- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 12
Cheapest price on Oct 12
$18
Average ticket price on Oct 12
$26
Fastest journey on Oct 12
2 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 12
3 h 8 m
Buses on Oct 12
4
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 $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
Fast buses
On Mon, Oct 12, we found 4 buses from Zurich to Lugano, including 4 direct services.
On Mon, Oct 12 the direct buses cover the 155 km distance in an average of 3 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 40 m .
On Mon, Oct 12 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.
9:50 AM2h40Zurich12:30 PMLugano$181One-way0 transfers- 12:00 PM2h50Zurich2:50 PMLugano$251One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h00Zurich12:00 PMLugano$261One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 PM4h00Zurich10:00 PMLugano$331One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM2h40Zurich12:30 PMLugano$181One-way0 transfers
- 12:00 PM2h50Zurich2:50 PMLugano$251One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h00Zurich12:00 PMLugano$261One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 PM4h00Zurich10:00 PMLugano$331One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Zurich to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Buses from Zurich to Lugano run on average 1 times per day, taking around 3h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $93 but you can travel from only $42 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest bus covers the 96 miles (155 km) distance in 3h 40m.
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 $42
Distance 96 miles (155 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $93 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
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 $42
Zurich to Lugano Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator RegioJet | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:20PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:40PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
Zurich to Lugano bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Lugano buses for today, Sunday, October 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:30 PM Zurich | 2h30 | 8:00 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:20 PM Zurich | 2h30 | 8:50 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:20 PM Zurich | 2h00 | 10:20 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:40 PM Zurich | 2h30 | 11:10 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, October 12 | |||||
| 9:00 AM Zurich | 3h00 | 12:00 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 AM Zurich | 2h40 | 12:30 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:00 PM Zurich | 2h50 | 2:50 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Zurich to Lugano buses with Omio?
Marino Autolinee operates all buses services from Zurich to Lugano.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Lugano.
Why book with Omio vs Marino Autolinee?
- 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 Marino Autolinee with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Lugano.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Lugano.
Bus providers: Marino Autolinee from Zurich to LuganoYou can travel by bus between Zurich to Lugano with Marino Autolinee for as low as $42. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Marino Autolinee
About
MarinoBus is an Italian bus company with more than 200 destinations and 6,000 connections across Italy and Europe. Originally focused on Basilicata and Apulia, its network has expanded to cover the rest of Italy as well as Switzerland, France, Germany, and Luxembourg. All MarinoBus coaches are equipped with spacious reclining seats, air conditioning, onboard restrooms, WiFi, minibars, and color TVs. For your next trip, you can book the standard ticket, which includes one piece of hand luggage and up to two checked bags per passenger
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Marino Autolinee Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Marino Autolinee Price
$93
Marino Autolinee frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 20 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 50% fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Zurich to Lugano can start from as little as $93 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zurich to Lugano is $93 ; 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 Zurich to Lugano is 3h 40m to travel the 96 miles (155 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 Zurich to Lugano leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zurich to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Zurich to Lugano with Marino Autolinee. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Zurich to Lugano, you can count on Marino Autolinee for the best way to get you to Lugano. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Zurich and Lugano and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
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.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Zurich to Lugano:
- Marino Autolinee
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano for bus company Marino Autolinee.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Zurich to Lugano depends on the bus companies:
- Marino Autolinee
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 50% fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Marino Autolinee.
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 Zurich to Lugano.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Zurich to Lugano:
- Marino Autolinee
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg (55x40x20 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Zurich to Lugano:
- Marino Autolinee
- 10€ per additional bag up to 20 kg.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Zurich to Lugano. The following conditions apply:
- Marino Autolinee
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Zurich to Lugano with the following bus company: Marino Autolinee
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano with the following bus company: Marino Autolinee.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano with the following bus company: Marino Autolinee.
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 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.
Lugano, Via Giacomo E Filippo CianiLugano Via Giacomo E Filippo Ciani, Via Giacomo E Filippo Ciani, 6900
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano, Via Giacomo E Filippo Ciani from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 4m · $4 · every ~19 min
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
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