Cologne to Lucerne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lucerne

Showing times and prices for Dec 28

Cheapest price

$88

Average price

$115

Fastest journey

5 h 18 m

Average duration

5 h 56 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

443 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Lucerne will cost around $115 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Lucerne on Sun, Dec 28, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 28 the direct trains cover the 443 km distance in an average of 5 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 18 m .

On Sun, Dec 28 the slowest trains will take 6 h 37 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.

Deutsche Bahn
04:55AM5h35
Cologne
10:30AMLucerne
$881One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
07:53AM6h37
Cologne
02:30PMLucerne
$901One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
04:47AM5h18
Cologne
10:05AMLucerne
$1101One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:53AM6h12
Cologne
01:05PMLucerne
$1711One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Lucerne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €25, and a flight costs an average of €60.

Distance: 275 miles (443 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€85

Average price

€48

Average price

Cheapest

€201

Average price

6h 2m

Average total duration

5h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 18m

Average total duration

8h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 16m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Cologne to Lucerne train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lucerne trains for tomorrow, Sunday, December 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:14 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn4:47 AM Cologne
5h18
10:05 AM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn4:55 AM Cologne
5h35
10:30 AM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn6:53 AM Cologne
6h12
1:05 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn7:53 AM Cologne
6h37
2:30 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne 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.

Sun
Dec 28
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Why should you book Cologne to Lucerne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB) operates all train services from Cologne to Lucerne. Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB) tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB)?

  • 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 (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB) with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Lucerne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB) tickets can only be bought on Omio or Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB)'s website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB) tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE,RB) tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Lucerne.

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

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Lucerne

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€38) but you can travel from only $32 (€25) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 275 miles (443 km) distance in 5h 10m.

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 $32 (€25)
Distance
275 miles (443 km)
Average train duration
5h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$48 (€38)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
5h 10m
First train
00:05
Last train
23:55
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 $32 (€25)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Lucerne from $32 (€25). 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
5h 10m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€38)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 a day
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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Lucerne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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
A day trip from Cologne to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 10m and the distance is 275 miles (443 km). There are 8 train trips per day.
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.
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.
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Lucerne is scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and picturesque Swiss landscapes as you travel through Germany and into Switzerland.
The train from Cologne to Lucerne takes 5h 10m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lucerne is 275 miles (443 km).
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€38), while the average price is around $106 (€85).
The train station in Cologne that goes to Lucerne is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $32 (€25).
The last train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 11:55 PM.
The first train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lucerne.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Lucerne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Lucerne

Cologne
Lucerne
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Lucerne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
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
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
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
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
  • Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps

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