Interlaken, Bern (Area) to Lucerne, Lucerne (Area) from $8.02: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Interlaken to Lucerne: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$8.02 by busBest price

69 kmDistance

59m Fastest

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Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Interlaken to Lucerne with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Interlaken to Lucerne

Traveling between Interlaken and Lucerne offers a journey through the serene beauty of the Alps to the charming lakeside streets, showcasing the adventurous spirit of outdoor activities contrasted with the tranquil ambiance of vibrant city life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lucerne

Lucerne features diverse neighborhoods, each reflecting its unique charm and character.

Altstadt (Old Town)

• Cobblestone streets lined with historic architecture.

• Lively atmosphere with shops and cafes.

Lakefront District

• Stunning views of Lake Lucerne and mountains.

• Ideal for leisurely walks and dining.

Musegg Wall Area

• Home to preserved medieval city walls.

• Offers panoramic city views from towers.

Best Times To Visit Lucerne's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Lucerne experience, allowing you to enjoy its attractions without the hustle.

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

Head early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Mount Pilatus

Late afternoon visits offer stunning sunset views and fewer tourists.

Swiss Museum of Transport

Visit on weekdays to explore exhibits at a leisurely pace and avoid families.

Lucerne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lucerne enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, where mild summers invite outdoor exploration and snowy winters create a cozy atmosphere. Late spring and early autumn present the best times to visit, as pleasant weather enhances your sightseeing experience while avoiding the peak tourist rush.

Dining Recommendation in Lucerne

Experience the delightful flavors of Lucerne at Restaurant Fritschi, where you can savor traditional Swiss dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a creamy veal dish that stands apart from the hearty offerings of Interlaken. The restaurant’s charming ambiance and focus on locally sourced ingredients create a culinary experience that reflects the city's rich heritage and vibrant food scene.

Interlaken to Lucerne: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Interlaken and Lucerne offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚆 Starting your journey from Interlaken to Lucerne you can opt for a direct train route with Zentralbahn. The scenic ride will take you through picturesque landscapes, covering a distance of 73.0 km in approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes. 🚆 If you prefer a route with a transfer, you can take a train towards Bern with Schweizerische Bundesbahnen, then switch to another train heading to Luzern. This option offers a longer ride of 2 hours and 1 minute, spanning a distance of 173 km, but still provides a convenient way to reach your destination. 🚆 For a slightly longer journey but with a different transfer point, consider taking a long-distance train towards Olten and then hopping on a train towards Luzern with Schweizerische Bundesbahnen. This route involves two steps and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to cover the 178 km distance, offering a varied travel experience.

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services are provided by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). You can expect a restaurant car offering a selection of hot and cold meals, along with beverages. Snacks and light refreshments are also available from onboard staff. For an enhanced experience, consider pre-ordering a meal through the SBB website.

• The trains from Interlaken to Lucerne typically offer First Class and Second Class seating options. First Class offers more spacious seats and less crowded compartments, while Second Class provides comfortable seating with good views. There are also family compartments available for those traveling with children.

• This route is mainly operated by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), and occasionally by the regional operator, BLS. You can find ticket information and schedules at their respective websites: SBB (sbb.ch) and BLS (bls.ch). Additionally, for real-time train information, consider using the Swiss Transport app.

🚌 Route 1: Travel from Interlaken to Lucerne is a scenic journey covering a distance of 73.0 km. Take the train towards Luzern operated by Zentralbahn for a comfortable ride that lasts approximately 1 hour 51 mins. 🚌 Route 2: Another option is to embark on a train journey towards Bern Hbf from Interlaken Ost. Enjoy the ride with Schweizerische Bundesbahnen for about 52 mins before transferring to a train towards Luzern, culminating in a total travel time of around 2 hours 1 min. 🚌 Route 3: For a more varied trip, consider multiple transfers with a route that includes trains towards Bern Hbf, Basel SBB, and Locarno. This route covers a distance of 179 km and offers a diverse travel experience lasting approximately 3 hours 5 mins.

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between Interlaken and Lucerne is approximately 68 kilometers. By train, the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, with direct and scenic routes available. Driving between the two cities usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions, while bus journeys can take slightly longer due to stops along the way.

For a cost-effective and time-efficient option, taking the train is the best choice for traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne. The Swiss train system is well-developed, reliable, and offers scenic views along the route. Additionally, booking tickets in advance or using a Swiss Travel Pass can help save money and time during the journey.

The prices for traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. A standard one-way train ticket typically ranges from 30 to 50 CHF, while a same-day return ticket can cost around 70 to 100 CHF. If traveling by car, be prepared to pay for fuel and any tolls along the route, which can amount to approximately 20 to 40 CHF each way. Additionally, bus tickets may be slightly cheaper than train tickets, ranging from 20 to 40 CHF for a one-way journey.

One option to travel from Interlaken to Lucerne without using public transportation is to rent a car and drive between the two cities. The journey can be easily completed by following the well-maintained highways and scenic routes connecting the two destinations. Another alternative is to hire a private transfer service or taxi for a more convenient and personalized travel experience. Additionally, cycling enthusiasts may opt to bike between Interlaken and Lucerne, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.

To travel from Interlaken to Lucerne without a car, you have several options. The most popular and convenient way is to take a train, as Switzerland has an efficient and reliable train system. You can also consider taking a bus, which offers a more budget-friendly option but may take slightly longer than the train. Alternatively, you could arrange for a private transfer service or taxi for a more comfortable and personalized journey between the two cities.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Interlaken and Lucerne in Switzerland. Several daily train services operate between the two cities, providing a convenient and efficient way to travel. The train journey offers scenic views of the Swiss countryside and typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to explore both destinations.

There are no direct flights between Interlaken and Lucerne as they are both located in Switzerland and are easily accessible by train or car. Therefore, there are no specific flight durations or costs for this route. Traveling by train or driving between the two cities is the most common and efficient mode of transportation.

There are several accommodation options near Lucerne ranging from luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Some popular areas to stay near Lucerne include the Old Town, which offers historic charm and convenient access to attractions, and the lakeside area, providing stunning views of Lake Lucerne. Visitors can also opt to stay in nearby towns such as Weggis or Vitznau, which offer a quieter atmosphere while still being within easy reach of Lucerne.