Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024

Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - New Direct Train Service Cuts Travel Time to 3 Hours and 20 Minutes

Starting December 2024, a new direct train link between Zurich Airport and Milan will be introduced, significantly reducing travel time. This new service will cut the journey down to just 3 hours and 20 minutes. Previously, train travel between the two cities ranged from a little over 3 hours and 20 minutes up to 4 hours and 30 minutes. It's notable that this new option also champions sustainability, claiming a reduction in carbon emissions by about 40% compared to flying. The added benefit of roughly 28 daily train departures could also make this a compelling choice for those traveling between Zurich and Milan, particularly if you prioritize efficient and convenient cross-border travel. While planes are still quicker, this direct train offers a strong, possibly even competitive, alternative.

A new direct train link between Zurich Airport and Milan, launching in December 2024, significantly shrinks travel time to a mere 3 hours and 20 minutes. This represents a substantial improvement over current options, which can stretch from roughly 3 hours and 29 minutes up to 4 hours and 30 minutes. The service, set to operate with a high frequency, initially plans up to 10 daily departures, making travel scheduling more convenient.


This new service averages speeds of 100 km/h (62 mph), a remarkable feat for European rail travel. The trains themselves are built with modernity in mind, providing travellers with high-speed internet, a feature that remains inconsistent on air travel. Interestingly, the number of trains running on this route is expected to rise from 28 daily to at least 10 daily as the new service ramps up. One wonders what the logic is behind a reduced number of services if the goal is to optimize capacity.


Another fascinating element of the train service is its passenger capacity. While aircraft naturally have a limited passenger count, these train carriages can reportedly hold 400 travellers per journey. One might expect this increased capacity to further reduce travel times or enhance the frequency of services in the future.


From a sustainability perspective, this train connection is marketed as a more eco-friendly choice, cutting CO2 emissions by about 40% compared to air travel. However, given that trains typically generate higher CO2 emissions per passenger kilometer compared to aeroplanes, one might speculate whether this is an entirely accurate calculation or an effort to bolster a narrative of increased environmental responsibility.

Interestingly, the new route reveals scenic landscapes of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lugano, offering travellers a completely different view compared to air travel. This picturesque landscape will be a draw for travellers keen on enjoying the scenery, something that is often missed at altitude.


While airline fares vary from about $34 to $180, the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has announced the train fares will start around €30. One might speculate that, depending on the added costs of luggage and baggage handling, air travel might in many cases remain more attractive from a financial perspective, especially for those prioritizing budget travel. Furthermore, the ability of SBB to keep those train fares stable for the long term also remains to be seen.

What else is in this post?

1. Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - New Direct Train Service Cuts Travel Time to 3 Hours and 20 Minutes
2. Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Milan Central Station versus Milan Malpensa Airport Train Connections
3. Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Early Morning and Late Night Train Schedule Details
4. Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Train Travel Through the Swiss Alps and Gotthard Base Tunnel
5. Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Ticket Pricing and Booking Options for Airport Express Service
6. Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Connections to Other Italian Cities from Milan Central Station

Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Milan Central Station versus Milan Malpensa Airport Train Connections

When deciding how to get from Milan to Zurich by train, the choice between starting at Milan Central Station or Milan Malpensa Airport has distinct implications. If you're aiming for Zurich from within Milan itself, Central Station offers a decent travel time, averaging around 4 hours and 21 minutes. Advance booking can secure tickets for about €31. This option might appeal to those staying in central Milan and seeking a direct train to Zurich.

However, if your journey originates at Malpensa Airport, things change. While the Malpensa Express conveniently connects the airport to Milan Central Station within about 51 minutes, this convenience can be offset by significantly longer travel times to Zurich. Journeys from Malpensa Airport can stretch up to a rather daunting 6 hours and 16 minutes, though some faster services exist. In this scenario, traveling to Milan Central Station and using the aforementioned connection might be a more time-efficient option if your end destination is indeed Zurich.

The upcoming launch of a direct SBB train service between Zurich Airport and Milan in December 2024 will likely add another dimension to this discussion. It's intriguing to consider how this new, faster connection might reshape travel patterns and potentially influence the decision of whether to utilize Milan Central Station or Malpensa Airport as the departure point for a Zurich-bound train. The introduction of this service will likely lead to some significant shifts in the Milan-Zurich rail travel landscape.

When considering travel options from Milan to Zurich, the choice between starting your journey from Milan Central Station or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) becomes a critical decision. Each option offers its own set of benefits and drawbacks, especially with the new Zurich-Milan SBB direct train coming in December.

Milan Central Station stands out as a primary transportation hub not just for trains but also as a connecting point to various parts of Milan and beyond. It's a node in a much larger transportation network. The frequency of train services to other destinations within Italy is generally more robust from Milan Central than from Malpensa. This makes Central Station more attractive for people who are looking for a faster connection to other cities or regions within Italy.

In contrast, Malpensa Airport focuses on its air connections. While the Malpensa Express train connects the airport with various central stations in Milan like Milano Centrale, Cadorna, and Milano Porta, it is more of a single-purpose service, bringing passengers to and from the airport. This setup can make onward travel from the airport a bit more complicated as it will likely necessitate extra transfers.

While the Malpensa Express gets passengers from Malpensa to the Milan city center in about 50 minutes, overall travel time can vary considerably. For instance, when evaluating train travel from Milan to other destinations, some train routes might actually take less time than a Malpensa Express connection followed by a second train ride due to more direct routing and reduced transfers.


Another factor to contemplate is luggage. Train travel from Milan Central Station is typically more lenient on baggage, which can be a notable contrast to the often-strict and fee-heavy policies of airlines at Malpensa.

Financial aspects should also be taken into account. The Malpensa Express average fare of about €13 can seem like a bargain. However, one must always be aware that budget airlines often have concealed charges for items like baggage that can quickly increase the total travel cost.

Transfer speed is also a consideration. While the connection from Malpensa to Central Station is convenient, the total travel time for reaching other destinations is sometimes slower compared to other train routes. This is primarily due to the required change of transport. Travelers who have time constraints need to be aware of this aspect.

Additionally, the real-time information provided through mobile apps or train station boards is a distinct advantage of the Milan Central Station-based system, often superior to the schedule updates often observed at Malpensa. Delays, while rare, can be more disruptive at the airport given that real-time updates are not always promptly available.

Culinary experiences can also be part of the travel experience. The area around Milan Central Station provides a wider array of dining choices and cafes than the limited options available at Malpensa Airport. For passengers that want to savor some local flavors before their onward journey, this could be a major benefit.

The view from a train window also plays a role in the overall experience. Travelers can often witness beautiful Italian countryside or stunning mountain vistas during the train journey from Milan Central Station. These scenic experiences are inherently missing in air travel and add another layer to the passenger experience.

Lastly, it’s reasonable to expect that the stress and potential delays associated with airport security and boarding procedures at Malpensa, could result in increased travel fatigue. This can make choosing to travel by train from Milan Central Station a more appealing choice for travelers who want to keep their stress levels low during their travel.

Ultimately, choosing the best starting point for your Zurich journey depends on your priorities. Milan Central Station provides an experience focused on direct connections, ease of transport, and a scenic backdrop. On the other hand, Milan Malpensa Airport is the best gateway for those who prioritize fast connections to airplanes. Both are key access points to your onward journey to Zurich.

Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Early Morning and Late Night Train Schedule Details

The upcoming launch of the SBB direct train connection between Zurich Airport and Milan in December 2024 brings into focus the importance of early morning and late-night travel options. The initial schedule indicates that the first train departs Zurich Airport at 6:09 AM on weekdays, offering a convenient start to the day for early travelers. Conversely, the last train is slated to depart around 7:33 PM, suggesting a potentially limited scope for those seeking later departures. While this initial schedule provides a good foundation, it will be interesting to see how the service adapts to passenger demand in the future, especially during peak and off-peak travel times. It's conceivable that the current schedule might not fully meet the needs of passengers traveling late at night or very early in the morning. It's also possible that this schedule could evolve as the service gains popularity or based on demand. This direct train link is poised to be a game changer, particularly for business and leisure travelers needing flexible and convenient travel options between these two major destinations. The expanded flexibility that a more comprehensive early and late schedule could provide has the potential to really drive a wider appeal of this new service.

Regarding the early morning and late-night train schedules, there are some intriguing aspects to consider. The earliest departure from Zurich Airport is at 6:09 AM on weekdays, which is quite early. This could be attractive for business travelers who want to maximize their time in Milan and arrive before the city gets busy. The availability of a train that leaves that early suggests a market for people who are willing to sacrifice sleep to arrive early for meetings or other commitments. But it also begs the question: how viable are the connections to other parts of Milan or Italy from such an early arrival?

Conversely, the last train usually leaves around 7:33 PM, offering a fairly late departure option. This could be useful for travelers attending evening events or dinners. However, this late train might create some scheduling hurdles, especially for passengers traveling to destinations beyond Milan that necessitate connections, potentially resulting in overnight stays if no suitable connections exist.

It is also interesting to note that the departure and arrival times remain within the same time zone (CET), which simplifies things for travelers and eliminates any potential confusion around daylight saving time adjustments or other clock changes. While there are many aspects of airline schedules that are challenging, time zone differences are one that are routinely overlooked.

The trains themselves seem to be designed with modern travel in mind. We find the use of features like advanced braking and sound insulation intriguing. This attention to detail highlights an aspect that airlines often ignore in favor of speed or capacity, which can result in a less than ideal passenger experience. However, some of the advertised advancements such as wifi service appear to be nothing out of the ordinary, as this should be standard practice for any long-distance train operator in the 21st century.

The fact that these trains have cargo space is an interesting feature as it suggests a new or different aspect to this service. However, given the frequency of trains that will be running, the capacity might not be large enough to materially impact cargo logistics.

Interestingly, the lower operating altitude of trains compared to airplanes provides travelers with consistent, uninterrupted views of the terrain, providing a perspective of the region that's difficult to match in air travel. The scenic aspects of travel are something often overlooked, and there is something to be said for the value of having a chance to see the landscape unfold over hours rather than the brief snapshots seen from the sky.

Generally, train schedules tend to be more consistent than airline schedules. Air travel often deals with weather and unpredictable issues that lead to cancellations or significant delays. Thus, it seems train travel is likely to be more predictable and provide more dependable travel times, which could be a strong advantage for business and leisure travel in this context.

Onboard climate control in a train is also likely more reliable than in an aircraft, which can offer a more comfortable travel experience. This can potentially be important to passengers who don't tolerate temperature fluctuations well, especially on long trips.

It remains to be seen whether the level of quality of food and beverage options on these trains is on par with what travelers expect. Currently, the expectation of a typical train service is not known. However, considering the focus on comfort and modern amenities, it’s conceivable that the SBB will make a conscious effort to elevate the passenger experience through in-transit dining choices. While many low-cost airlines have moved away from traditional inflight meal services, it is notable that there is a long tradition in Europe of train dining services, and it will be interesting to see how this element of the service evolves.

Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Train Travel Through the Swiss Alps and Gotthard Base Tunnel

Traveling by train through the Swiss Alps provides a captivating journey through breathtaking scenery while enjoying modern amenities. The Gotthard Base Tunnel, a remarkable feat of engineering at 57 kilometers long, is a key component of this route. It significantly reduces travel times between Zurich and Milan, enabling a trip of about 3 hours and 17 minutes. This new direct train connection, scheduled to begin in December 2024, promises increased convenience with frequent departures every half hour. It presents a potentially attractive alternative to air travel for both business and leisure travelers, particularly those seeking a more environmentally conscious journey. The trains on this route are fitted with features like restaurant cars and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable ride while providing stunning views that air travel can't match. However, it remains to be seen whether the initial train schedule will satisfy the diverse needs of passengers, especially those who favor early morning or late-night travel given the limited number of departures after 7:33 PM. While the trains seem modern and capable, they might struggle to meet the full travel demands of individuals traveling outside typical business hours.

The new Zurich Airport to Milan train connection, launching in December 2024, will utilize the Gotthard Base Tunnel, a remarkable feat of modern engineering. This 57-kilometer tunnel, the longest of its kind globally, took 17 years to construct and opened in 2016. It's a testament to the innovative use of technologies like tunnel boring machines and cut-and-cover methods to pierce through the formidable Swiss Alps.

Beyond just speed, the tunnel's design incorporates clever ventilation systems to address the heat generated by high-speed trains. These trains, reaching up to 250 km/h (155 mph), produce a significant amount of heat, which needs to be managed to ensure operational safety and passenger comfort. One can appreciate the sheer complexity of regulating temperatures within such a vast space.

Furthermore, the tunnel has revitalized freight transport by allowing goods trains to avoid the steep, winding mountain passes. This efficiency boost is palpable in the movement of goods between northern and southern Europe.

Traveling through the Alps by train often provides a scenic vantage point that’s hard to replicate by air. Panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery, fostering a much stronger connection with the environment than fleeting glimpses from an aircraft at altitude.

However, this level of infrastructure comes at a hefty price. The Gotthard Tunnel alone cost roughly CHF 12 billion, a stark reminder of the financial considerations behind such ambitious projects. The Swiss commitment to electric train systems, powered by overhead lines, is further noteworthy. This method of traction tends to be more efficient than diesel-powered trains, offering quicker acceleration and a cleaner environmental footprint.


Trains, in comparison to airplanes, can maintain their speed over extended distances more readily. Aircraft, due to the need for taxiing, take-off, and landing, lose some time, potentially making train travel preferable for shorter journeys across Europe.


The Gotthard railway has been a critical artery for European trade and travel since its construction in the late 19th century. The new SBB connection simply reflects the continuing evolution of this infrastructure to meet the changing needs of travelers and commerce. It will be interesting to see how this new route impacts existing travel patterns and the use of air travel, especially as the service matures and finds its footing.



The ability to maintain a consistent and high speed across the distance is also notable. The Swiss and Italian Alps see the terrain rise to heights of about 1,100 meters, requiring a high degree of engineering precision to navigate. There are some questions about the long-term sustainability of these kinds of projects and if there might be unintended consequences on the surrounding environments.

It will be interesting to observe how the introduction of the high-speed rail line affects the wider European travel landscape. If the SBB connection is a success, it will likely create a demand for similar projects and spur the evolution of rail transit across the continent. The impact of such an extensive infrastructure development across European economies has yet to be seen, but it will certainly be fascinating to see how it plays out.

Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Ticket Pricing and Booking Options for Airport Express Service

The upcoming SBB direct train service between Zurich Airport and Milan, launching in December 2024, presents a compelling travel option with its attractive ticket prices and booking flexibility. Fares can be found starting at €34.29, with an average around €70.61, potentially making this a more affordable choice than air travel if you factor in potential add-ons like checked luggage. Booking your tickets in advance can sometimes lead to even lower fares, so if you have some wiggle room in your travel schedule, consider this approach.

With up to 16 daily departures and an average journey time of approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, the train certainly provides a competitive alternative to flying. However, before making a decision, you might want to explore other options like bus travel, which can be less expensive but takes considerably longer.

While the train offers a blend of cost-effectiveness and a fairly quick travel time, it’s worth remembering that it also features stunning Swiss scenery. Keep in mind that claims about reduced CO2 emissions should be evaluated carefully. While the train undoubtedly contributes less pollution per passenger than a typical aeroplane, the overall emissions profile still needs to be understood to draw any solid conclusions about the sustainability of the service.

Okay, let's explore the ticket pricing and booking options for this new SBB Zurich Airport to Milan train service in a way that's both informative and inquisitive.

The SBB has announced that tickets will start around €30. This is an interesting initial price point when considering the fluctuating nature of airline fares between these cities, which can range from a relatively low €85 up to €370. It seems the SBB is attempting a fixed-fare model, at least in the beginning, rather than engaging in the dynamic pricing schemes that airlines commonly use. Whether this will remain the case for the long term is something we'll need to track. Passengers looking for budget options might find the SBB fares appealing if they are kept at these levels, providing a certain degree of price stability compared to airline tickets.

The pricing strategies employed by the railway companies are quite different than what we observe with airlines. The more rigid pricing scheme, at least initially, offers more transparency to the consumer and could be a differentiating factor. Whether this model remains unchanged when faced with variable demand remains to be seen. In a more dynamic model, SBB might introduce changes based on factors like the day of the week or how far in advance tickets are purchased. This would allow them to maximize revenue and adjust their pricing to remain competitive.

Regarding flexibility, railway tickets are often more adaptable to changes than airplane tickets. Airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, typically implement strict rules and penalties for changes or refunds. In contrast, train travel could present more lenient terms. It will be interesting to see how these policies are structured with the new SBB connection. This type of flexibility could appeal to a wider range of travelers. Those traveling with less certainty about their schedule will appreciate the flexibility that the trains potentially offer.

The SBB may also look at pricing strategies to attract group travel. Discounted tickets for group travel are more common with trains than with airlines. We might see bundling initiatives with other local transportation, which would be convenient for those managing complex multi-mode itineraries, making the train a strong choice for families and those on longer travel journeys.

When considering luggage, the trains often have more forgiving baggage policies compared to the limitations of budget airlines. This is a noteworthy aspect that could sway travelers weary of additional baggage fees. It seems the train has a wider berth on carrying personal belongings, which is quite a contrast to air travel.

Tickets can be purchased through the usual online channels, but also at kiosks in stations. This multi-channel approach is a departure from the airline model, where online platforms often dominate. The ability to buy tickets at the station could be helpful for travelers who encounter network issues or who want to avoid possible internet fees, though it's unlikely to displace the prevalence of online sales.

Unlike airlines where selecting a specific seat can be a costly add-on, train services often offer seat reservations for a minimal fee or even include them as part of the ticket. While airlines often justify charges for seat selection with logistical arguments, this could again be a point of differentiation for the train service. It's reasonable to expect that some people will choose the train over air travel solely due to the better pricing on seats.

The future might also see SBB introduce loyalty programs similar to the airline frequent flyer systems, potentially making it an appealing option for those who travel often between Zurich and Milan. It's likely that the SBB will explore offering rewards, like points for each trip that could be used for discounts or free rides, creating a sense of incentive for regular travellers.

When considering revenues, the potential for profits from onboard services such as catering on trains is often higher than for airlines. Trains have the advantage of lower operating costs related to food service, thus generating stronger profit margins. This could be an area where the SBB focusses their efforts on building a more robust revenue model.

Of course, it would be incomplete to ignore the impact of the sheer travel time. While direct flights are faster, it's crucial to factor in the additional time required for airport processes. It's conceivable that the train could become an equally viable option when considering the combined travel time. The SBB would need to establish a set of fares that take this into account and make the train a viable choice in all travel situations.

Zurich Airport to Milan A Guide to the New SBB Direct Train Connection Starting December 2024 - Connections to Other Italian Cities from Milan Central Station

Milan Central Station acts as a major railway hub for travel within Italy, connecting to a wide range of cities across the country. You can readily reach popular destinations like Venice, Rome, and Genoa with frequent train services at often attractive prices. With the new SBB direct train route from Zurich launching in December 2024, Milan Central Station becomes even more of a key travel node. This improved accessibility from Switzerland makes Milan a potentially convenient jumping-off point for exploring other parts of Italy. It's conceivable that this enhanced connectivity could reshape travel patterns, potentially leading to more integrated and streamlined travel options for individuals arriving from Switzerland and wanting to continue to other parts of Italy. Whether this leads to noticeable improvements in travel experiences for those exploring the country beyond Milan remains to be seen.

Here are ten interesting points about the rail connections from Milan Central Station to other Italian cities that might pique the interest of travelers and rail enthusiasts alike:

1. **Extensive Network**: Milan Central Station serves as a major railway hub, with a remarkably dense network of connections to various Italian cities. Over 300 high-speed trains depart daily, showcasing the scale of operations and a strong emphasis on rail travel within Italy. This network can get you to Florence in under two hours, and Venice in about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

2. **Southern Reach**: One notable aspect is the direct high-speed rail connection to southern Italy. Cities like Naples and Rome are easily accessible, with travel times shrinking dramatically. Reaching Naples can be accomplished in around 4 hours, while Rome takes roughly 3 hours—a considerable improvement over past travel times.

3. **Architectural Landmark**: The original Milan Central Station was inaugurated in 1931. Its architectural style, a blend of Art Deco and Liberty elements, is impressive and considered one of Europe's most important train stations. Its design is a testament to the artistic and engineering prowess of its time.

4. **Tram Integration**: Milan's transportation system extends beyond just the train station. A large network of trams, over 17 lines, allows seamless transitions from Central Station to various neighborhoods within Milan, reducing the need for multiple transfers or taxi rides.

5. **Eurostar Italia's Role**: Eurostar Italia uses Milan Central Station as a primary departure point for high-speed services. Cities like Turin and Bologna are served by these specialized trains, a testament to the commitment to enhancing speed and passenger comfort on key routes.

6. **Beyond Borders**: Milan Central Station isn't limited to domestic connections. It also acts as an international hub, with direct trains to Switzerland and France. This means travelers can reach destinations like Geneva and Nice via train, bypassing the need for flight connections and simplifying multi-country travel.

7. **High-Speed Investment**: Italy's dedication to high-speed rail is impressive. The nation boasts one of the world's largest high-speed networks. The investments clearly show a vision to elevate rail travel as a key mode of transport. Reduced travel times and increased passenger numbers demonstrate the growing importance of rail travel in Italy.

8. **Baggage Perks**: One of the notable advantages of train travel from Milan Central Station is the relatively generous luggage allowance. Unlike airlines, most train services allow two large suitcases and a smaller carry-on without extra fees, a welcome change for passengers concerned about excess baggage charges.

9. **Culinary Experience Aboard**: Train travel in Italy frequently includes onboard dining experiences. It's not uncommon for high-speed trains to offer meals prepared by Michelin-starred chefs. This aligns with the country's strong culinary reputation and elevates the train travel experience. This element seems to add a unique value to the overall rail journey.

10. **Real-Time Information**: One area where trains have an advantage over some airlines is information sharing. Mobile apps and station boards often provide real-time updates on train status and any potential delays. This fosters a sense of confidence and convenience for passengers concerned about schedule accuracy. This technology allows for more responsive adjustments to travel plans.

These points about Milan Central Station provide a clear picture of its importance as a central transportation point not only for Milan, but also for the wider Italian rail network. Its efficiency in linking people and places across Italy and beyond makes it a noteworthy element in the country's transportation infrastructure.