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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 trains from Basel to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$128
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$130
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 54 m
Trains on Sep 19
22
Distance
202 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Lugano will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $128.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 22 trains from Basel to Lugano, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 2 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 54 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 54 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.
IC 3 553 | 553 · EC 153 | 1539:33 AM2h55Basel SBB12:28 PMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer- IR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 86910:04 AM2h54Basel SBB12:58 PMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer
- IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 158:33 AM2h55Basel SBB11:28 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer
- IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 8658:04 AM2h54Basel SBB10:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 667 | 6679:04 AM2h54Basel SBB11:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 86910:04 AM2h54Basel SBB12:58 PMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer
- IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 8658:04 AM2h54Basel SBB10:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 667 | 6679:04 AM2h54Basel SBB11:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way0 transfers
- IC 21 663 | 6637:04 AM2h54Basel SBB9:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 8616:04 AM2h54Basel SBB8:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1281One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Basel to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $53 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, while a flight costs an average of $628.
Distance: 125 miles (202 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$111 Average price | $53 Average price Cheapest | $628 Average price | $113 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 54m Average total duration 3h 54m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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 Basel to Lugano is a bus with an average price of $53 (€43).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Lugano:
A bus is $59 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Lugano costing on average $111 (€91).
A bus is $575 (€471) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Lugano costing on average $628 (€514).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Flight takes on average 3h 54m.
Bus takes on average 4h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Lugano including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 23m faster (2h 55m by train vs 3h 18m by car) and roughly $2 (€2) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($111 (€91) vs $113 (€93)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lugano trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 21 659 | 659 · B 2 2043 | 2043 · B 1 1048 | 1048 | 5:02 AM Basel SBB | 3h11 | 8:13 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 659 | 659 · B 2 2043 | 2043 | 5:02 AM Basel SBB | 3h08 | 8:10 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 659 | 659 | 5:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h56 | 7:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 | 5:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 · B 2 2055 | 2055 | 5:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 8:40 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 · B 2 2055 | 2055 · B 1 1062 | 1062 | 5:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h10 | 8:43 AM Lugano | 3 transfers | |
| IR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 | 6:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 2 2067 | 2067 | 6:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 9:10 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 13 | 6:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 9:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 13 · B 2 2077 | 2077 | 6:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 9:40 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 663 | 663 | 7:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 9:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 21 663 | 663 · B 2 2085 | 2085 | 7:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 10:10 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 561 | 561 · EC 31 | 31 | 7:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 561 | 561 · EC 31 | 31 · B 2 2093 | 2093 | 7:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 10:40 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 10:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 3 3143 | 3143 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 11:10 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 | 8:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · B 3 3155 | 3155 | 8:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 11:40 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 11:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 · B 3 3167 | 3167 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 12:10 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 553 | 553 · EC 153 | 153 | 9:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 553 | 553 · EC 153 | 153 · B 3 3179 | 3179 | 9:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 12:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 869 | 10:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 12:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 869 · B 3 3191 | 3191 | 10:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 1:10 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9203 | 9203 · EC 19 | 19 | 10:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 1:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| TGV 9203 | 9203 · EC 19 | 19 · B 2 2141 | 2141 | 10:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 1:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9203 | 9203 · EC 19 | 19 · B 3 3203 | 3203 | 10:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 1:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 671 | 671 | 11:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 1:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 21 671 | 671 · B 2 2149 | 2149 | 11:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 2:10 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 671 | 671 · B 3 3215 | 3215 | 11:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 2:10 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| EC 151 | 151 | 11:07 AM Basel SBB | 3h21 | 2:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| EC 151 | 151 · B 2 2157 | 2157 | 11:07 AM Basel SBB | 3h33 | 2:40 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| EC 151 | 151 · B 3 3227 | 3227 | 11:07 AM Basel SBB | 3h33 | 2:40 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 569 | 569 · EC 151 | 151 | 11:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 2:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 569 | 569 · EC 151 | 151 · B 2 2157 | 2157 | 11:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 2:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 569 | 569 · EC 151 | 151 · B 3 3227 | 3227 | 11:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 2:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 · B 2 2165 | 2165 | 12:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 3:10 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 | 12:04 PM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 2:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 · B 3 3239 | 3239 | 12:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 3:10 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 | 12:33 PM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 3:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 · B 2 2173 | 2173 | 12:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 3:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 · B 3 3251 | 3251 | 12:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 3:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 675 | 675 · B 2 2181 | 2181 | 1:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 4:10 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 675 | 675 | 1:04 PM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 3:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 21 675 | 675 · B 3 3263 | 3263 | 1:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 4:10 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| TGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 37 | 1:33 PM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 4:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| TGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 37 · B 2 2193 | 2193 | 1:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 4:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 37 · B 3 3275 | 3275 | 1:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 4:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 877 | 2:04 PM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 4:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 877 · B 2 2205 | 2205 | 2:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 5:10 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 877 · B 461 1551 | 1551 | 2:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h10 | 5:14 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 575 | 575 · EC 123 | 123 · B 2 2217 | 2217 | 2:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 5:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 575 | 575 · EC 123 | 123 | 2:33 PM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 5:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 575 | 575 · EC 123 | 123 · B 461 1553 | 1553 | 2:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h11 | 5:44 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| EC 173 | 173 · B 2 2229 | 2229 | 3:04 PM Basel SBB | 3h06 | 6:10 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| EC 173 | 173 | 3:04 PM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 5:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TGV 9213 | 9213 · IC 2 1479 | 1479 · B 2 2241 | 2241 | 3:33 PM Basel SBB | 3h07 | 6:40 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9213 | 9213 · IC 2 1479 | 1479 | 3:33 PM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 6:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2331 | 2331 · IC 2 881 | 881 | 4:04 PM Basel SBB | 2h54 | 6:58 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 579 | 579 · EC 25 | 25 | 4:33 PM Basel SBB | 2h55 | 7:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Lugano by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Lugano run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€53) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:37, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 48m.
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
Bus from $37 (€30)
Distance 125 miles (202 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€53) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 48m |
First train 12:37 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Bus from $37 (€30)
Train companies: SBB from Basel to Lugano trainsSBB trains will get you between Basel and Lugano from $37 (€30). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SBB Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest SBB Price
$64 (€53)
SBB frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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 2.30
- Day pass
- CHF 13.00
To the city center
Lugano Stazione -> Piazza della Riforma
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy Arcobaleno zone tickets before boarding buses and funiculars. Contactless card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not guaranteed onboard.
- For the city center from Lugano Stazione, the Funicolare Città–Stazione is usually the fastest option. Validate the correct zone before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Lugano by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lugano, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€53), while the average price is around $111 (€91).
The train from Basel to Lugano takes 2h 48m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Lugano is 125 miles (202 km).
The first train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 12:37 AM.
The last train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Lugano. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Lugano.
The train station in Basel that goes to Lugano is Basel SBB, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
Yes, the Basel to Lugano train journey is considered scenic, as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, offering views of the Alps, serene lakes, and charming villages, especially as it passes through the Gotthard Base Tunnel and along the stunning Lake Lugano.
A day trip from Basel to Lugano is not feasible due to the travel time of 2h 48m. However, trains operate 8 times per day, allowing for flexible travel options. The distance is 125 miles (202 km).
In Lugano, you can enjoy scenic boat tours and lakeside promenades around Lake Lugano, with stunning views. Hike or take a funicular to Monte San Salvatore for breathtaking regional views, and explore vibrant local markets for Swiss culture and cuisine. Visit the Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola, stroll through the historic streets of Lugano's Old Town, or enjoy panoramic views from Monte Brè. Relax at Parco Ciani, experience culture at Lugano Arte e Cultura, and explore Swissminiatur's miniature landmarks. Discover Gandria, a charming village with traditional architecture.
To fully experience Lugano, including its scenic lakeside views, cultural attractions, and nearby hiking trails, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Lugano.
Since both Basel 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.
Popular day trips by train from Lugano include Milan, Como, Bellinzona, Locarno, Chiasso.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Lugano among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Basel to Lugano
Most Basel to Lugano trains use the Basel SBB to Lugano, Stazione station pair, with some services arriving at Lugano-Paradiso. Use this guide to compare Basel and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Basel
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Basel station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Basel to Lugano leave from Basel SBB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre
Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $2 · every ~25 min
Basel SBB train station facilities and services
Basel SBB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.
Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel Bad Bhf from Basel city centre
Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus30 · 11m · $4 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · $4 · every ~20 min
Basel Bad Bhf train station facilities and services
Basel Bad Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.
Basel, BrausebadBrausebad, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel, Brausebad from Basel city centre
Tram1, 2, 3 · 6m · $2 · every ~25 min
Basel, Brausebad train station facilities and services
Basel, Brausebad has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the station. ATMs are available at Basel, Brausebad.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel, Brausebad.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel, Brausebad: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel, Brausebad: The station has accessible entrances and facilities.
Which Lugano station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Lugano most often arrive at Lugano, Stazione. Some services arrive at Lugano-Paradiso, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Lugano arrival station.
Lugano, Stazione6900 Lugano, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano, Stazione from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 7m · $4 · every ~10 min
6 · 10m · $4 · every ~10 min
461 · 12m · $7 · every ~5 min
Lugano, Stazione train station facilities and services
Lugano, Stazione has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano, Stazione.
Lugano-Paradiso6900 Paradiso, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano-Paradiso from Lugano city centre
Lugano-Paradiso is 1 km from Lugano city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS10, S, Re80, Re84, S90 · 3m · $2 · every ~11 min
Bus1, 2 · 8m · $4 · every ~19 min
434 · 10m · $2 · every ~3 min
2 · 23m · $4 · every ~9 min
Lugano-Paradiso train station facilities and services
Lugano-Paradiso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lugano-Paradiso.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Lugano-Paradiso.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Bike Rental.
Lugano Città (funicolare)6900 Lugano, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano Città (funicolare) from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 8m · $4 · every ~10 min
6 · 11m · $4 · every ~10 min
461 · 15m · $7 · every ~5 min
Lugano Città (funicolare) train station facilities and services
Lugano Città (funicolare) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano Città (funicolare).
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Basel
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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