- Must visit
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 Brussels to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17
Cheapest price on Sep 17
€115
Average ticket price on Sep 17
€141
Fastest journey on Sep 17
9 h 33 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
9 h 33 m
Trains on Sep 17
2
Distance
637 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels to Lugano will cost around €141 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €115.
Fast trains
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 2 trains from Brussels to Lugano, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 637 km distance in an average of 9 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 33 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 9 h 33 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.
6:25 AM9h33Brussels3:58 PMLugano€1151One-way0 transfers- 7:25 AM9h33Brussels4:58 PMLugano€1661One-way0 transfers
- 7:25 AM9h33Brussels4:58 PMLugano€1661One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 AM9h33Brussels3:58 PMLugano€1151One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Brussels to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €100 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 2m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €100, while a flight costs an average of €365.
Distance: 395 miles (637 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€176 Average price | €100 Average price Cheapest | €365 Average price | €208 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 41m Average total duration 9h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 38m Average total duration 16h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration Fastest 3h 2m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 1.9 - 3.8kg 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 Brussels to Lugano is a bus with an average price of €100.
This is compared to other travel options from Brussels to Lugano:
A bus is €76 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brussels to Lugano costing on average €176.
A bus is €265 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Brussels to Lugano costing on average €365.
The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 2m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 11m.
Bus takes on average 16h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brussels and Lugano including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €176 compared to roughly €208 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €32. The journey takes 9h 11m versus 8h 43m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Brussels to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:25 AM Brussels | 9h33 | 3:58 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:25 AM Brussels | 9h33 | 4:58 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels 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.
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
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Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Why should you book Brussels to Lugano trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or SNCF | TGV INOUI offer trains services from Brussels to Lugano.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels to Lugano.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or SNCF | TGV INOUI to find the best option for your trip from Brussels 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels to Lugano.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or SNCF | TGV INOUI to find the best option for your trip from Brussels 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 Brussels to Lugano.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels to Lugano
Belgium
Switzerland
Trains from Brussels to Lugano run on average 1 times per day, taking around 9h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €70 but you can travel from only €18 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 22:02. The fastest train covers the 395 miles (637 km) distance in 8h 37m.
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
Flight from €18
Distance 395 miles (637 km) |
Average train duration 9h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price €70 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 8h 37m |
First train 4:32 AM |
Last train 10:02 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Flight from €18
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Brussels to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Brussels and Lugano from €18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Duration
8h 37m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€70
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
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 Brussels to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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 Brussels to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €70, while the average price is around €176.
The train from Brussels to Lugano runs once a day and takes approximately 8h 37m.
The distance by train from Brussels to Lugano is 395 miles (637 km).
The first train from Brussels to Lugano leaves at 4:32 AM.
The last train from Brussels to Lugano leaves at 10:02 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Brussels to Lugano.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels to Lugano.
The train station in Brussels that goes to Lugano is Brussels-Midi, which connects to Lugano station.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels to Lugano is by flight, with a cost of around €18.
Yes, the train journey from Brussels to Lugano is scenic, offering picturesque views of the rolling countryside, charming villages, and the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps as you approach Lugano.
A day trip from Brussels to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 37m and covers 395 miles (637 km). The frequency for trains is 1 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 Brussels to Lugano.
Since both Brussels 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels 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 Brussels to Lugano
Most Brussels to Lugano trains use the Bruxelles-Midi to Lugano station pair. Use this guide to compare Brussels and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Brussels
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Brussels station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Brussels to Lugano leave from Bruxelles-Midi. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Brussels city centre at 47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, Belgium.
Bruxelles-Midi47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Bruxelles-Midi from Brussels city centre
TrainEuroCity · 4m · €1 · every ~2 min
Ice · 14m · €1
Bus48 · 16m · €3 · every ~9 min
Bus · 20m
FlixBus N1153 · 29m · €1
Subway2, 6 · 18m · €3 · every ~38 min
Bruxelles-Midi train station facilities and services
Bruxelles-Midi 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 and drink
Food options include: Pullman Hotel Bar, Quick Gare du Midi, Subway, EXKi Zuid, Starbucks, Häagen-Dazs, Sbarro, The Coffee Club, The Belgian Chocolate House, PAUL, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are available at Bruxelles-Midi.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bruxelles-Midi. Information desks are located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Midi: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Les Lofts De Styliste, Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi, Pullman Brussels Centre Midi.
Bruxelles-CentralCarr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium+32 25282828
City-centre transport
Getting to Bruxelles-Central from Brussels city centre
Bus29, 63, 65, 66, 87, 89 · 5m · €3 · every ~17 min
Subway1, 5 · 1m · €3 · every ~38 min
Bruxelles-Central train station facilities and services
Bruxelles-Central 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 and drink
Food options include: Starbucks, Brasserie 28 Brewery, Panos, Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks. ATMs are aTM machine is downstairs from the main entrance on the right side.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00. Information desks are travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Central: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton Brussels Grand Palace, Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe, Hôtel The Moon.
Which Lugano station do trains from Brussels arrive at?
Trains from Brussels to Lugano arrive at Lugano. Lugano is from Lugano city centre.
LuganoPiazzale della Stazione, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland+41 91 923 23 23
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 7m · €3 · every ~10 min
6 · 10m · €3 · every ~10 min
461 · 12m · €6 · every ~5 min
Lugano train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto, Ristorante La Cucina di Alice
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lugano. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lugano. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lugano: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lugano: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano, Hotel Lugano Dante Center, Hotel Federale Lugano.
More options for your journey from Brussels to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Brussels
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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