It is the train most tourists accidentally take — and then can’t stop talking about.
The Luzern-Interlaken Express connects two of Switzerland’s most popular destinations in just under 2 hours. But this is not just a transfer. It is a full-blown scenic journey through emerald lakes, mountain passes, and tiny villages that look frozen in time.
The best part? It is way cheaper than the famous panoramic trains — and almost as beautiful.
Here is why this “ordinary” train deserves a spot on your itinerary.
The Journey: Lakes, Passes, and Waterfalls
The Luzern-Interlaken Express packs an incredible amount of scenery into 2 hours.
Lucerne → Alpnachstad
- What You See: The train hugs the shores of Lake Lucerne, with views of Mount Pilatus looming on your right.
- Pro Tip: Sit on the RIGHT side of the train when leaving Lucerne for the best lake views.
Alpnachstad → Lungern
- What You See: The train climbs into the mountains, passing through the Brünig region. You will see the stunning turquoise Lake Sarnen and the tiny, picture-perfect Lake Lungern.
- Highlight: Lake Lungern. The water is so blue-green it looks photoshopped. Have your camera ready.
The Brünig Pass (1,008m)
- What Happens: The train uses a cogwheel (rack railway) system to climb the steep Brünig Pass. You can feel the train grip the tracks as it pushes uphill.
- Fun Fact: This is one of only a few meter-gauge railways in Switzerland that crosses the Alps.
Meiringen → Brienz
- What You See: The train descends into the Haslital valley, passing near the famous Reichenbach Falls (where Sherlock Holmes “died”).
- Highlight: Lake Brienz appears on your left. It is arguably even more beautiful than Lake Lungern — deep blue, surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls.
Brienz → Interlaken Ost
- What You See: The train runs right along Lake Brienz for about 15 minutes. Waterfalls pour down the cliffs on the opposite shore. The famous Giessbach Falls is visible from the train.
- Pro Tip: Switch to the LEFT side of the train after Meiringen for the best Lake Brienz views.
What Makes It Special?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Two Stunning Lakes | Lake Lungern and Lake Brienz — both insanely photogenic |
| Cogwheel Section | The train climbs using rack-and-pinion technology |
| Waterfall Views | Multiple waterfalls visible from the train, especially along Lake Brienz |
| Low Crowds | Not marketed as a “premium” panoramic train, so fewer tour groups |
| Frequency | Trains run every hour, so it fits easily into any schedule |
The Price (Your Wallet Will Thank You)
A standard one-way ticket costs approximately:
- Second Class: CHF 35 – CHF 40
- First Class: CHF 60 – CHF 70
Rail Pass Discounts
| Pass | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Swiss Travel Pass | 100% FREE. No reservations needed. Just hop on. |
| Eurail / Interrail | Fully included. No reservation required. |
| Half-Fare Card | 50% off the ticket price. |
This is the big advantage: Unlike the Glacier Express or Bernina Express, you do NOT need to pay for seat reservations. Just show up at the platform and get on.
Is It Worth It?
ABSOLUTELY YES, if:
- You are traveling between Lucerne and Interlaken anyway. This is the only direct route — and it happens to be gorgeous.
- You want a scenic train experience without paying panoramic train prices.
- You love lakes. Seriously, the lakes on this route are some of the bluest in Switzerland.
- You are on a Swiss Travel Pass. It costs you literally nothing.
MAYBE NOT, if:
- You expect luxury panoramic cars. This is a regular train with large (but not floor-to-ceiling) windows.
- It is raining heavily. The lake views disappear in fog and mist.
- You want high-altitude drama. This route stays relatively low compared to the Jungfrau or Glacier Express.
The Best Seat Strategy
| Direction | Best Side | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lucerne → Interlaken | Sit RIGHT first, then switch to LEFT | Right for Lake Lungern. Left for Lake Brienz (after Meiringen). |
| Interlaken → Lucerne | Sit RIGHT first, then switch to LEFT | Right for Lake Brienz. Left for Lake Lungern (after Meiringen). |
Pro Tip: If the train is not crowded, just move sides when the scenery shifts. Nobody will judge you.
Combine It With…
The Luzern-Interlaken Express is perfectly positioned for day trips.
- Mount Pilatus: Start in Lucerne, do the “Golden Round Trip” to Pilatus, then take the express to Interlaken.
- Giessbach Falls: Get off at Brienz, take a boat across the lake to the famous waterfall and historic hotel.
- Ballenberg Open-Air Museum: Stop in Brienz to visit Switzerland’s largest outdoor museum of traditional buildings.
- Sherlock Holmes: Stop in Meiringen to visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum and hike to Reichenbach Falls.
Alternative: The GoldenPass Line
The Luzern-Interlaken Express is actually the first part of the longer GoldenPass route, which continues from Interlaken to Montreux.
If you want the full experience:
- Luzern-Interlaken Express (Lucerne → Interlaken)
- GoldenPass Belle Époque or Panoramic (Interlaken → Montreux)
Together, it is an all-day journey from Central to French-speaking Switzerland — one of the most scenic train routes in Europe.
Summary
The Luzern-Interlaken Express is proof that you do not need to spend a fortune to experience Swiss train magic. Two crystal-clear lakes, a mountain pass, waterfalls, and a cogwheel climb — all in under 2 hours, and free with a rail pass.
It is not fancy. It is not famous. But it might just become your favorite train ride in Switzerland.
Ready to ride? Check schedules on the SBB website or the SBB Mobile app. No reservations needed — just show up and enjoy.
