Milan, Lombardy to Lucerne, Lucerne (Area) from $13: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$13 RideshareBest price

244 kmDistance

2h 39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milan 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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Type	Mo 20/01	Tu 21/01	We 22/01	Th 23/01	Fr 24/01	Sa 25/01	Su 26/01
Bus	$21	$20	$20	$20	$20	$20	$19
Train	$31	$31	$31	$31	$41	$32	$39

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Traveling From Milan to Lucerne

The journey from Milan to Lucerne offers a stunning contrast between Milan's bustling urban life and Lucerne's serene lakeside beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lucerne

Lucerne offers vibrant neighborhoods full of culture and charm for everyone.

Old Town (Altstadt)

• Cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings.

• Home to landmarks like Chapel Bridge and Water Tower.

Neustadt

• Trendy cafes and shops with a local vibe.

• Proximity to the lake and beautiful parks.

Museggwald

• Scenic views from historic city walls.

• A peaceful escape from bustling tourist areas.

Best Times To Visit Lucerne's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Lucerne's attractions.

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)

Visit early morning to enjoy quiet moments and fewer tourists.

Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal)

Late afternoon is ideal for stunning light and less foot traffic.

Lake Lucerne Boat Cruises

Opt for weekdays in spring or fall for a serene experience.

Lucerne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lucerne experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters, making it ideal for year-round visits. The best times to explore are spring and fall when the weather is mild, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation

Try the traditional Swiss dish fondue at Restaurant Swiss House, where the cozy atmosphere and focus on local cheese create a distinctly different dining experience compared to Milan's vibrant pasta scene. The rich, creamy flavors and communal style of enjoying fondue highlight Lucerne's culinary charm and celebration of local ingredients.

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

Traveling between Milan 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.

🚂 Begin your journey in Milan and embark on a scenic train ride to Lucerne. With a distance of 238 km, the route offers a picturesque journey with 2 transfers along the way. 🗺️ Admire the charming landscapes as you make your way through various cities and towns, experiencing the beauty of both Italy and Switzerland during the 3-hour and 58-minute train journey.

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train trip from Milan to Lucerne, you can expect catering services provided by Trenitalia and SBB. Trenitalia offers a dining car with a variety of snacks and beverages, as well as options for light meals during your journey. SBB also provides a 'Bistro' service with a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and drinks available at your seat.

• The train operates various seating options. First Class provides spacious and comfortable seating with dining services, while Business Class offers reserved seats with more amenities and quieter environments. Economy Class offers standard seating but is still quite comfortable. Make sure to check Trenitalia’s and SBB's websites for seat availability and reservation options before boarding.

• The trains from Milan to Lucerne are primarily operated by Trenitalia and SBB. You can visit their websites for schedules and ticket bookings: Trenitalia (trenitalia.com) and SBB (sbb.ch). Furthermore, you may also check out the European train travel portal, Eurail (eurail.com), for additional information and tickets.

🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Milan to Lucerne by bus, a route spanning 185 km. Opt for Route 1 with a travel time of 3 hours 56 mins, including a stop in Strasbourg before arriving at Lucerne via FlixBus. 🌍 Explore Route 2, covering the same distance in 4 hours 6 mins, with a layover in Basel SBB. Departing from Milan Lampugnano, this FlixBus service takes you through Rome and Basel before reaching picturesque Lucerne. 🌄 For a swift trip, consider Route 3 taking 3 hours 36 min to travel from Milan to Lucerne.

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between Milan and Lucerne is approximately 220 kilometers. By car, the typical travel time is around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, taking a train can be a convenient option with travel times of about 3-4 hours as well. It is also possible to take a bus, which may take slightly longer due to multiple stops along the way.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Milan to Lucerne would be taking a train. Trains are known for their reliability, comfort, and relatively quick travel times between these two cities. Booking tickets in advance can help secure the best prices and ensure a smooth journey without the need for transfers or multiple modes of transportation.

The prices for traveling from Milan to Lucerne can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Taking a train can cost anywhere from approximately 30-100 Euros, depending on the class of service and whether tickets are purchased in advance. Driving by car may incur costs such as tolls, fuel, and potential parking fees, while taking a bus could be a more budget-friendly option with fares typically ranging from 20-60 Euros.

To travel from Milan to Lucerne without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving yourself. This option allows for flexibility in terms of scheduling and stops along the way. Another alternative could be hiring a private transfer service for a more comfortable and personalized journey. Additionally, you could explore carpooling options through platforms like BlaBlaCar for a shared ride with other travelers.

From Milan to Lucerne you can travel without a car by taking a train. There are direct train connections between the two cities, providing a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours by train, offering scenic views along the way. Alternatively, you can also consider booking a private transfer or taking a bus as other transportation options.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Milan and Lucerne. Several daily trains operate between the two cities, offering a convenient and efficient connection for travelers. The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours, making it a popular route for those looking to travel between the two destinations with ease.

There are no direct flights between Milan and Lucerne as Lucerne does not have its own airport. Travelers can fly to Zurich, which is the nearest major airport, and then take a train or bus to Lucerne. The flight time from Milan to Zurich is approximately 1 hour, and the cost can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and travel dates, but typically ranges from $100 to $300 for a one-way ticket.

There are several options for accommodation near Lucerne ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and Airbnb rentals. Some popular areas to stay include the city center of Lucerne, as well as nearby towns such as Weggis, Vitznau, and Hergiswil, which offer stunning views of Lake Lucerne. Additionally, there are charming mountain lodges and resorts in the surrounding Alps for those seeking a more secluded and peaceful retreat.