Lucerne Interlaken Express
A breathtaking panoramic train journey connecting Lucerne and Interlaken, showcasing Switzerland's most stunning lakes and mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Lucerne Interlaken Express
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking panoramic train journey connecting Lucerne and Interlaken, showcasing Switzerland's most stunning lakes and mountains.
"The most beautiful city in Europe, it would go to Luzern, Switzerland. "
✅ Seat Reservation Tip
Optional but recommended for window seats! Book ahead to guarantee your spot.
🪑 Sit on the Right Side!
For the best lake and mountain views when traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Views
Along the route
Marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, framed by majestic Swiss Alps. Pure visual bliss!
Brünig Pass Scenery
Brünig Pass
The train winds through dramatic mountain landscapes and charming villages on the Brünig Pass. A true highlight!
Charming Swiss Villages
Along the route
Pass through picturesque villages that seem frozen in time, offering a glimpse into authentic Swiss life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Seat Wisely
Choose the Right Side
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Seat Reservation Tip
Optional but recommended for window seats! Book ahead to guarantee your spot.
🪑 Sit on the Right Side!
For the best lake and mountain views when traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne.
📸 Camera Ready!
The scenery is unreal! Keep your camera handy for stunning shots of lakes and mountains.
🧳 Swiss Travel Pass Value
This route is often included in the Swiss Travel Pass with no extra reservation fee!
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Seat Reservation Tip
Optional but recommended for window seats! Book ahead to guarantee your spot.
🪑 Sit on the Right Side!
For the best lake and mountain views when traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne.
📸 Camera Ready!
The scenery is unreal! Keep your camera handy for stunning shots of lakes and mountains.
🧳 Swiss Travel Pass Value
This route is often included in the Swiss Travel Pass with no extra reservation fee!
🚆 Frequent Departures
Trains run hourly, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Lucerne Interlaken Express for its breathtaking scenery, describing it as a highlight of their Swiss adventures. The convenience of frequent departures and the inclusion with the Swiss Travel Pass are major pluses. Some note that while reservations are optional, securing a window seat is highly recommended for the best experience.
"Very scenic railway station.. located between two lakes and surrounded by mountains this station is quite photogenic. Trains I took from here were all perfectly on time, the station itself is very well maintained and information is widely available to passengers."
Abhishek Kulkarni
"Cosmopolitan, bustling central train station. We found it decorated for Carnival and it was very interesting. Lots of shops to have a meal or drink a coffee....quite expensive prices as they are throughout Switzerland!"
Geo Kip
"Nice railway station, quite big, lot of connections here. Well maintained and seamless access to trains and exit."
Sujay Sreekumar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic way is the Lucerne Interlaken Express, a panoramic train journey. Trains depart hourly from Lucerne station. You can also travel via Bern, but it's less scenic.
Yes, the Lucerne Interlaken Express is typically 100% included in the Swiss Travel Pass, often without an additional seat reservation fee.
For a more scenic journey, take the Lucerne Interlaken Express from Zurich to Lucerne, then connect to Interlaken. The direct route via Bern is faster but less picturesque.
The Lucerne Interlaken Express journey takes approximately two hours, offering continuous stunning views.
Absolutely! The Lucerne Interlaken Express makes for a fantastic day trip, allowing you to experience incredible scenery and potentially visit attractions in Interlaken.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Seat reservations are optional but strongly recommended, especially if you want a guaranteed window seat. The train runs frequently, but popular seats can be taken.
Ticket prices vary depending on your origin and destination. However, if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, the journey is typically included without extra cost.
You can purchase tickets at any major Swiss train station, online through the SBB website, or via the SBB mobile app.
Yes, there are typically first and second-class carriages available. First class offers more spacious seating.
Yes, your Half Fare Card will provide a discount on the ticket price if you are not using a Swiss Travel Pass.
🎫 🏞️ Onboard Experience
For the most scenic views, aim for a window seat. If traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne, the right side is best. From Lucerne to Interlaken, the left side offers prime views.
Expect breathtaking views of turquoise lakes (Lake Brienz and Lake Thun), dramatic mountain passes like the Brünig Pass, lush valleys, and charming Swiss villages.
Yes, there is usually a dining car or trolley service offering snacks, meals, and beverages.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic experience for all ages, offering captivating views that will keep children entertained.
The Lucerne Interlaken Express typically runs hourly, providing a frequent service for travelers.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey is a photo opportunity! Focus on the turquoise lakes, the Brünig Pass, and charming villages. Sit by the window for unobstructed shots.
Mornings often offer clearer skies and softer light, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour hues.
Clean your window beforehand if possible, and try to shoot during moments of clear views rather than when passing through tunnels or dense forests.
The Brünig Pass and the sections overlooking Lake Brienz and Lake Thun are particularly stunning for photography.
Use a faster shutter speed to avoid motion blur, and consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the lakes and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Secure window seats on the correct side (depending on your direction of travel) to maximize the visual spectacle. Consider packing some snacks and drinks, although food is available for purchase on board. The journey itself becomes an adventure, setting a wonderful tone for exploring the Interlaken region.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Key advice: Always aim for a window seat on the correct side of the train for your direction of travel to get the best angles. Mornings often provide softer light, while late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour hues. Be prepared to shoot quickly as the scenery unfolds rapidly.
+1🧳 Budget Travelers
If you're not using a pass, compare ticket prices and consider if a Half Fare Card would be beneficial for your overall travel plans in Switzerland. While reservations are optional, booking in advance might sometimes offer slightly better rates, though the hourly frequency reduces the urgency.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Route: Lucerne to Interlaken Express
+1As the train departs Lucerne, you'll be greeted by the shimmering waters of Lake Lucerne. The journey then winds its way through picturesque valleys and over the impressive Brünig Pass, offering continuous, jaw-dropping views. You'll pass by five crystal-clear mountain lakes, each more beautiful than the last, and catch glimpses of charming Swiss villages nestled in the foothills.
Key highlights of the route include the dramatic scenery of the Brünig Pass and the vibrant turquoise hues of Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. The train is designed for sightseeing, with large windows that maximize your viewing pleasure. It's an ideal way to travel between these two popular Swiss towns, offering a relaxed and visually rewarding alternative to driving.
+1Maximizing Your Views: Seat Selection and Timing
The direction of your travel significantly impacts the best seating choice. If you're traveling from Interlaken to Lucerne, the right side of the train offers the most spectacular views of the lakes and mountains. Conversely, when traveling from Lucerne to Interlaken, the left side provides the prime vantage points. Paying attention to this detail can transform your journey from good to extraordinary.
+1Consider traveling during the morning for potentially clearer skies and softer light, which can be ideal for photography. However, the afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour lighting. Regardless of the time, the scenery is consistently breathtaking, making any time a good time to embark on this scenic adventure.
Swiss Travel Pass and Ticketing
If you don't have a Swiss Travel Pass, you can purchase individual tickets at any major Swiss train station, online through the SBB website, or via the SBB mobile app. While reservations are optional, they are advisable for securing a window seat, especially during busy periods. The train operates on an hourly schedule, providing ample opportunities to travel.
For those with a Half Fare Card, it will also provide a discount on the ticket price. Understanding these ticketing options ensures a smooth and budget-friendly experience on this popular scenic route.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit