- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Swiss Transport Museum with trains, planes, cars, simulators, and media exhibits. Lucerne’s top family-friendly museum.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Zurich to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$3
Average price
$4
Fastest journey
10 m
Average duration
25 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zurich to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Lucerne will cost around $4 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $3.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Zurich for Lucerne on Fri, Jul 31, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 40 km distance in an average of 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:40 PM0h10Zurich6:50 PMLucerne$31One-way0 transfers- 8:50 AM0h30Zurich9:20 AMLucerne$31One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 PM0h40Zurich8:50 PMLucerne$51One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 PM0h20Zurich6:30 PMLucerne$71One-way0 transfers
- 6:40 PM0h10Zurich6:50 PMLucerne$31One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 PM0h20Zurich6:30 PMLucerne$71One-way0 transfers
- 8:50 AM0h30Zurich9:20 AMLucerne$31One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 PM0h40Zurich8:50 PMLucerne$51One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Zurich to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $24, and a bus costs an average of $37.
Distance: 24 miles (40 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest | $65 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 16m Average total duration 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration Fastest 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Lucerne is a train with an average price of $33 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Lucerne:
A train is $9 (€7) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Zurich to Lucerne costing on average $42 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Lucerne is by train with an average journey time of 41m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Bus takes on average 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Lucerne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $42 (€34) compared to roughly $65 (€53) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $23 (€19). The journey takes 46m versus 43m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Zurich to Lucerne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 12:40AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 08:50AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:20PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:50PM | Arrival Time 12:40AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $7 |
Live departures
Zurich to Lucerne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Lucerne buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 PM Zurich | 0h30 | 3:00 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:50 PM Zurich | 0h10 | 6:00 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:50 PM Zurich | 0h10 | 6:00 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 PM Zurich | 1h10 | 11:00 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 31 | |||||
| 8:50 AM Zurich | 0h30 | 9:20 AM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Lucerne by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Zurich to Lucerne
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Buses from Zurich to Lucerne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by train.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest bus covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 1h 20m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $24 (€19)
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average bus duration 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 20m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $24 (€19)
Bus providers: BlaBlaCar, Geo Travel, Gruppo Di Maio from Zurich to LucerneYou can travel by bus between Zurich to Lucerne with BlaBlaCar, Geo Travel, Gruppo Di Maio for as low as $24 (€19). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Geo Travel
About
Geo Travel Co. specializes in crafting personalized, transformative travel experiences across the globe. They offer a range of services, including expeditions, safaris, custom tours, river cruises, luxury yachting, and private jet tours. Their approach focuses on understanding each client's unique vision to design bespoke journeys that exceed expectations. Whether for leisure, family, groups, or corporate incentives, Geo Travel Co. ensures every detail is tailored to create memorable and meaningful adventures.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Cancellation Policy
Guests are eligible for a 100% refund with a minimum of 21 to 30 days' notice, with decreasing percentages for shorter notice periods.
Amenities on board the bus
USB plugs
Bikes
Bicycles are available for rent for tours, and bringing your own bike may be allowed on certain trips with prior confirmation and restrictions.
Pets
Small pets may be allowed in carriers, but policies vary by specific Geo Travel entity and service type.
Motorbike
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
3 a day
Gruppo Di Maio
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 15m
Cheapest Price
$6 (€5)
Gruppo Di Maio frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Lucerne
Things to do in Lucerne
Discover the best of Lucerne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lucerne trip today.
- Must visit
Sammlung Rosengart
Collection of Pablo Picasso works in a historic building once linked to the artist’s celebrated 1930s Lucerne exhibition.
- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Luzern
Jean Nouvel-designed art museum showing modern and contemporary works in a superb lakeside cultural complex.
- Must visit
Weinmarkt
Preserved old town square lined with frescoed historic buildings, fountains, and guild houses. A classic Lucerne photo stop.
- Recommended
Rathausquai
Car-free riverside promenade beside the Reuss with shops and facades. Ideal for strolling between major old town sights.
- Recommended
Nationalquai
Elegant lakefront promenade with mountain views, grand hotels, and access to the KKL and boat piers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp potato rösti from Central Switzerland, often served plain or topped. It is a beloved Swiss staple found in Lucerne homes and taverns.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
Rich melted cheese with bread, potatoes, or pickles. A classic Swiss communal meal that reflects alpine dairy traditions popular around Lucerne.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Raclette
Melted raclette cheese scraped over potatoes and pickles. It is a hearty mountain dish widely enjoyed across Switzerland, including Lucerne.
Restaurant Olivo
Elegant fine dining focused on creative French-Swiss cuisine with lake views and a long-standing reputation for special occasions.
Wirtshaus Galliker
Historic riverside restaurant known for Lucerne classics like Chügelipastete in a traditional setting near the old town.
Brasserie VICO
Refined lakeside dining with seasonal Swiss cuisine and polished service in the grand Hotel Schweizerhof.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Lucerne is pricier than most European cities, with high hotel rates, meals, and local transport, especially in peak tourist season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.60
To the city center
Luzern Bahnhof -> Kapellplatz
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets before boarding VBL buses; Swiss local buses do not sell tickets on board.
- Contactless card payment works at many ticket machines, and the FAIRTIQ app lets you travel without choosing a ticket in advance.
FAQs: Bus from Zurich to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Lucerne by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lucerne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Zurich to Lucerne can start from as little as $37 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zurich to Lucerne is $42 (€34) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Zurich to Lucerne is 1h 20m to travel the 24 miles (40 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Zurich to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zurich to Lucerne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Zurich to Lucerne with BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Zurich to Lucerne, you can count on BlaBlaCar, Geo Travel, Gruppo Di Maio for the best way to get you to Lucerne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Zurich and Lucerne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Lucerne from Zurich is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Zurich to Lucerne is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Lucerne including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from Zurich to Lucerne has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Zurich to Lucerne.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Lucerne are:
- Chapel Bridge, a historic wooden bridge featuring a tower and 17th-century paintings
- Mount Pilatus, a mountain offering panoramic views and accessible by cable car or cogwheel railway
- Lion Monument, a rock relief commemorating Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution
- Swiss Museum of Transport, an interactive museum showcasing Switzerland's transportation history
- Museggmauer, a well-preserved medieval city wall with nine towers offering panoramic views of the city and lake.
The best things to do in Lucerne include:
- Lake Lucerne, a picturesque lake ideal for boat tours and scenic walks
- Explore the Old Town, a charming area with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks
- Visit Richard Wagner Museum, dedicated to the famous composer and located in his former residence
- Take a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains
- Enjoy a ride on the world's steepest cogwheel railway to Mount Pilatus for an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Zurich to Lucerne depends on the bus companies:
- Geo Travel
- Guests are eligible for a 100% refund with a minimum of 21 to 30 days' notice, with decreasing percentages for shorter notice periods.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Geo Travel.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Zurich to Lucerne.
No, luggage for the bus from Zurich to Lucerne needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Zurich to Lucerne.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Zurich to Lucerne. The following conditions apply:
- Geo Travel
- Small pets may be allowed in carriers, but policies vary by specific Geo Travel entity and service type.
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Zurich to Lucerne with the following bus company: Geo Travel.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Zurich to Lucerne.
Since both Zurich and Lucerne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lucerne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include distraction techniques used to steal wallets or bags. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Additionally, always use licensed taxi services and official ticket counters to avoid overcharging. Overall, Lucerne is considered safe, but standard urban vigilance is recommended.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Zurich to Lucerne
Most Zurich to Lucerne buses use the Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) to Luzern station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Lucerne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Zurich
Arrival bus stations in Lucerne
Which Zurich station do buses to Lucerne leave from?
Buses from Zurich to Lucerne leave from Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai). The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Sihlquai, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland.
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai)Sihlquai, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) from Zurich city centre
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus31, 33, 46 Train: S2, S5, S6, S7, S8, S14, S16 Tram: 4, 13, 17
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) bus station facilities and services
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Elevators, ramps.
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
City-centre transport
Getting to Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) from Zurich city centre
Train75 · 10m · $5 · every ~2 min
S2, S24, Ic5, Ir36, Ir75, Ir13, Ic81, Ic1, Ic8, S, Ir, N1, Ext · 12m · $5 · every ~22 min
S7, S16 · 18m · $6 · every ~5 min
BusN10 · 27m · $7
Tram10 · 30m · $4 · every ~14 min
Luzern
City-centre transport
Getting to Luzern from Lucerne city centre
Bus10, 11, 12, 14, 18, 1, 20 · 2m · $4 · every ~11 min
Most popular bus connections from Zurich
More options for your journey from Zurich to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Lucerne and Zurich
Most popular bus connections to Lucerne
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