Zurich to Lucerne by Train
Barely an hour from Zurich, Lucerne opens up the lake, Mount Pilatus and Rigi, and some of Switzerland's finest scenic railways — an easy and rewarding hop.
The journey, stop by stop
From Zürich HB SBB InterRegio trains run southwest through the rolling countryside to Luzern, a terminus station right on the edge of Lake Lucerne and the old town.
How long does it take?
Direct trains take around 45 to 60 minutes, running about twice an hour throughout the day. Check the live schedule for your date.
Who runs the route?
The route is run by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways. Fares are simple and covered by the Swiss Travel Pass.
Zurich to Lucerne train price (2026)
Standard fares are around €15–25 each way; Swiss Travel Pass and Eurail holders travel free on this route.
| Operator | From | Journey time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBB InterRegio | ~€18 | 45m | Twice hourly |
| SBB (with change) | ~€18 | 1h 05m | Frequent |
Prices are indicative advance fares. Check live availability for your exact date.
How to get the best fare
- Book early. The cheapest saver fares sell out first — booking ahead can be dramatically cheaper than buying on the day.
- Travel off-peak. Mid-morning and mid-week departures tend to be quieter and cheaper.
- Consider first class — on many routes the upgrade is modest and very comfortable.
- Compare in one place to see every departure at a glance.
Gateway to Lake Lucerne and the mountains
Lucerne is a hub for some of Switzerland's best scenery: boat trips across the lake, the cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, and the Rigi. With trains every half hour from Zurich, it's an easy addition to any Swiss itinerary.
Ready to go? Check live Zurich → Lucerne times and fares and book your seat on Trainline — secure checkout, mobile tickets, every operator in one search.
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