedia exhibits inspired by their iconic works, such as Rapunzel, Cinderella, The Frog Prince, and Snow White. The museum is not just for children, though. Prepare your worst insults to shout into the swear word generator, which translates modern German curse words into older linguistic versions.
The easiest way to reach Kassel is via one of the ICE (Inter-City Express) trains that run throughout Europe. Rail service is convenient and affordable from nearby destinations like Berlin, Leipzig, and Hamburg. Buses also provide easy travel into Kassel, and FlixBus and Sindbad operate most bus routes.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Zurich?
Image credit: Jun Seita
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Zürich HB
Zurich HB is Zurich's central railway station and is the largest and most major transport hub in Switzerland, seeing up to 3,000 trains pass through daily. It's been regularly featured as the busiest station in Europe and one of the best for efficiency and facilities-- mostly since it has an entire underground shopping mall! It also hosts seasonal events such as Christmas markets and open-air cinemas in the large main hall. Trains include S-Bahn services traveling within Zurich and neighboring cities, plus international services to cities including Hamburg, Paris, Venice, Amsterdam and Zagreb, among others. The station sits in the center of Zurich, meaning the surrounding area is home to countless shops, restaurants, attractions, and other transport connections such as buses and trams.
All train stations in Zurich:
Zürich HB
Where is the train station in Kassel?
Main arrival station: Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
Kassel receives travelers from Zurich at its two active train stations.
Train stations in Kassel:
Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
Train Station
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