- Must visit
MASI Lugano
Lugano’s main art museum, spread across LAC and Palazzo Reali, with major modern and contemporary exhibitions and a strong Swiss-Italian focus.
Fastest
Luzern - Bundesstrasse 10, Luzern
Massagno - Via Cabione 22, Massagno
$191•One-way
Cheapest, 2nd Fastest
Luzern - Zentralstrasse 16, Luzern
Paradiso - Via delle Scuole 13, Paradiso
$121•One-way
2nd cheapest
Islisberg - Steindlerstrasse 8, Islisberg
Massagno - Via Cabione 22, Massagno
$221•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Zurich to LuganoShowing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$12
Average price
$18
Fastest journey
2h 0m
Average duration
2h 17m
Buses per day
3
Distance
0 km
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Zurich to Lugano bus with BlaBlaCar
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 bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 47m. 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 bus costs an average of $16, and a flight costs an average of $101.
Distance: 96 miles (155 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$20 Average price Cheapest | $81 Average price | $313 Average price | $99 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 44m Average total duration 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 42m Average total duration 2h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 47m Average total duration Fastest 1h 47m Onboard + 3h 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 |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 bus with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Lugano:
A bus is $61 (€50) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Lugano costing on average $81 (€67).
A bus is $294 (€242) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Lugano costing on average $313 (€258).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 47m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 12m.
Bus takes on average 2h 14m.
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. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about 26m sooner (2h 14m by bus vs 2h 40m by car) and save roughly $79 (€65) compared to fuel and tolls ($20 (€16) vs $99 (€82)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Zurich to Lugano Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $16 |
Live departures
Zurich to Lugano bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Lugano buses for today, Monday, July 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:30 AM Zurich | 2h00 | 12:30 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:40 PM Zurich | 2h20 | 5:00 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:20 PM Zurich | 2h30 | 6:50 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, July 14 | |||||
| 9:00 AM Zurich | 2h50 | 11:50 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
Buses from Zurich to Lugano run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
There are 4 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 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
Distance 96 miles (155 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 3h 5m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:05 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Bus providers: BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio from Zurich to LuganoYou can travel by bus between Zurich to Lugano with BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio for as low as $16 (€13). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
4 a day
Gruppo Di Maio
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Gruppo Di Maio frequency
1 a day
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.
- Must visit
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura
Major cultural center for visual art and performances; not only a museum venue but one of the city’s key contemporary culture hubs.
- Recommended
Museo d'arte della Svizzera italiana - Palazzo Reali
Historic MASI venue in a former palace showing temporary exhibitions and selections from the cantonal art collection.
- Must visit
Parco Ciani
Lugano’s signature lakeside park with flowerbeds, old trees, promenades, and postcard views; a classic first stop.
- Must visit
Piazza della Riforma
The city’s main square, lined with arcaded buildings and often used for events, markets, and evening strolls.
- Must visit
Lugano Lakefront
Scenic promenade along Lake Lugano, ideal for walking, photography, and enjoying the city’s relaxed waterfront atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Merlot
Creamy risotto cooked with Ticino Merlot wine, reflecting the canton’s strong wine culture and Italian-speaking culinary identity.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
Traditional cornmeal staple of Ticino, served soft or set, often alongside stews or cheese and deeply rooted in local mountain cooking.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Beef braised slowly in Merlot wine, a classic Ticinese dish prized for its rich sauce and connection to local vineyards.
La Cucina di Alice
Recognized fine dining venue in Lugano with creative Italian cuisine, tasting menus, and a contemporary upscale atmosphere.
Ristorante Trani
Established Lugano restaurant known for refined Italian and regional cuisine, polished service, and an elegant setting.
Grotto Morchino
Classic hillside grotto popular for authentic Ticinese dishes, wine, and a charming traditional setting above Lugano.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and restaurant meals. Supermarkets and takeaway spots help reduce daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-55 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for a cappuccino or espresso.
Tipping culture
Service is included in bills. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
Arcobaleno
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.30
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Lugano, Via Ciani, Lugano -> Lugano Centro
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Tickets on regional buses are part of the Arcobaleno fare network, so buy the correct zone ticket before boarding when required.
- Card payment is not guaranteed on all buses or ticket machines, so use the Arcobaleno app or carry a valid card and some cash.
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 $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zurich to Lugano is $20 (€16) ; 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 5m 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 4 direct buses a day from Zurich to Lugano with BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Zurich to Lugano, you can count on BlaBlaCar, Gruppo Di Maio 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.
A trip to Lugano from Zurich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
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.
No, the bus from Zurich to Lugano has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
No, luggage for the bus from Zurich to Lugano needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Zurich to Lugano.
Since both Zurich 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 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.
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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