Basel to Lugano train with SBB

Tue, Nov 03
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SBB
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
SBB
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Lugano

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
$69
Average ticket price on Nov 03
$86
Fastest journey on Nov 03
2 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
2 h 54 m
Trains on Nov 03
6
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 $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.

Fast trains

On Tue, Nov 03, we found 6 trains from Basel to Lugano, including 6 direct services.

On Tue, Nov 03 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 Tue, Nov 03 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.

  • SBB
    0 transfers
  • SBB
    0 transfers
  • SBB
    0 transfers
  • SBB
    0 transfers
  • SBB
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Lugano

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Lugano run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 but you can travel from only $36 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 $36
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
2h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$57
Trains per day
6
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 $36

Frequently asked questions about your Basel to Lugano trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Basel to Lugano.

Train ticket prices from Basel to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57, while the average price is around $109.
The train from Basel to Lugano takes 2h 48m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 12:37 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Lugano is 125 miles (202 km).
The last train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Lugano. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by SBB.

Live departures

Basel to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lugano trains for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SBBIC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 · B 4 4050 | 40505:33 AM Basel SBB
3h19
8:52 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 · B 2 2055 | 2055 · B 1 1062 | 10625:33 AM Basel SBB
3h11
8:44 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 · B 2 2055 | 2055 · B 1 1062 | 10625:33 AM Basel SBB
3h10
8:43 AM Lugano, Piazza Manzoni3 transfers
SBBIC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 115:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 3 551 | 551 · EC 11 | 11 · B 2 2055 | 20555:33 AM Basel SBB
3h07
8:40 AM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 2 2067 | 20676:04 AM Basel SBB
3h06
9:10 AM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 8616:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 2 2067 | 2067 · B 4 4057 | 40576:04 AM Basel SBB
3h13
9:17 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 4 4060 | 40606:04 AM Basel SBB
3h18
9:22 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 136:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
9:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 13 · B 4 4068 | 40686:33 AM Basel SBB
3h19
9:52 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 13 · B 2 2077 | 2077 · B 4 4065 | 40656:33 AM Basel SBB
3h14
9:47 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 13 · B 2 2077 | 20776:33 AM Basel SBB
3h07
9:40 AM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIC 21 663 | 6637:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
9:58 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIC 21 663 | 663 · B 2 2085 | 2085 · B 4 4073 | 40737:04 AM Basel SBB
3h13
10:17 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 21 663 | 663 · B 4 4076 | 40767:04 AM Basel SBB
3h18
10:22 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico1 transfer
SBBIC 21 663 | 663 · B 2 2085 | 20857:04 AM Basel SBB
3h06
10:10 AM Lugano, Centro1 transfer
SBBIC 3 561 | 561 · EC 31 | 31 · B 2 2093 | 20937:33 AM Basel SBB
3h07
10:40 AM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIC 3 561 | 561 · EC 31 | 31 · B 4 4084 | 40847:33 AM Basel SBB
3h19
10:52 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 3 561 | 561 · EC 31 | 317:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 3 561 | 561 · EC 31 | 31 · B 2 2093 | 2093 · B 4 4081 | 40817:33 AM Basel SBB
3h14
10:47 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 8658:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
10:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 2 2101 | 21018:04 AM Basel SBB
3h06
11:10 AM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 2 2101 | 2101 · B 4 4089 | 40898:04 AM Basel SBB
3h13
11:17 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 4 4092 | 40928:04 AM Basel SBB
3h18
11:22 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 158:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · B 2 2109 | 21098:33 AM Basel SBB
3h07
11:40 AM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · B 4 4100 | 41008:33 AM Basel SBB
3h19
11:52 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · B 2 2109 | 2109 · B 4 4097 | 40978:33 AM Basel SBB
3h14
11:47 AM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIC 21 667 | 6679:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
11:58 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIC 21 667 | 667 · B 2 2117 | 2117 · B 4 4105 | 41059:04 AM Basel SBB
3h13
12:17 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 21 667 | 667 · B 2 2117 | 21179:04 AM Basel SBB
3h06
12:10 PM Lugano, Centro1 transfer
SBBIC 21 667 | 667 · B 4 4108 | 41089:04 AM Basel SBB
3h18
12:22 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico1 transfer
SBBIC 3 553 | 553 · EC 33 | 339:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 3 553 | 553 · EC 33 | 33 · B 2 2125 | 21259:33 AM Basel SBB
3h07
12:40 PM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 86910:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
12:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 869 · B 2 2133 | 213310:04 AM Basel SBB
3h06
1:10 PM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 · B 4 4156 | 415612:04 PM Basel SBB
3h18
3:22 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 · B 2 2165 | 2165 · B 4 4153 | 415312:04 PM Basel SBB
3h13
3:17 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 87312:04 PM Basel SBB
2h54
2:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 · B 2 2165 | 216512:04 PM Basel SBB
3h06
3:10 PM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 · B 2 2173 | 217312:33 PM Basel SBB
3h07
3:40 PM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBIC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 · B 2 2173 | 2173 · B 4 4163 | 416312:33 PM Basel SBB
3h13
3:46 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico3 transfers
SBBIC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 2112:33 PM Basel SBB
2h55
3:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 · B 4 4164 | 416412:33 PM Basel SBB
3h20
3:53 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 21 675 | 675 · B 4 4170 | 41701:04 PM Basel SBB
3h19
4:23 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico1 transfer
SBBIC 21 675 | 675 · B 2 2181 | 2181 · B 4 4169 | 41691:04 PM Basel SBB
3h12
4:16 PM Lugano, Piazza Rezzonico2 transfers
SBBIC 21 675 | 675 · B 2 2181 | 21811:04 PM Basel SBB
3h06
4:10 PM Lugano, Centro1 transfer
SBBIC 21 675 | 6751:04 PM Basel SBB
2h54
3:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBTGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 37 · B 2 2193 | 21931:33 PM Basel SBB
3h07
4:40 PM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
SBBTGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 371:33 PM Basel SBB
2h55
4:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 8772:04 PM Basel SBB
2h54
4:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 877 · B 2 2205 | 22052:04 PM Basel SBB
3h06
5:10 PM Lugano, Centro2 transfers
Tuesday, November 3
SBB4:02 AM Basel
2h56
6:58 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: SBB from Basel to Lugano trainsSBB trains will get you between Basel and Lugano from $36. 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
$57
SBB frequency
6 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Basel and Lugano

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Basel to Lugano.
Yes, there is a night train from Basel to Lugano.
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.

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

MASI Lugano

Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.

  • 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.

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.

Plan your visit to Lugano

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Lugano.

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.
Popular day trips by train from Lugano include Milan, Como, Bellinzona, Locarno, Chiasso.
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.

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
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Lugano.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Lugano

Most Basel to Lugano trains use the Basel SBB to Lugano, Stazione station pair. 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 22WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · $2 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $3 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $3
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $3 · 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 13WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

Train stations for Basel to Lugano

Check train stations information for Basel and Lugano, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Basel that goes to Lugano is Basel SBB, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.

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