- Recommended
Museo Archeologico Giovanni Rambotti
The town’s main archaeological museum, best known for Bronze Age finds from Lake Garda, including the ancient Lavagnone plough. A strong choice for understanding local prehistory and the area’s UNESCO
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda
Showing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$45
Average price
$45
Fastest journey
3 h 18 m
Average duration
3 h 18 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
137 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Lugano for Desenzano del Garda on Sat, Jul 11, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 11 the direct trains cover the 137 km distance in an average of 3 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 18 m .
On Sat, Jul 11 the slowest trains will take 3 h 18 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.
6:30 AM3h18Lugano9:48 AMDesenzano del Garda$451One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 AM3h18Lugano9:48 AMDesenzano del Garda$451One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Lugano to Desenzano del Garda
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $45.
Distance: 85 miles (137 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$50 Average price | $21 Average price Cheapest | $37 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 10m Average total duration 2h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 8m 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 Lugano to Desenzano del Garda is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda:
A bus is $29 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda costing on average $50 (€41).
The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 58m.
Other travel options to Desenzano del Garda take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lugano and Desenzano del Garda including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda 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 $50 (€41) compared to roughly $37 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-12.55 (€-10.30). The journey takes 2h 40m versus 2h 8m 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
Lugano to Desenzano del Garda train times
The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Desenzano del Garda trains for today, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EuroCity 13+Regionale TRENORD 2623 | 9:30 AM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 12:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 13+ 8993 | 9:30 AM Lugano FLP | 8h55 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 13+8983 | 9:30 AM Lugano FLP | 3h55 | 1:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+Regionale TRENORD 2627 | 11:30 AM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 2:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+8997 | 11:30 AM Lugano FLP | 8h55 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 15+8993 | 11:30 AM Lugano FLP | 6h55 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 153+Regionale TRENORD 2629 | 12:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 3:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+8993 | 1:30 PM Lugano FLP | 4h55 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+Regionale TRENORD 2631 | 1:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 4:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 19+8997 | 1:30 PM Lugano FLP | 6h55 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 151+8993 | 2:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h55 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 151+8997 | 2:30 PM Lugano FLP | 5h55 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
EuroCity 21+ FRECCIAROSSA 9749 | 3:30 PM Lugano FLP | 2h35 | 6:05 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 21+8997 | 3:30 PM Lugano FLP | 4h55 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 21+Regionale TRENORD 2635 | 3:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 6:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 21+8993 | 3:30 PM Lugano FLP | 2h55 | 6:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 37+Regionale TRENORD 2637 | 4:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 7:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 123+Regionale TRENORD 2639 | 5:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 8:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 123+8997 | 5:30 PM Lugano FLP | 2h55 | 8:25 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9757+EuroCity 123 | 5:30 PM Lugano FLP | 2h36 | 8:06 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 173+Regionale TRENORD 2641 | 6:10 PM Lugano FLP | 3h38 | 9:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 25+Regionale TRENORD 2643 | 7:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 10:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 27+Regionale TRENORD 2645 | 8:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h18 | 11:48 PM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 29+Regionale TRENORD 2647 · Autobus TRENORD 9647A | 9:30 PM Lugano FLP | 3h49 | 1:19 AM Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, July 11 | |||||
| 6:30 AM Lugano | 3h18 | 9:48 AM Desenzano del Garda | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Desenzano del Garda 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.
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
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Jul 12
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Mon
Jul 13
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Tue
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Jul 14
Wed
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Jul 17
Jul 17
Why should you book Lugano to Desenzano del Garda trains with Omio?
Regionale as well as Trenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Trenord and more offer trains services from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Regionale tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Regionale?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regionale, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Trenord to find the best option for your trip from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
- 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 Regionale with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $45 (€37) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 85 miles (137 km) distance in 2h 36m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 85 miles (137 km) |
Average train duration 2h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€37) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 2h 36m |
First train 5:35 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 $21 (€17)
Train companies: Regionale, Trenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Trenord from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda trainsRegionale, Trenitalia, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Trenord trains will get you between Lugano and Desenzano del Garda from $21 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Regionale frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
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
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Trenitalia frequency
5 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 23m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€83)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
5 a day
Trenord
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Trenord frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Desenzano del Garda
Things to do in Desenzano del Garda
Discover the best of Desenzano del Garda — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Desenzano del Garda trip today.
- Recommended
Villa Romana Antiquarium
Small museum area linked to the Roman Villa, displaying mosaics and artifacts that help interpret one of northern Italy’s most important late Roman residences.
Galleria Civica G. B. Bosio
A local civic gallery used for temporary art exhibitions and cultural shows. Worth checking for visitors interested in smaller-scale local programming.
- Must visit
Lungolago Cesare Battisti
The main lakeside promenade is ideal for strolling, people-watching, and sunset views. It is one of the town’s essential walking areas and highly popular with both locals and visitors.
- Must visit
Piazza Malvezzi
The central square near the old harbor, framed by historic buildings and arcades. It is the heart of Desenzano’s urban life and a natural base for exploring the center on foot.
- Must visit
Belvedere del Castello
Viewpoint area around the castle with one of the best panoramas over Desenzano and Lake Garda. Particularly popular at golden hour and for wide photos of the waterfront.
Bigoli con le Sardelle
Thick pasta served with a savory sauce of lake sardines, a classic Garda dish that reflects the area’s fishing tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto al Lugana
Creamy risotto made with Lugana white wine from the southern Lake Garda area, valued for its local character and delicate flavor.
- Gluten-free
Coregone alla Griglia
Grilled lavaret whitefish from Lake Garda, usually prepared simply with olive oil and herbs to highlight the local catch.
Ristorante Esplanade
Refined lakeside dining venue associated with an upscale hotel, appreciated for elegant seafood and seasonal Italian cooking.
Osteria da Romano Desenzano del Garda
Established seafood-focused osteria known for lake fish dishes, pasta, and a polished but welcoming atmosphere near the center.
Trattoria Al Fattore
Traditional trattoria with a long-standing reputation for local cuisine, hearty pasta, grilled meats, and classic Lombard flavors.
Euro
Generally moderate for Italy. Lakeside dining and summer stays cost more, while cafés, pizza, and local bars are fairly priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale lakeside restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 at cafés and 5-10% for very good restaurant service is appreciated.
Arriva MyPay
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione -> Desenzano del Garda Centro
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Urban buses around Desenzano are operated within the Arriva network; buy tickets before boarding where possible.
- Card payment on local buses is not consistently available, so carry a validated paper ticket or use the official app if supported.
FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda 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 Desenzano del Garda, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $45 (€37), while the average price is around $50 (€41).
The train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda takes 2h 36m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda is 85 miles (137 km).
The first train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda leaves at 5:35 AM.
The last train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Desenzano del Garda is Lugano FLP, which connects to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
To fully experience Desenzano del Garda, including its historical sites, lakefront activities, and local cuisine, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda.
Since both Lugano and Desenzano del Garda 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 Desenzano del Garda include Milan, Verona, Venice, Bergamo, Brescia.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda 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 Desenzano del Garda, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the ferry terminal and markets. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official transportation services and be vigilant with personal belongings in busy spots.
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 Lugano to Desenzano del Garda
Most Lugano to Desenzano del Garda trains use the Lugano FLP to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione station pair. Use this guide to compare Lugano and Desenzano del Garda train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lugano
Arrival train stations in Desenzano del Garda
Which Lugano station do trains to Desenzano del Garda leave from?
Trains from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda leave from Lugano FLP. The station is from Lugano city centre at Piazzale Stazione, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.
Lugano FLPPiazzale Stazione, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland+41 91 923 23 23
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano FLP from Lugano city centre
BusSeveral lines available
FunicularConnection to Lugano city center
Lugano FLP train station facilities and services
Lugano FLP has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, 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 Grand Café Al Porto, Ristorante Trani
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lugano FLP. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lugano FLP. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lugano FLP: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lugano FLP: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano FLP: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Lugano Dante Center, Hotel Federale Lugano, Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano.
Which Desenzano del Garda station do trains from Lugano arrive at?
Trains from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda most often arrive at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione. Some services arrive at Lonato, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Desenzano del Garda arrival station.
Desenzano del Garda-SirmionePiazza Einaudi, 25015 Desenzano del Garda BS, Italy+39 339 3655303
City-centre transport
Getting to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione from Desenzano del Garda city centre
Bus2 Blu, 21 · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione train station facilities and services
Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Esplanade, Trattoria Alessi
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Mayer & Splendid, Hotel Piroscafo, Hotel Bonotto.
Most popular train connections from Lugano
More options for your journey from Lugano to Desenzano del Garda
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Desenzano del Garda and Lugano
Most popular train connections to Desenzano del Garda
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