Travelling from Zurich airport to Meiringen is relatively straightforward, but choosing the right transport option can make a major difference to the start of your Switzerland holiday. Train, rental car and private shuttle services each offer different advantages depending on your budget, luggage, group size and travel plans. Meiringen sits in the beautiful Bernese Oberland and provides convenient access to Hasliberg, Aare Gorge Reichenbach Falls, Lake Brienz, and other scenic areas. If you are staying at Hotel Rebstock, choosing the right airport transfer can also make arrival much easier. This guide compares the three main ways to travel from Zurich Airport to Meiringen.
Zurich Airport to Meiringen: Which Option Is Best?
For most visitors, the train is the best balance of comfort, price, and convenience. Switzerland's railway system makes it possible to travel directly from the airport railway station toward central Switzerland without arranging an airport taxi. A rental car is better for travellers who want maximum flexibility and plan to explore mountain roads, villages, lakes and attractions during their stay. A private shuttle is the easiest door-to-door option, particularly for families, larger groups, travellers with substantial luggage, or visitors arriving after a long international flight.
Option 1: Zurich Airport to Meiringen by Train
Taking the Zurich Airport to Meiringen train is one of the easiest ways to reach the town without driving. Zurich Airport has its own railway station, so there is no need to travel into Zurich city simply to begin your journey. Depending on the connection, passengers normally travel toward Lucerne and continue toward Meiringen, with the precise number of changes varying according to the departure time. The full journey generally takes around two and a half to three hours, although faster connections may be available.
What the Train Journey Is Like
The train option offers more than transportation. The journey toward Meiringen passes through attractive Central Swiss landscapes before continuing along the scenic route toward the Bernese Oberland. Travelling by train also removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads immediately after a flight. There is space for normal luggage and travellers can check current connections and ticket options before departure using Swiss public-transport services.
Who Should Choose the Train?
The train is particularly suitable for:
- solo travellers
- couples
- visitors without extensive luggage
- travellers planning to use Swiss public transport
- guests who do not need a car during their stay
It is also convenient for Hotel Rebstock guests because the hotel is located within a short walk of Meiringen Train Station.
Option 2: Zurich Airport to Meiringen by Car
Driving from Zurich airport to Meiringen is the fastest option in normal road conditions while also giving travellers complete flexibility. The road distance is roughly 110 kilometres, and the drive can take around one and a half to two hours depending on traffic, weather, roadworks, and your chosen route. Zurich Airport has a dedicated car-rental centre, allowing travellers who have reserved a vehicle to collect it directly after arrival.
Why Choose a Rental Car?
A car becomes especially useful if Meiringen is only one part of a wider road trip. From Meiringen, you can explore nearby valleys, Lake Brienz, Hasliberg and seasonal mountain-pass routes without depending entirely on railway schedules. It can also be convenient for families carrying several suitcases or travellers with sports and outdoor equipment.
Who Should Rent a Car?
Consider driving if you are planning multiple countryside excursions, travelling with children, carrying significant luggage, or continuing your journey through other parts of Switzerland. Remember that mountain and winter conditions may affect driving times, so always check the weather before departure.
Option 3: Private Shuttle or Airport Transfer
A private Zurich Airport shuttle to Meiringen provides the easiest arrival experience. Your driver can meet you at or near the arrivals area and take you directly to your accommodation. There are no train changes, luggage transfers, or rental-car formalities after landing. Private transfers can often complete the journey in approximately the same driving time as a rental car, although traffic and weather conditions affect the journey.
When Is a Private Transfer Worth It?
The main disadvantage is price. A private vehicle is normally substantially more expensive than travelling by train. However, the cost may make more sense when divided among a family or group. A private shuttle is particularly attractive for travellers arriving with young children, elderly family members, multiple suitcases, ski equipment, or anyone who simply wants the easiest possible transfer after a long flight.
Which Option Is Best for Families?
Families should compare both rental cars and private transfers. A rental car offers flexibility throughout the holiday, while a shuttle removes the responsibility of driving immediately after arriving in Switzerland. Families planning to use trains for most sightseeing may find that a private transfer on arrival followed by public transport during the holiday provides a comfortable compromise.
Which Option Is Best for Couples and Solo Travellers?
For couples and solo visitors, the train is usually the most practical choice. It avoids rental, fuel, and parking considerations while providing a comfortable journey into the Bernese Oberland. If your itinerary includes remote locations or scenic drives, however, renting a car may provide better overall flexibility.
Staying Near Meiringen Train Station
Your hotel location matters when arriving with luggage. Hotel Rebstock is centrally located in Meiringen and approximately a five-minute walk from the railway station. This makes it particularly practical for guests arriving by train. It also allows visitors to use Meiringen as a base for exploring the surrounding region without needing to change accommodation frequently.
Book Your Stay in Meiringen
If you are planning your journey from Zurich airport to Meiringen, consider booking your accommodation before arranging transport. Check availability directly with Hotel Rebstock Meiringen and enjoy a central base close to the train station, local services, and many of the region's popular attractions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing how to travel from Zurich airport to Meiringen depends primarily on your priorities. Choose the train for a convenient and comfortable public-transport journey. Choose a rental car if you want independence and plan to explore more of Switzerland by road. Choose a private shuttle when door-to-door comfort and easy luggage handling are more important than price. Whichever option you choose, Meiringen provides a peaceful and practical base for discovering the Bernese Oberland.
Q1: What is the easiest way to get from Zurich Airport to Meiringen?
For most travellers, the train is the easiest option because Zurich Airport has its own railway station and Meiringen is connected to the Swiss rail network.
Q2: How long is the train from Zurich Airport to Meiringen?
The journey usually takes around two and a half to three hours depending on the connection and transfers.
Q3: Is there a direct train from Zurich Airport to Meiringen?
Normally, travellers need to change trains during the journey. The exact connection depends on the timetable and departure time.
Q4: How long does it take to drive from Zurich Airport to Meiringen?
Driving generally takes around one and a half to two hours in normal conditions, although traffic and weather can increase the journey time.
Q5: How far is Zurich Airport from Meiringen?
The road distance is approximately 110 kilometres, depending on the selected route.
Q6: Can I rent a car at Zurich Airport?
Yes. Zurich Airport has a dedicated car-rental centre where travellers can collect pre-booked rental vehicles.
Q7: Can I book a private shuttle from Zurich Airport to Meiringen?
Yes. Private airport transfers, taxis, and chauffeur services can be pre-booked for door-to-door travel to Meiringen.
Q8: Is the train or car better for families travelling to Meiringen?
A car can be more convenient for families who need flexibility, while the train avoids driving and parking. A private shuttle offers the easiest door-to-door experience.
Q9: Is Meiringen easy to explore without a car?
Yes. Meiringen has railway and public-transport connections, making it possible to visit many destinations without renting a vehicle.
Q10: Is Hotel Rebstock close to Meiringen Train Station?
Yes. Hotel Rebstock is centrally located and approximately a five-minute walk from Meiringen Train Station.
