- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts
Hungary’s top fine arts museum, with major European works from antiquity to the 20th century. Ideal for classic painting, sculpture, and old masters.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lucerne to Budapest
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 23
Cheapest price on Oct 23
$342
Average ticket price on Oct 23
$342
Fastest journey on Oct 23
13 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Oct 23
13 h 54 m
Trains on Oct 23
1
Distance
811 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lucerne to Budapest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lucerne to Budapest will cost around $342 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $342.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lucerne to Budapest without transferring at least 2 times.
IR 2117 · EC 191 · RJX 26110:35 AM13h54Lucerne station12:29 AMBudapest Keleti$3421One-way2 transfers
- IR 2117 · EC 191 · RJX 26110:35 AM13h54Lucerne station12:29 AMBudapest Keleti$3421One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lucerne to Budapest
Switzerland
Hungary
Trains from Lucerne to Budapest run on average 2 times per day, taking around 11h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 (€57) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:32, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 503 miles (811 km) distance in 11h 2m.
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
Flight from $23 (€19)
Distance 503 miles (811 km) |
Average train duration 11h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€57) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 11h 2m |
First train 12:32 AM |
Last train 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Flight from $23 (€19)
Frequently asked questions about your Lucerne to Budapest trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Lucerne to Budapest.
Train ticket prices from Lucerne to Budapest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69 (€57), while the average price is around $163 (€137).
The train from Lucerne to Budapest takes 11h 2m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Budapest is 503 miles (811 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Budapest leaves at 12:32 AM.
The last train from Lucerne to Budapest leaves at 11:35 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Budapest.
Live departures
Lucerne to Budapest train times
The table below shows live departures for Lucerne to Budapest trains for today, Thursday, October 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:09 PM Lucerne | 16h10 | 11:19 AM Budapest | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, October 23 | |||||
| IR 2117 · EC 191 · RJX 261 | On time 10:35 AM Lucerne station | 13h54 | 12:29 AM Budapest Keleti | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Lucerne to Budapest trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB offer trains services from Lucerne to Budapest.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lucerne to Budapest.
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 ÖBB to find the best option for your trip from Lucerne to Budapest.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lucerne to Budapest.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lucerne to Budapest.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB from Lucerne to Budapest trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB trains will get you between Lucerne and Budapest from $23 (€19). 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
11h 2m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$69 (€57)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
ÖBB
About
ÖBB is Austria’s national railway company, offering a comprehensive network of train services across the country and to neighboring nations. Its fleet includes high-speed InterCity Express (ICE) trains for the fastest and most comfortable journeys, EuroCity (EC) trains for international connections, InterCity (IC) trains for reliable long-distance travel, and Regional Express (REX) trains for frequent local stops. Ticket types include Standard Ticket, Comfort-Ticket, ÖBB Sparschiene-Ticket, and ÖBB Sparschiene Comfort-Ticket, along with options for single, return, and group travel. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and food and beverage services. Popular routes include Vienna–Salzburg, Vienna–Innsbruck, and Vienna–Graz
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB Duration
11h 29m
Cheapest ÖBB Price
$70 (€59)
ÖBB frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on long-distance trains), bistro service, at-seat service in first class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance, and special seating areas
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Lucerne and Budapest
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Budapest.
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 Budapest
Things to do in Budapest
Discover the best of Budapest — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Budapest trip today.
- Recommended
Ludwig Museum
Leading contemporary art museum with strong Hungarian and international shows. Worth visiting for bold exhibitions in a landmark modern building.
- Recommended
Hungarian National Museum
National museum covering Hungarian history, archaeology, and statehood. A classic stop for understanding the country beyond Budapest’s landmarks.
- Must visit
Castle District
UNESCO-listed castle quarter of cobbled streets, courtyards, and viewpoints. Best for atmosphere, heritage walks, and some of Budapest’s finest vistas.
- Must visit
Andrássy Avenue
Elegant Andrássy Avenue links the center with Heroes’ Square through palaces and shops. A grand boulevard ideal for walking and historic city views.
- Must visit
City Park
Large central park with boating lake, baths, museums, and promenades. A versatile area for families, relaxed walks, and major city attractions.
Gulyás
A rich paprika beef soup with potatoes and vegetables. It is Hungary’s signature comfort dish and a staple in homes and traditional inns.
Pörkölt
Slow-cooked beef stew with lots of onion and paprika, usually served with nokedli. A classic example of deep Hungarian paprika flavor.
- Gluten-free
Halászlé
River fish soup, often carp-based, cooked with hot paprika. It is especially traditional along the Danube and at festive family meals.
Rosenstein Vendéglő
Refined Hungarian dining in a historic building, with updated national classics and strong wine service in a formal atmosphere.
Stand Restaurant
Michelin-starred fine dining with a modern tasting menu rooted in Hungarian ingredients. Stylish, intimate, and one of Budapest’s top tables.
Gettó Gulyás
Traditional Hungarian restaurant known for goulash, pörkölt, and live music. Warm, old-style atmosphere near the city center.
Hungarian forint (Ft)
Moderate for Europe: stays and dining are cheaper than in Western capitals, while central hotels and tourist areas cost more. Transit is good value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 3,500-5,500 Ft for street food or fast food.
- Mid-range
- 6,000-10,000 Ft per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 20,000 Ft+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- 900-1,500 Ft for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
About 10% is common in restaurants if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis and leave small change or round up at cafes.
BudapestGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 450 Ft
- Day pass
- 2 500 Ft
To the city center
Budapest Keleti Railway Station -> Deák Ferenc tér
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding or at metro entrances; mobile tickets in BudapestGO must be activated before travel.
- Contactless bank card payment is available in BudapestGO and at many ticket machines, but not generally on board buses, trams, or metro.
Plan your visit to Budapest
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 Budapest.
Yes, the train journey from Lucerne to Budapest is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming European countryside, making it a visually appealing experience.
Popular day trips by train from Budapest include Győr, Hegyeshalom, Mosonmagyaróvár, Nickelsdorf, Csorna.
The currency used in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Budapest, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Overcharging and unofficial taxi scams can occur, so it's best to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps. Be wary of street vendors and people offering unsolicited help or friendship, as these can sometimes lead to distraction theft or pressure to pay for services. Always keep personal belongings secure and stay alert in busy locations.
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 Lucerne to Budapest
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne to Budapest 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 Budapest, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Budapest.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Lucerne to Budapest
Most Lucerne to Budapest trains use the Luzern Bhf to Budapest Keleti station pair, with some services arriving at Budapest-Déli. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Budapest train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lucerne
Arrival train stations in Budapest
Which Lucerne station do trains to Budapest leave from?
Trains from Lucerne to Budapest leave from Luzern Bhf. The station is from Lucerne city centre at Zentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland.
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.
Luzern, BahnhofZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland
Luzern, Bahnhof train station facilities and services
Luzern, Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern, Bahnhof.
Which Budapest station do trains from Lucerne arrive at?
Trains from Lucerne to Budapest most often arrive at Budapest Keleti. Some services arrive at Budapest-Déli, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Budapest arrival station.
Budapest Keleti1087 Budapest, Kerepesi út 2-4, Hungary+36 1 313 6835
City-centre transport
Getting to Budapest Keleti from Budapest city centre
Budapest Keleti is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Train78 · 15m · $2 · every ~13 min
Bus5, 7, 8E, 107, 108E, 110, 112, 133E, 907, 973 · 11m · $2 · every ~66 min
Tram23 · 31m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayM2 · 8m · $2 · every ~28 min
Budapest Keleti train station facilities and services
Budapest Keleti has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rosenstein Restaurant, Huszar Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Budapest Keleti. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Budapest Keleti. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest Keleti: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Budapest Keleti: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest Keleti: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hungaria City Center, Baross City Hotel, Royal Park Boutique Hotel.
Budapest-DéliKrisztina körút 37/A, I. kerület, 1013 Budapest, Hungary+36 13558657
City-centre transport
Getting to Budapest-Déli from Budapest city centre
Budapest-Déli is 1 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus5, 956 · 3m · $2 · every ~12 min
Tram17, 56, 56A, N18 · 6m · $2 · every ~17 min
SubwayM2 · 7m · $2 · every ~29 min
Budapest-Déli train station facilities and services
Budapest-Déli has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Déli Terasz Söröző, Ibrahim török büfé, Vagon Etterem, Fornetti, Trio pizza, Turkish Döner KEBAB, Déli Mosoly, Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi, Club D One, Lokomotív Falatozó
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are aTM machines are located on the ground floor inside the main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35. Information desks are located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Budapest-Déli: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Budapest-Déli: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Déli: There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Mercure Budapest Castle Hill, Christina Residence Budapest, ibis Budapest Castle Hill.
FerihegyBudapest, 1185 Hungary
City-centre transport
Getting to Ferihegy from Budapest city centre
Ferihegy is 15 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe, Ic, Ir, 7028, 17008 · 25m · $2 · every ~13 min
BusminiBUD · 44m · $11 · every ~7 min
Ferihegy train station facilities and services
Ferihegy has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ferihegy.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ferihegy: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ferihegy: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ferihegy.
Train stations for Lucerne to Budapest
Check train stations information for Lucerne and Budapest, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Budapest is Luzern Bhf, which connects to Budapest Keleti.
More options for your journey from Lucerne to Budapest
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Budapest and Lucerne
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