- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Switzerland’s most visited museum, covering rail, road, aviation, navigation and space with many interactive exhibits. A strong family-friendly highlight in Lucerne.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dresden to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$58
Average price
$143
Fastest journey
8 h 43 m
Average duration
9 h
Trains per day
5
Distance
595 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dresden to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dresden to Lucerne will cost around $143 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Dresden for Lucerne on Tue, Jun 16, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 595 km distance in an average of 9 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 43 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 9 h 44 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.
10:22 AM8h43Dresden7:05 PMLucerne$581One-way0 transfers- 9:22 AM8h43Dresden6:05 PMLucerne$911One-way0 transfers
- 9:11 AM8h54Dresden6:05 PMLucerne$1821One-way0 transfers
- 1:11 PM9h44Dresden10:55 PMLucerne$1861One-way0 transfers
- 8:11 AM8h54Dresden5:05 PMLucerne$1971One-way0 transfers
- 10:22 AM8h43Dresden7:05 PMLucerne$581One-way0 transfers
- 9:22 AM8h43Dresden6:05 PMLucerne$911One-way0 transfers
- 9:11 AM8h54Dresden6:05 PMLucerne$1821One-way0 transfers
- 8:11 AM8h54Dresden5:05 PMLucerne$1971One-way0 transfers
- 1:11 PM9h44Dresden10:55 PMLucerne$1861One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Dresden to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dresden to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, and a flight costs an average of $185.
Distance: 369 miles (595 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$151 Average price | $448 Average price | $83 Average price Cheapest | $227 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 21m Average total duration 8h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 58m Average total duration Fastest 7h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 21h 36m Average total duration 21h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.8 - 3.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Dresden to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $83 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Dresden to Lucerne:
A bus is $68 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dresden to Lucerne costing on average $151 (€122).
A bus is $365 (€295) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Dresden to Lucerne costing on average $448 (€362).
The fastest way to travel from Dresden to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 58m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 51m.
Bus takes on average 21h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Dresden and Lucerne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dresden to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $151 (€122) compared to roughly $227 (€183) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $76 (€61). The journey takes 8h 51m versus 8h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Dresden to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Dresden to Lucerne trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 1568 · ICE 375 · IR 2339 | On time 12:11 PM Dresden Hbf | 8h54 | 9:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| 16516 · ICE 931 · ICE 75 · IC 989 | 12:12 PM Dresden Hbf | 10h53 | 11:05 PM Lucerne station | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Dresden 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.
Tue
Jun 16
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Why should you book Dresden to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Dresden to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden to Lucerne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dresden to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Dresden to Lucerne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 8h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) but you can travel from only $56 (€45) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 369 miles (595 km) distance in 8h 43m.
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 $56 (€45)
Distance 369 miles (595 km) |
Average train duration 8h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€47) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 8h 43m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $56 (€45)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Dresden to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Dresden and Lucerne from $56 (€45). 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
8h 43m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 54m
Cheapest Price
$229 (€185)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
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
Important art museum with works by Picasso, Klee and Impressionist masters from the Rosengart collection. One of Lucerne’s key fine-art attractions.
- Recommended
Glacier Garden Lucerne
Museum and geological site presenting glacial potholes, alpine geology and mirrors, plus historic displays. A classic Lucerne attraction near the Lion Monument.
- Must visit
Old Town Lucerne
The historic core of Lucerne, filled with painted facades, narrow lanes, fountains and postcard views. Essential for walking, shopping and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Lake Lucerne Promenade
Scenic waterfront walking area with mountain views, boats and elegant hotels. One of the city’s most relaxing and photogenic public spaces.
- Recommended
Schwanenplatz
Busy central square near the lake and Chapel Bridge, often used as a starting point for exploring Lucerne’s main sights.
Luzerner Chügelipastete
Lucerne’s signature dish: a puff pastry pie filled with veal, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, often garnished with raisins. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional specialties.
- Vegetarian
Älplermagronen
A hearty Swiss Alpine pasta bake with macaroni, potatoes, cream, cheese, and onions, often served with apple sauce. It is a classic comfort dish popular across Central Switzerland.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp pan-fried grated potatoes, originally a Swiss farmhouse dish and now a staple side or main course. In Lucerne it commonly appears with regional meat, cheese, or eggs.
Wirtshaus Galliker
Historic traditional restaurant known for classic Lucerne and Swiss dishes, especially Luzerner Chügelipastete. Warm, old-school atmosphere and a long local reputation.
Restaurant Balances
Stylish riverside restaurant in the old town serving refined Swiss and international cuisine. Known for polished service, elegant setting, and views over the Reuss.
Burgerstube
Established rustic dining room at Hotel Wilden Mann, serving traditional Swiss dishes in a historic setting. A good option for regional cooking with a more formal feel.
Swiss Franc
Lucerne is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though bakeries and lunch specials can help reduce daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-55 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6.50 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included in prices. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; small tips in cafes are optional.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.60
To the city center
Lucerne Railway Station, Lucerne -> Lucerne Old Town, Lucerne
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is available in the Fairtiq app and at many ticket machines, but not on all buses for onboard purchase.
- The day pass is best value for multiple trips and is valid across the Lucerne city transport network zones it covers.
FAQs: Trains from Dresden to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dresden 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 Dresden to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58 (€47), while the average price is around $151 (€122).
The train from Dresden to Lucerne takes 8h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Dresden to Lucerne leaves at 12:30 AM.
The distance by train from Dresden to Lucerne is 369 miles (595 km).
The last train from Dresden to Lucerne leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Dresden to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dresden to Lucerne.
The train station in Dresden that goes to Lucerne is Dresden Hbf, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Dresden to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $56 (€45).
Yes, the train journey from Dresden to Lucerne is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Saxon Switzerland National Park, rolling hills, and charming villages in Germany, followed by the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland, including the majestic Alps and serene lakes.
A day trip from Dresden to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 43m. The distance is 369 miles (595 km) and trains run 7 times 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 Dresden to Lucerne.
Since both Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden to Lucerne
Dresden
Lucerne
The major train station for departures in Dresden is Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dresden Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Dresden 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 - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4.
Dining
- Burger King
- asiagourmet
- dean&david
- Hot Dog King
- Starbucks
- Subway
- BABA Döner
- Marché
- backWERK
- Ditsch
- & more
Accessibility
- Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Hotel Kipping
- Pullman Dresden Newa
- IntercityHotel Dresden
Information Desk
- Located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Dresden-Neustadt
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Thursday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Friday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sunday: 07:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- ElbUferei
- Raskolnikoff
- Byblos
- Kantine No. 2
Hotel
- Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden
- Rothenburger Hof
- Mezcalero
- Villa Romantika
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 Dresden.
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
Most popular train connections from Dresden
More options for your journey from Dresden to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Dresden
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