- Must visit
Patek Philippe Museum
Celebrated watchmaking museum with historic timepieces, automata, and a major library on horology. A top choice for understanding Geneva’s watch heritage.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Geneva
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$123
Average price
$150
Fastest journey
4 h 53 m
Average duration
4 h 53 m
Trains per day
24
Distance
217 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Geneva is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lugano to Geneva will cost around $150 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $123.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lugano to Geneva without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 252010:02 AM5h03Lugano, Stazione3:05 PMGeneva station$1231One-way1 transfer- B 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 25209:47 AM5h18Lugano3:05 PMGeneva station$1251One-way2 transfers
- IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 182010:02 AM4h53Lugano, Stazione2:55 PMGeneva station$1291One-way2 transfers
- B 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 18209:47 AM5h08Lugano2:55 PMGeneva station$1311One-way3 transfers
- IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 1 716 | 7169:02 AM5h23Lugano, Stazione2:25 PMGeneva station$1361One-way1 transfer
- IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 · IR 90 1822 | 182211:02 AM4h53Lugano, Stazione3:55 PMGeneva station$1371One-way2 transfers
- IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 90 1818 | 18189:02 AM4h53Lugano, Stazione1:55 PMGeneva station$1411One-way2 transfers
- IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 182010:02 AM4h53Lugano, Stazione2:55 PMGeneva station$1291One-way2 transfers
- EC 30178 | 30178 · IC 5 524 | 524 · IR 90 1824 | 182412:02 PM4h53Lugano, Stazione4:55 PMGeneva station$1701One-way2 transfers
- IC 2 878 | 878 · IC 5 526 | 526 · IR 90 1826 | 18261:02 PM4h53Lugano, Stazione5:55 PMGeneva station$1701One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lugano to Geneva
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Geneva among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $55.
Distance: 134 miles (217 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$131 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $228 Average price | $261 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 25m Average total duration 4h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration 4h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Lugano to Geneva is a bus with an average price of $52 (€42).
This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Geneva:
A bus is $79 (€64) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Geneva costing on average $131 (€106).
A bus is $176 (€142) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lugano to Geneva costing on average $228 (€184).
The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Geneva is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 45m.
Other travel options to Geneva take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 32m.
Train takes on average 4h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lugano and Geneva including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Geneva 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 $131 (€106) compared to roughly $261 (€211) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $129 (€105). The journey takes 4h 55m versus 4h 22m 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 Geneva train times
The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Geneva trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 21 668 | 668 · IR 15 2516 | 2516 | 8:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 5h03 | 1:05 PM Geneva station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 668 | 668 · IC 5 516 | 516 · IR 90 1816 | 1816 | 8:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h53 | 12:55 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
| B 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 90 1818 | 1818 | 8:47 AM Lugano | 5h08 | 1:55 PM Geneva station | 3 transfers | |
| B 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 1 716 | 716 | 8:47 AM Lugano | 5h38 | 2:25 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 1 716 | 716 | 9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 5h23 | 2:25 PM Geneva station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 90 1818 | 1818 | 9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h53 | 1:55 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
| B 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 1820 | 9:47 AM Lugano | 5h08 | 2:55 PM Geneva station | 3 transfers | |
| B 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 2520 | 9:47 AM Lugano | 5h18 | 3:05 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 1820 | 10:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h53 | 2:55 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 2520 | 10:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 5h03 | 3:05 PM Geneva station | 1 transfer | |
| B 4 4081 | 4081 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 · IR 90 1822 | 1822 | 10:47 AM Lugano | 5h08 | 3:55 PM Geneva station | 3 transfers | |
| B 4 4081 | 4081 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 1 720 | 720 | 10:47 AM Lugano | 5h38 | 4:25 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 1 720 | 720 | 11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 5h23 | 4:25 PM Geneva station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 · IR 90 1822 | 1822 | 11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h53 | 3:55 PM Geneva station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Geneva by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Tue
Jun 16
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
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
Sat
Jul 04
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Jul 06
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lugano to Geneva?
The best time to book your train from Lugano to Geneva is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Lugano to Geneva route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Lugano to Geneva per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Lugano to Geneva.
Trains
from $71Journey information
Overview: Train from Lugano to Geneva
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Lugano to Geneva run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $77 (€62) but you can travel from only $44 (€36) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 134 miles (217 km) distance in 4h 53m.
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 $44 (€36)
Distance 134 miles (217 km) |
Average train duration 4h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€62) |
Trains per day 17 |
Fastest train 4h 53m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:38 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 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 $44 (€36)
Train companies: SBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lugano to Geneva trainsSBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Geneva from $44 (€36). 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
4h 53m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€62)
SBB frequency
17 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
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 3m
Cheapest Price
$242 (€196)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$252 (€204)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Geneva
Things to do in Geneva
Discover the best of Geneva — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Geneva trip today.
- Must visit
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
Powerful museum on humanitarian action, conflict, and relief work, located near major international institutions.
- Must visit
CERN Science Gateway
Interactive science center and exhibition space introducing particle physics and CERN’s research in an accessible way.
- Must visit
Vieille Ville
Geneva’s Old Town, filled with historic lanes, small squares, terraces, and many of the city’s key heritage sites.
- Must visit
Jardin Anglais
Popular lakeside park known for the Flower Clock, promenade views, and easy access to the waterfront.
- Must visit
Bains des Pâquis
Beloved lakeside area for swimming, sunrises, and local atmosphere, especially photogenic in warmer months.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
A classic Swiss pot of melted cheese, usually Gruyère and Vacherin, served with bread for dipping. It is one of the most iconic cold-weather dishes in Geneva and across French-speaking Switzerland.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Raclette
Melted raclette cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions. This Alpine specialty is widely enjoyed in Geneva and is a staple of Swiss comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Papet Vaudois
A traditional regional dish from nearby Vaud made with leeks and potatoes, usually served with sausage. It reflects the rustic cuisine of the Lake Geneva region.
Restaurant Bayview by Michel Roth
A fine dining restaurant in Geneva known for refined modern cuisine and elegant service, suited for a high-end meal.
Buvette des Bains
A beloved casual lakeside spot at the Bains des Pâquis, popular for simple local dishes, fondue in season, and relaxed Geneva views.
Café du Soleil
A historic and very popular Geneva restaurant best known for traditional cheese fondue. Warm, classic atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
Swiss Franc
Geneva is one of Europe’s priciest cities. Hotels, dining, and everyday costs are high, though transit and takeaway options can help control spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 35-60 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is included by law. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and small café bills.
tpgPreview
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.00
- Day pass
- CHF 10.00
To the city center
Geneva Airport -> Genve
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tickets are valid across the Unireso network in the selected zones, including trams, buses, and local trains. Buy tickets before boarding.
- Card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not always onboard buses or trams. Use the official app or a machine for the easiest purchase.
FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Geneva
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Geneva 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 Geneva, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Geneva can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $77 (€62), while the average price is around $131 (€106).
The train from Lugano to Geneva takes 4h 53m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Lugano to Geneva is 134 miles (217 km).
The first train from Lugano to Geneva leaves at 12:03 AM.
The last train from Lugano to Geneva leaves at 11:38 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Geneva.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lugano to Geneva.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Geneva.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Geneva is Lugano, Stazione, which connects to Geneva station.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Geneva is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€36).
Yes, the train journey from Lugano to Geneva is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming Swiss countryside along the route.
A day trip from Lugano to Geneva is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 53m. The distance is 134 miles (217 km). There are 15 trains per day.
In Geneva, explore the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and historical buildings, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Geneva for stunning views of the city and Alps, and visit the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. Discover the vibrant Carouge district known for its bohemian atmosphere, and relax at Bains des Pâquis. Don't miss the Jet d'Eau fountain, St. Pierre Cathedral, Parc des Bastions, Palais des Nations, and Patek Philippe Museum.
Typically, 2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Geneva's main attractions, including the Jet d'Eau, the United Nations Office, and the Old Town, while also enjoying the city's parks and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Geneva.
Since both Lugano and Geneva 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 Geneva include Lausanne, Montreux, Bern, Sion, Martigny.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Geneva 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 Geneva, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides can occur, so using official taxis or ride-sharing apps is recommended. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Overall, Geneva is considered safe, but maintaining vigilance in busy areas helps prevent common safety issues.
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 Geneva
Lugano
Geneva
The major train station for departures in Lugano is Lugano, Stazione. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lugano, Stazione for your trip from Lugano to Geneva.
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Lugano Città (funicolare)
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
ATM
WC
Hotel
Bike RentalThe major train station for arrivals in Geneva is Genève. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Genève for your journey to Geneva from Lugano.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Rue de Montbrillant.
Dining
- Le Bistrot de Charlotte
- Les Brasseurs
- La Matze Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Warwick Geneva
- Hotel Cornavin
- ibis Styles Genève Gare
Shower
- Cost CHF 10
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 532 places
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for trains to France, Italy, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Genève
- Tram: Line 14, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Regional and international connections
Genève, Cornavin
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalAmenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
4 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours. Access via Route de l'Aéroport.
Dining
- Le Chef Genève Aéroport
- Montreux Jazz Café
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Novotel Suites Geneva
- ibis Geneva Airport Hotel
- Mövenpick Hotel & Casino Geneva
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 190 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for trains to Geneva city center and other Swiss destinations
Public transit options for Genève-Aéroport
- Train: Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) connections to Geneva city center and other destinations
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 15
Most popular train connections from Lugano
More options for your journey from Lugano to Geneva
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Geneva and Lugano
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
