Beyond Switzerland’s flower-filled alpine meadows and snow-capped Alps, you’ll find Zürich. Home to half a million people, it’s Switzerland’s most cosmopolitan city, packed with world-class museums, gourmet restaurants, and eclectic bars.
You could easily spend a few days getting to know this waterfront city. However, if you want to explore further afield, Lucerne is a good place to start. It’s much smaller than Zürich and encapsulates everything you’d expect from a traditional Swiss town. Think timber-frame houses and labyrinthine streets against a backdrop of 6,500ft peaks—plus it’s under an hour on the train from Zürich.
So, if you’re looking to take a day trip from Zürich to Lucerne, read on.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Lucerne, Switzerland
How long does it take to travel from Lucerne to Zürich?
The distance from Lucerne to Zürich by train is just 25mi (40km). The average journey takes 1h 9m. However, there are fast trains that will zip you there in 41 min—ideal if you only want to explore for the day.
Is there a direct train from Zürich to Lucerne?
Yes. You’ll be pleased to hear that all of the trains from Zürich to Lucerne are direct. You don’t have to worry about missing the train either: 41 services operate each day between the two hubs, so you can hop on board at a time that suits you.
Besides, you’ll get to experience Swiss efficiency in real life. Trains are almost always on time, thanks to Switzerland’s clock-face timetable. Every day, at least one train leaves every station in Switzerland each hour, as opposed to varying the number of trains operating to suit demand. It really works–and Zürich is at the center of this organized network.
How much is the train ticket from Lucerne to Zürich?
Lucerne to Zürich train tickets can cost $29 one way, and tickets will be especially cheaper if you travel outside of peak times. Secure a good deal by booking in advance on Trainline. Just search the app for Zürich Hb station and Lucerne train station (also called “Luzern”).
Image Credit: Getty Images, Rosmarie Wirz. Image Location: Lake Zug, Switzerland
Is the train between Zürich and Lucerne scenic?
Scenic? It’s downright beautiful. Expect swaying cornfields, glacier-fed lakes and craggy mountaintops rolling past the window on this short train journey.
From Zürich, you’ll pass the city’s namesake lake before the train peels off towards Zug. This centuries-old town is known for its charming blend of traditional Swiss architecture and natural beauty (as well as having a famously low tax rate). Don’t forget to try a slice of the famous Zuger Kirschtorte while you’re here, a deliciously layered cake made up of cherry liqueur-soaked sponge, meringue and buttercream topped with almonds.
Back on the train, you’ll skirt around the northern end of Lake Zug before pulling into Lucerne.
Top tip: when traveling from Lucerne to Zürich, get a seat on the right-hand side of the train (facing the direction of travel) for the best window-seat views.
What is there to do in Lucerne?
Many people come to Lucerne to explore the Old Town. Start at the 14th-century Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), which is adorned with historic paintings, before grabbing a coffee in the picturesque Weinmarkt square. Don’t miss the Lion Monument, an enormous sculpture carved into a rock face to commemorate the Swiss Guards who died in the storming of the Tuileries Palace in Paris in 1792.
And there is more to Lucerne than just Swiss history. Music fans should book tickets for a show at the Culture and Congress Center. Everyone from the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra to Ed Sheeran has played inside this astonishing architectural space.
Alternatively, explore the mountainous landscape beyond Lucerne. Ascend Mount Pilatus via the steepest cogwheel railway train in the world or book a guided cycling tour around the glittering Lake Lucerne.
Feeling inspired?
If reading about a scenic train journey between two of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland has got you planning a trip already, download the Trainline app. Book tickets, check live train times and store etickets – all on your phone.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, bluejayphoto. Image Location: Zürich, Switzerland