Frankfurt am Main to Lugano train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC)

Mon, Aug 03
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

$56

Average price

$59

Fastest journey

6 h 43 m

Average duration

7 h 6 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

458 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 60408 · EC 15
    3:41 AM7h47
    Frankfurt South station
    11:28 AMLugano station
    $561One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 60408 · IC 561 · EC 31
    3:41 AM6h47
    Frankfurt South station
    10:28 AMLugano station
    $561One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 60403 · IC 559 · EC 13
    2:45 AM6h43
    Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
    9:28 AMLugano station
    $611One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 60403 · IC 663
    2:45 AM7h17
    Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
    10:02 AMLugano station
    $611One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 60471 · IC 563 · EC 15
    4:32 AM6h56
    Frankfurt South station
    11:28 AMLugano station
    $611One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $21.

Distance: 284 miles (458 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$119

Average price

$66

Average price

Cheapest

$135

Average price

$186

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 41m

Average total duration

6h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 54m

Average total duration

10h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 21m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

easyJet

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is a bus with an average price of $66 (€54).

This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano:

A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano costing on average $119 (€96).

A bus is $69 (€56) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano costing on average $135 (€110).

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 21m.

Other travel options to Lugano take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 11m.

Bus takes on average 10h 24m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt am Main and Lugano including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 30m faster (6h 11m by train vs 6h 41m by car) and roughly $67 (€55) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($119 (€96) vs $186 (€151)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Frankfurt am Main to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 60408 · EC 15
Delayed
1:41 AM 3:41 AMFrankfurt South station
7h47
11:28 AM Lugano station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 60408 · IC 561 · EC 301
Delayed
1:41 AM 3:41 AMFrankfurt South station
6h47
10:28 AM Lugano station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 60471 · IC 563 · EC 15
Delayed
2:32 AM 4:32 AMFrankfurt South station
6h56
11:28 AM Lugano station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnECE 9 · IC 659
On time
8:20 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
11h42
8:02 AM Lugano station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 677 · IC 60403 · IC 559 · EC 13
On time
10:50 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
10h38
9:28 AM Lugano station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 677 · IC 60403 · IC 663
On time
10:50 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
11h12
10:02 AM Lugano station
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main to Lugano by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09

Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€42) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:25, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 284 miles (458 km) distance in 5h 56m.

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 $21 (€17)
Distance
284 miles (458 km)
Average train duration
6h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$52 (€42)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 56m
First train
2:25 AM
Last train
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
63 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 $21 (€17)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Lugano from $21 (€17). 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
5h 56m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 8m
Cheapest Price
$221 (€180)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day

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

Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€42), while the average price is around $119 (€96).
The train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano takes 5h 56m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is 284 miles (458 km).
The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano leaves at 2:25 AM.
The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Lugano is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, which connects to Lugano station.
The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is by flight, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
Yes, the train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley, rolling vineyards, Swiss Alps, and picturesque lakes, particularly as the train approaches Lugano.
A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is not feasible as the travel duration is 5h 56m. However, there are 7 train trips per day, offering flexibility for longer visits. The distance is 284 miles (458 km).
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 Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
Since both Frankfurt am Main 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Most Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains use the Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Lugano station pair. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main
Arrival train stations in Lugano

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Lugano leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano leave from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · $1 · every ~51 min
BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min
Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · $4 · every ~38 min
SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · $4 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.

Frankfurt (Main) SüdFrankfurt (Main) Süd, Hedderichstraße 51, 60594 Frankfurt am MainWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Süd from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Süd is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6, S5, S4, S3 · 5m · $1 · every ~27 min
BusN8 · 9m
M36, 30 · 14m · every ~21 min
Tram18 · 11m · $4 · every ~12 min
SubwayU8, U3, U2, U1 · 5m · $4 · every ~40 min

Frankfurt (Main) Süd train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) Süd has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Merals Imbiss, Bootshaus am Eisernen Steg, Freigut, Holbein's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Information desks are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel am Berg, Leonardo Royal Hotel Frankfurt, Hotel Ritter, Lindner Main Plaza.

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · $2
Trn · 12m · $4
S8, S9 · 19m · $4 · every ~5 min
BusS8e · 28m · $7
X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min
61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport.

More options for your journey from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

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

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