Zurich Airport (ZRH) Guide

A number of parking facilities are available at Zurich Airport, including short and long-term rates as well as electric vehicle charging options. We'd recommend booking online in advance to secure your parking spot and access discounted rates. 

Planning a grand European road trip? A number of car rental companies, including Alamo, AVIS, Europcar and Budget, are available at the car rental centre on Level 1 of the Airport Shopping area at Zurich Airport. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) train service is by far the most efficient and seamless public transport connection from Zurich Airport to Zurich’s city centre and beyond! SBB trains run every 10 minutes from the airport to Zurich’s main train station, with a travel time of only 15 minutes. From there, you can make your way to your hotel or connect to other destinations around Switzerland and Europe! See the SBB website for up-to-date information on timetables and fares. 

Even though Zurich Airport operates out of one main terminal building, there are three separate gate areas: Gates A, Gates B/D and Gates E. The airport’s Skymetro service allows travellers to quickly transfer between the gates – especially useful for Gates E, which are located a bit further away.  

Airport shuttles and hotel transfers provide a good balance of convenience and affordability when travelling to or from Zurich Airport. It’s worth organising this in advance, so ask your Travel Expert to help you book airport or hotel transfers today! 

Getting a lift to or from Zurich Airport? For airport pick-ups, drivers should make their way to the Arrival 1 or 2 curbside lanes where they can wait for a few minutes while travellers makes their way from the Arrivals Hall. For drop-offs, instead head to the Departure curbside lane, where you can also wait for a few minutes. It’s a good idea to double-check the airport’s arrivals and departures information to coordinate your pick-up or drop-off time in advance. 

Catching a taxi is one of the most comfortable ways to get from Zurich Airport to the city centre. You’ll find taxi ranks in the Arrival 1 and 2 curbside lanes, and it’s important to double-check you’re using an official service provider before you begin your journey (look for ‘Airport Taxi’ written on the vehicle). 

As a busy international airport, there are lots of different airlines servicing Zurich Airport (ZRH). Major carriers include Swiss International Air Lines, Edelweiss, Emirates and Lufthansa. For a more complete list, see the page above. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Zurich Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights or travel within the Schengen Area and three hours before long-haul international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Zurich Airport to the city centre (and vice versa), including airport shuttles, car rentals, taxi transfers and public transport connections like the SBB trains. 

Yes, there are a number of lounges at Zurich Airport, including the Emirates Lounge, Marhaba Lounge and nine SWISS lounges. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access airport lounges at Zurich Airport. 

Shower facilities are available for a fee at Zurich Airport. If you’re looking for a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the facilities, opening times and whether you’re able to access any of the airport lounges. Ready to book accommodation for your trip to Zurich? Ask your Travel Expert to help you find the perfect airport hotel or city stay today! 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Zurich booked with us. Ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store and remember to provide them with your frequent flyer number or membership details. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, exclusive deals and early access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Zurich Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

Zurich Airport is made up of one main terminal building with three separate gate areas: Gates A, Gates B/D and Gates E. In general, Gates A are reserved for flights within Switzerland or the Schengen Area, Gates E handle non-Schengen flights and Gates B/D see a mix of Schengen and non-Schengen destinations. Check your flight booking information or boarding pass to confirm your departure or arrival terminal. The Skymetro service at Zurich Airport allows travellers to quickly transfer between the gates – especially useful for Gates E, which are located a bit further away. 

Yes, short-term and long-term parking is available at Zurich Airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on airport parking and the current rates. We’d recommend booking online to secure your parking spot in advance and access discounted rates. 

Travelling with the little ones? A dedicated Family Services area is located in the Passenger Area of Gates A at Zurich Airport. Here you’ll find changing tables, a kitchenette and microwave, baby care products, nursing areas, kid's toys, a PlayStation and more to keep the whole family happy while waiting to board. 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Zurich Airport? There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before or after your flight, including well-known brands like Aesop, Cartier, Dior, H&M, Lindt and Rolex, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check the Zurich Airport terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Zurich Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead. As a rough guide, we recommend booking flights three to six months in advance. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds.