- 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 Zurich to Lugano
Showing times and prices for Aug 28
Cheapest price
$22
Average price
$22
Fastest journey
4 h
Average duration
4 h
Buses per day
1
Distance
155 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zurich to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Lugano will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Zurich for Lugano on Fri, Aug 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Aug 28 the direct buses cover the 155 km distance in an average of 4 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h .
On Fri, Aug 28 the slowest buses will take 4 h 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.
6:00 PM4h00Zurich10:00 PMLugano$221One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 PM4h00Zurich10:00 PMLugano$221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $75.
Distance: 96 miles (155 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$86 Average price Cheapest | $664 Average price | $102 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
2h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration 2h 38m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Lugano is a train with an average price of $86 (€69).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Lugano:
A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Zurich to Lugano costing on average $97 (€78).
A train is $569 (€458) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Lugano costing on average $654 (€527).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Flight takes on average 2h 39m.
Bus takes on average 3h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Lugano including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 $97 (€78) compared to roughly $102 (€82) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $5 (€4). The journey takes 3h 40m versus 2h 40m 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 BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio.
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.
Zurich to Lugano Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Gruppo Di Maio | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 12:40AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Live departures
Zurich to Lugano bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Lugano buses for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:20 PM Zurich | 3h10 | 3:30 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:10 PM Zurich | 2h30 | 12:40 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Lugano by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Zurich to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Take a bus from Zurich to Lugano and enjoy the approximately 96 miles (155 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05.
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
Train from $44 (€35)
Distance 96 miles (155 km) |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:05 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Train from $44 (€35)
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 Zurich to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Zurich to Lugano
Most Zurich to Lugano buses use the Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) to Como, Piazzale San Gottardo (Stazione San Giovanni) station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Lugano bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Zurich
Arrival bus stations in Lugano
Which Zurich station do buses to Lugano leave from?
Buses from Zurich to Lugano leave from Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai). The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Sihlquai, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland.
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai)Sihlquai, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) from Zurich city centre
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus31, 33, 46 Train: S2, S5, S6, S7, S8, S14, S16 Tram: 4, 13, 17
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) bus station facilities and services
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Elevators, ramps.
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)Zürich Flughafen, 8302 Kloten, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) from Zurich city centre
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Train75 · 10m · $5 · every ~2 min
S2, S24, Ic5, Ir36, Ir75, Ir13, Ic81, Ic1, Ic8, S, Ir, N1, Ext · 12m · $5 · every ~22 min
S7, S16 · 18m · $6 · every ~5 min
BusN10 · 27m · $7
Tram10 · 30m · $4 · every ~14 min
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) bus station facilities and services
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several fast-food and cafe options available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof). ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof): Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Most popular bus connections from Zurich
More options for your journey from Zurich to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Lugano and Zurich
Most popular bus connections to Lugano
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