Train Zurich - Lucerne prices from $15.71

04/19/2024
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Zurich to Lucerne by train

The journey from Zurich to Lucerne by train is 24.69 mi and takes 0 hr 52 min. There are 82 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:08 AM and the last at 11:51 PM. It is possible to travel from Zurich to Lucerne by train for as little as $15.71 or as much as $33.25. The best price for this journey is $15.71.

Lowest Price$15.71
Journey Duration0 hr 52 min
Connection per Day82
Lowest Price$15.71
Highest Price$33.25
First Departure12:08 AM
Last Departure11:51 PM
Distance24.69 mi
DepartureZurich
ArrivalLucerne
CarriersSchweizerische Bundesbahnen, SBB

Zurich to Lucerne Train Times

Departure date
Friday, Apr 19, 2024

Traveling from Zurich to Lucerne

Embarking on a train journey from Zurich, Switzerland's largest city known for its vibrant cultural life and financial prowess, to Lucerne, a city famed for its preserved medieval architecture and stunning lakeside setting, offers travelers an enchanting view of Switzerland's diverse landscapes and rich heritage. This route spans approximately 24.69 mi, with an average travel time of around 0 hr 52 min. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides a direct and efficient connection between these two iconic cities, ensuring a comfortable and picturesque journey. With multiple 82 departures daily, and passengers have a wide range of scheduling options. To secure the most competitive fares, sometimes as attractive as $15.71, it's recommended to book in advance. For a smooth boarding experience, arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure is advisable.

SBB trains in Switzerland epitomize efficiency and comfort, catering to the needs of diverse travelers. With various classes available, passengers can enjoy spacious seating, panoramic windows for breathtaking views of the Swiss landscape, and power outlets for device charging. The trains boast modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity throughout the journey. Onboard dining cars offer a selection of Swiss and international cuisine, along with a variety of beverages. For longer trips, first-class compartments provide additional comfort with larger seats and extra legroom. 

The journey begins at Zurich's Hauptbahnhof (HB), one of Europe's busiest railway stations, providing easy access to Zurich's key attractions, from the Bahnhofstrasse shopping avenue to the historic Old Town. Upon reaching Lucerne, travelers disembark at Lucerne Railway Station, which is conveniently located and offers easy access to the city's famous Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, and the old city walls.

Traveling from Zurich to Lucerne

Embarking on a train journey from Zurich, Switzerland's largest city known for its vibrant cultural life and financial prowess, to Lucerne, a city famed for its preserved medieval architecture and stunning lakeside setting, offers travelers an enchanting view of Switzerland's diverse landscapes and rich heritage. This route spans approximately 24.69 mi, with an average travel time of around 0 hr 52 min. Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides a direct and efficient connection between these two iconic cities, ensuring a comfortable and picturesque journey. With multiple 82 departures daily, and passengers have a wide range of scheduling options. To secure the most competitive fares, sometimes as attractive as $15.71, it's recommended to book in advance. For a smooth boarding experience, arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure is advisable.

SBB trains in Switzerland epitomize efficiency and comfort, catering to the needs of diverse travelers. With various classes available, passengers can enjoy spacious seating, panoramic windows for breathtaking views of the Swiss landscape, and power outlets for device charging. The trains boast modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity throughout the journey. Onboard dining cars offer a selection of Swiss and international cuisine, along with a variety of beverages. For longer trips, first-class compartments provide additional comfort with larger seats and extra legroom. 

The journey begins at Zurich's Hauptbahnhof (HB), one of Europe's busiest railway stations, providing easy access to Zurich's key attractions, from the Bahnhofstrasse shopping avenue to the historic Old Town. Upon reaching Lucerne, travelers disembark at Lucerne Railway Station, which is conveniently located and offers easy access to the city's famous Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, and the old city walls.

Things to Do in Lucerne:

  1. Walk across the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
  2. Visit the Lion Monument, a rock relief dedicated to Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution.
  3. Explore the Swiss Transport Museum, showcasing the nation's historical vehicles.
  4. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Lucerne, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  5. Discover the Rosengart Collection, featuring works by Picasso and other 20th-century artists.
  6. Stroll through the Old Town, admiring its well-preserved buildings and picturesque squares.
  7. Take a cable car to Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi for breathtaking panoramic views.
  8. Attend a concert at the KKL Luzern, a renowned cultural and convention center.
  9. Explore the Richard Wagner Museum, located in the composer's former residence.
  10. Visit the Glacier Garden, a natural monument with glacial potholes and a mirror maze.

What to eat in Lucerne:

  1. Rösti: A Swiss potato dish, often served as a side for various meals.
  2. Lucerne Cheese Tart: A savory tart made with cheese and onions, a local specialty.
  3. Swiss Chocolate: Indulge in high-quality chocolates from renowned Swiss chocolatiers.
  4. Fondue: A classic Swiss dish of melted cheese served with bread for dipping.
  5. Alplermagronen: A traditional Swiss pasta dish with potatoes, cheese, and onions.
  6. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti.
  7. Swiss Pastries: Try a variety of Swiss pastries, such as Gipfeli (croissants) and Leckerli (honey biscuits).
  8. Birchermüesli: A healthy Swiss breakfast option made with oats, fruits, and yogurt.
  9. Raclette: Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions.
  10. Swiss Wines: Sample some local wines that are less well-known internationally but highly appreciated locally.

Day Trips from Lucerne:

From Lucerne, travelers can easily explore Central Switzerland's stunning landscapes and cultural sites. The nearby Engelberg offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The picturesque town of Weggis, on the shores of Lake Lucerne, provides a tranquil escape with beautiful views and spa facilities. For a historical experience, the town of Altdorf, associated with the legend of William Tell, is a short journey away. The Andermatt ski resort, known for its challenging slopes and pristine natural beauty, is also within reach. Additionally, the Einsiedeln Abbey, a significant pilgrimage site with a stunning baroque church, is a worthwhile visit.

Travel Tips for Lucerne:

When visiting Lucerne, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the city is best explored on foot, especially the Old Town area. The public transportation system, including buses and boats, efficiently reaches nearby attractions and scenic spots. With cold winters and mild summers, Lucerne's weather can vary, so packing appropriately is essential. Dive into the city's rich history, engage with its vibrant cultural scene, and savor the culinary delights that reflect Lucerne's Swiss heritage. Whether exploring historic sites, enjoying the natural beauty of the lake and mountains, or indulging in local gastronomy, Lucerne offers a memorable experience for every traveler.

If the idea of a train journey from Zurich to Lucerne appeals to you, let Virail assist you in planning. With a commitment to crafting personalized travel experiences, Virail ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey.

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Compare prices and tickets from Zurich to Lucerne

Cheap train tickets from Zurich to Lucerne
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Zurich to Lucerne.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Zurich to Lucerne, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Zurich to Lucerne.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

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Best time to book Zurich to Lucerne travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $9.25 to $20.10 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 54% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Zurich to Lucerne

The cheapest Zurich - Lucerne train tickets can be found for as low as $11.12 if you’re lucky, or $14.96 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $25.21.

Find the best day to travel to Lucerne by train

When travelling to Lucerne by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Services on board SBB from Zurich to Lucerne
Compare services on board when travelling from Zurich to Lucerne by train.
Facilities SBB
quiet_zone Quiet zone check
wifi WiFi check
power_sockets Power sockets check
luggage Luggage check
accessibility Accessibility check
food_and_drink Food and drink check
air_con Air conditioning check
bicycle Bicycle check
sleeper_couchette Sleeper check

Zurich to Lucerne CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
2.78kg
Bus
2.98kg
Flight
7.95kg
Car
6.36kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Zurich to Lucerne by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Zurich and Lucerne are 2.78kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Zurich and Lucerne? By taking the train between Zurich and Lucerne you will save 5.17kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 0.2kg compared to a bus and 3.58kg compared to a car.

Anything we can improve?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Zurich to Lucerne?
A train ticket from Zurich to Lucerne is $21.81. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $15.71.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Zurich to Lucerne?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Zurich to Lucerne is $15.71. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Zurich and Lucerne by train?
Zurich to Lucerne is 24.69 mi.
How long does the train between Zurich and Lucerne take?
Zurich to Lucerne is on average 0 hr 52 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 0 hr 41 min.
Which companies operate from Zurich to Lucerne?
The train journey from Zurich to Lucerne is covered by 1 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: Schweizerische Bundesbahnen and SBB.
How many train connections per day go from Zurich to Lucerne?
Zurich to Lucerne has 82 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Zurich to Lucerne leave?
The earliest train from Zurich to Lucerne departs at 12:08 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Zurich to Lucerne depart?
The latest train from Zurich to Lucerne departs at 11:51 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Zurich to Lucerne in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $15.71 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
How many direct connections depart from Zurich to Lucerne?
There are on average 68 direct connection(s) from Zurich to go to Lucerne.
What's the fastest journey time between Zurich to Lucerne by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Zurich and Lucerne is 0 hr 41 min.
Is there a direct train from Zurich to Lucerne?
Yes, there is a direct train between Zurich and Lucerne.
What are the CO2 emissions for Zurich to Lucerne by train?
The train journey from Zurich to Lucerne creates 2.78kg of CO2 emissions.

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