- Recommended
Museo Civico e Archeologico, Castello Visconteo
Locarno's main museum inside the Visconti castle, presenting archaeology, local history, and period collections in a landmark setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lucerne to Locarno
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$51
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$55
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 57 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 45 m
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
105 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lucerne to Locarno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lucerne to Locarno will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 3 trains from Lucerne to Locarno, including 3 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 105 km distance in an average of 2 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 57 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 9 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.
7:18 AM3h09Lucerne10:27 AMLocarno$511One-way0 transfers- 8:18 AM3h09Lucerne11:27 AMLocarno$521One-way0 transfers
- 6:18 AM1h57Lucerne8:15 AMLocarno$631One-way0 transfers
- 6:18 AM1h57Lucerne8:15 AMLocarno$631One-way0 transfers
- 8:18 AM3h09Lucerne11:27 AMLocarno$521One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM3h09Lucerne10:27 AMLocarno$511One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Lucerne to Locarno
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Locarno among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $82 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $82, while a train costs an average of $82.
Distance: 65 miles (105 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$82 Average price Cheapest | $90 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lucerne to Locarno is a train with an average price of $82 (€67).
The fastest way to travel from Lucerne to Locarno is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lucerne and Locarno including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Locarno among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 8m faster (1h 59m by train vs 2h 7m by car) and roughly $8 (€7) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($82 (€67) vs $90 (€74)). 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
Lucerne to Locarno train times
The table below shows live departures for Lucerne to Locarno trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:18 AM Lucerne | 1h57 | 8:15 AM Locarno | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:18 AM Lucerne | 3h09 | 10:27 AM Locarno | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:18 AM Lucerne | 3h09 | 11:27 AM Locarno | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lucerne to Locarno by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Sep 20
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lucerne to Locarno
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Lucerne to Locarno run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 65 miles (105 km) distance in 1h 37m.
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 65 miles (105 km) |
Average train duration 1h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 37m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: SBB from Lucerne to Locarno trainsSBB trains will get you between Lucerne and Locarno from $42 (€34). 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
1h 37m
Cheapest SBB Price
$42 (€34)
SBB frequency
5 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 Locarno
Things to do in Locarno
Discover the best of Locarno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Locarno trip today.
- Recommended
Pinacoteca Comunale Casa Rusca
Important modern and contemporary art museum in the old town, known for quality exhibitions and works linked to Swiss and international artists.
- Recommended
Casa Anatta
House museum in nearby Brissago devoted to painter and writer Raffaele Leoncavallo, offering insight into regional artistic life.
- Must visit
Piazza Grande
Locarno's lively main square is framed by arcades and historic buildings and is essential for strolling, events, and people-watching.
- Must visit
Lungolago Giuseppe Motta
The lakeside promenade offers palms, mountain views, and a relaxed walking route ideal for sunsets, photos, and easy access to central Locarno.
- Recommended
Città Vecchia
Charming old town streets with arcades, boutiques, and historic houses, perfect for wandering and discovering Locarno's everyday urban character.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Merlot
Risotto made with Ticino Merlot wine, giving it a rich color and local character. It reflects the canton’s rice tradition and famous red wine.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Slow-braised beef cooked in Ticino Merlot until tender. A classic festive dish in the region, often served with polenta.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
Creamy cornmeal polenta, a staple of Ticino mountain cooking. It is traditional comfort food and often paired with cheese, stew, or mushrooms.
Ristorante La Brezza
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with refined Ticino and Italian influences in a polished lakeside setting at Villa Orselina above Locarno.
Grotto Broggini
Historic grotto-style venue known for traditional Ticino dishes, hearty polenta, local wine, and a relaxed, rustic atmosphere.
Ristorante Fontana
Well-known restaurant at Hotel Belvedere serving seasonal cuisine with regional products, plus panoramic views over Locarno and the lake.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Locarno is pricier than many nearby Italian towns. Hotels, dining, and local transport are typically Swiss-priced, though budget snacks and supermarkets help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills, but tipping is not obligatory.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.50
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Locarno railway station -> Piazza Grande
- Distance
- 450 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy Arcobaleno zone tickets before boarding buses; fares depend on zones, and Locarno urban trips are usually within local zones.
- Contactless card payment is not consistently available on buses, so use the FAIRTIQ app, ticket machines, or sales points.
FAQs: Trains from Lucerne to Locarno
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne to Locarno 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 Locarno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lucerne to Locarno can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $42 (€34), while the average price is around $82 (€67).
The train from Lucerne to Locarno takes 1h 37m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Locarno is 65 miles (105 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Locarno leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Lucerne to Locarno leaves at 11:18 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lucerne to Locarno.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Locarno.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Locarno.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Locarno is Lucerne station, which connects to Locarno station.
The cheapest way to get from Lucerne to Locarno is by train, with a cost of around $42 (€34).
Yes, the train journey from Lucerne to Locarno is scenic, offering picturesque views of lakes, mountains, and charming Swiss landscapes as it travels through the heart of Switzerland.
Yes, a day trip from Lucerne to Locarno is feasible. The journey takes 1h 37m with a distance of 65 miles (105 km), and trains run 15 times per day.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Locarno allows visitors to explore its main attractions, including the Piazza Grande, Madonna del Sasso, and the beautiful shores of Lake Maggiore, while also enjoying local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Locarno.
Since both Lucerne and Locarno 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 Locarno include Milan, Lugano, Domodossola, Bellinzona, Andermatt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Locarno 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 Locarno, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular tourist spots and public transport hubs. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unofficial tour guides are rare but worth noting. Overall, Locarno is considered a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions like securing belongings and using licensed services are advised.
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 Lucerne to Locarno
Most Lucerne to Locarno trains use the Luzern Bhf to Locarno station pair. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Locarno train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lucerne
Arrival train stations in Locarno
Which Lucerne station do trains to Locarno leave from?
Trains from Lucerne to Locarno leave from Luzern Bhf. The station is from Lucerne city centre at Zentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland.
Luzern BhfZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Luzern Bhf from Lucerne city centre
TrainRe24, S1, Sn1 · 11m · $5 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · $11
72 · 22m · $4 · every ~2 min
Luzern Bhf train station facilities and services
Luzern Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant La Cucina, Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luzern Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Luzern Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luzern Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luzern Bhf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern Bhf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Monopol Luzern, Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel, Hotel Central Luzern.
Which Locarno station do trains from Lucerne arrive at?
Trains from Lucerne to Locarno arrive at Locarno. Locarno is from Locarno city centre.
LocarnoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland+41 91 751 82 90
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.
Most popular train connections from Lucerne
More options for your journey from Lucerne to Locarno
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Locarno and Lucerne
Most popular train connections to Locarno
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