- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum known for outstanding 19th- to 21st-century collections, photography, and temporary exhibitions; one of Germany’s best museum visits.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lucerne to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jul 08
Cheapest price
$97
Average price
$146
Fastest journey
6 h 4 m
Average duration
6 h 11 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
499 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lucerne to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lucerne to Essen will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $97.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Lucerne for Essen on Wed, Jul 08, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 08 the direct trains cover the 499 km distance in an average of 6 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 4 m .
On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest trains will take 6 h 17 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.
8:05 AM6h17Lucerne2:22 PMEssen$971One-way0 transfers- 6:54 AM6h04Lucerne12:58 PMEssen$1941One-way0 transfers
- 6:54 AM6h04Lucerne12:58 PMEssen$1941One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM6h17Lucerne2:22 PMEssen$971One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Lucerne to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $129.
Distance: 310 miles (499 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$158 Average price | $75 Average price Cheapest | $261 Average price | $196 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 47m Average total duration Fastest 6h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 30m Average total duration 7h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 18m Average total duration 12h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg 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 Lucerne to Essen is a bus with an average price of $75 (€61).
This is compared to other travel options from Lucerne to Essen:
A bus is $83 (€68) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lucerne to Essen costing on average $158 (€129).
A bus is $186 (€153) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lucerne to Essen costing on average $261 (€215).
The fastest way to travel from Lucerne to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 6h 17m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 0m.
Flight takes on average 12h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lucerne and Essen including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2m faster (6h 17m by train vs 6h 19m by car) and roughly $39 (€32) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($158 (€129) vs $196 (€161)). 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
Lucerne to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Lucerne to Essen trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:54 AM Lucerne | 6h04 | 12:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:05 AM Lucerne | 6h17 | 2:22 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lucerne to Essen by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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.
Wed
Jul 08
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Why should you book Lucerne to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn and more offer trains services from Lucerne to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lucerne to Essen.
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 Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Südostbahn to find the best option for your trip from Lucerne to Essen.
- 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lucerne to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Lucerne to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lucerne to Essen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Lucerne to Essen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $81 (€67) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 23:03. The fastest train covers the 310 miles (499 km) distance in 6h 4m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 310 miles (499 km) |
Average train duration 6h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $81 (€67) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 6h 4m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 11:03 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $47 (€38)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Lucerne to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Lucerne and Essen from $47 (€38). 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
6h 4m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€67)
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
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 4m
Cheapest Price
$178 (€146)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 4m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€138)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
4 a day
Südostbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 4m
Südostbahn frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
The main regional museum of the Ruhr area, located in the former coal washery at Zollverein, with archaeology, history, and industrial culture displays.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum in the Zollverein complex showing contemporary product and industrial design in a striking former boiler house.
- Must visit
Margarethenhöhe
Picturesque garden-city district with distinctive early 20th-century planning, charming streets, and strong local character; very photogenic and walkable.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake area popular for walking, cycling, sailing views, and relaxed Ruhr landscapes; one of Essen’s top outdoor recreation spots.
- Must visit
Zollverein Park
Contemporary landscape park woven through the former industrial complex, mixing architecture, art, and broad walking spaces popular on social media.
Currywurst
Sliced sausage with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a Ruhr area classic found at snack stands and pubs across Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and onions; common in the wider region around Essen.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Pot roast marinated for days in vinegar and spices, usually served with gravy and dumplings or potatoes; a classic festive dish in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Schote
An established fine-dining restaurant known for modern German cuisine, tasting menus, and an elegant atmosphere.
Unperfekthaus
A well-known creative venue with casual dining, buffet-style meals, and a lively cultural atmosphere in central Essen.
Tablo
A popular long-running restaurant serving generous Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a busy, friendly setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable; hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but tipping is customary. Round up small bills or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up; no tip is expected for counter service.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.60
- Day pass
- EUR 8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf, Essen -> Essen City Center, Essen
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Check in the VRR App for ticket validity zones before travel, as fares depend on the price level.
- On most VRR buses and trams, card payment is not always available onboard, so buy tickets in the app or from machines in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Lucerne to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lucerne to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $81 (€67), while the average price is around $158 (€129).
The train from Lucerne to Essen takes 6h 4m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Essen is 310 miles (499 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Essen leaves at 12:30 AM.
The last train from Lucerne to Essen leaves at 11:03 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Essen.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Essen is Lucerne station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lucerne to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from Lucerne to Essen offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland with its mountains and lakes, before moving into the more urban and industrial areas of Germany.
A day trip from Lucerne to Essen is not feasible due to a travel duration of 6h 4m and a distance of 310 miles (499 km). Trains are available 13 times per day.
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Essen.
Since both Lucerne and Essen 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 Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Essen 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
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 Lucerne to Essen
Most Lucerne to Essen trains use the Luzern Bhf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Essen 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 Essen
Which Lucerne station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Lucerne to Essen 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.
Which Essen station do trains from Lucerne arrive at?
Trains from Lucerne to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
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.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus
Most popular train connections from Lucerne
More options for your journey from Lucerne to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Lucerne
Most popular train connections to Essen
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