UBS Polybahn

Heritage railroad · Oberstrass ·

UBS Polybahn

Heritage railroad · Oberstrass ·

Fire-engine red funicular offering panoramic city and lake views

Information

Limmatquai 144, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Get directions

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Ride up the Polybahn for Stellar Views The terrace at ETH Zurich—where Einstein was an alum—lords high above the city for catch-your-breath views beyond to the lake and the Alps. A number of trams will take you to the terrace, but the most fun way to get there is on the fire-engine red Polybahn, one of only two funiculars left in the city, and the most conveniently located. It runs every 2.5 minutes from the Central stop."

The Perfect Weekend in Zurich

Photo by rosmary/Flickr

Polybahn

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

12 Must-Do Experiences in Zurich

Photo by rosmary/Flickr

Polybahn

Sukesh S.

Google

Used the Polybahn from Central to go up to Polyterrasse and ETH Zurich. It also runs downhill, which was convenient. The ride itself felt like a short cable car journey and genuinely brought out the child in me. The ticket costs around 2 CHF. Wait period is around 4 mins

Eva

Google

Short ride up to the top overlooking the city of Zurich and the lake. Once in the top, you can enter inside the school. When visiting there, there was photography exhibition inside. It was a good experience and nice short unplanned trip in the city.

Jayeeta B.

Google

Taking the Polybahn up to the ETH Zurich and its terrace was an amazing experience! This historic funicular railway is not just a mode of transport, but a charming piece of Zurich's heritage. The ride, though short, offers superb, expansive views of the city's rooftops and the Limmat River as you climb. It's incredibly convenient for getting to the ETH campus or the University of Zurich, saving you a steep walk. The journey is brief but delightful, and arriving right at the grand plaza in front of the iconic ETH building (the one pictured!) is truly impressive. Don't miss this little gem for a practical, scenic, and nostalgic ride!

Alfred N.

Google

The ride only lasts about 2 minutes, but it’s full of character — with its retro wooden interior and preserved station design. Once you reach the top, you'll find the ETH main campus just across the street — and more importantly, a public terrace lookout point offering panoramic views of Zurich and its lake. It’s an underrated but highly rewarding stop for any visitor. Perfect for a quick ride with kids or as part of a walking route around the city. A small but iconic piece of Zurich’s charm.

Francesca P.

Google

It was a short but lovely ride. If you already have a public transportation ticket, you can use it for the polybahn. Once you reach the top, you'll exit near the school that Albert Einstein attended. I didn't go inside, but the view from up there is amazing.

Rick B.

Google

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Riding the Polybahn was such a fun and memorable experience! I loved that it was included in my SBB daily travel pass, so there was no need for an extra ticket. The ride itself is quick but scenic, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with spectacular views over the heart of Zürich. Be sure to stop in at the university and look for Einstein’s locker. It’s a cool little surprise that adds to the charm of the whole experience. A great blend of history, convenience, and stunning sights. Don’t miss it!

Ramasharan L.

Google

Do you want to see Zurich city from an observation deck, do not want to pay extra? Do you have Zurich card or swiss travel pass? Then head towards UBS polybahn. It is a funicular few hundred meters from the Zurich station. Takes you to the terrace infront of Zurich University. You get the view of the Zurich old city, lake. Essentially it is a commuter mode to go up the hill.

mark W.

Google

The cheapest thing you can do in Zurich chf 1.20 each way, fantastic view of the city from up there.

Chocoolate I.

Yelp

This is a great little tram that will take you from the Limmattquai up a hill really close to ETH and the University of Zurich. I highly recommend this three minute ride up hill because from the top you will have absolutely magnificent views of Zurich and the Limmatt River. I was able to get terrific panoramic photos on the way up and from the ETH University which is about sixty yards to the right of the train stop at the top. Visited November 2013