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The cheapest and fastest trains from Budapest to Lugano
Showing times and prices for Nov 19
Cheapest price
$93
Average price
$146
Fastest journey
13 h 18 m
Average duration
17 h 1 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
786 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Lugano will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Budapest for Lugano on Wed, Nov 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Nov 19 the direct trains cover the 786 km distance in an average of 17 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 18 m .
On Wed, Nov 19 the slowest trains will take 19 h 22 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.
10:40AM19h22
Budapest06:02AMLugano
$931One-way
0 transfers
11:40AM18h22
Budapest06:02AMLugano
$1231One-way
0 transfers
07:40AM13h18
Budapest08:58PMLugano
$2221One-way
0 transfers
07:40AM13h18
Budapest08:58PMLugano
$2221One-way
0 transfers
11:40AM18h22
Budapest06:02AMLugano
$1231One-way
0 transfers
10:40AM19h22
Budapest06:02AMLugano
$931One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Budapest to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €19, and a train costs an average of €67.
Distance: 488 miles (786 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€115 Average price | €59 Average price Cheapest | €80 Average price |
13h 25m Average total duration 12h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 49m Average total duration 20h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Budapest to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Lugano trains for today, Tuesday, November 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 2:42 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:40 AM Budapest | 13h18 | 4:58 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:40 AM Budapest | 13h18 | 6:58 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:40 AM Budapest | 15h45 | 11:25 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:40 AM Budapest | 13h45 | 11:25 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:40 AM Budapest | 18h22 | 6:02 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Budapest 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.
Wed
Nov 19
Nov 19
Thu
Nov 20
Nov 20
Fri
Nov 21
Nov 21
Sat
Nov 22
Nov 22
Sun
Nov 23
Nov 23
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Nov 24
Tue
Nov 25
Nov 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Budapest to Lugano
Hungary
Switzerland
Trains from Budapest to Lugano run on average 3 times per day, taking around 12h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $83 (€67) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 01:25, the last at 22:02. The fastest train covers the 488 miles (786 km) distance in 13h 3m.
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 $23 (€19)
Distance 488 miles (786 km) |
Average train duration 12h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $83 (€67) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 13h 3m |
First train 01:25 |
Last train 22:02 |
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 $23 (€19)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Railjet from Budapest to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Railjet trains will get you between Budapest and Lugano from $23 (€19). 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 Duration
13h 3m
Cheapest Price
$83 (€67)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
ÖBB | Railjet
About
ÖBB Railjet is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The Railjet trains are modern and spacious, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of Railjet trains: the Railjet Comfort, the Railjet Business, and the Railjet First Class. The Comfort class offers standard seating, while the Business class offers more spacious seating and complimentary drinks and snacks. The First Class offers the most luxurious experience, with extra-wide seats, complimentary meals, and access to a private lounge. The Railjet service operates on several popular routes, including Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, and there are several types of tickets available, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. With its modern trains, comfortable seating, and convenient ticketing options, ÖBB Railjet is the perfect way to explore Austria.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 33m
Cheapest Price
$292 (€237)
ÖBB | Railjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (except on domestic routes), at-seat service in First Class, bistro service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Budapest to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest 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.
To fully experience Lugano, including its scenic lakeside views, cultural attractions, and nearby hiking trails, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
The distance by train from Budapest to Lugano is 488 miles (786 km).
The first train from Budapest to Lugano leaves at 1:25 AM.
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 last train from Budapest to Lugano leaves at 10:02 PM.
A day trip from Budapest to Lugano is not feasible as the travel duration is 13h 3m and the distance is 488 miles (786 km). There are 3 train trips per day.
There is no direct train service currently available from Budapest to Lugano.
Train ticket prices from Budapest to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $83 (€67), while the average price is around $142 (€115).
Yes, the train journey from Budapest to Lugano is scenic, offering views of picturesque landscapes, including the rolling hills and beautiful lakes of Switzerland, especially as you approach Lugano.
The cheapest way to get from Budapest to Lugano is by flight, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
Yes, you can take the train from Budapest to Lugano.
The train from Budapest to Lugano takes 13h 3m and runs 3 per day.
The train station in Budapest that goes to Lugano is Budapest Keleti, which connects to Lugano station.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Budapest to Lugano.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Budapest to Lugano
Budapest
Lugano
The major train station for departures in Budapest is Budapest Keleti. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Budapest Keleti for your trip from Budapest to Lugano.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
18Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Kerepesi út.
Dining
- Rosenstein Restaurant
- Huszar Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Hungaria City Center
- Baross City Hotel
- Royal Park Boutique Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platforms 7-13 for regional trains
- Hall 3: platforms 14-18 for suburban trains
Public transit options for Budapest Keleti
- Metro: Line M2, Line M4
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 24
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Etele tér.
Dining
- Restaurant Etele Plaza
- KFC Etele Plaza
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Griff
- Hotel Ventura
- Hotel Berlin
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and domestic long-distance trains
- Hall 2: regional and suburban train platforms
- Hall 3: Metro and tram connections
Public transit options for Budapest-Kelenföld
- Metro: Line M4
- Tram: Line 1, Line 19, Line 49
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Distance to city center
1 kmLockers
- Located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Dining
- Déli Terasz Söröző
- Ibrahim török büfé
- Vagon Etterem
- Fornetti
- Trio pizza
- Turkish Döner KEBAB
- Déli Mosoly
- Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi
- Club D One
- Lokomotív Falatozó
Accessibility
- There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Hotel
- Mercure Budapest Castle Hill
- Christina Residence Budapest
- ibis Budapest Castle Hill
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Information Desk
- Located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Public transit options for Budapest-Déli
- Metro lines: M2 (red)
- Tram lines: 17, 56, 56A, 59, 59A, 59B, 61
- Bus lines: 21, 21A, 39, 102, 139, 140, 140A, N960, N990
- Train lines: IC, IR, S (10, 12, 30, 34, 35, 40, 42), Z30
The major train station for arrivals in Lugano is Lugano. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lugano for your journey to Lugano from Budapest.
Lugano
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Via Basilea.
Dining
- Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto
- Ristorante La Cucina di Alice
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano
- Hotel Lugano Dante Center
- Hotel Federale Lugano
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 640 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Italy and regional destinations
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Lugano
- Bus: Several lines available
- Funicular: Lugano Città–Stazione funicular
More options for your journey from Budapest to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Budapest
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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