Zurich Transport Tickets: ZVV Fares & Zürich Card [2026]
Zurich public transport tickets are based on ZVV fare zones rather than on individual tram, train or bus journeys. Once you have a valid ticket for the required zones, you can generally use different forms of public transport within those zones for the ticket’s validity period.
For most visitors, the real choice is simple: use a ZVV single ticket for occasional journeys, a ZVV 24h ticket for repeated transport during one 24-hour period, or the Zürich Card if you want public transport plus sightseeing benefits.
If you are arriving by plane, see our Zurich Airport to City Center guide for the train, tram 10, taxi and transfer options. For routes after arrival, see How to Use Public Transport in Zurich.
Quick answer: which Zurich transport ticket should you buy?
- One or two city rides: ZVV single ticket.
- Several rides in 24 hours: ZVV 24h ticket.
- Zurich city only: zone 110 fare.
- Airport to central Zurich: standard 3-zone fare.
- Airport + unlimited transport for 24h: 3-zone 24h ticket.
- Transport + museums and sightseeing: Zürich Card.
- Several cities across Switzerland: compare Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Half Fare Card.
- Main mistake: buying a city-only ticket for a journey that also includes Zurich Airport.
Zurich transport ticket prices in 2026
The table below shows the most useful current ZVV 2nd-class fares for visitors. Zurich city zone 110 counts as two zones for fare calculation.
| Ticket | Adult | Child / Half Fare | Validity | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 zones single | CHF 4.70 | CHF 3.30 | 1 hour | Zurich city / zone 110 |
| 3 zones single | CHF 7.20 | CHF 3.60 | 1 hour | Zurich Airport ↔ city |
| 4 zones single | CHF 9.40 | CHF 4.70 | 2 hours | Trips extending farther outside central Zurich |
| 1–2 zones 24h | CHF 9.40 | CHF 6.60 | 24 hours | Unlimited Zurich city transport |
| 3 zones 24h | CHF 14.40 | CHF 7.20 | 24 hours | Airport + city transport |
| All zones 24h | CHF 36.00 | CHF 18.00 | 24 hours | Extensive travel across the ZVV network |
Fares shown are current ZVV prices applicable before the announced tariff adjustment in December 2026. Always check the ZVV app or ticket machine for the fare shown on your travel date.
Useful shortcut: a ZVV 24h ticket costs exactly twice the corresponding single ticket in the same fare category. If you expect to make the equivalent of two full-price journeys within the same zones, the 24h ticket is therefore worth checking.
How ZVV zones work
The Zürcher Verkehrsverbund (ZVV) uses a zone-based fare system. You do not normally buy separate tickets for a tram, bus and train. Instead, you buy the zones required for your journey.
During the ticket’s validity period, you can travel within the zones shown on your ticket using the public transport services covered by ZVV. This means you can, for example, take a train and then transfer to a tram without buying another ticket if your existing ticket is still valid and covers the route.
The most important Zurich zone rule
Zurich city is zone 110, but zone 110 counts as two zones when fares are calculated. This is why a ticket for central Zurich is priced at the 1–2 zone fare rather than as a one-zone ticket.
| Area | Zone | What visitors should know |
|---|---|---|
| Zurich city center | 110 | Counts as two zones for fare calculation |
| Zurich Airport | 121 | Outside central zone 110 |
| Airport → central Zurich | 110 + 121 | Priced as a 3-zone journey |
The easiest way to avoid zone mistakes is not to calculate them manually. Enter your actual origin and destination in the ZVV or SBB app or at a ticket machine and buy the ticket suggested for that journey.
ZVV single tickets
A ZVV single ticket is the best choice when you only need occasional public transport. The ticket is valid within the selected zones for a specified period rather than being restricted to one particular vehicle.
Use a single ticket if:
- you only need one or two journeys,
- you are staying in the Old Town and will walk most of the time,
- you only need a tram to or from your hotel,
- you are making one airport-to-city transfer and will not use more transport that day,
- you do not need museum or tourist-card benefits.
Can you change from tram to train or bus?
Yes. ZVV tickets are based on zones and validity time rather than one specific mode of transport. If the zones and validity period are correct, you can transfer between ZVV trains, trams and buses without buying a separate ticket for every vehicle.
For central Zurich, the standard adult 1–2 zone fare is CHF 4.70 and is valid for one hour.
ZVV 24h tickets
The ZVV 24h ticket allows unlimited travel within the selected zones for 24 hours. Unlike a ticket valid only until the end of a calendar day, the 24-hour period gives you flexibility based on the time you start travelling.
Use a 24h ticket if:
- you expect to use public transport repeatedly during one 24-hour period,
- you want unlimited travel without buying individual tickets,
- you arrive at Zurich Airport and will continue using city transport afterward,
- you do not need the sightseeing benefits of the Zürich Card.
For Zurich city, the adult 1–2 zone 24h ticket costs CHF 9.40. For the typical airport-to-city 3-zone coverage, the adult 24h ticket costs CHF 14.40.
Airport arrival tip: if you land at Zurich Airport, travel into the city and expect to use trams or trains several more times during the following 24 hours, compare the CHF 14.40 3-zone 24h ticket with buying individual tickets.
Zürich Card: the main tourist transport pass
The Zürich Card is designed for visitors spending one to three days in Zurich. It combines unlimited 2nd-class public transport in its validity area with museum, attraction and other visitor benefits.
| Zürich Card | Adult | Child 6–15 | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 hours | CHF 29 | CHF 19 | One intensive sightseeing day |
| 72 hours | CHF 56 | CHF 37 | Two to three days of sightseeing |
The Zürich Card covers unlimited 2nd-class travel in zones 110, 111, 121, 140, 150, 154 and 155. This includes travel between Zurich Airport and the city as well as a much wider area than central zone 110 alone.
It also includes free or reduced admission to many museums and additional discounts and visitor benefits.
When is the Zürich Card worth it?
The Zürich Card is most attractive when you combine airport travel + repeated public transport + sightseeing benefits. If you only take the airport train and then walk around the Old Town, it is unlikely to be the cheapest option.
Zürich Card vs ZVV 24h ticket
| ZVV 24h | Zürich Card | |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Transport | Transport + sightseeing |
| Airport included? | Yes, if you buy the required zones | Yes |
| Museum benefits | No | Yes |
| Duration | 24 hours | 24 or 72 hours |
| Best for | Transport-heavy day | Active sightseeing stay |
Best ticket from Zurich Airport to the city center
Zurich Airport is in zone 121, while central Zurich is in zone 110. Because zone 110 counts double, the normal airport-to-central-Zurich fare is priced as a 3-zone journey.
Which airport ticket should you choose?
Airport → city, then mostly walking
Buy the standard 3-zone single ticket: CHF 7.20 adult.
Airport → city + more transport during the next 24 hours
Consider the 3-zone 24h ticket: CHF 14.40 adult.
Airport + public transport + museums
Compare the Zürich Card. Airport travel is included in its validity area.
For travel times and transfer options, see our Zurich Airport to City Center guide.
Can you use the same ticket on trams, trains and buses?
Yes. This is one of the most useful things to understand about Zurich transport. There is normally no separate tourist tram ticket, bus ticket or local train ticket.
If your ZVV ticket covers the required zones and remains valid, you can use the relevant trams, buses and trains within those zones.
| Transport | Normal ZVV ticket? | Useful for visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Trams | Yes | Old Town edges, Bellevue, ETH, Enge, Oerlikon, Zurich West |
| Local trains / S-Bahn | Yes | Airport, Oerlikon, suburban destinations |
| Buses | Yes | Areas away from tram routes and final connections |
| Boats | Depends on route/product | Lake Zurich and Limmat journeys |
| Funicular / cable car | Depends on route/product | ETH and hillside destinations |
For practical route planning on each mode, see our How to Use Public Transport in Zurich guide.
Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Half Fare Card
If Zurich is your only destination, you usually do not need a Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Half Fare Card just for local city transport.
Swiss Travel Pass
The Swiss Travel Pass is a nationwide product intended for travelers making significant journeys across Switzerland. It becomes relevant if Zurich is only one stop in an itinerary that includes places such as Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, Basel, Geneva or other Swiss destinations.
Swiss Half Fare Card
The Swiss Half Fare Card can be useful if you plan to buy multiple individual Swiss rail, boat or mountain-transport tickets during a wider trip. For a short Zurich-only city break, normal ZVV tickets or the Zürich Card are generally more relevant.
Simple rule: choose ZVV/Zürich Card for Zurich; start comparing national Swiss products when your itinerary extends significantly beyond the Zurich transport network.
Best Zurich ticket by itinerary
| Your plan | Usually best | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Old Town + mostly walking | Single tickets | Central Zurich is compact and walkable |
| Several city rides in one day | 1–2 zone 24h | Unlimited city transport for 24h |
| Airport + city transport | 3-zone 24h | Covers airport and city for 24h |
| Airport + museums + sightseeing | Zürich Card | Combines transport and visitor benefits |
| Uetliberg + sightseeing | Compare Zürich Card | Its validity area includes useful outer zones |
| Lucerne / Interlaken / wider Switzerland | SBB / national pass | Normal Zurich city tickets are not sufficient |
Best ticket by length of stay
One day in Zurich
If you mostly walk, buy individual ZVV tickets. For repeated travel, use a 24h ticket. If you also plan museums and attractions, compare the 24-hour Zürich Card.
Two to three days in Zurich
The 72-hour Zürich Card becomes more interesting if you will use transport frequently and take advantage of visitor benefits. Otherwise, combine walking with normal ZVV tickets.
Longer stay
Your best option depends strongly on your daily routes. Visitors staying centrally may still need relatively little transport, while commuters or travelers exploring the wider ZVV region should compare longer-duration ZVV products.
Where to buy Zurich transport tickets
ZVV tickets are widely available. Visitors can buy them from:
- ZVV ticket machines,
- the ZVV app,
- the SBB app,
- online ticket shops,
- ZVV and SBB sales points,
- ticket facilities at Zurich Airport and Zürich HB.
Easiest method for visitors: use the ZVV or SBB app and enter your actual origin and destination. The system calculates the required fare, so you do not need to memorize the zone map.
Do you need to validate Zurich tickets?
You must have a valid ticket before travelling. The exact activation or validation method depends on the product you buy.
Electronic tickets purchased for immediate travel are displayed with their validity in the app. Some physical products or multiple-journey products must be validated before use, so follow the instructions on the ticket or machine.
The Zürich Card also needs to be valid before the first journey. Zurich has many stops and stations without entrance barriers, but ticket inspections take place on board and around the network.
Do not interpret the lack of ticket gates as free boarding. Buy or activate the appropriate ticket before you travel.
Common Zurich ticket mistakes
- Buying zone 110 only for Zurich Airport: the airport is outside the central city zone.
- Forgetting that zone 110 counts as two zones: this changes the fare calculation.
- Trying to buy a separate tram ticket: normal ZVV tickets work across multiple transport modes within their validity.
- Buying a Zürich Card for only one journey: a standard ZVV ticket is much cheaper if you do not use the tourist benefits.
- Assuming every boat trip is automatically included: check the exact route and fare product.
- Guessing the zones: use the ZVV or SBB journey planner instead.
- Confusing Zürich Card and Swiss Travel Pass: the first is primarily a Zurich visitor product; the second is designed for wider Swiss travel.
- Boarding without a valid ticket: purchase or activate your ticket before travelling.
Related Zurich transport guides
- Zurich Airport to City Center – compare train, Tram 10, taxi and private transfer from ZRH.
- How to Use Public Transport in Zurich – practical guide to trams, trains, buses, boats and getting around the city.
FAQ: Zurich Transport Tickets
What is the best Zurich transport ticket for tourists?
Use a ZVV single ticket for occasional travel, a ZVV 24h ticket for repeated journeys, or the Zürich Card if you also want sightseeing and museum benefits.
How much is a Zurich city ticket in 2026?
The current adult 2nd-class ZVV fare for 1–2 zones is CHF 4.70. This is the fare category used for Zurich city zone 110 because zone 110 counts as two zones.
How much is a Zurich 24-hour ticket?
The current adult 1–2 zone ZVV 24h ticket costs CHF 9.40. A 3-zone 24h ticket costs CHF 14.40.
What is ZVV?
ZVV is the Zurich Transport Network. It operates the zone-based fare system covering public transport across Zurich and the surrounding region.
What zone is Zurich city center?
Central Zurich is in zone 110. For fare calculations, zone 110 counts as two zones.
What zone is Zurich Airport?
Zurich Airport is in zone 121 and lies outside central Zurich zone 110.
How much is the train from Zurich Airport to the city?
The current standard adult 2nd-class 3-zone fare between Zurich Airport and central Zurich is CHF 7.20.
Which ticket do I need from Zurich Airport to the city?
For the usual journey between Zurich Airport and central Zurich, buy the 3-zone fare suggested by the ZVV or SBB journey planner. A standard adult single currently costs CHF 7.20.
Can I use one Zurich ticket on trains, trams and buses?
Yes. If your ZVV ticket covers the required zones and remains valid, it can be used across the relevant ZVV train, tram and bus services within those zones.
Is there a separate tram ticket in Zurich?
No special tram-only tourist ticket is normally required. Zurich trams use the same ZVV zone fare system as other local public transport.
Is the Zürich Card worth it?
It can be good value if you combine repeated public transport with museums, attractions and sightseeing. For just one or two transport journeys, normal ZVV tickets are usually cheaper.
How much is the Zürich Card?
The Zürich Card costs CHF 29 for 24 hours and CHF 56 for 72 hours for adults. Children’s prices for ages 6–15 are CHF 19 and CHF 37.
Does the Zürich Card include Zurich Airport?
Yes. The Zürich Card validity area includes zone 121, allowing travel between Zurich Airport and Zurich city while the card is valid.
What zones does the Zürich Card include?
The Zürich Card covers zones 110, 111, 121, 140, 150, 154 and 155 in 2nd class during its validity period.
Should I buy a ZVV 24h ticket or Zürich Card?
Choose a ZVV 24h ticket if you mainly need transport. Choose the Zürich Card if you will also use its museums, attractions and other tourist benefits.
Can I buy Zurich tickets at the airport?
Yes. Tickets are available from machines and sales facilities at Zurich Airport as well as through the ZVV and SBB apps.
Should I use the ZVV app or SBB app?
Both can help visitors plan journeys and buy suitable tickets. Enter your actual origin and destination rather than trying to calculate the fare zones manually.
Do Zurich tickets need to be validated?
It depends on the product. Some tickets are activated when purchased, while certain physical or multiple-journey products require validation. Follow the instructions shown on your ticket or app before travelling.
Can I use Zurich tickets on boats?
Coverage depends on the ticket and exact boat service. Check the route in the ZVV journey planner or the conditions of your pass before travelling.
Do I need a Swiss Travel Pass for Zurich?
No. For a Zurich-only trip, ZVV tickets or the Zürich Card are normally more appropriate. The Swiss Travel Pass becomes more relevant for wider travel across Switzerland.
What ticket should I use for a day trip to Lucerne?
Lucerne lies outside the normal Zurich city fare area. Use an appropriate SBB ticket or a valid national or regional travel product rather than a Zurich city ticket.
What is the biggest Zurich ticket mistake?
The most common mistake is buying a ticket that only covers central Zurich when the journey also includes Zurich Airport or another zone outside the city.
Final recommendation
For most visitors, Zurich ticketing is simpler than it first appears. If you only need occasional public transport, buy a ZVV single ticket. For repeated travel during 24 hours, consider a ZVV 24h ticket. If you combine transport with museums and sightseeing, compare the Zürich Card.
The most important rule is to buy the correct zones. Central Zurich is zone 110 and Zurich Airport is in zone 121; the standard airport-to-city journey is therefore priced as a 3-zone fare because zone 110 counts double.
Rather than calculating zones manually, enter your origin and destination in the ZVV or SBB journey planner. For arrival planning, see our Zurich Airport to City Center guide, and for daily route planning see How to Use Public Transport in Zurich.