- Must visit
MASI Lugano
Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Zagreb to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$54
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$80
Fastest journey on Sep 18
15 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
16 h 35 m
Buses on Sep 18
2
Distance
544 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zagreb to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zagreb to Lugano will cost around $80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Fast buses
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 buses from Zagreb to Lugano, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 544 km distance in an average of 16 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 15 h 25 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 17 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:30 AM15h25Zagreb9:55 PMLugano$541One-way0 transfers- 8:30 PM17h45Zagreb2:15 PMLugano$1061One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 AM15h25Zagreb9:55 PMLugano$541One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM17h45Zagreb2:15 PMLugano$1061One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Zagreb to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zagreb to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $91 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 48m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $91, while a flight costs an average of $660.
Distance: 338 miles (544 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$91 Average price Cheapest | $660 Average price | $273 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
13h 13m Average total duration 12h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 48m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zagreb to Lugano is a bus with an average price of $91 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from Zagreb to Lugano:
A bus is $569 (€466) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zagreb to Lugano costing on average $660 (€540).
The fastest way to travel from Zagreb to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zagreb and Lugano including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zagreb to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $91 (€74) compared to roughly $273 (€223) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $182 (€149). The journey takes 12h 43m versus 7h 32m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Zelic Reisen.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Zagreb to Lugano Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 15h25 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 16h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 04:10AM | Duration 16h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 16h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 13h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 13h15 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 17h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 13h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 21h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Zagreb to Lugano bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zagreb to Lugano buses for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:30 AM Zagreb | 15h25 | 9:55 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zagreb to Lugano by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
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Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Zagreb to Lugano buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Zelic Reisen offer buses services from Zagreb to Lugano.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zagreb to Lugano.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Zelic Reisen to find the best option for your trip from Zagreb to Lugano.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zagreb to Lugano.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Zagreb to Lugano.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Zagreb to Lugano
Croatia
Switzerland
Buses from Zagreb to Lugano run on average 4 times per day, taking around 12h 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $53 (€43) but you can travel from only $25 (€21) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 338 miles (544 km) distance in 11h 5m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $25 (€21)
Distance 338 miles (544 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 (€43) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $25 (€21)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Zagreb to LuganoYou can travel by bus between Zagreb to Lugano with FlixBus for as low as $25 (€21). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
11h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$53 (€43)
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Lugano
Things to do in Lugano
Discover the best of Lugano — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lugano trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Santa Maria degli Angioli
Intimate museum inside the church complex, famous for Bernardino Luini frescoes and Renaissance religious art of exceptional local importance.
- Recommended
Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola
Museum and archive dedicated to writer Hermann Hesse in nearby Montagnola. It is essential for literary fans and lovers of the Collina d’Oro setting.
- Must visit
Parco Ciani
Lugano’s elegant waterfront park offers flowerbeds, sculptures, and lake views. It is one of the city’s most relaxing and photogenic walking areas.
- Must visit
Via Nassa
The city’s famous shopping street is lined with arcades, boutiques, and historic buildings. It is ideal for strolling through central Lugano.
- Must visit
Piazza della Riforma
Main square facing the lake and city hall, often animated by markets and events. It is the natural hub of Lugano’s historic center.
- Gluten-free
Polenta
A rich polenta dish from Ticino, often topped with braised beef, rabbit, or cheese. It reflects the region's Alpine farming roots and northern Italian influence.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Slow-cooked beef braise in red wine, commonly served with polenta. It is a hearty Ticinese classic suited to the cooler mountain climate.
- Gluten-free
Pesce Di Lago
Lake fish such as perch or pike-perch, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It showcases the fresh catch from nearby lakes in southern Switzerland.
Ristorante Principe Leopoldo
Elegant Michelin-starred dining at Villa Principe Leopoldo, known for refined Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic views over Lugano.
Ristorante La Cucina Di Alice
Historic lakeside restaurant serving polished Ticinese and Italian dishes in a classic setting near Parco Ciani.
Grotto Del Pep
Traditional grotto-style venue above Lugano, appreciated for local specialties, grilled meats, polenta, and a rustic hillside atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Very high by Swiss standards: hotels, dining, and local transport usually cost more than in nearby Italian cities and many European lake destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Round up small taxi fares and café bills.
Arcobaleno
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.50
- Day pass
- CHF 7.10
To the city center
Via Ciani, Lugano -> Piazza della Riforma, Lugano
- Distance
- 1.1 km
- Travel time
- 14 min
- Buy Arcobaleno tickets before boarding; zone fares apply in Lugano and tickets must be valid for the required zones and time.
- Onboard contactless payment is not generally available on Lugano buses. Use ticket machines, sales points, or the official app before travel.
FAQs: Bus from Zagreb to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zagreb to Lugano by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lugano, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Zagreb to Lugano can start from as little as $53 (€43) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zagreb to Lugano is $91 (€74) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Zagreb to Lugano is 11h 5m to travel the 338 miles (544 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Zagreb to Lugano leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zagreb to Lugano leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Zagreb to Lugano which require at least one change with FlixBus, Zelic Reisen. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Zagreb to Lugano, you can count on FlixBus, Zelic Reisen for the best way to get you to Lugano. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Zagreb and Lugano and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Lugano from Zagreb is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Zagreb to Lugano is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zagreb and Lugano including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Zagreb to Lugano for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Zagreb to Lugano:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Lugano are:
- Monte Brè, a scenic mountain offering panoramic views of Lugano and the surrounding Alps
- Parco Ciani, a picturesque lakeside park with walking paths, gardens, and historical monuments
- Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC), a modern cultural center hosting art exhibitions, theater performances, and concerts
- Swissminiatur, an open-air museum featuring detailed miniature models of famous Swiss landmarks
- Gandria, a charming lakeside village with narrow streets and traditional Swiss architecture.
The best things to do in Lugano include:
- Lake Lugano, enjoy scenic boat tours and lakeside promenades with stunning views
- hike or take a funicular to the summit of Monte San Salvatore for breathtaking views of the region
- explore the vibrant local markets in Lugano for a taste of Swiss culture and cuisine
- visit the Hermann Hesse Museum in nearby Montagnola to learn about the life and works of the famous author
- take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Lugano's Old Town, discovering its charming shops and cafes.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Zagreb to Lugano depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Zagreb to Lugano.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Zagreb to Lugano:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Zagreb to Lugano:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Zagreb to Lugano. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Zagreb to Lugano with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Zagreb to Lugano with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Zagreb to Lugano with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Zagreb and Lugano are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zagreb to Lugano among Omio's users.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lugano, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include distraction techniques used by thieves near popular tourist spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and remain vigilant in busy places. Overall, Lugano is considered safe, but usual travel precautions apply.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Zagreb to Lugano
Most Zagreb to Lugano buses use the Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor to Lugano, Via Ciani station pair. Use this guide to compare Zagreb and Lugano bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Zagreb
Arrival bus stations in Lugano
Which Zagreb station do buses to Lugano leave from?
Buses from Zagreb to Lugano leave from Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zagreb city centre at Avenija Marina Drzica 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
Zagreb, Autobusni KolodvorAvenija Marina Drzica 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
City-centre transport
Getting to Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor from Zagreb city centre
Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor is 1 km from Zagreb city centre. Public transport options include:
Tram6, 31 · 12m · $1 · every ~9 min
6, 31 · 14m · $1 · every ~10 min
Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor bus station facilities and services
Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Zagreb (in the station), Bakery Delight (in the station), Fast Food Corner (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor: Elevators, ramps.
Lugano, Via Ciani
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano, Via Ciani from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 4m · $4 · every ~19 min
Most popular bus connections from Zagreb
More options for your journey from Zagreb to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Lugano and Zagreb
Most popular bus connections to Lugano
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