Private car transfer from Zurich to Lucerne
in 50 min
per seat
car
Trip Information
Pick-up
Your driver will meet you at your address in Zurich.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 50 min.
- Optional sight-seeing
- Clean, comfortable car
- Professional driver
- Bottled water
- Child seats
- Prepared for handicapped
- Smoke-free
- Pet friendly
Drop-off
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Lucerne.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
- 53 km
- 50 min
Overview: car trip from Zurich to Lucerne
Whether you're interested in visiting Lucerne for its culture, history, food, or views, there are endless reasons why a car trip from Zurich to Lucerne is a good idea. So travel with Daytrip, leave the picturesque alleyways and historic buildings of Zurich behind, and make your way to the staggeringly beautiful mountain peaks and glistening lake of Lucerne.
But before you get to Lucerne, let our professional English-speaking door-to-door driver take you sightseeing along the way. From Hallwyl Castle, one of the finest moated castles in Switzerland, to the Langenberg Wildlife Park, the shores of Lake Zug, and Mount Rigi's alpine railroad, there's more than enough to see between Zurich and Lucerne.
Once you arrive in Lucerne, you can explore this ancient city with its world-class attractions and landmarks. Whether you're traveling alone or with family, you're almost certain to find something to love about this gorgeously quaint city in Switzerland.
About Lucerne
Those traveling near the Italian border often stumble upon Lucerne, a small, compact city in central Switzerland, with a rich and immersive history and culture. Like many other cities in Switzerland, Lucerne is well known for its incredibly well-preserved medieval architecture, stunning natural landscapes, beautiful lake, and impressive panoramic mountainside views. Yet for all that it is similar, it brings unparalleled uniqueness to visitors.
Lucerne's history stretches far into the past, with the remnants of Stone Age and Roman settlements leaving traces within the area. Historians say Lucerne began as a fishing village in 840 and grew into a regional market town that supplied the hinterland for centuries. With prospering trade agreements, Lucerne advanced from a regional market to a commercial center around the 13th century, maintaining facetious trading partnerships until the 17th century.
Unfortunately, in 1798, Lucerne lost some of its importance when it lost its independence to Napoleon. For a few short years, Napoleon ruled Lucerne as the Helvetic Republic until Switzerland became a modern state, with advancements of the time, like the railway expansion, bringing modernity to the region. Ever since this expansion, the city has grown into a globetrotter's dream destination and a tourism hub.
Those planning a trip to Lucerne can expect to enjoy a glimpse into the city's past and the adventure of a lifetime. The city perfectly balances cozy, charming, adventurous, and thrilling. Prepare yourself for long, meandering walks through cobblestone streets that spill into beautiful squares and admire hand-painted building facades and magnificent ancient fountains. Not to mention, you need to make room in your travel schedule for hearty meals, chocolate tastings, and lazy lakeside visits with ice-cold beverages.
From Zurich to Lucerne: travel tips
Traveling from Zurich to Lucerne doesn't need to be difficult if you memorize a few handy travel tips like the ones we've shared below.
Pack for all weather conditions
For the most part, Switzerland is seasonally predictable, which means that summers are usually hot and winters cold, but some expectations will keep you on your toes. For example, it's not unheard of to experience a violent storm on a summer day when traveling from Zurich to Lucerne or snow at altitude in August. That's why it's important to be prepared by packing for all weather conditions, no matter when you plan a trip from Zurich to Lucerne.
Book hotels and cabins in advance
Since Switzerland is one of the most visited European countries in the world, it's unsurprising that everything from fancy hotels to rugged cabins and cheap backpacker accommodation is booked in advance. So, to avoid missing out on staying over in any of the places found along the way or in Lucerne itself, book your stay well ahead of your intended travel time.
Try to call places by their local names
It can be easy to visit attractions and landmarks and call them by their Westernized names, but if you want to make friends and impress the locals, it is best to call places by their local names. For example, use Lac Leman (Lake Geneva) or Vierwaldstattersee (Lake Lucerne) for instant kudos. You can brush up on the local history by speaking with your Daytrip driver to learn what the locals call the places you plan on visiting during your stay.
How to get from Zurich to Lucerne
So you've decided to travel from Zurich to Lucerne but are unsure how to get from one Swiss city to the next. Don't fret—we've got you covered. Below, you'll find our discussion on the best ways to get from Zurich to Lucerne by train, bus, taxi, and private car transport service.
From Zurich to Lucerne by bus
Since the distance between Zurich and Lucerne is less than 50 miles, it will only take you about 50 minutes to travel from one city to the next by bus. The trip usually costs between $15 and $22, and there is usually a bus line offering trips every day.
However, although the direct trip is fast and the fare cost-effective for most, you'll not have access to many onboard amenities or the opportunity to stop and sightsee.
From Zurich to Lucerne by train
With trains leaving multiple times a day – be sure to check the timetable – from Zurich to Lucerne and trips costing between $25 and $45, it's a popular form of transportation for travelers. Usually, you'll need to book with Swiss Railways, and you can expect the trip to take about 45 minutes. In addition, most train trips will offer numerous amenities, but you won't get to make any stops along the way – the same situation as the bus.
From Zurich to Lucerne by taxi
If you don't mind spending a small fortune on travel fares, you can consider a direct taxi trip from Zurich to Lucerne. Multiple taxis offer trips between these two cities, but the cost is exorbitant at $320 to $390 per trip. The one plus is that a taxi can get you to Lucerne from Zurich in about 40 minutes, but so can a private car service like Daytrip for a fraction of the price.
From Zurich to Lucerne by private car transfer service Daytrip
The easiest, fastest, and most cost-effective way to travel from Zurich to Lucerne is with Daytrip’s door-to-door car service. With Daytrip, you'll ride in luxury and stop and sightsee in places like Zug and Mount Rigi.
The trip prices start at $46 per person, and if you drive the distance directly, you'll get to Lucerne in about 40 minutes. In addition, your local English-speaking driver will handle your luggage and share any travel insights you might want to learn. You can also choose when you travel, which is very convenient when traveling in Switzerland – there is no need to check schedules or timetables.
Things to do when you get to Lucerne
When you get to Lucerne, there are many things you can do, but if you've never traveled to the city before, you might not know everything you can do when visiting. That's why we've shared a few of the best things to do in Lucerne for those driving from Zurich to Lucerne. Let's take a look:
Inseli Park
If you want to spend time outdoors while visiting Lucerne, you cannot miss planning a picnic or walking in Inseli Park. This park encompasses everything great about the outdoors in this small city in Switzerland. With its magnificent mountain landscapes peaking along the horizon and its twinkling lake lapping the shores, Inseli Park is a destination where you'll find peace and tranquility where you can unwind after a busy day of touring everything the city has to offer.
Sammlung Rosengart
Art lovers will find solace, inspiration, and joy when visiting the Sammlung Rosengart Museum. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of artworks gathered by Swiss art dealers Siegfried and Rosengard. Since the pair were friends with famed artist Picasso, it's unsurprising that a tour through the museum will showcase more than 40 examples of Picasso's best works.
Besides Picasso's artwork, the museum is also home to imaginative and exploratory art by modernists Miro, Monet, Cezanne, Chagall, and Matisse. You'll also see a few gorgeous sketches by Swiss-born artist Paul Klee, so be sure to book your tickets to this museum in advance so you don't miss out.
Lucerne's Cold War bunker
Those in the mood to visit a site that is not the typical attraction when in Lucerne should consider adding a trip to Lucerne's Cold War bunker to their travel itinerary. Built in 1976, the bunker has an interesting history: it was designed to house a third of the city's population if a nuclear war broke out. When visiting you can learn more about its design and how it would function when housing so many people in a new world underground.
When is the best time to visit Lucerne?
The summers in Lucerne offer a wildly contrasting atmosphere to the winters in the city, so it is important to plan carefully when you want to drive from Zurich to Lucerne to visit this spectacular city. Typically, we recommend trusting your instincts and examining your budget when deciding when to visit since Lucerne can get busy and pricey quickly.
If you want to avoid overpriced accommodations and attractions and enjoy your strolls through the city without brushing shoulders with other travelers, you must visit during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. If you have a bigger budget, don't mind larger crowds, and want to enjoy Lucerne when the weather is hot, it's best to book a trip to the city in the Summer.
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Zurich to Lucerne
Visit these sights on the way
Hallwyl Castle
Well-preserved and completely surrounded by water, this is one of the finest moated castles in all of Switzerland. Floating through Time
Langenberg Wildlife Park
Learn about, and see, Switzerland’s indigenous animals as they roam large enclosures that mirror their natural habitat. Free to Roam
Zug
Hugging the shores of Lake Zug, this medieval market town has become a tax haven maintaining its historic landmarks. Historic Haven
Mount Rigi
Europe’s oldest alpine railroad take visitors up this massive massif, which provides panoramic views all the way into France and Germany. Queen of the Mountains
Why people love Daytrip
- 1,589 travelers took this route with us
Great driver in Egypt
“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Maps315861
Feb 28, 2025Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico
“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Golourdesduarte
Feb 20, 2025Great way to travel and see some sights on the way
“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Michelle R
Feb 10, 2025We as a family are very satisfied and enjoyed the trip from Lucerne to Zurich with Luciene. For our next trip we will d
“We as a family are very satisfied and enjoyed the trip from Lucerne to Zurich with Luciene. For our next trip we will definitely come back using Daytrip. Thank you for making our traveling run smoothly and enjoyable.”

EdwinTobing
Jan 14, 2023Vehicle options for this trip
Most popular
Sedan
- 1-3
- 3x
- 3x
- Clean
- Comfortable
- Air conditioned
- Handicapped accessible
- Child seats
- Pet friendly
- Smoke-free
Best reviews
Luxury sedan
- 1-2
- 2x
- 2x
- All standard sedan features
- Luxurious vehicle
- Chauffeur-style service
- Extra amenities
The Daytrip driver advantage
Local knowledge about the route from Zurich to Lucerne
Including available sights:English speaking*
All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.
Safety first!
We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.
World-class customer support
- Available 24/7
- Close relationship with drivers
- Experts on the route from Zurich to Lucerne
Flexible cancellation policy
- Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
- Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!
Good to know
Children
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
- Big luggage
- 29x21x11 inches
- 74x53x28 cm
- Small luggage
- 22x14x9 inches
- 56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Payment methods
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,100+ cities around the world.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
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