- Recommended
Galleria d’Arte Villa Monastero
Art and exhibition spaces inside Villa Monastero, combining temporary displays with the historic villa setting and lakefront gardens.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lucerne to Varenna
Showing times and prices for Jun 27
Cheapest price
$74
Average price
$113
Fastest journey
2 h 4 m
Average duration
2 h 7 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lucerne to Varenna is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lucerne to Varenna will cost around $113 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lucerne to Varenna without transferring at least once.
IC 10367 | 10367 · B 5 5143 | 5143 · B 10 10249 | 102499:46 AM2h28Lucerne station12:14 PMVarenna$741One-way2 transfers- IR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 869 · B 2 2137 | 213711:18 AM2h15Lucerne station1:33 PMVarenna$1071One-way2 transfers
- IC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 2 2105 | 21059:20 AM2h13Lucerne station11:33 AMVarenna$1071One-way2 transfers
- IC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 5 5125 | 5125 · B 10 10243 | 102439:20 AM2h09Lucerne station11:29 AMVarenna$1181One-way3 transfers
- IC 21 667 | 667 · B 2 2121 | 212110:18 AM2h15Lucerne station12:33 PMVarenna$1181One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 667 | 667 · B 4 4106 | 410610:18 AM2h04Lucerne station12:22 PMVarenna$1221One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 671 | 671 · B 4 4138 | 413812:18 PM2h04Lucerne station2:22 PMVarenna$1221One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 663 | 663 · B 4 4074 | 40748:18 AM2h04Lucerne station10:22 AMVarenna$1221One-way1 transfer
- IC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 5 5125 | 5125 · B 10 10243 | 102439:20 AM2h09Lucerne station11:29 AMVarenna$1181One-way3 transfers
- IC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 2 2105 | 21059:20 AM2h13Lucerne station11:33 AMVarenna$1071One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Lucerne to Varenna
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Varenna among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $72.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $22 Average price Cheapest | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 51m Average total duration 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 30m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lucerne to Varenna is a bus with an average price of $22 (€18).
This is compared to other travel options from Lucerne to Varenna:
A bus is $72 (€59) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lucerne to Varenna costing on average $93 (€77).
The fastest way to travel from Lucerne to Varenna is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 0m.
Other travel options to Varenna take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lucerne and Varenna including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Varenna 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 $93 (€77) compared to roughly $107 (€89) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $14 (€12). The journey takes 3h 21m versus 3h 18m 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.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Lucerne to Varenna train times
The table below shows live departures for Lucerne to Varenna trains for today, Friday, June 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:18 AM Lucerne | 2h05 | 10:23 AM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:18 AM Lucerne | 2h04 | 12:22 PM Varenna | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 27 | |||||
| IC 21 663 | 663 · B 4 4074 | 4074 | 8:18 AM Lucerne station | 2h04 | 10:22 AM Varenna | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 663 | 663 · B 5 5107 | 5107 · B 10 10239 | 10239 | 8:18 AM Lucerne station | 2h26 | 10:44 AM Varenna | 2 transfers | |
EC 301 | 301 · B 2 2097 | 2097+ IR VAE 2017 | 2017 | 8:39 AM Lucerne station | 2h24 | 11:03 AM Varenna | 2 transfers | |
| IC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 2 2105 | 2105 | 9:20 AM Lucerne station | 2h13 | 11:33 AM Varenna | 2 transfers | |
| IC 1455 | 1455 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 5 5125 | 5125 · B 10 10243 | 10243 | 9:20 AM Lucerne station | 2h09 | 11:29 AM Varenna | 3 transfers | |
| IC 10367 | 10367 · B 5 5143 | 5143 · B 10 10249 | 10249 | 9:46 AM Lucerne station | 2h28 | 12:14 PM Varenna | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lucerne to Varenna 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
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02
Jul 02
Fri
Jul 03
Jul 03
Why should you book Lucerne to Varenna trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as SBB offer trains services from Lucerne to Varenna.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lucerne to Varenna.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of SBB to find the best option for your trip from Lucerne to Varenna.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lucerne to Varenna.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Lucerne to Varenna.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lucerne to Varenna
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Lucerne to Varenna run on average 17 times per day, taking around 3h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:45, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 2h 4m.
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 $13 (€11)
Distance 85 miles (138 km) |
Average train duration 3h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€59) |
Trains per day 17 |
Fastest train 2h 4m |
First train 12:45 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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 $13 (€11)
Train companies: Trenitalia, SBB from Lucerne to Varenna trainsTrenitalia, SBB trains will get you between Lucerne and Varenna from $13 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€36)
Trenitalia frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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 4m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
SBB frequency
12 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 Varenna
Things to do in Varenna
Discover the best of Varenna — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varenna trip today.
- Recommended
Museo della Barca Lariana
Specialized museum dedicated to traditional boats of Lake Como, notable for preserving local nautical heritage in nearby Pianello del Lario, often visited from Varenna.
- Recommended
Casa Museo Villa Monastero
Historic house museum interiors at Villa Monastero with furnished rooms and decor reflecting the villa’s transformation from monastery to lakeside residence.
- Must visit
Passeggiata degli Innamorati
Famous lakeside walkway linking the ferry area and the historic center, one of Varenna’s most photographed and instantly recognizable strolls.
- Must visit
Centro Storico di Varenna
The compact historic center with stone lanes, stairways, and colorful houses is the heart of the village and ideal for wandering without a plan.
- Must visit
Giardini di Villa Monastero
Long linear botanical gardens on the lakefront with statues, exotic plants, and iconic viewpoints, among the most refined outdoor spaces in Varenna.
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Pesce Persico
Creamy risotto topped with lightly fried Lake Como perch fillets, one of the area’s signature dishes and a classic of lakeside trattorias.
- Gluten-free
Missoltini
Traditional salted and sun-dried agoni fish from Lake Como, usually grilled and served with polenta; a historic local specialty.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Polenta Uncia
Rich mountain-style polenta finished with local butter, cheese, garlic, and sage, typical of the Lake Como and Lombardy area.
Al Prato
Established restaurant on a charming square, known for refined Italian cuisine, lake fish dishes, and a romantic setting.
Ristorante La Vista
Elegant hotel restaurant with panoramic lake views, offering polished Italian cooking and a more upscale dining experience.
Il Cavatappi
Well-known wine bar and restaurant in Varenna, appreciated for regional dishes, cheese and charcuterie, and an intimate atmosphere.
Euro
Lake Como is pricier than many Italian towns. Hotels and lakefront dining cost more, but cafés and simple meals are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for panini, pizza, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale lakefront restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or covered by a coperto. Tipping is not required, but leaving EUR 1-2 at cafés or 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated.
Arriva MyPay
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.20 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Varenna-Esino, Varenna -> Varenna Ferry Terminal, Varenna
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Regional buses around Varenna are operated by Arriva Lombardia; buy tickets in advance or use the official app where available.
- Card payment is not reliably available on local buses, so carry a validated paper ticket or mobile ticket before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Lucerne to Varenna
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne to Varenna 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 Varenna, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lucerne to Varenna can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€59), while the average price is around $93 (€77).
The train from Lucerne to Varenna takes 2h 4m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Varenna is 85 miles (138 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Varenna leaves at 12:45 AM.
The last train from Lucerne to Varenna leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lucerne to Varenna.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Varenna.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Varenna.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Varenna is Lucerne station, which connects to Varenna-esino.
The cheapest way to get from Lucerne to Varenna is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€11).
The train journey from Lucerne to Varenna is indeed scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming countryside landscapes, making it a visually rewarding experience.
A day trip from Lucerne to Varenna is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 4m and the frequency is 21 trains per day for a distance of 85 miles (138 km).
In Varenna, you can explore charming streets with local shops and cafes, take a boat tour on Lake Como for stunning views, and visit the Civic Museum of Ornithology and Natural Sciences. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard or join a cooking class to learn traditional Italian dishes. Key sights include Villa Monastero with its botanical gardens, Castello di Vezio with medieval charm and falconry displays, and the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio. Don't miss the short river Fiumelatte with its milky waters, and the scenic Passeggiata degli Innamorati for leisurely lakeside walks.
For a fulfilling experience in Varenna, plan to stay 2 to 3 days to explore its charming streets, visit Villa Monastero, and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Como.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Varenna.
Since both Lucerne and Varenna 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 Varenna include Milan, Bergamo, Lecco, Como, Tirano.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lucerne to Varenna 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Varenna, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as ferry docks and popular walking paths. It's also advisable to avoid unofficial taxi services and only use licensed providers. While the town is generally safe, staying vigilant around busy tourist spots helps prevent common scams like overpriced dining or souvenir shops.
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 Varenna
Most Lucerne to Varenna trains use the Arth-Goldau to Varenna-esino station pair. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Varenna 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 Varenna
Which Lucerne station do trains to Varenna leave from?
Trains from Lucerne to Varenna 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.
Luzern, Wartegg
City-centre transport
Getting to Luzern, Wartegg from Lucerne city centre
Bus6, 7, 8 · 5m · $4 · every ~31 min
N21 · 4m · $4
Which Varenna station do trains from Lucerne arrive at?
Trains from Lucerne to Varenna most often arrive at Varenna-esino. Some services arrive at Bogno, Magnan, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Varenna arrival station.
Varenna-esinoPiazza Martiri della Libertà, 23828 Perledo LC, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varenna-esino from Varenna city centre
BusLocal bus services connect the station to nearby towns
FerryFerry services available to other towns on Lake Como
Varenna-esino train station facilities and services
Varenna-esino has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Varenna-esino.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varenna-esino. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varenna-esino: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Varenna-esino: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varenna-esino: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Olivedo, Albergo Milano, Hotel du Lac.
Most popular train connections from Lucerne
More options for your journey from Lucerne to Varenna
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varenna and Lucerne
Most popular train connections to Varenna
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