Locarno to Zurich train with SBB

Fri, May 08
+ Add return
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Locarno to Zurich

Showing times and prices for May 08

Cheapest price

$62

Average price

$62

Fastest journey

3 h 22 m

Average duration

3 h 22 m

Trains per day

1

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 $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $62.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Locarno for Zurich on Fri, May 08, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 08 the direct trains cover the 134 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 22 m .

On Fri, May 08 the slowest trains will take 3 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.

  • SBB
    7:33 AM3h22
    Locarno
    10:55 AMZurich
    $621One-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 bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $51.

Distance: 83 miles (134 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$62

Average price

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$100

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 18m

Average total duration

2h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 57m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 39m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

SBB

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 bus with an average price of $31 (€25).

This is compared to other travel options from Locarno to Zurich:

A bus is $30 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Locarno to Zurich costing on average $62 (€49).

The fastest way to travel from Locarno to Zurich is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 27m.

Other travel options to Zurich take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 48m.

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. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.

Direct services run with Südostbahn.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Locarno to Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Locarno to Zurich trains for today, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbb7:33 AM Locarno
3h22
10:55 AM Zurich0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Locarno to Zurich 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
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Locarno to Zurich?

The best time to book your train from Locarno to Zurich is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Locarno to Zurich route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Locarno to Zurich per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Locarno to Zurich.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Locarno to Zurich

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Locarno to Zurich run on average 22 times per day, taking around 2h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€40) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by bus.

There are 2 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 10m.

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 $31 (€25)
Distance
83 miles (134 km)
Average train duration
2h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$51 (€40)
Trains per day
22
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 10m
First train
1:00 AM
Last train
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
21 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 $31 (€25)

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Locarno to Zurich trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Locarno and Zurich from $31 (€25). 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 10m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€40)
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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€115)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
19 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 22m
Südostbahn frequency
5 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Locarno to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€40), while the average price is around $62 (€49).
The train from Locarno to Zurich takes 2h 10m and runs 22 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 2 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 cheapest way to get from Locarno to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $31 (€25).
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 10m. 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

Locarno
Zurich
The major train station for departures in Locarno is Locarno. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Locarno for your trip from Locarno to Zurich.
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 - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from Via della Stazione.
Dining
Dining
  • Ristorante Sensi
  • Osteria Chiara
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Ibis Locarno
  • Hotel Belvedere Locarno
  • Hotel Garni Muralto
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 240 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to regional and international destinations
Public transit options for Locarno
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Train: Regional and international connections
SoldunoParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Solduno, StazioneAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km

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