- Must visit
MASI Lugano
Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.
Cheapest price
zł202
Average price
zł266
Fastest journey
2 h 52 m
Average duration
2 h 52 m
Trains per day
55
Distance
251 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Lugano will cost around zł266 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł202.
Of the 55 trains that leave Bologna for Lugano on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 251 km distance in an average of 2 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.
Regionale Veloce TTPER 3920 · Regionale TTPER 2480+
EuroCity 28
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2470+
EuroCity 20
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2478+
EuroCity 26
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2474+
EuroCity 24
Regionale TTPER 88164 · Regionale TTPER 2452+
EuroCity 12
FRECCIAROSSA 9524+
EuroCity 152
FRECCIAROSSA 9584+
EuroCity 24
FRECCIAROSSA 9588+
EuroCity 28
FRECCIAROSSA 9532+
EuroCity 22
FRECCIAROSSA 9544+
EuroCity 26Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from zł58. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 32m. 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 zł58, and a train costs an average of zł120.
Distance: 155 miles (251 km)
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
zł217 Average price | zł94 Average price Cheapest |
4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Lugano:
A bus is zł123 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Lugano costing on average zł217.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 15m.
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Lugano trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Intercity 608+ EuroCity 36 | 3:04 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h24 | 7:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9932+ EuroCity 24 | 3:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9932+ EuroCity 36 | 3:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 7:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9982+ EuroCity 24 | 3:11 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h17 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9982+ EuroCity 36 | 3:11 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h17 | 7:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9584+ EuroCity 24 | 3:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2478+ EuroCity 26 | 3:50 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h38 | 8:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
8134+ EuroCity 26 | 4:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 8:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
8134+ EuroCity 28 | 4:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 5h22 | 9:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
8134+ EuroCity 36 | 4:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 7:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
Regionale Veloce TTPER 3920 · Regionale TTPER 2480+ EuroCity 28 | 4:33 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h55 | 9:28 PM Lugano FLP | 2 transfers | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9540+ EuroCity 36 | 4:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 7:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9940+ EuroCity 28 | 5:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 9:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9940+ EuroCity 26 | 5:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 8:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9544+ EuroCity 26 | 5:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 8:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
8944+ EuroCity 28 | 6:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 9:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9588+ EuroCity 28 | 6:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 9:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
Regionale TTPER 88164 · Regionale TTPER 2452+ EuroCity 12 | 5:12 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h16 | 9:28 AM Lugano FLP | 2 transfers | |
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2460+ EuroCity 178 | 6:58 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h52 | 11:50 AM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9504+ EuroCity 14 | 7:31 AM Bologna Centrale | 2h57 | 10:28 AM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2462+ EuroCity 150 | 7:50 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h38 | 12:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9904+ EuroCity 178 | 8:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h44 | 11:50 AM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9904+ EuroCity 16 | 8:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 6h22 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9904+ EuroCity 150 | 8:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 12:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9508+ EuroCity 178 | 8:36 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h14 | 11:50 AM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9966+ EuroCity 150 | 8:41 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h47 | 12:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9966+ EuroCity 178 | 8:41 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h09 | 11:50 AM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9966+ EuroCity 16 | 8:41 AM Bologna Centrale | 5h47 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 30 | 9:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 1:28 PM Lugano FLP | 0 transfersDirect | |
9908+ EuroCity 16 | 9:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 5h22 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9908+ EuroCity 150 | 9:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 12:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9908+ EuroCity 20 | 9:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 7h22 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9512+ EuroCity 150 | 9:36 AM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 12:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9912+ EuroCity 16 | 10:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9972+ EuroCity 20 | 10:11 AM Bologna Centrale | 6h17 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9972+ EuroCity 16 | 10:11 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h17 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9616+ EuroCity 30 | 10:26 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h02 | 1:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9916+ EuroCity 16 | 11:06 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9974+ EuroCity 20 | 11:11 AM Bologna Centrale | 5h17 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9974+ EuroCity 16 | 11:11 AM Bologna Centrale | 3h17 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 152 | 11:12 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h16 | 3:28 PM Lugano FLP | 0 transfersDirect | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9520+ EuroCity 16 | 11:36 AM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 2:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2470+ EuroCity 20 | 11:50 AM Bologna Centrale | 4h38 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9920+ EuroCity 22 | 12:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 5h22 | 5:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9920+ EuroCity 20 | 12:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9920+ EuroCity 24 | 12:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 6h22 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9524+ EuroCity 152 | 12:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 3:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9924+ EuroCity 20 | 1:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9924+ EuroCity 22 | 1:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 5:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9924+ EuroCity 24 | 1:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 5h22 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9514+ EuroCity 20 | 1:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 4:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
Regionale Veloce TTPER 2474+ EuroCity 24 | 1:50 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h38 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9928+ EuroCity 36 | 2:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 5h22 | 7:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9928+ EuroCity 22 | 2:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 3h22 | 5:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
9928+ EuroCity 24 | 2:06 PM Bologna Centrale | 4h22 | 6:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9532+ EuroCity 22 | 2:36 PM Bologna Centrale | 2h52 | 5:28 PM Lugano FLP | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Bologna to Lugano run on average 17 times per day, taking around 3h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł120 but you can travel from only zł58 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 155 miles (251 km) distance in 1h 35m.
Distance 155 miles (251 km) |
Average train duration 3h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price zł120 |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 35m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 56 days |
Discover the best of Lugano — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lugano trip today.
Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.
Intimate museum inside the church complex, famous for Bernardino Luini frescoes and Renaissance religious art of exceptional local importance.
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.
Lugano’s elegant waterfront park offers flowerbeds, sculptures, and lake views. It is one of the city’s most relaxing and photogenic walking areas.
The city’s famous shopping street is lined with arcades, boutiques, and historic buildings. It is ideal for strolling through central Lugano.
Main square facing the lake and city hall, often animated by markets and events. It is the natural hub of Lugano’s historic center.
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.
Slow-cooked beef braise in red wine, commonly served with polenta. It is a hearty Ticinese classic suited to the cooler mountain climate.
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.
Elegant Michelin-starred dining at Villa Principe Leopoldo, known for refined Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic views over Lugano.
Historic lakeside restaurant serving polished Ticinese and Italian dishes in a classic setting near Parco Ciani.
Traditional grotto-style venue above Lugano, appreciated for local specialties, grilled meats, polenta, and a rustic hillside atmosphere.
Very high by Swiss standards: hotels, dining, and local transport usually cost more than in nearby Italian cities and many European lake destinations.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Round up small taxi fares and café bills.
Official public transport app
Lugano Stazione -> Piazza della Riforma
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna 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.

Most Bologna to Lugano trains use the Bologna Centrale to Lugano FLP station pair, with some services arriving at Lugano. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Bologna Centrale is 1 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Burger King, A Cafè, VyTA Boulangerie, Venchi, Scambio, Juice Bar, KFC, Dispensa Emilia, Lavazza, Mokà, & more
Free Wi-Fi. . ATMs are aTM is located in the main hall.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00. Information desks are customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Luggage storage is luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Available at Bologna Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bologna Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Centrale: Accessible facilities including barrier-free restrooms, elevators and ramps. Sala Blu mobility assistance available from 07:45 to 22:30 with advanced one-hour notice.
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Excelsior, Millenn Hotel Bologna, UNA Hotels.
Bologna S. Vitale is 2 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna S. Vitale has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
ATMs are available at Bologna S. Vitale.
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Parking, WC.
Available at Bologna S. Vitale: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna S. Vitale: Elevators, ramps.
Bologna Mazzini is 3 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bologna Mazzini has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food options include: CA.FÉ MAZZINI, Gelateria Mazzini
Ticket office support is available at Bologna Mazzini.
Available at Bologna Mazzini: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bologna Mazzini: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Mazzini: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Camplus Mazzini, Hotel Blumen, Hotel Sant'Orsola City House.
Lugano FLP has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto, Ristorante Trani
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Lugano FLP. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Lugano FLP. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Lugano FLP: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Lugano FLP: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano FLP: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Lugano Dante Center, Hotel Federale Lugano, Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano.
Lugano has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto, Ristorante La Cucina di Alice
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Lugano. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Lugano. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Lugano: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Lugano: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano, Hotel Lugano Dante Center, Hotel Federale Lugano.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need