Zurich Airport

Zurich Airport is one of Europe’s most efficient international gateways and a major entry point for skiers heading to the Swiss Alps. Located about 13 km north of Zurich city centre, the airport offers excellent global connections and seamless onward travel, making it a popular arrival hub for winter sports holidays.

One of Zurich Airport’s biggest advantages is its direct rail station beneath the terminals. Frequent Swiss Federal Railways trains connect the airport to major ski destinations such as St. Moritz, Zermatt, Davos and Verbier. Many resorts can be reached in two to four hours by train, often without needing a car. Skiers can also use private transfers or hire cars from the airport’s on-site rental centres for more direct journeys to mountain resorts.

The airport itself is modern and easy to navigate, with efficient baggage handling, ski-equipment services, shops, restaurants and lounges. Winter travellers benefit from clear signage and quick connections between flights and trains.

Because of its central location, reliable transport links and high-quality facilities, Zurich Airport is one of the most convenient and popular gateways for reaching ski resorts across Switzerland and nearby Alpine regions.

Getting to and from Zurich Airport

Travelling to Zurich Airport by plane is convenient thanks to its extensive international connections. The airport serves major cities across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, with frequent flights from hubs such as London, Paris, Frankfurt and Dubai. It is Switzerland’s largest airport and a key gateway for both business and leisure travellers. Located about 13 km from central Zurich, arrivals are efficient and well organised, with clear signage and fast baggage handling. Excellent onward transport options, including direct trains, trams and taxis, make it easy to reach Zurich city centre and nearby Alpine ski resorts shortly after landing.

Zurich Airport (ZRH) Car Parking

Car parking at Zurich Airport is well organised, with a wide range of options for short- and long-stay travellers. Multi-storey car parks P1, P2 and P3 are located directly next to the terminals, providing the most convenient access for departures and arrivals. These covered garages are ideal for short trips or business travel, with lifts and walkways leading straight into the terminal buildings.

For longer stays, more economical parking is available in P6 and P60, which are slightly farther from the terminal but connected by regular shuttle buses or short train links. These areas are popular for holiday parking, especially for travellers leaving their cars for several days or weeks.

Prices vary depending on proximity and duration, but short-stay parking can cost around CHF 6–8 per hour, while long-stay options may start from roughly CHF 150–200 per week if booked in advance. Online booking is recommended to secure lower rates and guarantee a space.

Ski Destinations from Zurich Airport

Several top Swiss ski resorts are easily reached from Zurich Airport, making it a major gateway to the Alps. The closest is Flumserberg, about 1–1.5 hours away. Engelberg and Andermatt are also reachable in under two hours by car or train. Within roughly 2–3 hours, skiers can reach world-famous resorts such as St. Moritz, Davos and Zermatt. With direct trains from the airport station and excellent road links, Zurich offers convenient access to many of Switzerland’s best ski destinations.

Car Rental Options at Zurich Airport

Car hire at Zurich Airport is straightforward and efficient, making it a popular choice for travellers heading into the Swiss Alps. Rental desks for major companies such as Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt and Enterprise are located in the Airport Center, directly linked to the terminals by covered walkways. Vehicles are collected from nearby multi-storey car parks, so pick-up is quick after completing paperwork.

A wide range of vehicles is available, from compact city cars to estates, SUVs and premium models suitable for winter driving. During ski season, many providers include winter tyres as standard, and snow chains or ski racks can be requested. Prices vary depending on demand, but expect roughly CHF 70–120 per day for a small car if booked in advance, with higher rates for larger vehicles or peak winter weeks.

Booking ahead online is recommended, especially during the ski season. Hiring a car provides flexibility for reaching resorts such as St. Moritz, Davos and Engelberg directly from the airport.

Airlines flying from Zurich Airport

easyJet	Website
KLM	Website
Air France	Website
Jet2	Website
Emirates	Website
British Airways	Website
Eurowings	Website
Lufthansa	Website
Austrian Airlines	Website