Budapest to Lugano train with Deutsche Bahn

Fri, May 29
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Railjet
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Railjet
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Budapest to Lugano

Showing times and prices for May 29

Cheapest price

$92

Average price

$133

Fastest journey

13 h 18 m

Average duration

17 h 28 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 $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Budapest for Lugano on Fri, May 29, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 29 the direct trains cover the 786 km distance in an average of 17 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 18 m .

On Fri, May 29 the slowest trains will take 20 h 18 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    11:40 AM18h48
    Budapest
    6:28 AMLugano
    $921One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    12:40 PM20h18
    Budapest
    8:58 AMLugano
    $1241One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:40 AM13h18
    Budapest
    9:58 PMLugano
    $1821One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Budapest to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the flight 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 $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $23, and a train costs an average of $87.

Distance: 488 miles (786 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$171

Average price

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$91

Average price

$361

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

13h 34m

Average total duration

13h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 42m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

19h 56m

Average total duration

19h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Budapest to Lugano is a flight with an average price of $69 (€56).

This is compared to other travel options from Budapest to Lugano:

A flight is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Budapest to Lugano costing on average $91 (€73).

A flight is $102 (€83) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Budapest to Lugano costing on average $171 (€138).

The fastest way to travel from Budapest to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 42m.

Other travel options to Lugano take longer:

Train takes on average 13h 4m.

Bus takes on average 19h 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Budapest and Lugano including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Budapest 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 $171 (€138) compared to roughly $361 (€291) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $190 (€153). The journey takes 13h 4m versus 10h 1m 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

Budapest to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Friday, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn8:40 AM Budapest
13h18
9:58 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn11:40 AM Budapest
18h48
6:28 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn12:40 PM Budapest
20h18
8:58 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04

Why should you book Budapest to Lugano trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | Railjet offer trains services from Budapest to Lugano.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Budapest 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 ÖBB | Railjet to find the best option for your trip from Budapest 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 Budapest to Lugano.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Budapest to Lugano.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Budapest to Lugano

HungaryHungary
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Budapest to Lugano run on average 3 times per day, taking around 13h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $87 (€70) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) 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 18m.

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 (€18)
Distance
488 miles (786 km)
Average train duration
13h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
$87 (€70)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
13h 18m
First train
1:25 AM
Last train
10:02 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
28 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
Flight from $23 (€18)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Railjet from Budapest to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Railjet trains will get you between Budapest and Lugano from $23 (€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 Duration
13h 18m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€70)
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.
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.
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.
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
$316 (€255)
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

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 - LAC

Lugano's leading art museum inside the LAC cultural center, known for modern and contemporary exhibitions and a strong program of temporary shows.

  • Recommended

MASI Lugano - Palazzo Reali

Historic branch of MASI in the old town, hosting exhibitions in an elegant palace setting and complementing the main LAC venue.

  • Recommended

Museo d'arte della Svizzera italiana

The museum institution behind MASI, central to Lugano's visual arts scene and well regarded for Swiss and international art programming.

Swiss Franc

Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and dining. Groceries and takeaway help reduce costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 3.50-5.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Budapest to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $87 (€70), while the average price is around $171 (€138).
The train from Budapest to Lugano takes 13h 18m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Budapest to Lugano leaves at 1:25 AM.
The distance by train from Budapest to Lugano is 488 miles (786 km).
The last train from Budapest to Lugano leaves at 10:02 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Budapest to Lugano.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Budapest to Lugano.
The train station in Budapest that goes to Lugano is Budapest Keleti, which connects to Lugano station.
The cheapest way to get from Budapest to Lugano is by flight, with a cost of around $23 (€18).
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.
A day trip from Budapest to Lugano is not feasible as the travel duration is 13h 18m and the distance is 488 miles (786 km). There are 3 train trips 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 Budapest to Lugano.
Since both Budapest 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Budapest 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 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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
18
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Kerepesi út.
Dining
Dining
  • Rosenstein Restaurant
  • Huszar Restaurant
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • HUF 200
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Hungaria City Center
  • Baross City Hotel
  • Royal Park Boutique Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
16
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Etele tér.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Etele Plaza
  • KFC Etele Plaza
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • HUF 200
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Griff
  • Hotel Ventura
  • Hotel Berlin
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Lockers
Lockers
  • Located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Dining
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
Accessibility
  • There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Mercure Budapest Castle Hill
  • Christina Residence Budapest
  • ibis Budapest Castle Hill
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Information Desk
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

More options for your journey from Budapest to Lugano

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone