Lucerne to Lugano train with SBB

Sat, Aug 29
+ 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 Lucerne to Lugano

Showing times and prices for Aug 29

Cheapest price

$45

Average price

$76

Fastest journey

1 h 40 m

Average duration

1 h 41 m

Trains per day

62

Distance

126 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Lucerne to Lugano will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.

Fast trains

Of the 62 trains that leave Lucerne for Lugano on Sat, Aug 29, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 126 km distance in an average of 1 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .

On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 1 h 44 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.

  • SBBIC 10367 | 10367
    9:46 AM1h55
    Lucerne station
    11:41 AMLugano, Stazione
    $451One-way
    0 transfers
  • SBBS 3 21389 | 21389 · IC 2 895 | 895
    11:06 PM2h05
    Lucerne station
    1:11 AMLugano, Stazione
    $471One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBIC 21 691 | 691
    10:18 PM1h40
    Lucerne station
    11:58 PMLugano, Stazione
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • SBBIC 21 687 | 687
    8:18 PM1h40
    Lucerne station
    9:58 PMLugano, Stazione
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • SBBIC 21 683 | 683
    6:18 PM1h44
    Lucerne station
    8:02 PMLugano, Stazione
    $471One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Lucerne to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 55m. 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 $14, and a train costs an average of $48.

Distance: 78 miles (126 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$71

Average price

$17

Average price

Cheapest

$92

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 26m

Average total duration

1h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 12m

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 Lucerne to Lugano is a bus with an average price of $17.

This is compared to other travel options from Lucerne to Lugano:

A bus is $54 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lucerne to Lugano costing on average $71.

The fastest way to travel from Lucerne to Lugano is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 55m.

Other travel options to Lugano take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 56m.

Ferry takes on average 5h 29m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lucerne and Lugano including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 16m faster (1h 56m by train vs 2h 12m by car) and roughly $22 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($71 vs $92). 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 SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).

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

Live departures

Lucerne to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Lucerne to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SBBIC 21 659 | 659 · B 461 709 | 7096:18 AM Lucerne station
1h56
8:14 AM Lugano1 transfer
SBBIC 21 659 | 6596:18 AM Lucerne station
1h44
8:02 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 3 21323 | 21323 · EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 50596:39 AM Lucerne station
2h00
8:39 AM Lugano2 transfers
SBBS 3 21323 | 21323 · EC 11 | 116:39 AM Lucerne station
1h49
8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 3 21323 | 21323 · EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5059 | 5059 · B 1 1064 | 10646:39 AM Lucerne station
2h03
8:42 AM Lugano3 transfers
SBBIR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 8617:18 AM Lucerne station
1h44
9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 · B 461 713 | 7137:18 AM Lucerne station
1h56
9:14 AM Lugano2 transfers
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2015 | 2015+SBBEC 13 | 13 · B 5 5067 | 50677:39 AM Lucerne station
2h00
9:39 AM Lugano2 transfers
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2015 | 2015+SBBIC 10361 | 10361 · B 4 4066 | 40667:39 AM Lucerne station
2h13
9:52 AM Lugano2 transfers
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2015 | 2015+SBBIC 10361 | 103617:39 AM Lucerne station
2h02
9:41 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2015 | 2015+SBBEC 13 | 137:39 AM Lucerne station
1h49
9:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 21 663 | 663 · B 461 717 | 7178:18 AM Lucerne station
1h56
10:14 AM Lugano1 transfer
SBBIC 21 663 | 6638:18 AM Lucerne station
1h44
10:02 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2017 | 2017+SBBIC 10363 | 10363 · B 4 4082 | 40828:39 AM Lucerne station
2h13
10:52 AM Lugano2 transfers
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2017 | 2017+SBBEC 301 | 3018:39 AM Lucerne station
1h49
10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2017 | 2017+SBBIC 10363 | 103638:39 AM Lucerne station
2h02
10:41 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2017 | 2017+SBBEC 301 | 301 · B 5 5113 | 51138:39 AM Lucerne station
2h00
10:39 AM Lugano2 transfers
SBBIC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 461 721 | 7219:20 AM Lucerne station
1h54
11:14 AM Lugano2 transfers
SBBIC 1455 | 1455 · S 10 30767 | 30767 · B 461 721 | 7219:20 AM Lucerne station
1h54
11:14 AM Lugano2 transfers
SBBIC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 8659:20 AM Lucerne station
1h42
11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 1455 | 1455 · S 10 30767 | 307679:20 AM Lucerne station
1h45
11:05 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2019 | 2019+SBBEC 15 | 159:39 AM Lucerne station
1h49
11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2019 | 2019+SBBEC 15 | 15 · B 5 5137 | 51379:39 AM Lucerne station
2h00
11:39 AM Lugano2 transfers
SBBIC 10367 | 10367 · B 4 4098 | 40989:46 AM Lucerne station
2h06
11:52 AM Lugano1 transfer
SBBIC 10367 | 103679:46 AM Lucerne station
1h55
11:41 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIC 21 667 | 667 · B 461 725 | 72510:18 AM Lucerne station
1h56
12:14 PM Lugano1 transfer
SBBIC 21 667 | 66710:18 AM Lucerne station
1h44
12:02 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2021 | 2021+SBBEC 153 | 15310:39 AM Lucerne station
1h49
12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
Voralpen ExpressIR VAE 2021 | 2021+SBBEC 153 | 153 · B 5 5161 | 516110:39 AM Lucerne station
2h00
12:39 PM Lugano2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lucerne 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.

Sat
Aug 29
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Lucerne to Lugano

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Lucerne to Lugano run on average 17 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 but you can travel from only $14 by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (126 km) distance in 1h 38m.

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 $14
Distance
78 miles (126 km)
Average train duration
1h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$48
Trains per day
17
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 38m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:18 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
3 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 $14

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Lucerne to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Lucerne and Lugano from $14. 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
1h 38m
Cheapest Price
$48
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
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
$105
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
8 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 40m
Südostbahn frequency
17 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 Lucerne to Lugano

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne 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 Lucerne to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48, while the average price is around $71.
The train from Lucerne to Lugano takes 1h 38m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Lugano is 78 miles (126 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Lugano leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Lucerne to Lugano leaves at 11:18 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lucerne to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Lucerne to Lugano. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Lugano.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Lugano is Lucerne station, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Lucerne to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around $14.
Yes, the train journey from Lucerne to Lugano is scenic. It offers picturesque views of the Swiss landscape, including lakes, mountains, and charming villages as it traverses through the Gotthard Base Tunnel and the beautiful Ticino region.
Yes, a day trip from Lucerne to Lugano is feasible. The journey takes 1h 38m and covers a distance of 78 miles (126 km). Trains run 16 times 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 Lucerne to Lugano.
Since both Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne to Lugano

Most Lucerne to Lugano trains use the Luzern Bhf to Lugano, Stazione station pair, with some services arriving at Lugano-Paradiso. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Lugano 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 Lugano

Which Lucerne station do trains to Lugano leave from?

Trains from Lucerne to Lugano 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 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

Luzern, BahnhofZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, SwitzerlandAccessibility

Luzern, Bahnhof train station facilities and services

Luzern, Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern, Bahnhof.

Luzern BahnhofquaiBahnhofplatz, 6003 Lucerne, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Luzern Bahnhofquai from Lucerne city centre

Bus11, 12, 14, 18, 1, 20, 2 · 2m · $4 · every ~50 min
N12, N1, N21, N2, N4, N6 · 1m · $4

Luzern Bahnhofquai train station facilities and services

Luzern Bahnhofquai 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Schiff, Restaurant Opus

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Luzern Bahnhofquai. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luzern Bahnhofquai: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luzern Bahnhofquai: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern Bahnhofquai.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel des Balances, Hotel Monopol Luzern, Hotel Waldstätterhof.

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