- 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 trains from Cologne to Lucerne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 25
Cheapest price on Sep 25
$162
Average ticket price on Sep 25
$183
Fastest journey on Sep 25
5 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Sep 25
5 h 10 m
Trains on Sep 25
11
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 $183 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $162.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Lucerne without transferring at least once.
IC 2040 · ICE 279 · IR 23278:53 AM6h12Cologne Hbf3:05 PMLucerne station$1621One-way2 transfers- ICE 25 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 6237:53 AM7h02Cologne Hbf2:55 PMLucerne station$1621One-way4 transfers
- IC 2348 · ICE 277 · IR 23236:53 AM6h12Cologne Hbf1:05 PMLucerne station$1621One-way2 transfers
- ICE 103 · IC 6758:56 AM5h09Cologne Hbf2:05 PMLucerne station$1701One-way1 transfer
- ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 47259:31 AM5h24Cologne Messe/Deutz2:55 PMLucerne station$1701One-way3 transfers
- ICE 103 · IC 6758:56 AM5h09Cologne Hbf2:05 PMLucerne station$1701One-way1 transfer
- ICE 105 · EC 17310:56 AM5h09Cologne Hbf4:05 PMLucerne station$1941One-way1 transfer
- ICE 101 · IC 6716:56 AM5h09Cologne Hbf12:05 PMLucerne station$1701One-way1 transfer
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 23279:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf3:05 PMLucerne station$1941One-way2 transfers
- ICE 513 · ICE 277 · IR 23237:54 AM5h11Cologne Hbf1:05 PMLucerne station$1701One-way2 transfers
Live departures
Cologne to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lucerne trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2348 · ICE 277 · IR 2323 | On time 6:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 1:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 101 · IC 671 | On time 6:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h09 | 12:05 PM Lucerne station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 25 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 2:55 PM Lucerne station | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 513 · ICE 277 · IR 2323 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 1:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2040 · 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 8:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h09 | 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 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 3:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · IC 627 | On time 9:55 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h00 | 4:55 PM Lucerne station | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 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 10:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h09 | 4:05 PM Lucerne station | 1 transfer | |
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 train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Cologne to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€40) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 275 miles (443 km) distance in 4h 32m.
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 $38 (€31)
Distance 275 miles (443 km) |
Average train duration 5h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€40) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 32m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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 $38 (€31)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Lucerne from $38 (€31). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$48 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
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 Verkehrshaus -> Luzern Bahnhof, Lucerne
- Distance
- 2.8 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy your ticket before boarding; buses in Lucerne do not sell tickets on board. Use FAIRTIQ or ticket machines.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not directly on most buses. Validate your fare before travel.
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 (€40), while the average price is around $134 (€111).
The train from Cologne to Lucerne takes 4h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lucerne is 275 miles (443 km).
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lucerne.
Popular day trips by train from Lucerne include Zurich, Interlaken, Basel, Bern, Engelberg.
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
Most Cologne to Lucerne trains use the Köln Hbf to Luzern Bhf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Lucerne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Lucerne
Which Cologne station do trains to Lucerne leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $8 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln-EhrenfeldKöln-Ehrenfeld, Stammstr. 1, 50968 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln-Ehrenfeld from Cologne city centre
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 5m · every ~3 min
Re8, Rb27, Re9, Rb38, S19, S12 · 6m · $1 · every ~21 min
BusRb38, Re8, Rb27, S19 · 18m · $5
142 · 18m · every ~7 min
Subway3, 4 · 9m · $2 · every ~25 min
Köln-Ehrenfeld train station facilities and services
Köln-Ehrenfeld has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
Which Lucerne station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne arrive at Luzern Bhf. Luzern Bhf is from Lucerne city centre.
Luzern BhfZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Luzern Bhf from Lucerne city centre
TrainRe24, S1, Sn1 · 11m · $5 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · $11
72 · 22m · $4 · every ~2 min
Luzern Bhf train station facilities and services
Luzern Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant La Cucina, Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luzern Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Luzern Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luzern Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luzern Bhf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern Bhf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Monopol Luzern, Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel, Hotel Central Luzern.
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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