- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Switzerland’s most visited museum, with large exhibitions on rail, road, aviation, space and mobility, plus family-friendly interactive displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mannheim to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
3 h 28 m
Average duration
3 h 41 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
272 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mannheim to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mannheim to Lucerne will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Mannheim to Lucerne without transferring at least once.
IC 60408 · IR 24634:22 AM5h08Mannheim Hbf9:30 AMLucerne station$491One-way1 transfer- ICE 275 · IR 24677:37 AM3h53Mannheim Hbf11:30 AMLucerne station$551One-way1 transfer
- 15961 · ICE 271 · IR 23154:54 AM4h11Mannheim Hbf9:05 AMLucerne station$551One-way2 transfers
- ICE 273 · IR 24656:37 AM3h53Mannheim Hbf10:30 AMLucerne station$611One-way1 transfer
- ICE 101 · IC 6718:37 AM3h28Mannheim Hbf12:05 PMLucerne station$671One-way1 transfer
- ICE 279 · IR 232711:37 AM3h28Mannheim Hbf3:05 PMLucerne station$1171One-way1 transfer
- ICE 101 · IC 6718:37 AM3h28Mannheim Hbf12:05 PMLucerne station$671One-way1 transfer
- ECE 151 · IR 24698:46 AM3h44Mannheim Hbf12:30 PMLucerne station$1001One-way1 transfer
- ICE 277 · IR 24719:37 AM3h53Mannheim Hbf1:30 PMLucerne station$1001One-way1 transfer
- ICE 103 · IR 247310:37 AM3h53Mannheim Hbf2:30 PMLucerne station$1001One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Mannheim to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mannheim to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $151.
Distance: 169 miles (272 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$88 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $356 Average price | $131 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 23m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 3m Average total duration 8h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg 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 Mannheim to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $42 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Mannheim to Lucerne:
A bus is $46 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mannheim to Lucerne costing on average $88 (€72).
A bus is $314 (€258) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mannheim to Lucerne costing on average $356 (€292).
The fastest way to travel from Mannheim to Lucerne is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 53m.
Flight takes on average 8h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mannheim and Lucerne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mannheim to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 37m faster (3h 17m by train vs 3h 54m by car) and roughly $43 (€36) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($88 (€72) vs $131 (€108)). 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
Mannheim to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Mannheim to Lucerne trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:56 AM Mannheim | 5h29 | 12:25 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:37 AM Mannheim | 3h28 | 12:05 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:37 AM Mannheim | 3h28 | 1:05 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:37 AM Mannheim | 3h28 | 2:05 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:00 PM Mannheim | 4h16 | 11:16 PM Lucerne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 15961 · ICE 271 · IR 2315 | 4:54 AM Mannheim Hbf | 4h11 | 9:05 AM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mannheim 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.
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Why should you book Mannheim to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Mannheim to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mannheim 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 ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Mannheim 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 Mannheim 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 Mannheim to Lucerne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mannheim to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Mannheim to Lucerne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $25 (€21) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 169 miles (272 km) distance in 3h 19m.
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 $25 (€21)
Distance 169 miles (272 km) |
Average train duration 3h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 19m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 63 days |
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 $25 (€21)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Mannheim to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Mannheim and Lucerne from $25 (€21). 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
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
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
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 43m
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 28m
Cheapest Price
$128 (€105)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
23 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 23m
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
1 a day
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 34m
Cheapest Price
$209 (€172)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
2 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
Rosengart Collection
Major private art museum known for strong Picasso and Paul Klee holdings, along with works by Monet, Matisse and other modern masters.
- Recommended
Glacier Garden Lucerne
Museum and geological site with glacier potholes, alpine geology exhibits and the historic mirror maze, combining natural history and local heritage.
- Must visit
Lucerne Old Town
The city’s most atmospheric walking area, full of painted facades, narrow lanes, small squares and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Lake Lucerne Promenade
Scenic lakeside walking route with mountain views, elegant hotels, boat traffic and many of Lucerne’s classic postcard perspectives.
- Recommended
Weinmarkt
Historic old-town square surrounded by colorful buildings, a fine place to appreciate Lucerne’s civic history and street life.
Luzerner Chügelipastete
Lucerne’s signature dish: a puff pastry pie filled with veal, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, often with raisins. It is a classic festive specialty strongly associated with the city.
- Vegetarian
Älplermagronen
A hearty Swiss Alpine pasta bake with macaroni, potatoes, cream, cheese, and onions, often served with apple sauce. It is a comforting traditional dish widely eaten in Central Switzerland.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp grated potato cake, originally a Swiss farmhouse staple and now a national classic. In Lucerne it is commonly served as a side or topped with cheese, egg, or cured meats.
Wirtshaus Galliker
Historic traditional inn in Lucerne known for classic local dishes such as Luzerner Chügelipastete and hearty Swiss fare. Warm, old-style atmosphere and a long-standing local reputation.
Restaurant Balances
Well-known riverside restaurant in Hotel des Balances serving polished Swiss and international cuisine. Stylish setting with Reuss views, suitable for a refined meal in the old town.
Fondue House Du Pont
Established casual spot specializing in Swiss cheese fondue and other traditional dishes. Popular for an easygoing, classic Swiss dining experience in central Lucerne.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and restaurants, but public transport and casual food can be managed with planning.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated in restaurants; round up taxis, small tips optional at cafes and hotels.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Lucerne Railway Station, Lucerne -> Lucerne City Center, Lucerne
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets in Lucerne are part of the Passepartout fare network, so price depends on zones rather than stop count. Buy the correct zone ticket before boarding.
- Card payment is generally available in ticket machines, but not always onboard every bus. The Fairtiq app is a practical cashless option for local travel.
FAQs: Trains from Mannheim to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mannheim 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 Mannheim to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $88 (€72).
The train from Mannheim to Lucerne takes 3h 19m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Mannheim to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Mannheim to Lucerne is 169 miles (272 km).
The last train from Mannheim to Lucerne leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Mannheim to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mannheim to Lucerne.
The train station in Mannheim that goes to Lucerne is Mannheim Hbf, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Mannheim to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€21).
Yes, the train journey from Mannheim to Lucerne is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley, picturesque German towns, and the beautiful Swiss countryside as it travels towards the Alps.
A day trip from Mannheim to Lucerne is not feasible as the travel time is 3h 19m. 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 Mannheim to Lucerne.
Since both Mannheim 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 Mannheim 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.
Most popular train connections from Mannheim
More options for your journey from Mannheim to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Mannheim
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