Basel to Lucerne train with SBB

Wed, Nov 19
+ Add return
SBB
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
SBB
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Lucerne

Showing times and prices for Nov 19

Cheapest price

$36

Average price

$43

Fastest journey

1 h 2 m

Average duration

1 h 19 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

79 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Lucerne will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Basel for Lucerne on Wed, Nov 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Nov 19 the direct trains cover the 79 km distance in an average of 1 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 2 m .

On Wed, Nov 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 49 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.

SBBIC 21 667 | 667
09:03AM1h02
Basel SBB
10:05AMLucerne station
$361One-way
0 transfers
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315
08:03AM1h02
Basel SBB
09:05AMLucerne station
$371One-way
0 transfers
SBBIC 6 613 | 613 · RE 24 4715 | 4715
08:28AM1h27
Basel SBB
09:55AMLucerne station
$371One-way
1 transfer
SBBIR 27 2463 | 2463
08:16AM1h14
Basel SBB
09:30AMLucerne station
$391One-way
0 transfers
SBBIC 61 963 | 963 · S 29 8932 | 8932 · S 1 21132 | 21132
08:56AM1h49
Basel SBB
10:45AMLucerne station
$491One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Basel to Lucerne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, and a train costs an average of €23.

Distance: 49 miles (79 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€34

Average price

€19

Average price

Cheapest

1h 41m

Average total duration

1h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

SBB

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Basel to Lucerne train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lucerne trains for today, Tuesday, November 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:40 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbb5:56 PM Basel
1h49
7:45 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
sbb7:03 PM Basel
1h02
8:05 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
sbb8:56 PM Basel
1h09
10:05 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
sbb9:52 PM Basel
1h51
11:43 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, November 19
sbbIR 26 2315 | 23157:03 AM Basel SBB
1h02
8:05 AM Lucerne station0 transfersDirect
sbbIR 27 2463 | 24637:16 AM Basel SBB
1h14
8:30 AM Lucerne station0 transfersDirect
sbbIC 6 613 | 613 · RE 24 4715 | 47157:28 AM Basel SBB
1h27
8:55 AM Lucerne station1 transfer
sbbIC 3 563 | 563 · IR 75 2112 | 21127:33 AM Basel SBB
1h52
9:25 AM Lucerne station1 transfer
sbbIC 61 963 | 963 · S 29 8932 | 8932 · S 1 21132 | 211327:56 AM Basel SBB
1h49
9:45 AM Lucerne station2 transfers
sbbIC 21 667 | 6678:03 AM Basel SBB
1h02
9:05 AM Lucerne station0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Basel 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.

Wed
Nov 19
Thu
Nov 20
Fri
Nov 21
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Nov 22
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Nov 23
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Nov 24
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Tue
Dec 09

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Lucerne?

The best time to book your train from Basel to Lucerne is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Lucerne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel 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 Basel to Lucerne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Lucerne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Lucerne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€23) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 49 miles (79 km) distance in 1h 2m.

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 $11 (€9)
Distance
49 miles (79 km)
Average train duration
1h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€23)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 2m
First train
00:05
Last train
23:58
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 $11 (€9)

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS), Südostbahn from Basel to Lucerne trainsSBB, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Basel and Lucerne from $11 (€9). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

SBB

About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 2m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
SBB frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 2m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) frequency
21 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 2m
Südostbahn frequency
4 a day

FAQs: Trains from Basel to Lucerne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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.

FAQs
Yes, a day trip from Basel to Lucerne is feasible. The journey takes 1h 2m and covers a distance of 49 miles (79 km). There are 10 trains per day for this route.
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.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Lucerne.
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.
The train journey from Basel to Lucerne is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, including rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of the Alps.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Lucerne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Lucerne. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS), Südostbahn.
The distance by train from Basel to Lucerne is 49 miles (79 km).
Train ticket prices from Basel to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€23), while the average price is around $42 (€34).
The first train from Basel to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The last train from Basel to Lucerne leaves at 11:58 PM.
The train from Basel to Lucerne takes 1h 2m and runs 10 per day.
The train station in Basel that goes to Lucerne is Basel SBB, which connects to Lucerne station.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Lucerne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Lucerne

Basel
Lucerne
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel Bad Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel Bad Bhf for your trip from Basel to Lucerne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
8
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Les Gareçons
  • Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Alexander
  • Hotel Wettstein
  • Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 330 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
  • Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
  • Tram: Line 2, Line 6
  • Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Da Roberto
  • Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Victoria
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
  • GAIA Hotel
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 800 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
  • Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
  • Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
Basel St JohannParkingDiningATMTaxisWCBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
WCWC
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 52 places, covered
Basel, Kannenfeldplatz
information
Basel, Spalentor
information
Basel, Brausebad
information
Basel, Johanniterbrücke
information
Basel St. Johanns-Tor
information
Basel, Schützenhaus
information

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