Rotterdam to Lucerne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE,EC)

Wed, Sep 23
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Lucerne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 23

Cheapest price on Sep 23

$79

Average ticket price on Sep 23

$120

Fastest journey on Sep 23

8 h 50 m

Average journey duration on Sep 23

8 h 50 m

Trains on Sep 23

20

Distance

608 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Lucerne will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Lucerne without transferring at least 4 times.

  • Deutsche BahnICD 1866 · IC 3670 · RE 6475 · IC 60403
    8:23 PM11h32
    Rotterdam Centraal
    7:55 AMLucerne station
    $791One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1163 · IC 3561 · 20093 · ICE 205
    5:15 PM12h50
    Rotterdam Centraal
    6:05 AMLucerne station
    $841One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1155 · IC 3553 · 20089 · 10633
    3:15 PM10h01
    Rotterdam Centraal
    1:16 AMLucerne station
    $951One-way
    6 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnRE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 · ICE 279
    5:54 AM9h11
    Rotterdam Centraal
    3:05 PMLucerne station
    $1101One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2817 · ICE 121 · ICE 279 · IR 2327
    5:50 AM9h15
    Rotterdam Centraal
    3:05 PMLucerne station
    $1101One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Rotterdam to Lucerne

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $110 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $110, while a flight costs an average of $430.

Distance: 377 miles (608 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$190

Average price

$430

Average price

$110

Average price

Cheapest

$252

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 50m

Average total duration

8h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 59m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

13h 40m

Average total duration

13h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 55m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

ITA

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

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 Rotterdam to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $110 (€90).

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

A bus is $80 (€65) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Lucerne costing on average $190 (€156).

A bus is $320 (€262) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rotterdam to Lucerne costing on average $430 (€353).

The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 59m.

Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:

Train takes on average 8h 20m.

Bus takes on average 13h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Lucerne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam 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 $190 (€156) compared to roughly $252 (€206) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $62 (€51). The journey takes 8h 20m versus 7h 55m 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

Rotterdam to Lucerne train times

The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Lucerne trains for today, Tuesday, September 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICD 1866 · IC 3670 · RE 6475 · IC 604038:23 PM Rotterdam Centraal
11h32
7:55 AM Lucerne station5 transfers
Deutsche BahnRE 4074 · IC 3079+VIAS Rail GmbH20043+Deutsche Bahn268448:54 PM Rotterdam Centraal
13h11
10:05 AM Lucerne station6 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1179 · IC 2979 · 18981 · S199:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal
13h50
11:05 AM Lucerne station6 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1181 · IC 2981 · 32589 · 189819:45 PM Rotterdam Centraal
13h20
11:05 AM Lucerne station9 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1181 · IC 2981 · 32589 · 189819:45 PM Rotterdam Centraal
13h20
11:05 AM Lucerne station7 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3585 · 20065 · ICE 101 · IC 6719:56 PM Rotterdam Centraal
14h09
12:05 PM Lucerne station3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1187 · IC 3585 · 20065 · ICE 10111:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal
12h50
12:05 PM Lucerne station4 transfers
Wednesday, September 23
Deutsche BahnIC 2817 · ICE 121 · ICE 279 · IR 23275:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal
9h15
3:05 PM Lucerne station3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2817 · ICE 121 · ICE 915 · ICE 715:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal
9h05
2:55 PM Lucerne station5 transfers
Deutsche BahnRE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 · ICE 2795:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal
9h11
3:05 PM Lucerne station4 transfers
Deutsche BahnRE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 · ICE 9155:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal
9h01
2:55 PM Lucerne station6 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1119 · IC 3517 · 20071 · 106156:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
8h50
3:05 PM Lucerne station6 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1123 · IC 3521 · 20073 · 106177:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
8h50
4:05 PM Lucerne station5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 371 · IR 23318:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal
9h00
5:05 PM Lucerne station3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2027 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · IC 6278:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal
8h50
4:55 PM Lucerne station4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 106198:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
8h50
5:05 PM Lucerne station6 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 106219:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
8h50
6:05 PM Lucerne station5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2051 · ICE 127 · ICE 1013 · ICE 752:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal
8h50
10:55 PM Lucerne station5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2051 · ICE 127 · ICE 377 · IC 9892:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal
9h00
11:05 PM Lucerne station4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2051 · ICE 127 · ICE 377 · RE 47432:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal
9h50
11:55 PM Lucerne station3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam 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
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sun
Sep 27
Mon
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29

Why should you book Rotterdam to Lucerne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Rotterdam to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Lucerne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Lucerne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Lucerne

NetherlandsNetherlands
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Rotterdam to Lucerne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€60) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 00:47, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 377 miles (608 km) distance in 7h 40m.

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 $24 (€20)
Distance
377 miles (608 km)
Average train duration
8h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€60)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
7h 40m
First train
12:47 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
21 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
Flight from $24 (€20)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rotterdam to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rotterdam and Lucerne from $24 (€20). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
7h 40m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$73 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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

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

Swiss Museum of Transport

Swiss Transport Museum with trains, planes, cars, simulators, and media exhibits. Lucerne’s top family-friendly museum.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Lucerne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€60), while the average price is around $190 (€156).
The train from Rotterdam to Lucerne takes 7h 40m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Rotterdam to Lucerne is 377 miles (608 km).
The first train from Rotterdam to Lucerne leaves at 12:47 AM.
The last train from Rotterdam to Lucerne leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Lucerne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rotterdam to Lucerne.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Lucerne is Rotterdam Centraal, which connects to Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Lucerne is by flight, with a cost of around $24 (€20).
Yes, the train journey from Rotterdam to Lucerne offers scenic views, especially as it traverses the Swiss countryside, with picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and views of the Alps enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Rotterdam to Lucerne is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 40m each way, covering a distance of 377 miles (608 km). There are 3 trains 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 Rotterdam to Lucerne.
Since both Rotterdam 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Lucerne

Most Rotterdam to Lucerne trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Luzern Bhf station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Lucerne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Rotterdam
Arrival train stations in Lucerne

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Lucerne leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Lucerne leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre

BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · $2

Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.

Rotterdam ZuidAnnie M.G. Schmidtplein 20, 3083 NZ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Zuid from Rotterdam city centre

Rotterdam Zuid is 2 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSprinter · 3m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus32 · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min
Stopbus ipv trein, Taxibus ipv trein · 13m · every ~1 min
Tram3 · 18m · $2 · every ~23 min

Rotterdam Zuid train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Zuid has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Hef, Restaurant Fenix Food Factory

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Zuid. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Zuid. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Zuid: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rotterdam Zuid: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Zuid.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Zuid, Art Hotel Rotterdam, Hotel New York.

More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Lucerne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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