Travel from Geneva to Lucerne and Then Strasbourg: The Scenic Route

If you’re planning to see the best of Switzerland and eastern France, traveling from Geneva to Lucerne, and then on to Strasbourg, is a journey that feels like flipping through a perfectly curated photo book of Europe.

Each leg of the trip reveals something different—clean cities, calm lakes, towering mountains, and cozy cobblestone charm. And the best part? It’s smooth, scenic, and simple to do without a car.

Overview of the Route

Here’s a quick breakdown of the journey:

Geneva to Lucerne: ~3 hours by train
Lucerne to Strasbourg: ~3.5 to 4 hours by train with a connection in Basel

Each segment is unique. Together, they make for a travel day you’ll talk about for years.

Geneva to Lucerne: Lakes, Mountains, and Precision

Why it’s amazing:
This leg of the journey brings you across the country from the French-speaking part of Switzerland into the German-speaking region. You’ll pass Lake Geneva, mountain views, and tidy little towns that look like snow globes in summer.

Train time: ~3 hours
Best route: Direct trains via Bern or Lausanne
Depart from: Geneva Cornavin Station
Arrive at: Lucerne Bahnhof

Highlights:

Impeccable Swiss trains
Scenic lake views
Stopover options in Lausanne or Bern

Tip:
Sit on the left side for lake views leaving Geneva, and don’t skip grabbing a pastry from Sprüngli at the station before boarding.

What to Do in Lucerne (Even for a Short Stop)

Lucerne is a postcard of a city—tucked beside a lake and towered over by snow-capped peaks.

Quick must-sees:

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke): A wooden footbridge with paintings from the 1600s
Lake Lucerne Cruise: Even one hour on the water is unforgettable
Old Town: Colorful facades, charming cafés, and mountain air
Lion Monument: Powerful and serene

How long to stay?
A full day is ideal, but even a few hours lets you soak in the vibe.

Lucerne to Strasbourg: Crossing Cultures by Rail

From Lucerne, head north to Basel, then switch trains to reach Strasbourg in France. The ride changes tone from alpine to Rhine River valley.

Train time: ~3.5 to 4 hours
Route: Lucerne ? Basel ? Strasbourg
Rail operators: SBB and SNCF

Why it’s worth it:
The contrast is striking. You go from Swiss lakes to Alsatian rooftops without lifting a finger—except to sip your coffee.

What to Expect in Strasbourg

Strasbourg has the medieval charm of a fairy tale and the cultural weight of a European capital. It’s not just a stop—it’s a destination.

Don’t miss:

Strasbourg Cathedral: Towering, Gothic, and unforgettable
La Petite France: Half-timbered houses and winding canals
Tarte flambée: The Alsatian answer to pizza—and it’s delicious
Evening walks: Especially along the Ill River

Stay overnight if you can. The city lights at night are pure magic.

Traveler Insights: Real-World Lessons

? “Swiss trains are beautiful—always on time, always clean.”
? “Lucerne felt like something out of a dream.”
? “The Basel transfer to Strasbourg was smooth and simple.”
? “We didn’t book seats early enough—ended up standing part of the way.”
? “Don’t rush Lucerne—it deserves more than a pass-through.”

Plan well, and this route becomes a highlight of your entire trip.

Travel Tips for This Route

Buy Swiss train tickets early on SBB for best fares
Use the Swiss Half Fare Card if staying in Switzerland longer
Strasbourg train station is walkable to the city center—no cab needed
Pack light: European trains have overhead space but not much room for big luggage
Bring water and snacks, especially if transferring in Basel