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

Tue, Nov 10
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lucerne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 10
Cheapest price on Nov 10
zł 235
Average ticket price on Nov 10
zł 278
Fastest journey on Nov 10
5 h 11 m
Average journey duration on Nov 10
5 h 27 m
Trains on Nov 10
7
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 zł 278 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł 235.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Lucerne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 675
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 2331
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 1255 · ECE 5 · IC 627
    4 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Lucerne

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł 179 but you can travel from only zł 132 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 zł 132
Distance
275 miles (443 km)
Average train duration
5h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
zł 179
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 zł 132

Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Lucerne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Lucerne.

Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł 179, while the average price is around zł 476.
The train from Cologne to Lucerne takes 4h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lucerne is 275 miles (443 km).
The first train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 12:02 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.

Live departures

Cologne to Lucerne train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lucerne trains for today, Monday, November 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 277 · IR 2323
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h12
1:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101 · IC 671
On time
6:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h11
12:05 PM Lucerne station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
7h01
2:55 PM Lucerne station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · ICE 277 · IR 2323
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h11
1:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h12
3:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 675
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h11
2:05 PM Lucerne station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 121 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
On time
9:18 AM Cologne Hbf
5h47
3:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 4725
On time
9:33 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h22
2:55 PM Lucerne station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
On time
9:46 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h19
3:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
On time
9:48 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h17
3:05 PM Lucerne station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · IC 627
On time
9:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h02
4:55 PM Lucerne station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 23279:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h11
3:05 PM Lucerne station2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 373 · IR 2335
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
6h12
7:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · IC 683
On time
12:56 PM Cologne Hbf
5h09
6:05 PM Lucerne station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 123 · ICE 373 · IR 2335
On time
1:18 PM Cologne Hbf
5h47
7:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 919 · ICE 73 · EC 67 · RE 4733
On time
1:33 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h22
6:55 PM Lucerne station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 519 · ICE 373 · IR 2335
On time
1:46 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h19
7:05 PM Lucerne station
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Lucerne from zł 132. 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
zł 179
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Lucerne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Lucerne.
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.

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

Swiss Museum of Transport

Swiss Transport Museum with trains, planes, cars, simulators, and media exhibits. Lucerne’s top family-friendly museum.

  • 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.

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.

Plan your visit to Lucerne

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Lucerne.

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.
Popular day trips by train from Lucerne include Zurich, Interlaken, Basel, Bern, Engelberg.
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.

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
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lucerne.

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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · zł 33 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · zł 24 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · zł 24 · 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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · zł 15 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · zł 10 · 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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · zł 5 · every ~21 min
BusRb38, Re8, Rb27, S19 · 18m · zł 19
142 · 18m · every ~7 min
Subway3, 4 · 9m · zł 10 · 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.

Train stations for Cologne to Lucerne

Check train stations information for Cologne and Lucerne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cologne that goes to Lucerne is Köln Hbf, which connects to Luzern Bhf.

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