The Swiss Adventure Express: Lucerne to Interlaken by Train

Ready to embark on a journey that’ll make your friends back home green with envy?

Everyone talks about the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express, or even the GoldenPass Express but few people tell you that the trip between Lucerne and Interlaken is itself a stunning train ride.

With scenery to keep your head swiveling along the route, traveling from A to B was never better!

The Lowdown on the Route

Picture this: you’re chugging along for about two hours, covering roughly 70 kilometers (43 miles for my American friends) of pure Swiss bliss. We’re talking snow-capped peaks, lakes so blue they look Photoshopped, and villages so charming you’ll want to jump off the train and stay forever.

The best part? You get to experience all this while sipping hot chocolate in a comfy train seat. Now, that’s what I call traveling in style!

Highlights That’ll Make You Go “Wow!”

1. Lake Lucerne: The Opening Act

As you wave goodbye to Lucerne, keep your eyes peeled (and your cameras ready) for Lake Lucerne. It’s like Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Oh, you thought that was pretty? Hold my beer.”

Sit on the left-hand side for the best views of the lake BUT for the rest of the journey, the RIGHT hand side is actually best!

2. Alpnachstad and Mount Pilatus: The Dynamic Duo

Next up, we’ve got Alpnachstad, home to the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. It’s like the little engine that could, but on steroids. If you’re feeling adventurous, plan a trip here and conquer Mount Pilatus. Just remember to come back down – we’ve got more to see!

3. Lake Sarnen: The Twinkling Blue Charmer

lake Sarnen
lake Sarnen

Blink and you might miss it, but Sarnen and its lovely lake are worth a gander. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to write poetry… or at least a really good Instagram caption.

I have spent a few afternoons here stand up paddling, and it is a tranquil alpine town with a great views all around. But perhaps the next lake is even better!

4. Lake Lungern: The Aqua Blue Jewel

The train cruising pass Lake Lungern.

If you have seen stunning blue lakes in Switzerland, this might be one of the photos you have seen.

The gel-blue Lake Lungern is something dreams are made of, and it was even the final scene in the ever-popular CLOY TV series from South Korea.

5. Brünig Pass: The Scene Stealer

lake lungern from brunig pass
View of Lake Lungern from the roadside stop on the Brunig Pass

Hold onto your hats, folks! As we climb the Brünig Pass, you’ll get panoramic views that’ll make you question whether you’re still on Earth or if you’ve accidentally stumbled into a fantasy movie set.

This is a small pass, but still one of the many jaw-dropping drives you can do in Switzerland.

6. Brienz: The Grand Finale

Lake Brienz
Lake Brienz from the Brienzer Rothorn train

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Just when you think it can’t get any better, Brienz, with its turquoise lake and woodcarving legacy, comes along. It’s the Swiss equivalent of a mic drop.

And if you have time to return and head up the Brienzer Rothorn (see the image above) it is well worth your time!

Train Details

  • Starting Line: Lucerne Station (or as the locals call it, Luzern Bahnhof)
  • Finish Line: Interlaken Ost Station

The best train to get in summer is the non-stop from Lucerne – which is actually the Lucerne-Interlaken Express. You can book a seat here.

But, you can also catch “normal” trains along this route, and get on-off as you please. Some may require train changes and you can figure all that out with the SBB website.

Want to break up the journey? Here are my top picks:

  1. Alpnachstad: For those who want to conquer Pilatus (seasonal, so check before you trek!)
  2. Sarnen: Perfect for a leisurely lakeside stroll
  3. Brienz: Explore the town, maybe take a boat ride. Go on, be spontaneous!

What About Train Passes?

Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Army Knife of travel passes. Trains, buses, boats – you name it, this pass has covered you. Perfect for those planning to zigzag across Switzerland.

Learn More Here

Half-Fare Card

Staying a while? This bad boy gives you 50% off most tickets. It’s like Black Friday, but for Swiss transport.

This is the pass you get when you want to save money.

Learn More Here

Point-to-Point Ticket

Just here for this ride? Grab a standard ticket from Lucerne to Interlaken. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.

Eurail Pass

Check if your Eurail Pass covers this route if you’re on a grand European tour. Spoiler alert: it probably does! The Eurail Global pass includes Switzerland, so you should be good to go.

Learn More Here

Pro Tips from Yours Truly

  1. Right side of the train = best views. You can thank me later.
  2. Don’t rush it! Break up the journey and explore. The mountains aren’t going anywhere.
  3. Pack snacks. Yes, there’s usually a dining car, but do you really want to miss those views?
  4. Charge your camera, phone, drone (ok, you can’t fly it in the train), whatever. You’ll be snap-happy, I promise.

The Final Word

Folks, the Lucerne to Interlaken train isn’t just a ride – it’s a front-row ticket to the best show Switzerland has to offer. Whether you’re a nature nut, a photo fanatic, or just someone who appreciates a good view (and who doesn’t?), this journey will knock your socks off.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ticket, pick your seat (remember, right side!), and get ready for a ride that’ll have you yodeling with joy. All aboard the Swiss Adventure Express!

Related Reading

Best Scenic Train Rides in Switzerland (Views to Die For)

Learn More

More On The Swiss Travel Pass

Mountain Trips

Jungfraujoch,   Pilatus,   Mount Rigi,   Mount Rigi

Pass Comparisons

Jungfrau Travel Pass,   Interrail,   Car Rental

Written by Ashley Faulkes
As a twenty-year resident of Switzerland, I am passionate about exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful country, I spend my days deep in the great Swiss outdoors, and love to share these experiences and insights with fellow travel enthusiasts.

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