- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Swiss Transport Museum with trains, planes, cars, simulators, and media exhibits. Lucerne’s top family-friendly museum.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mechelen to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
kr0.00
Average price
kr1120
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 PMLucernekr16801One-way3 transfers
- 12:18 PM9h47Mechelen10:05 PMLucernekr16801One-way3 transfers
- 12:18 PM8h47Mechelen9:05 PMLucerneFind prices4 transfers
- 6:45 AM9h20Mechelen4:05 PMLucernekr16801One-way3 transfers
- 12:18 PM9h47Mechelen10:05 PMLucernekr16801One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 flight with prices starting from kr478. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of kr478, and a train costs an average of kr1422.
Distance: 324 miles (523 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
kr2375 Average price | kr835 Average price | kr705 Average price Cheapest | kr959 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 21m Average total duration 6h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 18m Average total duration 20h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m 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 flight with an average price of kr705.
This is compared to other travel options from Mechelen to Lucerne:
A flight is kr129 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Mechelen to Lucerne costing on average kr835.
A flight is kr1669 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mechelen to Lucerne costing on average kr2375.
The fastest way to travel from Mechelen to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 30m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 51m.
Bus takes on average 20h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mechelen and Lucerne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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 kr2375 compared to roughly kr959 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 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:45 AM Mechelen | 9h20 | 4:05 PM Lucerne | 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, 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.
Wed
Aug 26
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Sep 01
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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, bus and flight 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, bus and flight 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 kr1422 but you can travel from only kr478 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 18m.
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 kr478
Distance 324 miles (523 km) |
Average train duration 6h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price kr1422 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 18m |
First train 8:54 AM |
Last train 2:14 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
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 kr478
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Mechelen to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Mechelen and Lucerne from kr478. 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
8h 51m
Cheapest Price
kr1422
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
kr1680
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
Sammlung Rosengart
Collection of Pablo Picasso works in a historic building once linked to the artist’s celebrated 1930s Lucerne exhibition.
- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Luzern
Jean Nouvel-designed art museum showing modern and contemporary works in a superb lakeside cultural complex.
- Must visit
Weinmarkt
Preserved old town square lined with frescoed historic buildings, fountains, and guild houses. A classic Lucerne photo stop.
- Recommended
Rathausquai
Car-free riverside promenade beside the Reuss with shops and facades. Ideal for strolling between major old town sights.
- Recommended
Nationalquai
Elegant lakefront promenade with mountain views, grand hotels, and access to the KKL and boat piers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp potato rösti from Central Switzerland, often served plain or topped. It is a beloved Swiss staple found in Lucerne homes and taverns.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
Rich melted cheese with bread, potatoes, or pickles. A classic Swiss communal meal that reflects alpine dairy traditions popular around Lucerne.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Raclette
Melted raclette cheese scraped over potatoes and pickles. It is a hearty mountain dish widely enjoyed across Switzerland, including Lucerne.
Restaurant Olivo
Elegant fine dining focused on creative French-Swiss cuisine with lake views and a long-standing reputation for special occasions.
Wirtshaus Galliker
Historic riverside restaurant known for Lucerne classics like Chügelipastete in a traditional setting near the old town.
Brasserie VICO
Refined lakeside dining with seasonal Swiss cuisine and polished service in the grand Hotel Schweizerhof.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Lucerne is pricier than most European cities, with high hotel rates, meals, and local transport, especially in peak tourist season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.60
To the city center
Luzern Verkehrshaus -> Luzern Bahnhof, Lucerne
- Distance
- 2.8 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy your ticket before boarding; buses in Lucerne do not sell tickets on board. Use FAIRTIQ or ticket machines.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not directly on most buses. Validate your fare before travel.
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 kr1422, while the average price is around kr2375.
The train from Mechelen to Lucerne takes 7h 18m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Mechelen to Lucerne leaves at 8:54 AM.
The distance by train from Mechelen to Lucerne is 324 miles (523 km).
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 Brussels-Midi, which connects to Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Mechelen to Lucerne is by flight, with a cost of around kr478.
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 18m 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
Most Mechelen to Lucerne trains use the Bruxelles-Midi to Zürich HB station pair. Use this guide to compare Mechelen and Lucerne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mechelen
Arrival train stations in Lucerne
Which Mechelen station do trains to Lucerne leave from?
Trains from Mechelen to Lucerne leave from Bruxelles-Midi. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Mechelen city centre at 47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, Belgium.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · kr24 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen 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: Restaurant De Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Which Lucerne station do trains from Mechelen arrive at?
Trains from Mechelen to Lucerne most often arrive at Zürich HB. Some services arrive at Luzern Bhf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Lucerne arrival station.
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 · kr32 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · kr72
72 · 22m · kr24 · 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.
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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