- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Major transport museum with trains, planes, automobiles and interactive exhibits. Excellent for families and anyone curious about mobility.
Cheapest price on 14 Oct
£73
Average ticket price on 14 Oct
£104
Fastest journey on 14 Oct
5 h 11 m
Average journey duration on 14 Oct
6 h
Trains on 14 Oct
9
Distance
443 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Lucerne will cost around £104 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £73.
On Wed 14 Oct, we found 9 trains from Cologne to Lucerne, including 9 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 443 km distance in an average of 6 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 11 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 12 m 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.










Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £27 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 443 km distance in 4h 32m.
Distance 443 km |
Average train duration 5h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 32m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lucerne trains for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 225 · ECE 5 · IC 627 · RE 4729 | Delayed 9:52 11:32Cologne Hbf | 5h23 | 16:55 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 29 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 · EC 67 | 11:53 Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 18:55 Lucerne station | 4 changes | |
ICE 517 · ICE 371 · IR 2331 | Delayed 10:05 11:54Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 17:05 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
IC 1644 · ICE 373 · IR 2335 | 12:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 19:05 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
ICE 107 · IC 683 | Delayed 10:59 12:54Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 18:05 Lucerne station | 1 change | |
ICE 919 · ICE 73 · EC 67 · RE 4733 | On time 13:35 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h20 | 18:55 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7 · IC 635 | On time 13:53 Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 20:55 Lucerne station | 4 changes | |
ICE 519 · ICE 373 · IR 2335 | Delayed 12:03 13:54Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 19:05 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
IC 1946 · ICE 375 · IR 2339 | On time 14:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 21:05 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
ICE 109 · IC 687 | Delayed 12:56 14:54Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 20:05 Lucerne station | 1 change | |
ICE 1011 · ICE 7 · IC 635 · RE 4737 | On time 15:31 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h24 | 20:55 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 927 · ICE 1013 · ICE 75 · IC 641 | On time 15:53 Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 22:55 Lucerne station | 4 changes | |
ICE 611 · ICE 375 · IR 2339 | 15:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 21:05 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
IC 1948 · ICE 377 · IC 989 · IR 2343 | On time 16:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 23:05 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 201 · IC 691 | Delayed 14:56 16:54Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 22:05 Lucerne station | 1 change | |
ICE 1013 · ICE 75 · IC 641 · RE 4741 | Delayed 15:36 17:33Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h22 | 22:55 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 929 · ICE 1015 · ECE 9 · IR 2347 | On time 17:53 Cologne Hbf | 7h23 | 1:16 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 613 · ICE 377 · IC 989 · IR 2343 | 17:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 23:05 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
ICE 613 · ICE 377 · RE 4743 | 17:54 Cologne Hbf | 6h01 | 23:55 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
ICE 203 · IC 2345 | On time 18:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 0:05 Lucerne station | 1 change | |
ICE 1015 · ECE 9 · IR 2347 | On time 19:30 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h46 | 1:16 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
| Wednesday 14 October | |||||
![]() | 5:53 Cologne | 6h12 | 12:05 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 6:42 Cologne | 6h23 | 13:05 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 6:53 Cologne | 6h12 | 13:05 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 7:31 Cologne | 6h54 | 14:25 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 7:53 Cologne | 6h12 | 14:05 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 8:53 Cologne | 7h02 | 15:55 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
![]() | 8:54 Cologne | 5h11 | 14:05 Lucerne | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Lucerne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lucerne trip today.
Major transport museum with trains, planes, automobiles and interactive exhibits. Excellent for families and anyone curious about mobility.
Art museum at KKL with modern and classical exhibitions. A strong choice for thoughtful shows in a prominent lakeside cultural venue.
Museum dedicated to Pablo Picasso’s later years, showing works and photographs in a central old-town building near the Reuss.
Car-free old town area with painted facades, fountains and lively lanes. Ideal for wandering, shopping and seeing Lucerne beyond the postcard icons.
Lakeside promenade and district with grand villas, gardens and mountain views. Perfect for an easy walk away from the busiest centre streets.
Hilltop viewpoint above Lucerne reached by funicular, with broad panoramas over the city, lake and surrounding mountains.
A rich cheese fondue often made with Swiss cheeses and white wine. A classic shared Alpine dish widely enjoyed in Lucerne, especially in colder months.
Swiss rösti of grated potatoes fried until crisp and often served as a side or main. It is a staple across Central Switzerland and common in Lucerne inns.
Pasta-like dumplings from Central Switzerland, traditionally served with cheese, onions or apple sauce. A hearty rustic dish linked to Alpine farming traditions.
Refined dining venue by the lake with seasonal cuisine, polished service and elegant surroundings suited to a special meal.
Well-known old-town Swiss restaurant serving fondue, raclette and hearty regional food in a lively, traditional setting.
Casual Lucerne institution popular for crisp potato rösti with varied toppings, offering a relaxed and reliable Swiss meal near the centre.
Lucerne is pricier than most European cities, with high hotel, dining and local transport costs, especially in peak tourist season.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service in restaurants. Round up small amounts for taxis and cafés.
Official public transport app
Luzern Bahnhof -> Luzern Bahnhof
The most popular day trips by train from Lucerne are Zurich, Bern, Basel, Interlaken and Lugano. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Lucerne on Omio.

Zurich combines a global financial role with a calm lakeside setting and a well-kept Altstadt. It is known for banking and shopping, but also for art, river bathing and a distinctly orderly Swiss feel.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 40 km distance in 42m.

Bern is Switzerland’s capital, known for its sandstone Old City, arcades and the Aare around its centre. It combines medieval character with a calm, everyday feel and a strong link to Albert Einstein.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 66 km distance in 1h 0m.

Basel is known for its art museums, Rhine setting and well-kept old town. On Switzerland’s northern border, it feels both historic and distinctly international.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 79 km distance in 59m.

Interlaken sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is known as a gateway to the Jungfrau region. Its grand old hotels, riverfront setting and steady outdoor buzz give the town a polished but relaxed Alpine feel.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 53 km distance in 1h 43m.

Lugano is known for its lakeside setting and Swiss-Italian character, where palm-lined streets meet elegant piazzas. It combines a polished business centre with relaxed outdoor life, framed by Lake Lugano and the surrounding hills.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 126 km distance in 1h 30m.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.

Most Cologne to Lucerne trains use the Köln Hbf to Luzern Bhf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Lucerne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln-Ehrenfeld has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
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 options include: Restaurant La Cucina, Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Luzern Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Luzern Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Luzern Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Luzern Bhf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern Bhf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Monopol Luzern, Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel, Hotel Central Luzern.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need