- Must visit
Castello Brown Museum
The Historic Castle Above Portofino also functions as a small museum, with period rooms, gardens, and exhibitions on the village and its maritime past.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Portofino among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $66. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $66, and a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 194 miles (313 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$91 Average price | $75 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 33m Average total duration 5h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Lucerne to Portofino:
A flight is $16 (€13) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lucerne to Portofino costing on average $91 (€75).
Other travel options to Portofino take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 3m.
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 Trenitalia.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare 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.
Trains from Lucerne to Portofino run on average 17 times per day, taking around 5h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $90 (€74) but you can travel from only $66 (€54) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:48, the last at 18:18. The fastest train covers the 194 miles (313 km) distance in 5h 51m.
Distance 194 miles (313 km) |
Average train duration 5h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $90 (€74) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 51m |
First train 4:48 AM |
Last train 6:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of Portofino — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portofino trip today.
The Historic Castle Above Portofino also functions as a small museum, with period rooms, gardens, and exhibitions on the village and its maritime past.
A Celebrated Abbey Museum in the protected bay near Portofino, known for cloisters, medieval history, and an exceptional coastal setting reached by boat or hike.
An Open-Air Contemporary Sculpture Museum set among olive trees and terraces above the harbor, featuring works by international artists with sea views.
The Iconic Harbor Square lined with pastel buildings and yachts, central to the village atmosphere and the most recognizable view in Portofino.
The Famous Waterfront Basin is ideal for strolling, photography, and watching boats come and go in one of Italy’s most glamorous seaside settings.
The Walking Path to the Lighthouse is a highly popular coastal route with viewpoints, Mediterranean vegetation, and strong social-media appeal.
Hand-rolled Ligurian pasta traditionally served with basil pesto, a signature flavor of the Riviera and one of the region’s most iconic dishes.
Classic Ligurian flatbread baked with olive oil and salt, prized for its crisp surface and soft interior and eaten throughout the day.
A thin, delicate focaccia filled with soft cheese, a celebrated Ligurian specialty from nearby Recco often found around Portofino.
One of Portofino’s best-known classic restaurants, serving Ligurian seafood, pasta, and regional specialties in an elegant but traditional setting.
Established harbor-side restaurant known for seafood dishes, pasta, and scenic terrace dining with a polished Portofino atmosphere.
Historic, casual trattoria in the center of Portofino, appreciated for traditional Ligurian dishes and a more relaxed local feel.
Portofino is a luxury resort. Hotels and waterfront dining are pricey, with limited budget options nearby.
Service is often included or covered by a coperto. Leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up for taxis and leave small change at cafes if you wish.
Official public transport app
Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino Railway Station, Portofino -> Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta, Portofino
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne to Portofino 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 Portofino, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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