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Making your way from Zurich to Lucerne by train

Planning a trip from Zurich to Lucerne? While they’re not far by car, driving on unfamiliar roads can be stressful. And who knows what kind of painful parking situation you’ll face at the other end? Hop on an InterRegio (IR) train – SBB’s long-distance train connecting different regions – from Zurich to Lucerne and you can be in the pretty Swiss town in just 45 minutes.

Swiss rail operator SBB runs direct services between these two cities every day, with plenty of timing options to choose from. Take a day trip to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Lucerne, or simply spend your time strolling through the quaint town centre. You’ll also enjoy picturesque Swiss views along the way.

Check out all the available train times for this route below, as well as essential information in the FAQs.

Trains to Lucerne from Zurich Hb

First train

00:08

Last train

23:35

Departure stationZurich Hb
Arrival stationLucerne
Journey time

From 41m

Distance

25 miles (40 km)

Frequency

41 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Train and bus operators

SBB CFF FFS

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Zurich Hb to Lucerne?

Want to know more about your journey from Zurich Hb to Lucerne? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I travel from Zurich Hb to Lucerne?

You can get from Zurich Hb to Lucerne by train in 53 minutes on average, with the fastest journeys taking just 41 minutes. You can also take the bus from Zurich Hb to Lucerne. Check out our Journey Planner for more details.

How long does the train from Zurich Hb to Lucerne take?

The average journey time by train between Zurich Hb and Lucerne is 53 minutes, with around 41 trains per day running on this route. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Zurich Hb and Lucerne by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Zurich Hb to Lucerne is 41 minutes.

Can you take a train directly from Zurich Hb to Lucerne?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Zurich Hb to Lucerne without having to change trains. There are 40 direct trains from Zurich Hb to Lucerne each day. However, there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

What are the train times from Zurich Hb to Lucerne?

Check out the next trains departing from Zurich Hb to Lucerne for Tuesday 23rd September 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
11:1011:5141m, direct
11:3512:2550m, direct
12:1012:5141m, direct
12:3513:2550m, direct
13:1013:5141m, direct
13:3514:2550m, direct
14:1014:5141m, direct
14:3515:2550m, direct
15:1015:5141m, direct
15:3516:2550m, direct

SBB trains from Zurich Hb to Lucerne

You can travel from Zurich Hb to Lucerne on SBB trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

The Swiss rail network is operated by SBB. SBB train ticket prices are based on travel and not on the type of trains. You will find available return tickets (standard price, one way or round trip), Multiple journey tickets (for six individual trips on a pre-determined itinerary) and the City-Ticket (including a one-day transportation pass from the city of departure or arrival).

How do I find cheap train tickets from Zurich Hb to Lucerne?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Zurich Hb to Lucerne starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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