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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for May 13
Cheapest price
$100
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
5 h 11 m
Average duration
5 h 26 m
Trains per day
6
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 $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Lucerne without transferring at least once.
ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 47259:31 AM5h24Cologne Messe/Deutz2:55 PMLucerne station$1001One-way3 transfers- ICE 103 · IC 6758:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf2:05 PMLucerne station$1001One-way1 transfer
- IC 1940 · ICE 279 · IR 23278:53 AM6h12Cologne Hbf3:05 PMLucerne station$1101One-way2 transfers
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 23279:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf3:05 PMLucerne station$1101One-way2 transfers
- IC 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 233110:53 AM6h12Cologne Hbf5:05 PMLucerne station$1131One-way2 transfers
- ICE 105 · EC 17310:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf4:05 PMLucerne station$1281One-way1 transfer
- ICE 103 · IC 6758:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf2:05 PMLucerne station$1001One-way1 transfer
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 23279:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf3:05 PMLucerne station$1101One-way2 transfers
- ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 47259:31 AM5h24Cologne Messe/Deutz2:55 PMLucerne station$1001One-way3 transfers
- IC 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 233110:53 AM6h12Cologne Hbf5:05 PMLucerne station$1131One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, 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 $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. 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 $42, and a flight costs an average of $152.
Distance: 275 miles (443 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$143 Average price | $63 Average price Cheapest | $536 Average price | $189 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 45m Average total duration 5h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 29m Average total duration 8h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.7kg 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 Cologne to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $62 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Lucerne:
A bus is $46 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Lucerne costing on average $108 (€86).
A bus is $430 (€343) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Lucerne costing on average $492 (€392).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 24m.
Bus takes on average 8h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Lucerne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 48m faster (5h 24m by train vs 6h 12m by car) and roughly $81 (€64) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($108 (€86) vs $189 (€150)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lucerne trains for today, Tuesday, May 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 1940 · ICE 279 · IR 2327 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 3:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 103 · IC 675 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 2:05 PM Lucerne station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 4725 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h24 | 2:55 PM Lucerne station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 2327 | On time 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h12 | 3:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 2331 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 5:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 105 · EC 173 | On time 10:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 4:05 PM Lucerne station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1255 · ECE 5 · IC 627 · RE 4729 | On time 11:18 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 4:55 PM Lucerne station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 517 · ICE 371 · IR 2331 | On time 11:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 5:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1644 · ICE 373 · IR 2335 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 7:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 107 · IC 683 | On time 12:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 6:05 PM Lucerne station | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Lucerne by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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 Cologne to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Lucerne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus 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.
Trains
from $60Buses
from $40Flights
from $245Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€38) but you can travel from only $34 (€27) 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 11m.
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 $34 (€27)
Distance 275 miles (443 km) |
Average train duration 5h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€38) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 11m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 77 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 $34 (€27)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Lucerne from $42 (€33). 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 11m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€52)
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.
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 11m
Cheapest Price
$190 (€151)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€38), while the average price is around $108 (€86).
The train from Cologne to Lucerne takes 5h 11m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lucerne is 275 miles (443 km).
The first train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Lucerne.
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 $34 (€27).
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.
A day trip from Cologne to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 11m and the distance is 275 miles (443 km). There are 8 train trips per day.
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 Cologne to Lucerne.
Since both Cologne 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 Cologne 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.
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
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Lucerne is Luzern Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Luzern Bhf for your journey to Lucerne from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
14Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Zentralstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant La Cucina
- Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Monopol Luzern
- Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel
- Hotel Central Luzern
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 420 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-9 for trains to Germany, Italy, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms
- Hall 3: Boat connections
Public transit options for Luzern Bhf
- Bus: Several lines available
- Boat: Lake Lucerne boats
- Train: SBB services to various destinations
Luzern, Bahnhof
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
More options for your journey from Cologne to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Cologne
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