Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen train with Deutsche Bahn

Sat, Jun 20
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Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $113. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $113, and a flight costs an average of $239.

Distance: 312 miles (503 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$169

Average price

$256

Average price

$117

Average price

Cheapest

$146

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

17h 33m

Average total duration

14h 33m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

21h 15m

Average total duration

20h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 28m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $117 (€96).

This is compared to other travel options from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen:

A bus is $52 (€43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $169 (€139).

A bus is $140 (€114) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $256 (€210).

The fastest way to travel from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is by train with an average journey time of 6h 40m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Flight takes on average 14h 33m.

Bus takes on average 20h 45m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen 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 $169 (€139) compared to roughly $146 (€119) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-23.27 (€-19.06). The journey takes 6h 40m versus 6h 28m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen 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
Jun 20
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Jun 21
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Jun 22
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Jun 23
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Jun 26

Why should you book Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.

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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
  • 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 Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.

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 Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $168 (€138) but you can travel from only $113 (€92) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 22:34. The fastest train covers the 312 miles (503 km) distance in 7h 50m.

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 $113 (€92)
Distance
312 miles (503 km)
Average train duration
6h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$168 (€138)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
7h 50m
First train
2:15 AM
Last train
10:34 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
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 $113 (€92)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen from $113 (€92). 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
7h 50m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€138)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 26m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€138)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $168 (€138), while the average price is around $169 (€139).
The train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen takes 7h 50m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is 312 miles (503 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 2:15 AM.
The last train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 10:34 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Lucerne station, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around $113 (€92).
The train journey from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is considered scenic, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Swiss landscape, with views of the mountains and lakes, before entering the diverse terrains of Germany, offering travelers a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible due to the travel time of 7h 50m. The journey covers a distance of 312 miles (503 km), with a frequency of 6 trips per day for trains.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions in Gelsenkirchen, including the Veltins-Arena, ZOOM Erlebniswelt, and the Nordsternpark.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Osnabrück.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and major train stations. Common scams include fake charity collectors and distraction techniques in busy spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay alert in nightlife districts to avoid petty theft. Overall, standard urban safety precautions apply.
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 Gelsenkirchen

Most Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Luzern Bhf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen

Which Lucerne station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?

Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen 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 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

More options for your journey from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen

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