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Travelling from Mechelen to Lucerne by train

Looking to travel from Mechelen to Lucerne by train? You've come to the right place!

On average, it takes around 9 hours 14 minutes to travel from Mechelen to Lucerne by train, the fastest services can get you there in as little as 7 hours 20 minutes though. You'll usually find 30 trains per day running along the 324 miles (522 km) route between these two destinations. You’ll need to make 3 changes during the journey to Lucerne, as there currently aren't any direct services on this route. You'll be travelling with ICE, DB or SNCB on your way to Lucerne, as these are the main rail operators on this route.

Plan your trip ahead and book your train tickets in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Just start a search in our Journey Planner to view the latest prices for trains from Mechelen to Lucerne.

If you’re feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Lucerne by train, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times.

Trains to Lucerne from Mechelen

First train

06:45

Last train

23:47

Departure stationMechelen
Arrival stationLucerne
Journey time

From 7h 20m

Distance

324 miles (522 km)

Frequency

30 trains per day

Changes

3 changes

Train and bus operators

SBB CFF FFS, Deutsche Bahn, SNCB, SNCF Voyageurs

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

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

How do you get to Lucerne from Mechelen?

To travel to Lucerne from Mechelen, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 9 hours and 14 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 7 hours and 20 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Mechelen to Lucerne?

Trains from Mechelen to Lucerne take an average of 9 hours and 14 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 7 hours and 20 minutes. You'll usually find 30 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Mechelen and Lucerne by train?

The quickest journey time between Mechelen and Lucerne by train is 7 hours and 20 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Mechelen to Lucerne?

No, there are no direct trains running from Mechelen to Lucerne, you’ll usually need to make at least 3 changes during the journey.

What are the train times from Mechelen to Lucerne?

Check out the next trains departing from Mechelen to Lucerne for Tuesday 7th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
09:4818:058h 17m, 5 changes
11:1419:057h 51m, 3 changes
11:3219:057h 33m, 4 changes
11:3219:307h 58m, 3 changes
11:3920:058h 26m, 4 changes
11:4820:058h 17m, 5 changes
13:1421:057h 51m, 3 changes
13:4521:057h 20m, 4 changes
14:4522:057h 20m, 5 changes
14:5800:169h 18m, 3 changes

SBB, Deutsche Bahn, SNCB and IC (Intercity) trains from Mechelen to Lucerne

You can travel from Mechelen to Lucerne on SBB, Deutsche Bahn, SNCB and IC (Intercity) 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).

PhotoJoachimKohlerBremen, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.

PhotoMPW57, under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

SNCB is the national railway company of Belgium, with services that include national (Intercity) and regional (Local) express trains. All SNCB trains come with both First Class and Second Class carriages. Belgium has one of the densest rail networks in the world. Seat reservations aren’t possible for any of the company's trains.

PhotoFalk2, under licence CC4.0

An express train running on German domestic routes, the Intercity is a little slower than the ICE and is also used for long distance trips. The integrated circuit covers long distances with a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). In recent years, trains of the new generation "Intercity 2" run on some lines at 100 mph (160 km/h) only – these trains, however, offer extra legroom and extra space for toddlers. They are also equipped with air conditioning, a food carriage and wheelchair parking spaces.

What Intercity (IC), ICE, SNCB and Intercity classes are there from Mechelen to Lucerne?

Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity (IC), ICE, SNCB and Intercity when travelling from Mechelen to Lucerne.

What are the onboard services on Intercity (IC), ICE, SNCB and Intercity?

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Mechelen to Lucerne.

LuggageLuggageWhat luggage limits are there?

You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.

Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.

Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.

RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

You will find an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you opt for the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.

If you upgrade to First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.

Although the menu changes every three months, you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?

On IC trains, children under 5 years old travel free of charge and don’t need a ticket. Kids up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.

On board, you will find family and children areas which are bookable.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?

You need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle on a IC train. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.

Bike storage spaces are usually located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.

PetPetCan I bring pets on board?

With IC, you can travel with your pet. If you have a small dog or pet, you do not need an extra ticket and they can travel for free in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.

WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

Deutsche Bahn offer the Mobility Service, where staff will help you board, disembark or change trains. Staff will also answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.

LuggageLuggageWhat luggage limits are there?

You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.

Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.

Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.

RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

When travelling with ICE, you can enjoy an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you choose the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.

Upgrade to First Class and you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.

DB change their menu every three months, but you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

If you’re travelling on a ICE train, you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on some work or your favourite TV show.

You can also connect to the ICE portal, where you’ll find a wide range of entertainment, such as films, television, audiobooks, games, newspapers and magazines.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?

On DB’s ICE trains, kids under 5 years old travel for free and don’t need a ticket. Children up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.

You can also book family areas and children compartments on all ICE trains.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?

With ICE, you need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle onboard. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.

Generally, bike storage spaces are located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.

PetPetCan I bring pets on board?

You can travel with your pet on all ICE trains. You do not need an extra ticket If you have a small dog and they can travel in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.

WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

DB’s Mobility Service can assist you with boarding, disembarking or changing trains. Also, staff are happy to answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.

LuggageLuggageWhat luggage limits are there?

When travelling with SNCB, each passenger can take 3 items of luggage on board, as long as the total weight does not exceed 30kg. Once you’ve found your seat, you can stow your luggage in the space provided above and below your seat. You can take the following luggage on board for free:

  • Briefcases, rucksacks and suitcases
  • Wheelchairs (manual or automatic)
  • Pushchairs and prams
  • Folding bikes, unicycles, scooters
  • Sports equipment (e.g. skis)
RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

Currently, SNCB does not offer a food and drink service. Although, you may bring food and drink with you to enjoy on the train.

WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

Currently, SNCB do not offer WiFi onboard their trains or at stations.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?

As long as they are travelling with a person aged 12 or above with a valid ticket, children under 12 can travel for free without a ticket. However, please note that this only applies to a maximum of 4 children per passenger with a valid ticket. If you have any additional children travelling with you, they will need a half-price Kids Ticket.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?

Hoping to travel with your bike? You’ll need to add a Bike Supplement to your ticket. However, if you’re travelling with a folding bike, you don’t need to worry about paying. Bike Supplements are paid on top of your rail fare and cost €4 for a single journey.

When boarding, speak to the train conductor and they will tell you if there are spaces available and where you can put your bicycle. SNCB advise you not to travel with a bike at Peak times, because bicycle spaces may not be available.

PetPetCan I bring pets on board?

Guide and assistance dogs

Travel is free for guide and assistance dogs. You won’t need to add a Pet Supplement to your ticket.

Pets

Pets are welcome to travel on SNCB trains if they are on a lead or in a small basket, cage or box. For animals on a lead, a Pet Supplement costs €3 for a single trip. If your pet is in a small basket, cage or box that is smaller than 30 x 55 x 30 cm, you do not need to pay for a Pet Supplement. Finally, your pet is not allowed to sit on the seats or tables.

WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

Passengers with reduced mobility should directly contact SNCB to make use of their free assistance service. You can take your wheelchair on board the train for free, regardless of whether or not you use the SNCB's free assistance service. If you are blind or partially sighted, you can take the train for free in 2nd class.

LuggageLuggageWhat luggage limits are there?

You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.

RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

Many SBB Intercity trains will have a restaurant or bistro carriage so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.

WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

There are plug sockets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?

There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard. On Intercity trains, there is also a dedicated family carriage.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?

You can take your bicycle onboard SBB Intercity trains. Between 21st March and 31st October, it's compulsory to reserve a bike space on some Intercity trains. You must also buy a ticket for your bike at a ticket office, ticket machine or online.

PetPetCan I bring pets on board?

Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.

WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

InfoInfoWhat else do I need to know?

There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Mechelen 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 Mechelen 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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