Zurich Airport receives some late-evening flights, though the airport has a night flight ban (generally no scheduled flights between 23:30 and 06:00, with some flexibility for delays). Here is what to expect for late arrivals.
The last trains
Trains to Zurich Hauptbahnhof run until approximately 00:10. If your flight lands before 23:30 and immigration and baggage claim are quick, you can usually make the last train. But if your flight is delayed or immigration is slow, you may miss it.
After the last train, there is no rail service until approximately 05:00 the next morning.
Night buses
On Friday and Saturday nights, Zurich operates Nachtbus (night bus) services that include routes from the airport area. Coverage is limited and the journey takes longer than the train. Check the ZVV website for current schedules. On weeknights (Sunday through Thursday), night buses do not run.
Taxis after midnight
The taxi rank operates around the clock. A late-night taxi to central Zurich costs the same as during the day: 50-70 CHF ($56-79 USD). There is generally no nighttime surcharge in the Zurich area. Taxis are available even at 2-3 AM, though you may wait a few minutes longer than during the day.
Pre-booked transfers
A pre-booked transfer guarantees a driver waiting for you regardless of your arrival time. The price is fixed and typically comparable to a taxi ($70-120 USD for a sedan). This is the most predictable option if your flight is at risk of arriving after the last train.
Waiting for the first morning train
If you are on a strict budget and arrive just after the last train, waiting in the airport for the first morning train (around 05:00) is an option. The airport has comfortable seating areas and is safe. Some early-morning cafes open before 05:00. However, this means 4-5 hours of waiting, which is a significant cost in sleep and comfort. A taxi at 60 CHF may be worth more than those hours.
Practical tips
- Check your flight's scheduled arrival time against the last train departure (approximately 00:10)
- Build a 30-minute buffer for immigration and baggage claim on top of your landing time
- If there is any risk of missing the last train, have a taxi or transfer as backup
- The airport is comfortable for short waits but not ideal for overnight stays
- Card payment works in taxis at all hours
- Uber operates at night but is not much cheaper than a taxi in Switzerland