Zürich Airport to Zurich by Bus — Costs, Times & Tips (2026)
Riding the ZVV bus from Zürich Airport (ZRH) is one of the cheapest ways into the city — from just CHF 4.40 (~$4.90) with buses every 10–20 minutes. Here's everything you need for a smooth 2026 transfer.
Quick Transport Comparison — ZRH to Zurich (2026)
Compare all options from Zürich Airport to the city centre at a glance. Prices are indicative for 2026.
| Option | Journey Time | Cost (CHF) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEST VALUEBus 768 (ZVV) | 30–40 min | CHF 4.40 | ~$4.90 | Direct to Oerlikon & north Zurich. Runs every 10–20 min. |
| S-Bahn Train (S2/S16) | 10–13 min | CHF 4.40 | ~$4.90 | Fastest option to Zurich HB. Departs from airport basement. |
| ZVV 24-Hour Pass | 30–40 min | CHF 17.60 | ~$19.50 | All zones, unlimited rides. Best for multi-stop days. |
| Taxi / Rideshare | 20–35 min | CHF 50–70 | ~$56–78 | Door-to-door. Surge pricing applies during peak hours. |
| Airport Shuttle Bus | 35–55 min | CHF 25–35 | ~$28–39 | Hotel drop-off. Book in advance for best rates. |
* Fares based on ZVV zone tariffs. USD conversions approximate. Always check zvv.ch for the latest prices.
Step-by-Step: Bus 768 from Zürich Airport to the City
Bus 768 is the recommended bus route for reaching Zürich Oerlikon and north-city connections. Follow these steps for a stress-free transfer.
Exit arrivals and follow ZVV signs
After collecting your luggage, follow the blue ZVV public transport signs. Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have clearly marked exits to the bus stops located on the upper-level roadway.
Find Bus Stop 'Zürich Flughafen'
Head to the outdoor bus terminus on the departures level (above arrivals). Bus 768 departs from here toward Zürich Oerlikon. Screens show real-time departures. The stop is covered and well-lit.
Buy your ZVV ticket before boarding
Purchase a single ticket (CHF 4.40) or 24-hour pass (CHF 17.60) from the ZVV ticket machines at the bus stop. Machines accept coins, cards and contactless payment. Tickets must be validated before you board — tap the yellow validator on the machine.
Board Bus 768 toward Zürich Oerlikon
Buses run every 10–20 minutes during daytime hours. The journey to Zürich Oerlikon takes approximately 15–20 minutes, where you can connect to trams, S-Bahn and other bus lines for the wider city.
Transfer or continue to your destination
At Oerlikon, tram 11 and the S-Bahn connect you to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (HB) in under 10 minutes. Alternatively, ride bus 768 further toward Zürich Sternenplatz for central neighbourhoods.
Pro Tips for Bus Travel from ZRH (2026)
Get a 24-hour pass if you're exploring
At CHF 17.60, the ZVV 24-hour all-zone pass pays for itself after just 2 bus or tram journeys and covers the airport transfer.
Validate before you board
Swiss public transport operates on an honour system with random inspections. Fines for unvalidated tickets start at CHF 100.
Peak hour congestion (07:00–09:00 & 17:00–19:00)
Buses can be crowded during rush hour. If you have large luggage, wait for the next service or use the S-Bahn train instead.
ZVV app makes ticketing easy
Download the ZVV app to buy and store tickets digitally. It also shows real-time departures and live journey planning.
Night buses run Fri & Sat only
Standard bus services end around midnight on weekdays. Plan late arrivals around the S-Bahn timetable or book a taxi in advance.
Bus stop is at departures level
Counter-intuitively, the bus terminus is on the upper (departures) road. Don't wait at the taxi rank on the arrivals level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the bus from Zürich Airport to Zurich city centre cost in 2026?
Which bus routes go from Zürich Airport to the city centre?
Do buses from Zürich Airport run at night?
Explore More About Zurich & ZRH
Planning a longer stay in Zurich?
Discover the best neighbourhoods, hidden gems, seasonal events and travel tips in our full Zurich destination guide.
Find the Best Flights to Zürich Airport (ZRH)
Compare hundreds of airlines and book cheap flights to ZRH in seconds. Whether you're flying from Dubai, Tokyo or closer to home — find the best deal for your 2026 trip.
Search Flights to ZRHPowered by Trip.com · Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Related Guides
Dubai Airport to City by Bus (2026)
Complete guide to RTA bus routes from DXB into Dubai — fares, stops & tips.
Tokyo Narita Airport Bus Guide (2026)
Limousine bus, highway bus and discount options from NRT to Tokyo city.
ZRH Layover Guide — What to Do (2026)
Got a few hours at Zürich Airport? Here's how to make the most of it.