- 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 Munich to Lucerne
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$91
Fastest journey
4 h 37 m
Average duration
4 h 37 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
273 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Munich to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Munich to Lucerne will cost around $91 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Munich to Lucerne without transferring at least once.
ECE 94 · IR 25648:48 PM9h37Munich Hbf6:25 AMLucerne station$461One-way1 transfer- ECE 94 · S 5 · Bus EV2 · S 18:48 PM8h50Munich Hbf5:38 AMLucerne station$461One-way3 transfers
- ICE 698 · 17739 · 32470 · RE 490910:20 PM9h31Munich Hbf7:51 AMLucerne station$471One-way4 transfers
- ICE 618 · IC 60408 · IR 246311:43 PM9h47Munich Hbf9:30 AMLucerne station$491One-way2 transfers
- ICE 510 · ICE 77 · IC 6597:28 PM10h37Munich Hbf6:05 AMLucerne station$611One-way2 transfers
- ECE 194 · IR 212210:48 AM4h37Munich Hbf3:25 PMLucerne station$1361One-way1 transfer
- ECE 192 · IR 212612:48 PM4h37Munich Hbf5:25 PMLucerne station$1611One-way1 transfer
- ECE 196 · IR 25768:48 AM4h37Munich Hbf1:25 PMLucerne station$1221One-way1 transfer
- ECE 198 · IR 21146:48 AM4h37Munich Hbf11:25 AMLucerne station$851One-way1 transfer
- ECE 98 · IR 21344:48 PM4h37Munich Hbf9:25 PMLucerne station$1091One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Munich to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Munich 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 flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. 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 $65.
Distance: 169 miles (273 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $319 Average price | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 41m Average total duration 5h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration 6h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 16m 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 |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Munich to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $60 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Munich to Lucerne:
A bus is $59 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Munich to Lucerne costing on average $119 (€98).
A bus is $259 (€213) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Munich to Lucerne costing on average $319 (€263).
The fastest way to travel from Munich to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 11m.
Bus takes on average 6h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Munich and Lucerne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Munich to Lucerne 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 $119 (€98) compared to roughly $76 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-43.11 (€-35.46). The journey takes 5h 11m versus 4h 16m 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.
Live departures
Munich to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Munich to Lucerne trains for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 1010 · IC 185 · IR 2120 | On time 8:19 AM Munich Hbf | 6h06 | 2:25 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 690 · 3210 · 17697 · 3054 | On time 8:45 AM Munich Hbf | 6h06 | 2:51 PM Lucerne station | 5 transfers | |
| ICE 568 · ICE 279 · IR 2327 | On time 9:02 AM Munich Hbf | 6h03 | 3:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 918 · IC 187 · IR 2124 | On time 10:19 AM Munich Hbf | 6h06 | 4:25 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 566 · ICE 371 · IR 2479 | On time 11:02 AM Munich Hbf | 6h28 | 5:30 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 518 · ICE 107 · IC 683 | On time 11:28 AM Munich Hbf | 6h37 | 6:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 916 · IC 1089 · IR 2582 | On time 12:20 PM Munich Hbf | 6h05 | 6:25 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 564 · ICE 373 · IR 2483 | On time 1:02 PM Munich Hbf | 6h28 | 7:30 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 516 · IC 281 · IR 2132 | On time 1:28 PM Munich Hbf | 6h57 | 8:25 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| 78939 · EC 190 · IR 2130 | On time 1:44 PM Munich Hbf | 5h41 | 7:25 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 594 · ICE 375 · IR 2339 | On time 2:45 PM Munich Hbf | 6h20 | 9:05 PM Lucerne station | 2 transfers | |
| Monday, July 13 | |||||
| ECE 198 · IR 2114 | On time 6:48 AM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 11:25 AM Lucerne station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Munich to Lucerne by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Munich to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as TGV, Arverio Bayern GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) and more offer trains services from Munich to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Munich 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 TGV, Arverio Bayern GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Munich 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Munich to Lucerne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Munich to Lucerne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Munich to Lucerne?
The best time to book your train from Munich to Lucerne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Munich to Lucerne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Munich to Lucerne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Munich to Lucerne.
Trains
from $59Buses
from $36Flights
from $217Journey information
Overview: Train from Munich to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Munich to Lucerne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $25 (€21) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 169 miles (273 km) distance in 4h 33m.
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 (273 km) |
Average train duration 5h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 33m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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, TGV, Arverio Bayern GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Munich to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV, Arverio Bayern GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Munich 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
4h 33m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
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
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Arverio Bayern GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 6m
Arverio Bayern GmbH frequency
4 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$119 (€98)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
7 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 Munich to Lucerne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Munich 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 Munich to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€32), while the average price is around $119 (€98).
The train from Munich to Lucerne takes 4h 33m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Munich to Lucerne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Munich to Lucerne is 169 miles (273 km).
The last train from Munich to Lucerne leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Munich to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Munich to Lucerne.
The train station in Munich that goes to Lucerne is Munich Hbf, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Munich to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€21).
Yes, the train journey from Munich to Lucerne is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Bavarian Alps, charming villages, and serene lakes along the way, particularly as you approach Switzerland.
A day trip from Munich to Lucerne is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 33m. However, there are 7 trains per day for this route.
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 Munich to Lucerne.
Since both Munich 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 Munich 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.
More options for your journey from Munich to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Munich
Most popular train connections to Lucerne
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