Topic	How To Travel From Lucerne to Interlaken
Read Time	5 Minutes
Author	Paul Tavener, Owner Marvellous Escapes

Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes are best explored by rail, and one of the most spectacular journeys is the train from Lucerne to Interlaken. Travelling through charming villages, glistening lakes, and majestic mountain ranges, the Luzern-Interlaken Express promises an unforgettable experience.

Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, this scenic route offers comfort, beauty, and a taste of the authentic Swiss rail holiday charm. In this guide, Marvellous Escapes will take you through everything you need to know to plan and enjoy your journey.

LUZERN-INTERLAKEN EXPRESS

The Luzern-Interlaken Express is part of Switzerland’s famous GoldenPass Line, linking the vibrant city of Lucerne with the picturesque town of Interlaken. The journey covers approximately 100 kilometres and takes around two hours. However, this is no ordinary transfer between two points. Every moment on board is filled with magnificent views, from serene alpine meadows to dramatic mountain peaks.

Departing from Lucerne’s elegant station, the train from Lucerne to Interlaken travels along the northern shores of Lake Lucerne before ascending into the hills and forests of the Brünig Pass.

The Luzern-Interlaken Express is a direct service, meaning you do not need to worry about changing trains. This makes it the perfect choice for travellers seeking a stress-free, visually rewarding experience.

BOOKING YOUR TICKETS 

Planning your train journey from Lucerne to Interlaken is incredibly simple. Tickets are available online, at ticket machines, and at railway station counters. It is advisable to reserve seats, especially during peak seasons when trains can get busy.

If you are planning a wider tour of Switzerland, a complete travel tour with Marvellous Escapes covers the Luzern-Interlaken Express and grants access to many other scenic routes, transfers, and buses throughout the country. For a sweeping Swiss experience, combine your Luzern-Interlaken Express holiday with a trip on the famed GoldenPass Express, and start your journey near the glistening Lake Geneva.

For those wanting an extra special experience, first-class tickets offer larger seats and bigger windows, allowing you to soak up even more of the spellbinding scenery.

WHAT TO EXPECT ONBOARD​

The Luzern-Interlaken Express prides itself on offering a high level of comfort. Spacious seating, large panoramic windows, and a peaceful atmosphere make the ride a true pleasure. Throughout the trip, you will pass five stunning lakes: Lake Lucerne, Lake Sarnen, Lake Lungern, Lake Brienz, and Lake Alpnach. Each body of water reflects the surrounding mountains and forests, creating unforgettable vistas.

The train also traverses the Brünig Pass, the only point where the train switches to a rack-and-pinion system to manage the steep incline. This clever engineering is as fascinating as the views themselves and adds an extra layer of interest to your journey.

Although the train from Lucern to Interlaken does not have a full dining car, there is a small service offering snacks and beverages. We recommend bringing your favourite treats or picking up something delicious from Lucerne station before boarding.

LUZERN-INTERLAKEN EXPRESS HIGHLIGHTS 

Your journey is packed with highlights worth keeping your camera ready for. Each section of the journey offers something fascinatingly unique, making the Luzern-Interlaken Express a series of delightful chapters rather than just a trip between destinations.

Here are just a few moments to watch out for:

LAKE LUCERNE

Shortly after departure, the calm waters of Lake Lucerne come into view. The lake’s bright blue surface and the surrounding cliffs create a dreamy panorama.

SARNEN

A lovely town nestled beside Lake Sarnen, offering a glimpse of Swiss rural life.

LUNGERN

One of the most photogenic villages on the route, Lungern’s pastel houses and pristine lake look like something from a postcard.

BRÜNIG PASS

As the train climbs into the mountains, you are rewarded with sweeping views over valleys and forests.

LAKE BRIENZ

The final lake before reaching Interlaken, known for its striking turquoise colour and peaceful shores.

TIPS FOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE

To make the most of your train from Lucern to Interlaken:

• Check the Weather: While the journey is beautiful year-round, clear days offer the most spectacular views of the mountains and lakes.
   
• Travel Light: Although there is ample luggage space, travelling with lighter bags will make boarding and disembarking easier.
   
• Stay Alert: The scenery changes rapidly. Keep your camera or phone close to capture the ever-shifting landscapes.
   
• Plan Ahead: If you want to explore stops like Lungern or Sarnen, plan a separate day trip or excursion. Remember that the Luzern-Interlaken Express itself is a direct service without long stopovers.

ARRIVING IN INTERLAKEN

Interlaken is a lively town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and framed by the towering peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

After stepping off the train from Lucerne to Interlaken, you will find yourself in the heart of an outdoor adventure. Whether you choose to take a relaxing boat ride, a scenic hike, or an exhilarating paragliding excursion, Interlaken offers something for every taste.

The town itself is easy to navigate, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and beautiful green spaces. Be sure to walk along the Höhenweg promenade to capture stunning panoramas and the fresh taste of Alpine air.

START PLANNING YOUR TRAIN JOURNEY 

Travelling by train from Lucern to Interlaken on the Luzern-Interlaken Express is more than just a transfer; it is a captivating journey through some of Switzerland’s finest landscapes. From mirror-like lakes to forested mountains and quaint villages, every moment brings a new postcard-worthy view.

With minimal planning and maximum reward, this train ride is an absolute must for anyone exploring the Swiss countryside.

Discover the magic of travelling by train from Lucerne to Interlaken and create memories that will last a lifetime.