- Must visit
Swiss Museum of Transport
Major transport museum with trains, planes, automobiles and interactive exhibits. Excellent for families and anyone curious about mobility.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lucerne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Aug
Cheapest price on 30 Aug
£68
Average ticket price on 30 Aug
£88
Fastest journey on 30 Aug
5 h 25 m
Average journey duration on 30 Aug
5 h 58 m
Trains on 30 Aug
5
Distance
443 km
Cheap tickets
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 £88 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £68.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Lucerne you need to make at least one change.
IC 2040 · ICE 279 · IR 24758:536h37Cologne Hbf15:30Lucerne station£681One-way2 changes- ICE 103 · IR 24738:545h36Cologne Hbf14:30Lucerne station£901One-way1 change
- ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 47259:305h25Cologne Messe/Deutz14:55Lucerne station£901One-way3 changes
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 24759:545h36Cologne Hbf15:30Lucerne station£901One-way2 changes
- ICE 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 247910:536h37Cologne Hbf17:30Lucerne station£1041One-way2 changes
- ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 47259:305h25Cologne Messe/Deutz14:55Lucerne station£901One-way3 changes
- ICE 103 · IR 24738:545h36Cologne Hbf14:30Lucerne station£901One-way1 change
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 24759:545h36Cologne Hbf15:30Lucerne station£901One-way2 changes
- IC 2040 · ICE 279 · IR 24758:536h37Cologne Hbf15:30Lucerne station£681One-way2 changes
- ICE 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 247910:536h37Cologne Hbf17:30Lucerne station£1041One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Lucerne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £44 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 19m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £44, while a flight costs an average of £228.
Distance: 443 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£71 Average Price | £44 Average Price Cheapest | £228 Average Price |
5h 46m Average total duration 5h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 22m Average total duration 8h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Lucerne train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lucerne trains for today, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2040 · ICE 279 · IR 2475 | On time 8:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h37 | 15:30 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 103 · IR 2473 | Delayed 7:23 8:54Cologne Hbf | 5h36 | 14:30 Lucerne station | 1 change | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · RE 4725 | On time 9:30 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h25 | 14:55 Lucerne station | 3 changes | |
| ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IR 2475 | On time 9:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h36 | 15:30 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 2013 · ICE 371 · IR 2479 | On time 10:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h37 | 17:30 Lucerne station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 105 · IR 2477 | Delayed 9:03 10:54Cologne Hbf | 5h36 | 16:30 Lucerne station | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Lucerne by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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
30 Aug
30 Aug
Mon
31 Aug
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept
04 Sept
Sat
05 Sept
05 Sept
Why should you book Cologne to Lucerne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Lucerne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne 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 Cologne 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 Cologne to Lucerne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Lucerne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £31 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 443 km distance in 5h 11m.
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
Coach from £31
Distance 443 km |
Average train duration 5h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 11m |
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 |
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
Coach from £31
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Lucerne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Lucerne from £31. 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
5h 11m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£36
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
5h 11m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
£136
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 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.
- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Luzern
Art museum at KKL with modern and classical exhibitions. A strong choice for thoughtful shows in a prominent lakeside cultural venue.
- Recommended
Sammlung Rosengart
Museum dedicated to Pablo Picasso’s later years, showing works and photographs in a central old-town building near the Reuss.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Car-free old town area with painted facades, fountains and lively lanes. Ideal for wandering, shopping and seeing Lucerne beyond the postcard icons.
- Recommended
Nationalquai
Lakeside promenade and district with grand villas, gardens and mountain views. Perfect for an easy walk away from the busiest centre streets.
- Recommended
Dietschiberg
Hilltop viewpoint above Lucerne reached by funicular, with broad panoramas over the city, lake and surrounding mountains.
- Vegetarian
Käsefondue
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.
- Gluten-free
Rösti
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.
- Vegetarian
Älplermagronen
Pasta-like dumplings from Central Switzerland, traditionally served with cheese, onions or apple sauce. A hearty rustic dish linked to Alpine farming traditions.
Restaurant Oliveira's
Refined dining venue by the lake with seasonal cuisine, polished service and elegant surroundings suited to a special meal.
Restaurant Fritschi
Well-known old-town Swiss restaurant serving fondue, raclette and hearty regional food in a lively, traditional setting.
Rössli Gourmet & Bar
Casual Lucerne institution popular for crisp potato rösti with varied toppings, offering a relaxed and reliable Swiss meal near the centre.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Lucerne is pricier than most European cities, with high hotel, dining and local transport costs, especially in peak tourist season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- CHF 35-60 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service in restaurants. Round up small amounts for taxis and cafés.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.80
- Day pass
- CHF 9.60
To the city centre
Luzern Bahnhof -> Luzern Bahnhof
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Zone 10 covers Lucerne city. A Zone 10 day pass is valid until 05.00 the following day.
- Tickets can be bought in the SBB Mobile app, from ticket machines, or at sales points. Contactless card payment is generally available at machines and sales points.
FAQs: Cologne to Lucerne train
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £71.
The train journey from Cologne to Lucerne covers a distance of 443 km and takes approximately 5h 11m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Lucerne is 443 km.
The first train from Cologne to Lucerne leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Cologne to Lucerne departs at 23:55.
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne run approximately 8 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lucerne.
To get from Cologne to Lucerne, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Lucerne.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Lucerne is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Lucerne station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Lucerne is by coach, costing approximately £31.
Booking trains from Cologne to Lucerne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Lucerne is scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, charming German towns, and the picturesque Swiss landscapes as you approach Lucerne.
A day trip from Cologne to Lucerne is not feasible since the travel time is 5h 11m. However, there are 8 train journeys per day covering the 443 km, allowing for flexibility in planning longer stays.
In Lucerne, you can enjoy a boat tour or scenic walk around the picturesque 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 for an unforgettable adventure. Don't miss the historic Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, the interactive Swiss Museum of Transport, and the medieval Museggmauer wall with its panoramic views.
Three days in Lucerne is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Chapel Bridge, Mount Pilatus, and the Swiss Transport Museum, while also enjoying scenic boat trips on Lake Lucerne.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lucerne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Lucerne
Most Cologne to Lucerne trains use the Köln Hbf to Luzern Bhf station pair, with some services arriving at Luzern, Bahnhof. 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.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Lucerne
Which Cologne station do trains to Lucerne leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 1 km from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £4 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £4 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · £3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · £2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · £4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · £4
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Lucerne station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Lucerne most often arrive at Luzern Bhf. Some services arrive at Luzern, Bahnhof, 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 · £4 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · £8
72 · 22m · £3 · 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.
Luzern, BahnhofZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland
Luzern, Bahnhof train station facilities and services
Luzern, Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern, Bahnhof.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Lucerne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lucerne and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Lucerne
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
