Flights from Birmingham to Zurich
One of the world’s most liveable cities; Zurich is cultural and contemporary.
Approximate flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes
No of flights per week: 12
Airlines that fly direct: Swiss
No. of Airports in Zurich: Zurich Airport
Seasons: High = June - August; Low = November - March
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Departing from Birmingham Airport
When you fly to Switzerland from the UK, Birmingham Airport is a great airport to depart from. We fly to destinations all over the world, and have many shops, restaurants and facilities to keep you entertained before your flight.
Birmingham Airport is easily accessible whatever mode of transport you choose to travel by. Public transport is plentiful and makes travelling to the airport quick and seamless. The train will drop you to Birmingham International train station, where you can jump on our free and frequent Air-Rail link, which takes you to the terminal in a few minutes. Alternatively, there are plenty of buses running to the airport from Birmingham city centre and surrounding areas. Taxis can drop you directly outside the terminal, should you prefer.
If you want to drive yourself to the airport, there are seven carparks to choose from, all reachable from the terminal building on foot or via the courtesy shuttle bus.
Need currency for your trip abroad? Look no further - head to our Travelex stores conveniently located in the Arrivals area of the terminal building and Departures Lounge. If you prefer, you can pre-order your currency and get next day collection if you order before 3pm at Birmingham Airport.
Shopping at the airport is bound to keep you busy while you wait to board your flight to Zurich. From designer luxury to high street essentials, our shops will cater to your needs. Boots has your health and beauty essentials, InMotion has premium brand electronics for the traveller, and World Duty Free sells all your favourite brands at discount prices. For fashion, you’ll find the likes of Kurt Geiger, Superdry and JDSports.
Arriving at Zurich Airport
Zurich Airport is located around 6 miles north of Zurich city centre, making it easy to travel to and from.
Travelling by train is a great way to continue your journey to your final destination. The train station is located at level 1 of the terminal building, directly underneath the Departures and Arrivals Hall. There are up to six trains an hour to and from Zurich and you will also find direct routes to major cities in Switzerland.
There are also local and long-distance buses available from the airport, at level 0. If you’d prefer to relax in a taxi, you will find a line of taxis waiting outside the Arrivals Hall which run off a metre. There are also car hire options, should you prefer to drive yourself around.
Pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive.
What to expect in Zurich
Given its conservative reputation as a city of bankers, you’d be forgiven for dismissing Zurich as a travel destination. But Switzerland’s wealthiest city is so much more than business. Set on a beautiful lake, near the mountains, and offering a beautiful blend of old and new, Zurich is both charming and lively.
The main language spoken in Zurich is German, but you will find that many locals speak English.
The Swiss Franc is the official currency in Zurich. You will find that Euros are accepted in many places, but not everywhere, and using Euros will most likely incur extra charges.
Zurich has four distinct seasons. In winter, temperature occasionally drop below zero, while hot summer days can record temperatures over 30° C.
Culture in Zurich
Despite being well-known for banking and watches, Zurich is a city wealthy not only in money, but also in cultural activities. The city offers a colourful cultural program throughout the year, from concerts and films to museums and festivals - you’ll find tonnes to do on your visit.
Every two years, the Zurich Festival takes place in June - a month of theatre opera, concerts, dance, exhibitions and readings. You’ll find performances at Zurich’s many cultural institutions such as the Zurich Opera House, Schauspielhaus (municipal theatre), Tonhalle orchestra (concert hall) and Kunsthaus Zurich (art museum).
Of course, Swiss cuisine is known mainly for its cheese dishes, like raclette and fondue, and its tasty milk chocolate. But you should also try Zurich Geschnetzeltes, a dish made from small pieces of veal cooked in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce.