How to take the rail journey from Basel to Luzern, and connect for the lake cruise boats and ZB railway

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Basel / Bâle to Luzern / Lucerne by train

Routes you can take to go from Basel / Bâle to Luzern / Lucerne

When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.

Choose one of the following options:

Route Information

Travel Time (approx)

1hr 1 min - 1hr 13min

Frequency

Daily

Travel Info

2 - x trains per hour


Is this journey from Basel to Lucerne direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.


Is the journey scenic?
It isn't exceptional


When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Lucerne?
Before 06:10 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to travel on from the station in Lucerne?
The station is exceptionally well located, it is adjacent to the old town area, the local bus station and piers for the boat services across Lake Lucerne.
See the Station Guide for more info, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood.


When is the usual approximate latest departure from Basel to Lucerne on this journey option
After midnight daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to get to the station in Basel?
Basel SBB station is located to the south of the city centre, but is connected from it by tram lines / routes 8, 10 or 11.
See the Station Guide for more info, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood.


Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for these Basel to Lucerne trains?
Yes


How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for these Basel to Lucerne trains?
Typically up to 6 months ahead of the travel date; though this period of time can be shorter, particularly when searching for journeys more than three months ahead during October and March.


What are the child ticket terms for these Basel to Lucerne trains?

  • Children aged 5 or younger travel free of charge
  • Children aged 6-15 and travelling with a person aged 16 and over, pay 50% of the adult rate per journey - see the Ticket Guide for more info.

Does the ticket for these Basel to Lucerne trains include assigned seats?
Reservations are available, but optional on the IC and EC trains, but they are not an option on the other trains.
See the Train Guide in the Journey Information for insights on how to board the train


Do rail pass users need to book reservations for these Basel to Lucerne trains?
No


Is catering available on the Zurich to Lugano trains?
It depends on the trains
See the Train Guides in the Journey Information.


What else is good to know about Swiss rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Switzerland.

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