- Must visit
Musée cantonal des Beaux-Arts Lausanne (MCBA)
Flagship art museum in the Plateforme 10 district, with major Swiss and international works from past centuries to today.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Lausanne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$102
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$118
Fastest journey on Sep 08
4 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
4 h 18 m
Trains on Sep 08
20
Distance
187 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Lausanne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lugano to Lausanne will cost around $118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $102.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lugano to Lausanne without transferring at least once.
IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316 · IR 15 2518 | 25189:02 AM4h18Lugano, Stazione1:20 PMLausanne station$1021One-way2 transfers- IC 2 874 | 874 · IR 26 2320 | 2320 · IR 15 2522 | 252211:02 AM4h18Lugano, Stazione3:20 PMLausanne station$1031One-way2 transfers
- B 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316 · IR 15 2518 | 25188:47 AM4h33Lugano1:20 PMLausanne station$1041One-way3 transfers
- IC 2 1474 | 1474 · IR 15 2524 | 2524+
IR VAE 2018 | 201811:30 AM4h50Lugano, Stazione4:20 PMLausanne station$1041One-way2 transfers - IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 252010:02 AM4h18Lugano, Stazione2:20 PMLausanne station$1051One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 252010:02 AM4h18Lugano, Stazione2:20 PMLausanne station$1051One-way1 transfer
- IC 2 874 | 874 · IR 26 2320 | 2320 · IR 15 2522 | 252211:02 AM4h18Lugano, Stazione3:20 PMLausanne station$1031One-way2 transfers
- IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316 · IR 15 2518 | 25189:02 AM4h18Lugano, Stazione1:20 PMLausanne station$1021One-way2 transfers
- EC 178 | 178 · IR 15 2524 | 252412:02 PM4h18Lugano, Stazione4:20 PMLausanne station$1601One-way1 transfer
- IC 2 878 | 878 · IR 26 2324 | 2324 · IR 15 2526 | 25261:02 PM4h18Lugano, Stazione5:20 PMLausanne station$1081One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Lugano to Lausanne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Lausanne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $51 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 4h 27m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, while a train costs an average of $102.
Distance: 116 miles (187 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$102 Average price | $51 Average price Cheapest | $118 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 46m Average total duration 4h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m 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 Lausanne is a bus with an average price of $51 (€41).
This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Lausanne:
A bus is $51 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Lausanne costing on average $102 (€82).
The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Lausanne is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 57m.
Other travel options to Lausanne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lugano and Lausanne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Lausanne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 3m faster (4h 16m by train vs 4h 19m by car) and roughly $16 (€13) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($102 (€82) vs $118 (€96)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lugano to Lausanne train times
The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Lausanne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 | 8:47 AM Lugano | 4h39 | 1:26 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| B 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316 · IR 15 2518 | 2518 | 8:47 AM Lugano | 4h33 | 1:20 PM Lausanne station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2 870 | 870 · IC 5 518 | 518 | 9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h24 | 1:26 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316 · IR 15 2518 | 2518 | 9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h18 | 1:20 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| B 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 2520 | 9:47 AM Lugano | 4h33 | 2:20 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 672 | 672 · IR 15 2520 | 2520 | 10:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h18 | 2:20 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| B 4 4081 | 4081 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 | 10:47 AM Lugano | 4h39 | 3:26 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| B 4 4081 | 4081 · IC 2 874 | 874 · IR 26 2320 | 2320 · IR 15 2522 | 2522 | 10:47 AM Lugano | 4h33 | 3:20 PM Lausanne station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2 874 | 874 · IR 26 2320 | 2320 · IR 15 2522 | 2522 | 11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h18 | 3:20 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2 874 | 874 · IC 5 522 | 522 | 11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h24 | 3:26 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| B 4 4089 | 4089 · IC 2 1474 | 1474 · IR 15 2524 | 2524+IR VAE 2018 | 2018 | 11:17 AM Lugano | 5h03 | 4:20 PM Lausanne station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2 1474 | 1474 · IR 15 2524 | 2524+IR VAE 2018 | 2018 | 11:30 AM Lugano, Stazione | 4h50 | 4:20 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| B 4 4097 | 4097 · RE 80 25514 | 25514 · PE 72 54 | 54 · EC 142 | 142 | 11:47 AM Lugano | 5h01 | 4:48 PM Lausanne station | 3 transfers | |
| B 4 4097 | 4097 · EC 178 | 178 · IR 15 2524 | 2524 | 11:47 AM Lugano | 4h33 | 4:20 PM Lausanne 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 Lausanne 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.
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lugano to Lausanne
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Lugano to Lausanne run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€58) but you can travel from only $45 (€36) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 116 miles (187 km) distance in 4h 18m.
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 116 miles (187 km) |
Average train duration 4h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€58) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lugano to Lausanne trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Lausanne 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 SBB Duration
4h 18m
Cheapest SBB Price
$71 (€58)
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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
4h 18m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
$182 (€147)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Lausanne
Things to do in Lausanne
Discover the best of Lausanne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lausanne trip today.
- Must visit
The Olympic Museum
Olympic museum on the lakeside with torches, medals, athlete stories, and interactive displays. A global highlight for sports fans.
- Must visit
Collection de l'Art Brut
Art Brut pioneer museum founded from Jean Dubuffet's collection, showcasing powerful outsider art in an elegant historic mansion.
- Must visit
Ouchy Promenade
Iconic waterfront promenade with flower beds, harbor views, and Belle Époque hotels. Ideal for walking by Lake Geneva.
- Must visit
La Cité
Lausanne's medieval core of steep lanes, stairs, and historic squares. Best area for atmosphere, architecture, and wandering on foot.
- Must visit
Place de la Palud
Historic market square below the cathedral, known for its fountain, terraces, and access to Lausanne's old-town lanes.
- Vegetarian
Fondue Vaudoise
A bubbling cheese fondue from nearby Vaud, usually made with Gruyère and Vacherin. It is a classic social dish of French-speaking Switzerland.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Raclette
Melted Raclette cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions. Strongly tied to western Switzerland and popular in Lausanne in colder months.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Papet Vaudois
Leeks and potatoes cooked slowly with cream and butter, often served with sausage. It is one of the signature traditional dishes of the canton of Vaud.
Anne-Sophie Pic Au Beau-Rivage Palace
Elegant lakeside fine dining led by a renowned chef. Known for refined seasonal cuisine, polished service, and a prestigious setting.
Le Chalet Suisse
Traditional lakeside restaurant known for Lake Geneva fish, especially perch fillets, with classic regional cooking and water views.
Brasserie De Montbenon
Historic brasserie near the old town, famous for hearty Swiss classics, sausage dishes, and a lively traditional atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Lausanne is costly even by European standards; hotels, dining, and local transit are pricier than in most nearby cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes.
Official public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.80
- Day pass
- CHF 9.20
To the city center
Lausanne-Flon, Lausanne -> Lausanne Gare, Lausanne
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets before boarding; Lausanne buses and metro use proof-of-payment inspections.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not generally onboard vehicles.
FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Lausanne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Lausanne 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 Lausanne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Lausanne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $71 (€58), while the average price is around $102 (€82).
The train from Lugano to Lausanne takes 4h 18m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Lugano to Lausanne is 116 miles (187 km).
The first train from Lugano to Lausanne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Lugano to Lausanne leaves at 11:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Lausanne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lugano to Lausanne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Lausanne.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Lausanne is Lugano, Stazione, which connects to Lausanne station.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Lausanne is by bus, with a cost of around $45 (€36).
Yes, the train journey from Lugano to Lausanne is scenic, offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque lakes, and charming Swiss villages along the way.
A day trip from Lugano to Lausanne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 18m. However, trains run 14 times per day for this 116 miles (187 km) journey.
In Lausanne, you can explore the vibrant Flon District with its trendy shops and nightlife, take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva for picturesque views, visit the diverse Lausanne Botanical Garden, or enjoy a wine tasting tour in the nearby Lavaux vineyards. Attend a performance at the Lausanne Opera for culture and entertainment. Must-see sights include the Gothic Lausanne Cathedral, the engaging Olympic Museum, the unique Collection de l'Art Brut, the scenic Ouchy Promenade, and the Hermitage Foundation art museum.
Three days in Lausanne is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Olympic Museum, the historic Old Town, and the beautiful lakeside promenade.
Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Lausanne.
Since both Lugano and Lausanne 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 Lausanne include Geneva, Bern, Montreux, Martigny, Sion.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Lausanne 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 Lausanne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or asking for donations. It’s advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Public transportation is generally safe, but always stay alert to avoid petty theft.
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 Lausanne
Most Lugano to Lausanne trains use the Lugano, Stazione to Lausanne station pair. Use this guide to compare Lugano and Lausanne 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 Lausanne
Which Lugano station do trains to Lausanne leave from?
Trains from Lugano to Lausanne leave from Lugano, Stazione. The station is from Lugano city centre at 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.
Lugano, Stazione6900 Lugano, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano, Stazione from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 7m · $4 · every ~10 min
6 · 10m · $4 · every ~10 min
461 · 12m · $7 · every ~5 min
Lugano, Stazione train station facilities and services
Lugano, Stazione has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano, Stazione.
Which Lausanne station do trains from Lugano arrive at?
Trains from Lugano to Lausanne arrive at Lausanne. Lausanne is from Lausanne city centre.
LausannePlace de la Gare 5, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland+41 51 225 78 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Lausanne from Lausanne city centre
Bus1, 2, 4, 8, 9 · 9m · $6 · every ~65 min
Lausanne train station facilities and services
Lausanne 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: Cafe du Grutli, Le Chalet Suisse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lausanne. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lausanne. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lausanne: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lausanne: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lausanne: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne Palace, Hotel Continental.
Most popular train connections from Lugano
More options for your journey from Lugano to Lausanne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lausanne and Lugano
Most popular train connections to Lausanne
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