LOCARNO to ZURICH train from $31 with SBB

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Locarno to Zurich

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$59

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$89

Fastest journey on Sep 20

2 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

2 h 10 m

Trains on Sep 20

Distance

134 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Locarno to Zurich will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 22 trains from Locarno to Zurich, including 2 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 134 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 12 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.

IR 46 2418 | 2418
8:33 AM3h22
Locarno station
11:55 AMZurich HB
$591One-way
0 transfers
S 20 25630 | 25630 · EC 10 | 10
8:15 AM2h12
Locarno station
10:27 AMZurich HB
$711One-way
1 transfer
S 20 25630 | 25630 · EC 10 | 10 · S 9 18938 | 18938
8:15 AM2h29
Locarno station
10:44 AMZürich Oerlikon
$731One-way
2 transfers
S 20 25650 | 25650 · EC 30 | 30
1:15 PM2h12
Locarno station
3:27 PMZurich HB
$911One-way
1 transfer
IR 46 2426 | 2426
12:33 PM3h22
Locarno station
3:55 PMZurich HB
$911One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Locarno to Zurich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Locarno to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $81 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 41m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $81, while a train costs an average of $81.

Distance: 83 miles (134 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Driving
$81 Average price Cheapest	$98 Average price (fuel + tolls)
2h 41m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Locarno to Zurich is a train with an average price of $81.

The fastest way to travel from Locarno to Zurich is by train with an average journey time of 2h 11m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Locarno and Zurich including taking a bus and train.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Locarno to Zurich among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 28m faster (2h 11m by train vs 2h 39m by car) and roughly $17 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($81 vs $98). 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.

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

Live departures

Locarno to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Locarno to Zurich trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
S 20 25670 \| 25670 · EC 24 \| 24	6:15 PM Locarno station	2h12	8:27 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25670 \| 25670 · EC 24 \| 24 · S 9 18978 \| 18978	6:15 PM Locarno station	2h29	8:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
IR 46 2438 \| 2438	6:33 PM Locarno station	3h22	9:55 PM Zurich HB	0 transfersDirect
S 20 25672 \| 25672 · IC 2 890 \| 890 · RE 48 4938 \| 4938	6:45 PM Locarno station	2h25	9:10 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25672 \| 25672 · IC 2 890 \| 890	6:45 PM Locarno station	2h10	8:55 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25674 \| 25674 · EC 306 \| 306	7:15 PM Locarno station	2h12	9:27 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25674 \| 25674 · EC 306 \| 306 · S 9 18982 \| 18982	7:15 PM Locarno station	2h29	9:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25676 \| 25676 · IC 21 692 \| 692 · IR 46 2438 \| 2438 · RE 48 4940 \| 4940	7:45 PM Locarno station	2h25	10:10 PM Zürich Oerlikon	3 transfers
S 20 25676 \| 25676 · IC 21 692 \| 692 · S 2 21282 \| 21282 · IR 75 2589 \| 2589	7:45 PM Locarno station	2h40	10:25 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S 20 25676 \| 25676 · IC 21 692 \| 692 · IR 46 2438 \| 2438	7:45 PM Locarno station	2h10	9:55 PM Zurich HB	2 transfers
S 20 25676 \| 25676 · IC 21 692 \| 692 · S 2 21282 \| 21282 · IR 75 2589 \| 2589	7:45 PM Locarno station	2h57	10:42 PM Zürich Oerlikon	4 transfers
S 20 25678 \| 25678 · EC 126 \| 126	8:15 PM Locarno station	2h12	10:27 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25678 \| 25678 · EC 126 \| 126 · IC 1 735 \| 735	8:15 PM Locarno station	2h27	10:42 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
IR 46 2442 \| 2442	8:33 PM Locarno station	3h22	11:55 PM Zurich HB	0 transfersDirect
S 20 25680 \| 25680 · IC 2 894 \| 894	8:45 PM Locarno station	2h10	10:55 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25680 \| 25680 · IC 2 894 \| 894 · RE 48 4942 \| 4942	8:45 PM Locarno station	2h25	11:10 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25682 \| 25682 · EC 28 \| 28	9:15 PM Locarno station	2h12	11:27 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25682 \| 25682 · EC 28 \| 28 · S 9 18990 \| 18990	9:15 PM Locarno station	2h29	11:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25684 \| 25684 · IC 21 696 \| 696 · S 2 21290 \| 21290 · IR 75 2593 \| 2593	9:45 PM Locarno station	2h40	12:25 AM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S 20 25684 \| 25684 · IC 21 696 \| 696 · S 2 21290 \| 21290 · IR 75 2593 \| 2593	9:45 PM Locarno station	2h54	12:39 AM Zürich Oerlikon	4 transfers
S 20 25684 \| 25684 · IC 21 696 \| 696 · IR 46 2442 \| 2442	9:45 PM Locarno station	2h10	11:55 PM Zurich HB	2 transfers
S 20 25684 \| 25684 · IC 21 696 \| 696 · IR 46 2442 \| 2442 · RE 48 4944 \| 4944	9:45 PM Locarno station	2h25	12:10 AM Zürich Oerlikon	3 transfers
Sunday, September 20
S 20 25630 \| 25630 · EC 10 \| 10	8:15 AM Locarno station	2h12	10:27 AM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25630 \| 25630 · EC 10 \| 10 · S 9 18938 \| 18938	8:15 AM Locarno station	2h29	10:44 AM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
IR 46 2418 \| 2418	8:33 AM Locarno station	3h22	11:55 AM Zurich HB	0 transfersDirect
S 20 25632 \| 25632 · IC 2 870 \| 870 · RE 48 4918 \| 4918	8:45 AM Locarno station	2h25	11:10 AM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25632 \| 25632 · IC 2 870 \| 870	8:45 AM Locarno station	2h10	10:55 AM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25634 \| 25634 · EC 12 \| 12	9:15 AM Locarno station	2h12	11:27 AM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25634 \| 25634 · EC 12 \| 12 · S 9 18942 \| 18942	9:15 AM Locarno station	2h29	11:44 AM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25636 \| 25636 · IC 21 672 \| 672 · IR 46 2418 \| 2418 · RE 48 4920 \| 4920	9:45 AM Locarno station	2h25	12:10 PM Zürich Oerlikon	3 transfers
S 20 25636 \| 25636 · IC 21 672 \| 672 · S 2 21242 \| 21242 · IR 75 2119 \| 2119	9:45 AM Locarno station	2h40	12:25 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S 20 25636 \| 25636 · IC 21 672 \| 672 · IR 46 2418 \| 2418	9:45 AM Locarno station	2h10	11:55 AM Zurich HB	2 transfers
S 20 25636 \| 25636 · IC 21 672 \| 672 · S 2 21242 \| 21242 · IR 75 2119 \| 2119	9:45 AM Locarno station	2h59	12:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	4 transfers
S 20 25646 \| 25646 · EC 150 \| 150 · S 9 18954 \| 18954	12:15 PM Locarno station	2h29	2:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25646 \| 25646 · EC 150 \| 150	12:15 PM Locarno station	2h12	2:27 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
IR 46 2426 \| 2426	12:33 PM Locarno station	3h22	3:55 PM Zurich HB	0 transfersDirect
S 20 25648 \| 25648 · IC 2 878 \| 878 · RE 48 4926 \| 4926	12:45 PM Locarno station	2h25	3:10 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25648 \| 25648 · IC 2 878 \| 878	12:45 PM Locarno station	2h10	2:55 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25650 \| 25650 · EC 30 \| 30	1:15 PM Locarno station	2h12	3:27 PM Zurich HB	1 transfer
S 20 25650 \| 25650 · EC 30 \| 30 · S 9 18958 \| 18958	1:15 PM Locarno station	2h29	3:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	2 transfers
S 20 25652 \| 25652 · IC 21 680 \| 680 · IR 46 2426 \| 2426 · RE 48 4928 \| 4928	1:45 PM Locarno station	2h25	4:10 PM Zürich Oerlikon	3 transfers
S 20 25652 \| 25652 · IC 21 680 \| 680 · IR 46 2426 \| 2426	1:45 PM Locarno station	2h10	3:55 PM Zurich HB	2 transfers
S 20 25652 \| 25652 · IC 21 680 \| 680 · S 2 21258 \| 21258 · IR 75 2127 \| 2127	1:45 PM Locarno station	2h40	4:25 PM Zurich HB	3 transfers
S 20 25652 \| 25652 · IC 21 680 \| 680 · S 2 21258 \| 21258 · IR 75 2127 \| 2127	1:45 PM Locarno station	2h59	4:44 PM Zürich Oerlikon	4 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Locarno to Zurich

Switzerland

Trains from Locarno to Zurich run on average 17 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 83 miles (134 km) distance in 2h 0m.

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

Distance

83 miles (134 km)

Average train duration

2h 11m

Cheapest ticket price

$49

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 0m

First train

1:00 AM

Last train

11:05 PM

Cheapest Month

Dec

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

28 days

Price information

Train companies: SBB from Locarno to Zurich trainsSBB trains will get you between Locarno and Zurich. 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 SBB Duration

2h 0m

Cheapest SBB Price

$49

SBB frequency

11 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

Learn more about SBB

Complete guide to Zurich

Things to do in Zurich

Discover the best of Zurich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zurich trip today.

Must visit

Kunsthaus Zürich

Switzerland's leading art museum with major works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including Monet, Giacometti, and important Swiss collections.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Swiss National Museum

National museum in a castle-like building near the main station. It offers essential insight into Swiss cultural history, design, and nationhood.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museum Rietberg

Remarkable private collection in a villa, featuring Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early modern masterpieces in an intimate lakeside setting.

View on map Visit website

Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)

Zurich is pricier than most European cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are costly, though supermarkets and takeaway spots can help lower daily spend.

Average meal costs

Budget: CHF 15-25 for fast food or takeaway.
Mid-range: CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee: CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Small rounding is common in cafes and taxis.

FAQs: Trains from Locarno to Zurich

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Locarno to Zurich 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 Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Locarno to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49, while the average price is around $81.

The train from Locarno to Zurich takes 2h 0m and runs 17 per day.

The distance by train from Locarno to Zurich is 83 miles (134 km).

The first train from Locarno to Zurich leaves at 1:00 AM.

The last train from Locarno to Zurich leaves at 11:05 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Locarno to Zurich.

Yes, there is a direct train from Locarno to Zurich. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Südostbahn.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Locarno to Zurich.

The train station in Locarno that goes to Zurich is Locarno station, which connects to Zurich HB.

The train journey from Locarno to Zurich is indeed scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss landscape, including Lake Maggiore, lush valleys, and the dramatic peaks of the Swiss Alps.

A day trip from Locarno to Zurich is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 0m. However, trains run frequently, with 20 trips per day. The distance covered is 83 miles (134 km).

In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and Alps, shop along the exclusive Bahnhofstrasse, explore diverse wildlife at Zurich Zoo, and enjoy performances at the Opera House. Wander through the Botanical Garden, offering a variety of plant species. Visit Lake Zurich for scenic views and recreational activities, explore the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings, and admire artworks at Kunsthaus Zurich. Discover Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum and enjoy a peaceful moment at Lindenhof with views over the city.

Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Zurich's main attractions, including the Old Town, Lake Zurich, museums, and nearby Uetliberg Mountain.

Yes, you can take the train from Locarno to Zurich.

Since both Locarno and Zurich 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 Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Locarno to Zurich 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 Zurich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxis can also occur. It is advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant with personal belongings to ensure a safe visit.

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 Locarno to Zurich

Most Locarno to Zurich trains use the Locarno to Zürich HB station pair, with some services arriving at Zürich Oerlikon. Use this guide to compare Locarno and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Locarno

Arrival train stations in Zurich

Which Locarno station do trains to Zurich leave from?

Trains from Locarno to Zurich leave from Locarno. The station is from Locarno city centre at Piazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland.

LocarnoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland+41 91 751 82 90 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Locarno from Locarno city centre

Bus1, 311, 312, 316, 3, 4, 7 · 4m · $2 · every ~38 min

Locarno train station facilities and services

Locarno 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 Sensi, Osteria Chiara

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Locarno. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Locarno. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Locarno: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Locarno: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Locarno: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Locarno, Hotel Belvedere Locarno, Hotel Garni Muralto.

More about Locarno

Which Zurich station do trains from Locarno arrive at?

Trains from Locarno to Zurich most often arrive at Zürich HB. Some services arrive at Zürich Oerlikon, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Zurich arrival station.

Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre

Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min

S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min

Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min

N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2

Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min

Zürich HB train station facilities and services

Zürich HB 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.