Winterthur is 20 minutes from Zurich by direct train — InterCity and RegioExpress services run every 15–30 minutes throughout the day. The train is far faster than driving and drops you at the city centre. Zurich Airport is 15 minutes away by direct rail connection, making Winterthur a practical base for anyone flying into Zurich.
By car, Winterthur sits at the junction of the A1 motorway (Zurich–St. Gallen) and the A7 toward Schaffhausen. Parking in the city centre is limited and expensive; the train is the better option for day visitors.