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

Sun, Jun 21
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Lucerne

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$142

Average price

$159

Fastest journey

8 h 50 m

Average duration

8 h 55 m

Trains per day

2

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 $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Rotterdam for Lucerne on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 608 km distance in an average of 8 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 9 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:15 AM8h50
    Rotterdam
    4:05 PMLucerne
    $1421One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    11:05 AM9h00
    Rotterdam
    8:05 PMLucerne
    $1761One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Rotterdam to Lucerne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a train costs an average of $82.

Distance: 377 miles (608 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$193

Average price

$90

Average price

Cheapest

$115

Average price

$249

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 2m

Average total duration

8h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

15h 9m

Average total duration

14h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 30m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

7h 55m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

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 Rotterdam to Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $90 (€74).

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

A bus is $25 (€21) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rotterdam to Lucerne costing on average $115 (€94).

A bus is $104 (€85) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Lucerne costing on average $193 (€158).

The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Lucerne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 30m.

Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:

Train takes on average 8h 32m.

Bus takes on average 14h 39m.

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 train 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 $193 (€158) compared to roughly $249 (€204) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $56 (€46). The journey takes 8h 32m 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, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:15 AM Rotterdam
8h50
4:05 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:15 AM Rotterdam
8h50
5:05 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn11:05 AM Rotterdam
9h00
8:05 PM Lucerne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Rotterdam to Lucerne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar offer 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Lucerne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Lucerne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Lucerne

NetherlandsNetherlands
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Rotterdam to Lucerne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $82 (€67) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) 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 8h 28m.

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 $23 (€19)
Distance
377 miles (608 km)
Average train duration
8h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$82 (€67)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
8h 28m
First train
12:47 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $23 (€19)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar from Rotterdam to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar trains will get you between Rotterdam and Lucerne from $23 (€19). 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 35m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 7m
Cheapest Price
$497 (€407)
Eurostar frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
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

Switzerland’s most visited museum, covering rail, road, aviation, space, and communication with large interactive exhibits. A top choice for families and transport enthusiasts.

  • Must visit

Rosengart Collection

Major art museum with works by Picasso, Paul Klee, and Impressionists from the Rosengart family collection. A compact but high-quality museum in the city center.

  • Recommended

Glacier Garden Lucerne

A geological and cultural museum complex with glacial potholes, mirror maze, and exhibits on Lucerne’s natural history. One of the city’s classic attractions.

Swiss Franc

Lucerne is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though bakeries, supermarkets, and lunch specials can help cut daily costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for takeaway, kebab, or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 30-55 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or adding CHF 5-10 for good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxis; small tips for hotel staff are optional.

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 $82 (€67), while the average price is around $193 (€158).
The train from Rotterdam to Lucerne takes 8h 28m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Rotterdam to Lucerne leaves at 12:47 AM.
The distance by train from Rotterdam to Lucerne is 377 miles (608 km).
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 $23 (€19).
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 8h 28m 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 train 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

Rotterdam
Lucerne
The major train station for departures in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your trip from Rotterdam to Lucerne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station
Lockers
Lockers
  • 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
Dining
Dining
  • Smullers
  • Albert Heijn to go
  • Starbucks
  • La Place
  • Julia's
  • Ekmekci
  • LEON
  • The Doner Company
  • StationsHuiskamer
  • De Broodzaak
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance
Hotel
Hotel
  • Rotterdam Marriott Hotel
  • Layin’ Rotterdam Central
  • Hostel Ani & Haakien
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located inside the central hall
Public transit options for Rotterdam Centraal
  • Subway lines: D, E
  • Bus lines: 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 44, 48
  • Tram lines: 4, 7, 8, 12, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25
  • Train lines: NS Intercity, NS Intercity Direct, NS Sprinter, NS Nachtnet, Thalys, Eurostar
Rotterdam AlexanderWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with free parking options nearby
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Alexander
  • Brasserie Waalhaven
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps
WC
WC
  • €0.70
Hotel
Hotel
  • Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander
  • NH Capelle
  • Campanile Rotterdam Oost
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 300 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • SIXT
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for trains to Utrecht and Rotterdam Central
  • Hall 2: metro connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Alexander
  • Metro: Line A, Line B
  • Bus: Several lines available
Rotterdam NoordParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
  • Closed Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available near the station with limited spaces
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps
WC
WC
  • €0.50
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 100 places, covered
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transit options for Rotterdam Noord
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Tram: Line 4

More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Lucerne

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