- 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 Chur to Lugano
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$137
Average price
$138
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 39 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
104 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chur to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chur to Lugano will cost around $138 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $137.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chur to Lugano without transferring at least once.
IC 3 564 | 564 · EC 153 | 1539:08 AM3h20Chur station12:28 PMLugano, Stazione$1371One-way1 transfer- IR 35 2356 | 2356 · IC 2 861 | 8615:11 AM3h47Chur station8:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1371One-way1 transfer
- IC 3 564 | 564 · EC 153 | 153 · B 5 5159 | 51599:08 AM3h31Chur station12:39 PMLugano$1401One-way2 transfers
- IR 35 2356 | 2356 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 3 3095 | 30955:11 AM3h59Chur station9:10 AMLugano$1401One-way2 transfers
- IC 3 564 | 564 · EC 153 | 1539:08 AM3h20Chur station12:28 PMLugano, Stazione$1371One-way1 transfer
- IC 3 564 | 564 · EC 153 | 153 · B 5 5159 | 51599:08 AM3h31Chur station12:39 PMLugano$1401One-way2 transfers
- IR 35 2356 | 2356 · IC 2 861 | 8615:11 AM3h47Chur station8:58 AMLugano, Stazione$1371One-way1 transfer
- IR 35 2356 | 2356 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 3 3095 | 30955:11 AM3h59Chur station9:10 AMLugano$1401One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Chur to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chur to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a train costs an average of $79.
Distance: 64 miles (104 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$112 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 39m Average total duration 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chur to Lugano is a bus with an average price of $64 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from Chur to Lugano:
A bus is $47 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chur to Lugano costing on average $112 (€92).
The fastest way to travel from Chur to Lugano is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 13m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chur and Lugano including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chur 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 $112 (€92) compared to roughly $86 (€71) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-25.52 (€-20.90). The journey takes 3h 9m versus 2h 7m 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
Chur to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Chur to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR 35 2356 | 2356 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 3 3095 | 3095 | 5:11 AM Chur station | 3h59 | 9:10 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 35 2356 | 2356 · IC 2 861 | 861 | 5:11 AM Chur station | 3h47 | 8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 564 | 564 · EC 153 | 153 · B 5 5159 | 5159 | 9:08 AM Chur station | 3h31 | 12:39 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 564 | 564 · EC 153 | 153 | 9:08 AM Chur station | 3h20 | 12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chur to Lugano by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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
Jun 19
Jun 19
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Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
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Jun 23
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Jun 25
Jun 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chur to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Chur to Lugano run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $79 (€64) but you can travel from only $52 (€42) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:25, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 64 miles (104 km) distance in 3h 20m.
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 $52 (€42)
Distance 64 miles (104 km) |
Average train duration 3h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $79 (€64) |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 3h 20m |
First train 12:25 AM |
Last train 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Bus from $52 (€42)
Train companies: SBB from Chur to Lugano trainsSBB trains will get you between Chur and Lugano from $52 (€42). 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
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
SBB frequency
13 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
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 Chur to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chur 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 Chur to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $79 (€64), while the average price is around $112 (€92).
The train from Chur to Lugano takes 3h 20m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Chur to Lugano is 64 miles (104 km).
The first train from Chur to Lugano leaves at 12:25 AM.
The last train from Chur to Lugano leaves at 11:25 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chur to Lugano.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chur to Lugano.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chur to Lugano.
The train station in Chur that goes to Lugano is Chur,Postautostation, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Chur to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around $52 (€42).
Yes, the train journey from Chur to Lugano is scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque valleys, and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Chur to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 20m. The distance is 64 miles (104 km), and there are 9 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 Chur to Lugano.
Since both Chur 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 Chur 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 Chur to Lugano
Chur
Lugano
The major train station for departures in Chur is Chur, Postautostation. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chur, Postautostation for your trip from Chur to Lugano.
Chur, Postautostation
information
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Bahnhofstrasse
Dining
- Restaurant Va Bene
- Restaurant Zunfthaus zur Rebleuten
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel ABC
- Hotel Chur
- Romantik Hotel Stern
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 trains to regional and international destinations
- Hall 2: Rhaetian Railway connections
Public transit options for Chur
- Bus: Several lines available
- PostBus: Regional connections
- Rhaetian Railway: Bernina Express, Glacier Express
Amenities at train station
Accessibility
The major train station for arrivals in Lugano is Lugano, Stazione. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lugano, Stazione for your journey to Lugano from Chur.
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Lugano Città (funicolare)
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Most popular train connections from Chur
More options for your journey from Chur to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Chur
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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