There are lots of ways to get from Lucerne to Bern.
The most common way to get to Bern from Lucerne is by train. But it is also possible to just use your car because it is very close indeed. The only thing you have to worry about is traffic and parking.
Below i run through all the options for getting from Lucerne to Bern (and Bern to Lucerne, of course).
Key Takeaways
- By Train: Takes a minimum of one hour, 2nd class is approximately CHF 35
- By Car: Takes approximately 1 hour 25 minutes with no traffic
Table of Contents
Lucerne to Bern Train
There are three different connections to get you from Lucerne to Bern.
How long does it take to get from Lucerne to Bern?
Taking the train from Lucerne to Bern only takes between 1 hour and 2 hours, depending on the connection. The fastest train journey takes 1 hour and 1 minute. So, it is quite fast.
Lucerne to Bern Train Schedule
There are direct trains to Bern departing Lucerne at
- 36 minutes past the hour
- On the hour
There are also connections via Zurich that take 1 hour 49 minutes and leave 2 minutes past the hour. I would not advise taking this train connection to Bern unless you have a reason to stop in Zurich.
The first train from Lucerne to Bern starts at 4.18 in the morning and the last connection leaves at 00.02. So, you have plenty of options throughout the day.
Lucerne to Bern Train Prices
The cheapest train ticket price for a Bern to Lucerne train is listed below. This is the 1 hour 27-minute journey leaving at 36 past the hour. The train leaving on the hour is faster (1 hour 1 minute) but costs an extra CHF 4 for a second class ticket.
| From Lucern to Bern (CHF) | |
| 2nd Class One Way | 17.50 |
| 1st Class One Way | 22.00 |
| 2nd Class Return | 31.00 |
| 1st Class Return | 62.00 |
Cheaper Train Tickets
You can get cheaper Super Saver tickets if you book specific routes and times ahead of time. Usually at least a few days. You can save up to 30% in my experience, so it is well worth it if you know what time you are leaving – exactly. And don’t need to be at all flexible.
These tickets appear on the SBB website or app whenever they are available. Just look at the prices and there will be a discount symbol or cheaper price to show their availability.
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Where to buy train tickets from Zurich to Lucerne
The best way to buy your tickets from Lucerne to Bern is online. However, you do have a few options available.
- from ticket machines at the station
- via the SBB App
- buy them online from SBB or other providers.
When should you book train tickets?
If you want to save money on travel, book your Lucerne to Bern train ride as early as possible for the cheapest tickets.
They advertise cheap tickets ahead of time, and they’re limited, so booking early makes the trip more affordable.
If you prefer, you can buy a ticket just before departure, however, there are no discounts at such short notice.
Lucerne to Bern by Car
If you are driving by car or have your own rental car you can drive from Lucerne to Bern in 1 and a half hours.
Just be aware that Bern is notorious for having heavy traffic, especially on weekends and during peak times, so driving can take significantly longer than that.
Having a car does afford you flexibility though, but you will have to find somewhere to park once you arrive.
How long does it take to get from Lucerne to Bern by car?
From Lucerne to Bern takes approximately 1 hour and a half by car, assuming there are no traffic jams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the train ride from Lucerne to Bern Scenic?
Yes, the train ride from Lucerne to Bern is quite scenic as you will ride along the Jura mountains and past the Lake Sur. It is not the most scenic train ride in Switzerland, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Is there direct train from Bern to Lucerne?
Yes, there are two direct trains from Bern to Lucerne, one leaving on the hour and one at 36 minutes past the hour.
