Interlaken-Lucerne Express stops offer travelers a chance to experience the beauty of Switzerland up close, with breathtaking views and charming destinations along the way. This scenic route connects Interlaken and Lucerne, passing through highlights like Brienz, Meiringen, and the Brunig Pass. Each stop along the journey showcases the unique charm of Swiss landscapes, from sparkling lakes to majestic mountains and quaint alpine villages.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from stops and ticket options to the best seating tips and itinerary suggestions.
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Interlaken-Lucerne Express Stops
The Interlaken-Lucerne Express connects two of Switzerland’s most popular destinations: Interlaken Ost and Lucerne. The journey spans 1 hour and 49 minutes and includes the following stops:
- Interlaken Ost – The starting point surrounded by majestic peaks and lakes.
- Brienz – Known for its turquoise lake and woodcarving traditions.
- Meiringen – Famous for the Reichenbach Falls and Sherlock Holmes Museum.
- Brienzwiler – A small, picturesque village.
- Giswil – Nestled among rolling hills and meadows.
- Sarnen – Overlooking Lake Sarnen, a serene spot for photography.
- Lucerne – The end destination, with its iconic Chapel Bridge and Old Town charm.
Here’s a map of the route to help visualize this scenic journey:
Tickets for Adults and Kids
Tickets for the Interlaken-Lucerne Express can be purchased directly at train stations, through the Swiss Travel System, or online.
- Adults: One-way tickets cost approximately CHF 35–40 for 2nd class and CHF 55–60 for 1st class.
- Children:
- Under 6 years old: Travel free.
- Ages 6–15: Travel free with the Swiss Family Card, provided they are accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.
For unlimited travel across Switzerland, consider the Swiss Travel Pass, which covers this route and eliminates the need for individual tickets. This route is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) and GA travel card.
Seat Reservations
While seat reservations are optional for the Interlaken-Lucerne Express, they are recommended during peak seasons for a smoother experience.
- Reservation Cost: CHF 10 per seat.
- Included in Swiss Travel Pass? No, seat reservations are not included.
- We decided to purchase the seat reservation for 2 Adults and 2 Children as we do not want to risk sitting apart. Our two boys are below 4 so travel for free, however we need to pay for the seat reservations.
- Book your seat reservation via the official website.
Swiss Half Fare Card
Travelers looking to save money can opt for the Swiss Half Fare Card. We calculate our routes and decided that a Swiss Half Fare Card brings us more cost savings over a Travel Pass.
- Cost: CHF 120 for one month. We got our pass from Klook. You can purchase from this link.
- Offers 50% off most trains, buses, and boats, including the Interlaken-Lucerne Express.
- Children under 16 travel free with the Swiss Family Card.
Which Side to Sit On?
To enjoy the best views:
- Interlaken to Lucerne: Sit on the right-hand side for stunning views of Lake Brienz and the Brunig Pass.
- Lucerne to Interlaken: Sit on the left-hand side for equally mesmerizing vistas.
Train Timings
The Interlaken-Lucerne Express operates daily with hourly departures:
- Lucerne – Interlaken Ost: Every hour from 06.06am to 09.06pm (no seat reservation possible from 07.06pm)
- Interlaken Ost – Lucerne: Every hour from 07.04am to 08.04pm
- Journey time: 1h 50 minutes
Check the SBB website or app for the latest schedules.
When to Ride the Interlaken-Lucerne Express
The train journey is spectacular year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons:
- Summer: Best for clear views of lush greenery and sparkling lakes.
- Autumn: Vibrant fall foliage creates a magical landscape.
- Winter: Snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes make for a dreamy ride.
- Spring: Blooming flowers and rushing waterfalls enhance the scenery.
For the best lighting and photo opportunities, take the morning or late afternoon train.
Suggested Itinerary
Morning:
- Start your journey from Interlaken Ost after a hearty Swiss breakfast.
- Stop at Brienz for a quick stroll along the lake or visit the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum.
- Check out this post on how we travel from Interlaken to Lake Brienz to visit Kdrama Crash Landing on You filming site!
Midday:
- Pause at Meiringen for lunch and explore the Reichenbach Falls, where Sherlock Holmes met his nemesis.
Afternoon:
- Continue the journey, enjoying the scenic ride over the Brunig Pass.
- Arrive in Lucerne, where you can visit the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and Old Town.
- Check out this post for the places we visited Lucerne
Evening:
- Dine at a lakeside restaurant in Lucerne before heading to your accommodation.
- We had dinner at Restaurant Rathaus Brauerei Luzern, located right by the picturesque Reuss River and just a 5-minute walk from our hotel.
Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
- Book a window seat: Panoramic windows ensure you don’t miss any views.
- Travel light: Limited luggage storage is available.
- Bring snacks and a camera: Capture the beauty and enjoy the ride.
The Interlaken-Lucerne Express is more than a train journey—it’s an unforgettable experience showcasing Switzerland’s natural wonders. Whether you’re traveling with kids or exploring solo, this scenic route will leave you in awe.
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