- Must visit
MASI Lugano - LAC
Lugano’s leading art museum inside the LAC cultural center, with modern and contemporary exhibitions and a strong program of temporary shows.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bellinzona to Lugano
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$18
Average price
$18
Fastest journey
14 m
Average duration
18 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
22 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bellinzona to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bellinzona to Lugano will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
Fast trains
Of the 10 trains that leave Bellinzona for Lugano on Sat, Jun 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 22 km distance in an average of 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 14 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 25 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.
EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 50598:14 AM0h25Bellinzona station8:39 AMLugano$181One-way1 transfer- S 10 25763 | 257638:46 AM0h19Bellinzona station9:05 AMLugano, Stazione$181One-way0 transfers
- S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 255138:19 AM0h35Bellinzona station8:54 AMLugano, Stazione$181One-way1 transfer
- EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 5059 · B 1 1064 | 10648:14 AM0h28Bellinzona station8:42 AMLugano$181One-way2 transfers
- S 10 25113 | 25113 · B 461 711 | 7118:16 AM0h28Bellinzona station8:44 AMLugano$181One-way1 transfer
- IC 2 861 | 8618:44 AM0h14Bellinzona station8:58 AMLugano, Stazione$181One-way0 transfers
- EC 11 | 118:14 AM0h14Bellinzona station8:28 AMLugano, Stazione$181One-way0 transfers
- S 10 25763 | 257638:46 AM0h19Bellinzona station9:05 AMLugano, Stazione$181One-way0 transfers
- S 10 25113 | 251138:16 AM0h19Bellinzona station8:35 AMLugano, Stazione$181One-way0 transfers
- EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 50598:14 AM0h25Bellinzona station8:39 AMLugano$181One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bellinzona to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bellinzona to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $4. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $4, and a train costs an average of $18.
Distance: 13 miles (22 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$20 Average price | $4 Average price Cheapest | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
46m Average total duration Fastest 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57m Average total duration 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Bellinzona to Lugano is a bus with an average price of $4 (€3).
This is compared to other travel options from Bellinzona to Lugano:
A bus is $16 (€13) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bellinzona to Lugano costing on average $20 (€16).
The fastest way to travel from Bellinzona to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 16m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bellinzona and Lugano including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bellinzona to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 15m faster (16m by train vs 31m by car) and roughly $40 (€33) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($20 (€16) vs $60 (€49)). 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
Bellinzona to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Bellinzona to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 5059 | 8:14 AM Bellinzona station | 0h25 | 8:39 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 5059 · B 1 1064 | 1064 | 8:14 AM Bellinzona station | 0h28 | 8:42 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| EC 11 | 11 | 8:14 AM Bellinzona station | 0h14 | 8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 10 25113 | 25113 · B 461 711 | 711 | 8:16 AM Bellinzona station | 0h28 | 8:44 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| S 10 25113 | 25113 | 8:16 AM Bellinzona station | 0h19 | 8:35 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 25513 · B 4 4056 | 4056 | 8:19 AM Bellinzona station | 0h48 | 9:07 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 25513 | 8:19 AM Bellinzona station | 0h35 | 8:54 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2 861 | 861 · B 5 5063 | 5063 | 8:44 AM Bellinzona station | 0h25 | 9:09 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2 861 | 861 | 8:44 AM Bellinzona station | 0h14 | 8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 10 25763 | 25763 | 8:46 AM Bellinzona station | 0h19 | 9:05 AM Lugano, Stazione | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bellinzona to Lugano by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bellinzona to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano run on average 20 times per day, taking around 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) but you can travel from only $4 (€3) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 13 miles (22 km) distance in 14m.
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 $4 (€3)
Distance 13 miles (22 km) |
Average train duration 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 14m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 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 $4 (€3)
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Bellinzona to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Bellinzona and Lugano from $4 (€3). 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
14m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
SBB frequency
21 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 Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
51 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.
- Recommended
MASI Lugano - Palazzo Reali
Historic branch of MASI in the old town, hosting rotating exhibitions in a palazzo setting close to other central sights.
- Recommended
Museo delle Culture
Museum focused on extra-European art and ethnographic collections, especially known for African, Asian, and Oceanian works in Villa Malpensata.
- Must visit
Parco Ciani
Lugano’s signature lakeside park, loved for waterfront paths, mature trees, flowerbeds, and classic views over the lake and mountains.
- Must visit
Piazza della Riforma
The main square of Lugano, lined with pastel buildings and arcades, central to city life and a natural base for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Lungolago di Lugano
The lakeside promenade offers classic city-and-lake views, easy strolling, and some of the most recognizable scenes in Lugano.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
A staple in Ticino made from slowly cooked cornmeal, often served creamy or sliced and grilled with cheese, mushrooms, or braised meats.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Alla Ticinese
Creamy risotto prepared in the Lombard-Ticino style, often with local wine, butter, and cheese, reflecting the strong Italian influence of the region.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Con Polenta
Slow-braised beef, commonly cooked with red wine, served with polenta. It is a classic hearty Ticinese comfort dish.
Ristorante La Cucina di Alice
An established fine dining restaurant known for refined Italian cuisine, elegant presentation, and a polished atmosphere in central Lugano.
Grotto Morchino
A classic hillside grotto outside the center, appreciated for traditional regional dishes, wine, and a charming old-fashioned ambiance.
Grotto della Salute
A well-known traditional grotto serving Ticinese classics in a relaxed, rustic setting popular with locals and visitors.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but everyday costs are still steep for most travelers.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-55 per person at a standard 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 usually included in prices. 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 Railway Station, Lugano -> Piazza della Riforma, Lugano
- Distance
- 1.0 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tickets are sold by Arcobaleno tariff zones, so check that your ticket covers all required zones before boarding. Buy tickets in advance from machines or the official app.
- On many local buses, card payment may not be available onboard, so use ticket machines or the app. Validate any paper ticket if required before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bellinzona 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 Bellinzona to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $20 (€16).
The train from Bellinzona to Lugano takes 14m and runs 20 per day.
The distance by train from Bellinzona to Lugano is 13 miles (22 km).
The first train from Bellinzona to Lugano leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Bellinzona to Lugano leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bellinzona to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bellinzona to Lugano. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bellinzona to Lugano.
The train station in Bellinzona that goes to Lugano is Bellinzona station, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Bellinzona to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around $4 (€3).
Yes, the train journey from Bellinzona to Lugano is scenic, offering views of the lush Ticino landscape, picturesque mountains, and the serene Lake Lugano.
Yes, a day trip from Bellinzona to Lugano is feasible. The journey takes 14m and covers a distance of 13 miles (22 km). There are 17 trains available per day.
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 Bellinzona to Lugano.
Since both Bellinzona 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, Locarno, Chiasso, Andermatt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bellinzona 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 Bellinzona to Lugano
Most Bellinzona to Lugano trains use the Bellinzona to Lugano, Stazione station pair, with some services arriving at Lugano-Paradiso. Use this guide to compare Bellinzona and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bellinzona
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Bellinzona station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano leave from Bellinzona. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bellinzona city centre at Viale Stazione 1, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland.
BellinzonaViale Stazione 1, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland+41 91 825 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Bellinzona from Bellinzona city centre
Bus1, 3, 5 · 6m · $2 · every ~18 min
Bellinzona train station facilities and services
Bellinzona 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: Ristorante Casa del Popolo, Ristorante Locanda Orico
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bellinzona. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bellinzona. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bellinzona: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bellinzona: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bellinzona: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Internazionale Bellinzona, Hotel & SPA Internazionale, Hotel Unione.
Bellinzona, Piazzale StazioneViale Stazione, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Bellinzona, Piazzale Stazione from Bellinzona city centre
Bus454 · 1h 33m · $11 · every ~1 min
454 · 1h 59m · $15 · every ~1 min
Bellinzona, Piazzale Stazione train station facilities and services
Bellinzona, Piazzale Stazione has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bellinzona, Piazzale Stazione.
Which Lugano station do trains from Bellinzona arrive at?
Trains from Bellinzona 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.
Most popular train connections from Bellinzona
More options for your journey from Bellinzona to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Bellinzona
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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