Lugano to Geneva train with SBB

Sat, May 02
+ Add return
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Geneva

Showing times and prices for May 02

Cheapest price

$138

Average price

$159

Fastest journey

4 h 53 m

Average duration

4 h 58 m

Trains per day

13

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 $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $138.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Lugano to Geneva without transferring at least once.

  • SBBIC 2 874 | 874 · IC 902 | 902
    11:02 AM5h23
    Lugano, Stazione
    4:25 PMGeneva station
    $1381One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBB 4 4083 | 4083 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 902 | 902
    10:47 AM5h38
    Lugano
    4:25 PMGeneva station
    $1401One-way
    2 transfers
  • SBBIC 2 870 | 870 · IC 900 | 900
    9:02 AM5h23
    Lugano, Stazione
    2:25 PMGeneva station
    $1411One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBB 4 4051 | 4051 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 900 | 900
    8:47 AM5h38
    Lugano
    2:25 PMGeneva station
    $1431One-way
    2 transfers
  • SBBIC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 90 1818 | 1818
    9:02 AM4h53
    Lugano, Stazione
    1:55 PMGeneva station
    $1461One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, 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 $45. 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 $45, and a flight costs an average of $57.

Distance: 134 miles (217 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

$124

Average price

$52

Average price

Cheapest

$192

Average price

5h 27m

Average total duration

4h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 5m

Average total duration

4h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 45m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

0.7 - 1.3kg

CO2 emissions

SBB

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Air Baltic

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Lugano to Geneva train times

The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Geneva trains for today, Friday, May 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbbB 4 4051 | 4051 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 90 1818 | 18188:47 AM Lugano
5h08
1:55 PM Geneva station3 transfers
sbbB 4 4051 | 4051 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 1 716 | 7168:47 AM Lugano
5h38
2:25 PM Geneva station2 transfers
sbbIC 2 870 | 870 · IC 1 716 | 7169:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
5h23
2:25 PM Geneva station1 transfer
sbbIC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 90 1818 | 18189:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
4h53
1:55 PM Geneva station2 transfers
sbbB 2 2084 | 2084 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 25209:45 AM Lugano
5h20
3:05 PM Geneva station2 transfers
sbbB 2 2084 | 2084 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 18209:45 AM Lugano
5h10
2:55 PM Geneva station3 transfers
sbbIC 21 672 | 672 · IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 90 1820 | 182010:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
4h53
2:55 PM Geneva station2 transfers
sbbIC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 252010:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
5h03
3:05 PM Geneva station1 transfer
sbbB 2 2100 | 2100 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 · IR 90 1822 | 182210:45 AM Lugano
5h10
3:55 PM Geneva station3 transfers
sbbB 2 2100 | 2100 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 1 720 | 72010:45 AM Lugano
5h40
4:25 PM Geneva station2 transfers
sbbIC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 · IR 90 1822 | 182211:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
4h53
3:55 PM Geneva station2 transfers
sbbIC 2 874 | 874 · IC 1 720 | 72011:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
5h23
4:25 PM Geneva station1 transfer

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 bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, 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.

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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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lugano to Geneva

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Lugano to Geneva run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $74 (€59) but you can travel from only $45 (€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 $45 (€36)
Distance
134 miles (217 km)
Average train duration
4h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
$74 (€59)
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
Sun
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 $45 (€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 $45 (€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
$74 (€59)
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
$244 (€196)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$254 (€204)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
12 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Geneva can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $74 (€59), while the average price is around $124 (€99).
The train from Lugano to Geneva takes 4h 53m and runs 17 per day.
The first train from Lugano to Geneva leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Lugano to Geneva is 134 miles (217 km).
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 $45 (€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
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
Lugano Città (funicolare)Accessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km

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