We are going from Basel to Lucerne by train. Any suggestions as to what route to take for maximum scenery considering we want to get to Lucerne the same day? Thanks
Posted by
Green Bay
22818 posts
The standard route is only 1 hour and just ordinary scenery (for Switzerland). Get to Luzern, check into your hotel, then take a boat ride to Vitznau and the Rigibahn to the top. Plenty of scenery then.
Posted by
Switzerland
441 posts
As already mentioned, the normal 1 hour route Basel-Luzern is quick and moderately scenic (mostly on the last bit as you enter the Luzern region). Without knowing the rest of your itinerary , this is the most practical choice and you will have plenty of "maximum scenery" around once you reach Luzern (hopefully you have a few days there?).
If you won't be visiting Berner Oberland on this trip, you could also consider a long detour via Interlaken. Assuming decent weather, if you don't mind the ride taking 4 hours with just a single connection: take the direct train Basel-Interlaken Ost (scenic 2nd half from Bern along Lake Thun to Interlaken) and then change there to the Interlaken Ost-Luzern route over Brünig Pass. Not sure when your trip is - if in the next few months, then scratch this option as there is construction on the line from 13 Oct - 21 Dec with bus replacement service.