Basel to Lugano train with SBB

Fri, Dec 19
+ Add return
SBB
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
SBB
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Lugano

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

$95

Average price

$132

Fastest journey

2 h 54 m

Average duration

2 h 54 m

Trains per day

9

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 $132 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.

Fast trains

Of the 9 trains that leave Basel for Lugano on Sun, Dec 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 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 Sun, Dec 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 55 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.

SBBIR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 869
10:04AM2h54
Basel SBB
12:58PMLugano, Stazione
$951One-way
1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865
08:04AM2h54
Basel SBB
10:58AMLugano, Stazione
$971One-way
1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 2 2101 | 2101
08:04AM3h09
Basel SBB
11:13AMLugano
$991One-way
2 transfers
SBBIC 21 667 | 667
09:04AM2h54
Basel SBB
11:58AMLugano, Stazione
$1481One-way
0 transfers
SBBIC 3 553 | 553 · IC 2 1467 | 1467
09:33AM2h55
Basel SBB
12:28PMLugano, Stazione
$1481One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, 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 prices starting from €29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €29, and a flight costs an average of €74.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€92

Average price

€43

Average price

Cheapest

€213

Average price

3h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 33m

Average total duration

4h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 47m

Average total duration

7h 47m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Basel to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lugano trains for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:54 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbb5:33 AM Basel
2h55
8:28 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect
sbb6:56 AM Basel
3h06
10:02 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect
sbb7:37 AM Basel
3h25
11:02 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect
sbb12:45 PM Basel
3h17
4:02 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
sbb3:11 PM Basel
3h17
6:28 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
sbb4:45 AM Basel
3h17
8:02 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Basel 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.

Sun
Dec 21
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Why should you book Basel to Lugano trains with Omio?

SBB as well as Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) and Südostbahn offer trains services from Basel to Lugano. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Lugano.

Why book with Omio vs SBB?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SBB, but also compare tickets for the likes of Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) and Südostbahn to find the best option for your trip from Basel 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 SBB with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Lugano.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While SBB tickets can be bought on SBB's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) and Südostbahn to help you choose the right option for your journey from Basel to Lugano.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Lugano.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Lugano?

The best time to book your train from Basel to Lugano is 28 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Lugano route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel to Lugano per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Basel to Lugano.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Lugano

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Lugano run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€59) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 55m.

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 $36 (€29)
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
3h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€59)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 55m
First train
04:32
Last train
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
Bus from $36 (€29)

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS), Südostbahn from Basel to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Basel and Lugano from $36 (€29). 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 Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€59)
SBB frequency
8 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

Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
$136 (€109)
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) frequency
8 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Südostbahn frequency
4 a day

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.

FAQs
To fully experience Lugano, including its scenic lakeside views, cultural attractions, and nearby hiking trails, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
A day trip from Basel to Lugano is not feasible due to the travel time of 2h 55m. However, trains operate 8 times per day, allowing for flexible travel options. The distance is 125 miles (202 km).
The distance by train from Basel to Lugano 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.
The first train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 4:32 AM.
The last train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€59), while the average price is around $115 (€92).
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.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Lugano.
The train from Basel to Lugano takes 2h 55m and runs 8 per day.
The train station in Basel that goes to Lugano is Basel SBB, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Lugano.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Lugano. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS).

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Lugano

Basel
Lugano
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Lugano.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Da Roberto
  • Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Victoria
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
  • GAIA Hotel
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 800 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
  • Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
  • Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
Basel, Brausebad
information
Basel, Schützenhaus
information

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