- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Switzerland’s most visited museum, with extensive exhibits on rail, road, aviation, navigation and communication, plus immersive simulators and family-friendly displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mechelen to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$174
Fastest journey
8 h 47 m
Average duration
9 h 18 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
523 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mechelen to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Mechelen to Lucerne without transferring at least 3 times.
12:18 PM8h47Mechelen9:05 PMLucerneFind prices4 transfers- 6:45 AM9h20Mechelen4:05 PMLucerne$2611One-way3 transfers
- 12:18 PM9h47Mechelen10:05 PMLucerne$2611One-way3 transfers
- 12:18 PM8h47Mechelen9:05 PMLucerneFind prices4 transfers
- 6:45 AM9h20Mechelen4:05 PMLucerne$2611One-way3 transfers
- 12:18 PM9h47Mechelen10:05 PMLucerne$2611One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Mechelen to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mechelen to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $83. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $83, and a train costs an average of $182.
Distance: 324 miles (523 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$267 Average price | $188 Average price | $107 Average price Cheapest | $147 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 21m Average total duration 6h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 18m Average total duration Fastest 4h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 43m Average total duration 17h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Mechelen to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $107 (€86).
This is compared to other travel options from Mechelen to Lucerne:
A bus is $81 (€65) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mechelen to Lucerne costing on average $188 (€152).
A bus is $160 (€129) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mechelen to Lucerne costing on average $267 (€216).
The fastest way to travel from Mechelen to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 18m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 51m.
Bus takes on average 17h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mechelen and Lucerne including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mechelen to Lucerne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 22m sooner (6h 51m by train vs 7h 13m by car). Tickets start at around $267 (€216) compared to roughly $147 (€119) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Mechelen to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Mechelen to Lucerne trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 IC 4529 · ICE 13 · ICE 371 · IR 2331 | 8:14 AM Mechelen station | 8h51 | 5:05 PM Lucerne station | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mechelen to Lucerne 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.
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May 28
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May 31
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Why should you book Mechelen to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCB offer trains services from Mechelen to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mechelen 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 SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Mechelen to Lucerne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen to Lucerne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Mechelen to Lucerne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mechelen to Lucerne
Belgium
Switzerland
Trains from Mechelen to Lucerne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $182 (€147) but you can travel from only $76 (€61) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 08:54, the last at 14:14. The fastest train covers the 324 miles (523 km) distance in 7h 17m.
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 $76 (€61)
Distance 324 miles (523 km) |
Average train duration 6h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $182 (€147) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 17m |
First train 8:54 AM |
Last train 2:14 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
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
Flight from $76 (€61)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Mechelen to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Mechelen and Lucerne from $76 (€61). 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 51m
Cheapest Price
$182 (€147)
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
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 32m
Cheapest Price
$261 (€211)
SNCB 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 art museum in central Lucerne featuring important works by Picasso, Klee and Impressionist masters from the renowned Rosengart collection.
- Recommended
Glacier Garden Lucerne
A compact museum and geological site with glacier potholes, natural history displays and the famous mirror maze, offering insight into Lucerne’s Ice Age past.
- Must visit
Lucerne Old Town
The historic heart of the city, filled with painted facades, fountains, guildhalls and lively lanes that are ideal for wandering on foot.
- Must visit
Lake Lucerne Promenade
Scenic waterfront walking area with mountain views, elegant hotels, boat activity and classic postcard perspectives of Lucerne.
- Recommended
Weinmarkt
Historic square in the old town surrounded by decorated buildings, central to Lucerne’s medieval atmosphere and a popular photo stop.
Luzerner Chügelipastete
Lucerne’s signature specialty: a puff-pastry shell filled with veal, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, often garnished with raisins. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional dishes.
- Vegetarian
Älplermagronen
A hearty Swiss Alpine pasta and potato bake with cheese, cream, and onions, often served with apple sauce. Popular across Central Switzerland as comforting mountain food.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp fried grated potatoes, originally a Swiss farmhouse dish and now a classic side or main. In Lucerne it commonly appears with cheese, egg, or regional meat toppings.
Wirtshaus Galliker
Historic traditional inn known for classic Lucerne and Swiss dishes, especially Luzerner Chügelipastete, in an old-school local atmosphere.
Restaurant Balances
Well-known stylish restaurant on the Reuss with refined Swiss and international cooking, plus excellent river and old town views.
Old Swiss House
Established upscale Lucerne restaurant famous for classic Swiss hospitality and tableside Wienerschnitzel in an elegant historic setting.
Swiss Franc
Lucerne is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though supermarkets help budget travelers.
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 included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares slightly.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.20
To the city center
Lucerne Railway Station, Lucerne -> Lucerne City Center, Lucerne
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets can be bought in the FAIRTIQ app or from ticket machines before boarding; carry a valid ticket before travel.
- Card payment is accepted at most ticket machines, but onboard payment on buses is limited, so buy your ticket in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Mechelen to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $182 (€147), while the average price is around $267 (€216).
The train from Mechelen to Lucerne takes 7h 17m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Mechelen to Lucerne is 324 miles (523 km).
The first train from Mechelen to Lucerne leaves at 8:54 AM.
The last train from Mechelen to Lucerne leaves at 2:14 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Mechelen to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mechelen to Lucerne.
The train station in Mechelen that goes to Lucerne is Mechelen station, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Mechelen to Lucerne is by flight, with a cost of around $76 (€61).
The train journey from Mechelen to Lucerne offers scenic views, especially as it approaches Switzerland, with picturesque landscapes including rolling hills, charming villages, and stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
A day trip from Mechelen to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 17m each way. Trains run 2 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 Mechelen to Lucerne.
Since both Mechelen 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 Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Lucerne
Mechelen
Lucerne
The major train station for departures in Mechelen is Mechelen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Mechelen for your trip from Mechelen to Lucerne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Stationsstraat.
Dining
- Restaurant De Graspoort
- Il Cardinale
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- NH Mechelen
- Hotel Elisabeth
- Martin's Patershof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for trains to Brussels, Antwerp, and regional destinations
Public transit options for Mechelen
- Train: IC, S-train
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Lucerne is Luzern Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Luzern Bhf for your journey to Lucerne from Mechelen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
14Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Zentralstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant La Cucina
- Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Monopol Luzern
- Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel
- Hotel Central Luzern
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 420 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-9 for trains to Germany, Italy, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms
- Hall 3: Boat connections
Public transit options for Luzern Bhf
- Bus: Several lines available
- Boat: Lake Lucerne boats
- Train: SBB services to various destinations
Most popular train connections from Mechelen
More options for your journey from Mechelen to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Mechelen
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