3 hours ago
3
October 23, 2025 — 5:00am
The station
Zurich Hauptbahnhof, Zurich, Switzerland
The journey
Zurich to Lucerne, the 53-minute, inter-city first leg aboard a scheduled public rail service of Inspiring Vacations’s 12-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.
The departure
There are central stations that aren’t at all central and central stations that are happily, and conveniently, true to their name. One of Europe’s oldest railway terminals, Zurich Hauptbahnhof (the latter word in German simply means “main train station”) really couldn’t be more central, or for that matter, convenient. In fact, The Consumer Choice Center, an international consumer advocacy group, this year named Zurich Main Station as Europe’s best-performing rail hub for the fifth consecutive year. Dating back to 1847 and designed in the Renaissance Revival architectural style, Zurich Hauptbahnhof (or Zurich HB as it’s more commonly known) is the busiest railway station in Switzerland, with Zurich the Central European nation’s biggest city. The station is located at the extreme northern end of bustling Bahnhofstrasse, one of the city’s main shopping streets and the locale of many hotels. Even with wheeled luggage, the station’s an easy five-minute walk from most hotels and is especially convenient when arriving in Zurich by air. The efficient airport train to the city is about a 10-minute trip.
Food + drink
My train from Zurich to Lucerne departs mid-afternoon which allows plenty of time for a pre-departure lunch. The flashiest-looking eatery in Zurich Hauptbahnhof is the contemporary Brasserie Sud, just off the vestibule as you enter the station from the Bahnhofstrasse side. But I opt for the grander, and more authentic, Brasserie Federal which serves hearty Swiss cuisine. Straight across from Brasserie Federal is the more casual Cafe Oscar, a perfect spot for a lighter meal or coffee and cake. Dine inside or, preferably, outside under the station’s vast glazed roof opposite the big Swiss railway clock. A favoured meeting spot, the clock’s minimalist Bauhaus face is an international design classic.
Retail therapy
Bahnhofstrasse’s array of shops aside, easily overlooked by the transiting tourist is Zurich Hauptbahnhof’s ShopVille, an extensive retail complex consisting of more than 170 stores and services which operate directly beneath the station and its below ground platforms, including those to and from the airport.
Passing time
Zurich’s excellent tram system operates right outside Zurich Hauptbahnhof. If you have time to kill, pop your luggage in one of the station’s lockers and take a joyride on the visitor-friendly Line 4 tram. It is the city’s unofficial cultural route and passes an array of design, art and culture institutions. Of course, keep an eye on time as you really wouldn’t want to miss your train.
Boarding
The destination board at Zurich Hauptbahnhof displays arrivals and departures to and from its 26 platforms, including those to Germany, Austria, Italy and France. If you’re travelling with a large piece of luggage, it pays to board your designated carriage as soon as you’re permitted, so you can locate the baggage storage area and secure a spot for it.
Safety + security
Zurich is one of Europe’s safest cities but at any busy major train station on the Continent the same rules apply. Keep your valuables, including mobiles and passports, safely out of sight and be aware of your personal space at all times.
The verdict
Based on its superb location, easy accessibility and excellent amenities, it’s really no surprise to learn that Zurich Hauptbahnhoft ranks as Europe’s best railway hub.
Our rating out of five
★★★★★
The writer travelled as a guest of Inspiring Vacations 12-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, from $4799 a person, twin share. See inspiringvacations.com.au
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