- 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 Essen to Lucerne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$126
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$126
Fastest journey on Sep 19
8 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
8 h 48 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
499 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Lucerne will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $126.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Essen to Lucerne, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 499 km distance in an average of 8 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 48 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 8 h 48 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.
7:03 AM8h48Essen3:51 PMLucerne$1261One-way0 transfers
- 7:03 AM8h48Essen3:51 PMLucerne$1261One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $75 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 51m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $75, while a flight costs an average of $599.
Distance: 310 miles (499 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$131 Average price | $599 Average price | $75 Average price Cheapest | $198 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 35m Average total duration 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 2h 51m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 14h 3m Average total duration 13h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Essen to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $75.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Lucerne:
A bus is $56 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Lucerne costing on average $131.
A bus is $524 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Lucerne costing on average $599.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 51m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 5m.
Bus takes on average 13h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Lucerne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 51m faster (6h 5m by train vs 6h 56m by car) and roughly $67 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($131 vs $198). 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
Essen to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Lucerne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:03 AM Essen | 8h48 | 3:51 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen 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.
Sat
Sep 19
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Why should you book Essen to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Essen to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen 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 Essen 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 Essen to Lucerne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Essen to Lucerne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 but you can travel from only $59 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:47, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 310 miles (499 km) distance in 5h 29m.
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 $59
Distance 310 miles (499 km) |
Average train duration 6h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 29m |
First train 12:47 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $59
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Lucerne from $59. 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
5h 29m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$70
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.
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 Essen to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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 Essen to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70, while the average price is around $131.
The train from Essen to Lucerne takes 5h 29m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Lucerne is 310 miles (499 km).
The first train from Essen to Lucerne leaves at 12:47 AM.
The last train from Essen to Lucerne leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Lucerne.
The train station in Essen that goes to Lucerne is Essen Hbf, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $59.
The train journey from Essen to Lucerne is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, charming German towns, and the beautiful Swiss countryside, culminating in the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps as you approach Lucerne.
A day trip from Essen to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 29m. The distance is 310 miles (499 km), and there are 12 trips per day via train.
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 Essen to Lucerne.
Since both Essen 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Essen 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 Essen to Lucerne
Most Essen to Lucerne trains use the Essen Hbf to Luzern Bhf station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Lucerne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Lucerne
Which Essen station do trains to Lucerne leave from?
Trains from Essen to Lucerne leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Which Lucerne station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen 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.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Essen
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