- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Switzerland’s most visited museum, with large exhibitions on rail, road, aviation, space and mobility, plus family-friendly interactive displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Amsterdam to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$96
Average price
$205
Fastest journey
8 h 17 m
Average duration
8 h 38 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
641 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Amsterdam to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Amsterdam to Lucerne will cost around $205 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $96.
Fast trains
Of the 8 trains that leave Amsterdam for Lucerne on Mon, Jul 13, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 13 the direct trains cover the 641 km distance in an average of 8 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 17 m .
On Mon, Jul 13 the slowest trains will take 9 h 9 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.
6:31 AM8h24Amsterdam2:55 PMLucerne$961One-way0 transfers- 6:01 AM8h54Amsterdam2:55 PMLucerne$1521One-way0 transfers
- 5:38 AM8h17Amsterdam1:55 PMLucerne$1661One-way0 transfers
- 12:45 PM9h20Amsterdam10:05 PMLucerne$1801One-way0 transfers
- 7:55 AM9h10Amsterdam5:05 PMLucerne$1931One-way0 transfers
- 5:38 AM8h17Amsterdam1:55 PMLucerne$1661One-way0 transfers
- 7:31 AM8h24Amsterdam3:55 PMLucerne$2081One-way0 transfers
- 6:31 AM8h24Amsterdam2:55 PMLucerne$961One-way0 transfers
- 6:01 AM8h54Amsterdam2:55 PMLucerne$1521One-way0 transfers
- 7:56 AM9h09Amsterdam5:05 PMLucerne$2091One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Amsterdam to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Amsterdam to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 25m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, and a flight costs an average of $121.
Distance: 398 miles (641 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$190 Average price | $95 Average price Cheapest | $289 Average price | $237 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 7m Average total duration 9h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 42m Average total duration 13h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 1h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 1.9 - 3.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Amsterdam to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $95 (€78).
This is compared to other travel options from Amsterdam to Lucerne:
A bus is $95 (€78) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam to Lucerne costing on average $190 (€156).
A bus is $194 (€160) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam to Lucerne costing on average $289 (€238).
The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 25m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 37m.
Bus takes on average 13h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Amsterdam and Lucerne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Amsterdam to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $190 (€156) compared to roughly $237 (€195) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $47 (€39). The journey takes 9h 37m versus 8h 17m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Amsterdam to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Amsterdam to Lucerne trains for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:01 AM Amsterdam | 8h54 | 2:55 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:31 AM Amsterdam | 9h54 | 4:25 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:01 AM Amsterdam | 9h04 | 4:05 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:29 AM Amsterdam | 10h36 | 6:05 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:31 AM Amsterdam | 8h24 | 3:55 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:31 AM Amsterdam | 8h24 | 4:55 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:31 AM Amsterdam | 10h24 | 7:55 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Amsterdam to Lucerne by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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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Why should you book Amsterdam to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Amsterdam to Lucerne?
The best time to book your train from Amsterdam to Lucerne is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Amsterdam to Lucerne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Amsterdam to Lucerne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
Trains
from $63Buses
from $58Flights
from $201Journey information
Overview: Train from Amsterdam to Lucerne
Netherlands
Switzerland
Trains from Amsterdam to Lucerne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $89 (€73) but you can travel from only $55 (€45) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 398 miles (641 km) distance in 8h 17m.
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
Bus from $55 (€45)
Distance 398 miles (641 km) |
Average train duration 9h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 (€73) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 8h 17m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
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
Bus from $55 (€45)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Amsterdam to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Amsterdam and Lucerne from $55 (€45). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 17m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€73)
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 27m
Cheapest Price
$310 (€255)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
8 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
Rosengart Collection
Major private art museum known for strong Picasso and Paul Klee holdings, along with works by Monet, Matisse and other modern masters.
- Recommended
Glacier Garden Lucerne
Museum and geological site with glacier potholes, alpine geology exhibits and the historic mirror maze, combining natural history and local heritage.
- Must visit
Lucerne Old Town
The city’s most atmospheric walking area, full of painted facades, narrow lanes, small squares and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Lake Lucerne Promenade
Scenic lakeside walking route with mountain views, elegant hotels, boat traffic and many of Lucerne’s classic postcard perspectives.
- Recommended
Weinmarkt
Historic old-town square surrounded by colorful buildings, a fine place to appreciate Lucerne’s civic history and street life.
Luzerner Chügelipastete
Lucerne’s signature dish: a puff pastry pie filled with veal, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, often with raisins. It is a classic festive specialty strongly associated with the city.
- Vegetarian
Älplermagronen
A hearty Swiss Alpine pasta bake with macaroni, potatoes, cream, cheese, and onions, often served with apple sauce. It is a comforting traditional dish widely eaten in Central Switzerland.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp grated potato cake, originally a Swiss farmhouse staple and now a national classic. In Lucerne it is commonly served as a side or topped with cheese, egg, or cured meats.
Wirtshaus Galliker
Historic traditional inn in Lucerne known for classic local dishes such as Luzerner Chügelipastete and hearty Swiss fare. Warm, old-style atmosphere and a long-standing local reputation.
Restaurant Balances
Well-known riverside restaurant in Hotel des Balances serving polished Swiss and international cuisine. Stylish setting with Reuss views, suitable for a refined meal in the old town.
Fondue House Du Pont
Established casual spot specializing in Swiss cheese fondue and other traditional dishes. Popular for an easygoing, classic Swiss dining experience in central Lucerne.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and restaurants, but public transport and casual food can be managed with planning.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated in restaurants; round up taxis, small tips optional at cafes and hotels.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Lucerne Railway Station, Lucerne -> Lucerne City Center, Lucerne
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets in Lucerne are part of the Passepartout fare network, so price depends on zones rather than stop count. Buy the correct zone ticket before boarding.
- Card payment is generally available in ticket machines, but not always onboard every bus. The Fairtiq app is a practical cashless option for local travel.
FAQs: Trains from Amsterdam to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Amsterdam to Lucerne by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lucerne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Amsterdam to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $89 (€73), while the average price is around $190 (€156).
The train from Amsterdam to Lucerne takes 8h 17m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Amsterdam to Lucerne is 398 miles (641 km).
The first train from Amsterdam to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Amsterdam to Lucerne leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
The train station in Amsterdam that goes to Lucerne is Amsterdam Centraal, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Amsterdam to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
Yes, the train journey from Amsterdam to Lucerne is considered scenic, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the Swiss Alps, offering views of charming villages, lush greenery, and stunning mountainous vistas.
A day trip from Amsterdam to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 17m. There are 4 trips per day for trains, and the distance is 398 miles (641 km).
In Lucerne, you can enjoy a picturesque boat tour or scenic walk by Lake Lucerne, explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks, and visit the Richard Wagner Museum. Take a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne for breathtaking mountain views or ride the world's steepest cogwheel railway to Mount Pilatus. Don't miss the historic Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the interactive Swiss Museum of Transport. For panoramic views, visit Mount Pilatus via cable car or cogwheel railway and explore the medieval Museggmauer city wall with its nine towers.
To fully enjoy Lucerne's key attractions such as Mount Pilatus, Lake Lucerne, and the Chapel Bridge, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows ample time for exploration and experiencing the city's charm.
Yes, you can take the train from Amsterdam to Lucerne.
Since both Amsterdam 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.
Popular day trips by train from Lucerne include Zurich, Interlaken, Basel, Bern, Engelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Amsterdam to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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.
Most popular train connections from Amsterdam
More options for your journey from Amsterdam to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Amsterdam
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