LUGANO to LUCERNE train from $14 with SBB

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Lucerne

Showing times and prices for Aug 23

Cheapest price

$50

Average price

$90

Fastest journey

1 h 39 m

Average duration

1 h 39 m

Trains per day

Distance

126 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Lucerne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Lugano to Lucerne will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.

Fast trains

Of the 32 trains that leave Lugano for Lucerne on Sun, Aug 23, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Aug 23 the direct trains cover the 126 km distance in an average of 1 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 39 m .

On Sun, Aug 23 the slowest trains will take 1 h 39 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.

IC 2 866 | 866 · IR 26 2312 | 2312
7:02 AM1h39
Lugano, Stazione
8:41 AMLucerne station
$501One-way
1 transfer
B 4 4003 | 4003 · IC 21 664 | 664
5:44 AM1h57
Lugano
7:41 AMLucerne station
$501One-way
1 transfer
B 4 4019 | 4019 · IC 2 866 | 866 · IR 26 2312 | 2312
6:47 AM1h54
Lugano
8:41 AMLucerne station
$521One-way
2 transfers
EC 10 | 10+IR VAE 2012 | 2012
8:30 AM1h51
Lugano, Stazione
10:21 AMLucerne station
$731One-way
1 transfer
B 4 4043 | 4043 · EC 10 | 10+IR VAE 2012 | 2012
8:17 AM2h04
Lugano
10:21 AMLucerne station
$761One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Lugano to Lucerne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Lucerne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a train costs an average of $50.

Distance: 78 miles (126 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Driving
$67 Average price	$27 Average price Cheapest	$93 Average price (fuel + tolls)
4h 47m Average total duration 4h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 41m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Your own car or car rental
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 Lucerne is a bus with an average price of $27.

This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Lucerne:

A bus is $40 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Lucerne costing on average $67.

The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Lucerne is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 11m.

Other travel options to Lucerne take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lugano and Lucerne including taking a train and bus.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Lucerne 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 $67 compared to roughly $93 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $26. The journey takes 4h 17m versus 2h 9m 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.

Direct services run with SBB, Rhatische Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).

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 Lucerne train times

The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Lucerne trains for today, Saturday, August 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 21 680 \| 680	2:02 PM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	3:41 PM Lucerne station	0 transfersDirect
B 4 4137 \| 4137 · EC 16 \| 16+IR VAE 2024 \| 2024	2:17 PM Lugano	2h04	4:21 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
EC 16 \| 16+IR VAE 2024 \| 2024	2:30 PM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	4:21 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
Sunday, August 23
B 4 4003 \| 4003 · IC 21 664 \| 664	5:44 AM Lugano	1h57	7:41 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4019 \| 4019 · IC 2 866 \| 866 · IR 26 2312 \| 2312	6:47 AM Lugano	1h54	8:41 AM Lucerne station	2 transfers
IC 2 866 \| 866 · IR 26 2312 \| 2312	7:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	8:41 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4027 \| 4027 · IC 2 1466 \| 1466+IR VAE 2010 \| 2010	7:17 AM Lugano	2h04	9:21 AM Lucerne station	2 transfers
IC 2 1466 \| 1466+IR VAE 2010 \| 2010	7:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	9:21 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4035 \| 4035 · IC 21 668 \| 668	7:47 AM Lugano	1h54	9:41 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
IC 21 668 \| 668	8:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	9:41 AM Lucerne station	0 transfersDirect
B 4 4043 \| 4043 · EC 10 \| 10+IR VAE 2012 \| 2012	8:17 AM Lugano	2h04	10:21 AM Lucerne station	2 transfers
EC 10 \| 10+IR VAE 2012 \| 2012	8:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	10:21 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4051 \| 4051 · IC 2 870 \| 870 · IR 26 2316 \| 2316	8:47 AM Lugano	1h54	10:41 AM Lucerne station	2 transfers
IC 2 870 \| 870 · IR 26 2316 \| 2316	9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	10:41 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4059 \| 4059 · EC 12 \| 12+IR VAE 2014 \| 2014	9:17 AM Lugano	2h04	11:21 AM Lucerne station	2 transfers
PE 3092 \| 3092	9:18 AM Lugano, Stazione	5h29	2:47 PM Luzern Bahnhofquai	0 transfersDirect
EC 12 \| 12+IR VAE 2014 \| 2014	9:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	11:21 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4067 \| 4067 · IC 21 672 \| 672	9:47 AM Lugano	1h54	11:41 AM Lucerne station	1 transfer
IC 21 672 \| 672	10:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	11:41 AM Lucerne station	0 transfersDirect
B 4 4075 \| 4075 · EC 14 \| 14+IR VAE 2016 \| 2016	10:17 AM Lugano	2h04	12:21 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
EC 14 \| 14+IR VAE 2016 \| 2016	10:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	12:21 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4083 \| 4083 · IC 2 874 \| 874 · IR 26 2320 \| 2320	10:47 AM Lugano	1h54	12:41 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
IC 2 874 \| 874 · IR 26 2320 \| 2320	11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	12:41 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4091 \| 4091 · IC 2 1474 \| 1474+IR VAE 2018 \| 2018	11:17 AM Lugano	2h04	1:21 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
IC 2 1474 \| 1474+IR VAE 2018 \| 2018	11:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	1:21 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4099 \| 4099 · EC 178 \| 178	11:47 AM Lugano	1h54	1:41 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
EC 178 \| 178	12:02 PM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	1:41 PM Lucerne station	0 transfersDirect
B 4 4107 \| 4107 · EC 150 \| 150+IR VAE 2020 \| 2020	12:17 PM Lugano	2h04	2:21 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
EC 150 \| 150+IR VAE 2020 \| 2020	12:30 PM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	2:21 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4115 \| 4115 · IC 2 878 \| 878 · IR 26 2324 \| 2324	12:47 PM Lugano	1h54	2:41 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
IC 2 878 \| 878 · IR 26 2324 \| 2324	1:02 PM Lugano, Stazione	1h39	2:41 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4123 \| 4123 · EC 30 \| 30+IR VAE 2022 \| 2022	1:17 PM Lugano	2h04	3:21 PM Lucerne station	2 transfers
EC 30 \| 30+IR VAE 2022 \| 2022	1:30 PM Lugano, Stazione	1h51	3:21 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
B 4 4131 \| 4131 · IC 21 680 \| 680	1:47 PM Lugano	1h54	3:41 PM Lucerne station	1 transfer
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Lucerne by train or bus

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Why should you book Lugano to Lucerne trains with Omio?

SBB as well as Rhatische Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) and more offer trains services from Lugano to Lucerne.

Omio is the only official third party seller for SBB tickets.

Why book with Omio vs SBB?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SBB, but also compare tickets for the likes of Rhatische Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Trenitalia EuroCity or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Lugano to Lucerne.
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 SBB with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lugano to Lucerne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lugano to Lucerne?

The best time to book your train from Lugano to Lucerne is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Lugano to Lucerne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Lugano to Lucerne 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 Lucerne.

Trains

from $53

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lugano to Lucerne

Switzerland

Trains from Lugano to Lucerne run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 but you can travel from only $14 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (126 km) distance in 1h 39m.

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 $14

Distance

78 miles (126 km)

Average train duration

4h 17m

Cheapest ticket price

$50

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

1h 39m

First train

12:05 AM

Last train

11:18 PM

Cheapest Month

Sep

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

91 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $14

Train companies: SBB, Rhatische Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lugano to Lucerne trainsSBB, Rhatische Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Lucerne from $14. 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

1h 39m

Cheapest Price

$50

SBB frequency

16 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

Learn more about SBB

Rhatische Bahn

About

The Rhatische Bahn is a Swiss railway network that operates throughout the country. It is one of the most extensive and reliable railway networks in Europe, with over 1,000 km of track. The Rhatische Bahn operates a variety of train types, including the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and InterRegio. The Glacier Express is a scenic train that travels between Zermatt and St. Moritz, while the Bernina Express is a panoramic train that travels between Chur and Tirano. The InterRegio is a regional train that connects major cities in Switzerland. The Rhatische Bahn offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, day tickets, and multi-day tickets. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a variety of food and beverage options.The most popular routes for the Rhatische Bahn are the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and InterRegio. These routes offer stunning views of the Swiss Alps, as well as convenient access to major cities in Switzerland.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Rhatische Bahn frequency

3 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Restaurant cars on some routes, bistro service available

Seat reservation

Seat reservations recommended during peak seasons and holidays, additional fee applies

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible trains, ramps available, assistance for boarding/alighting

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

Quiet zone

Learn more about Rhatische Bahn

Gotthard Panorama Express

Luggage & cancellation policy

Gotthard Panorama Express frequency

1 a day

Trenitalia EuroCity

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

1h 51m

Cheapest Price

$124

Trenitalia EuroCity frequency

5 a day

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

1h 39m

Cheapest Price

$106

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency

11 a day

Complete guide to Lucerne

Things to do in Lucerne

Discover the best of Lucerne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lucerne trip today.

Must visit

Swiss Museum of Transport

Swiss Transport Museum with trains, planes, cars, simulators, and media exhibits. Lucerne’s top family-friendly museum.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Sammlung Rosengart

Collection of Pablo Picasso works in a historic building once linked to the artist’s celebrated 1930s Lucerne exhibition.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Kunstmuseum Luzern

Jean Nouvel-designed art museum showing modern and contemporary works in a superb lakeside cultural complex.

View on map Visit website

Swiss franc (CHF)

Lucerne is pricier than most European cities, with high hotel rates, meals, and local transport, especially in peak tourist season.

Average meal costs

Budget: CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range: CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: CHF 80+ 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 service. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Lucerne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Lucerne 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 Lucerne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Lugano to Lucerne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50, while the average price is around $67.

The train from Lugano to Lucerne takes 1h 39m and runs 17 per day.

The first train from Lugano to Lucerne leaves at 12:05 AM.

The distance by train from Lugano to Lucerne is 78 miles (126 km).

The last train from Lugano to Lucerne leaves at 11:18 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Lucerne.

Yes, there is a direct train from Lugano to Lucerne. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by SBB, Rhatische Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Lucerne.

The train station in Lugano that goes to Lucerne is Lugano, Stazione, which connects to Lucerne station.

The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Lucerne is by bus, with a cost of around $14.

Yes, the train journey from Lugano to Lucerne is scenic, offering views of picturesque Swiss landscapes, including the beautiful Lake Lucerne, lush valleys, and impressive Alpine mountains.

Yes, a day trip from Lugano to Lucerne is feasible. The journey takes 1h 39m and covers 78 miles (126 km). Trains run 15 times per day.

In Lucerne, you can enjoy a picturesque boat tour or scenic walk by Lake Lucerne, explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks, and visit the Richard Wagner Museum. Take a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne for breathtaking mountain views or ride the world's steepest cogwheel railway to Mount Pilatus. Don't miss the historic Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the interactive Swiss Museum of Transport. For panoramic views, visit Mount Pilatus via cable car or cogwheel railway and explore the medieval Museggmauer city wall with its nine towers.

To fully enjoy Lucerne's key attractions such as Mount Pilatus, Lake Lucerne, and the Chapel Bridge, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows ample time for exploration and experiencing the city's charm.

Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Lucerne.

Since both Lugano and Lucerne 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 Lucerne include Zurich, Interlaken, Basel, Bern, Engelberg.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Lucerne 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 Lucerne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include distraction techniques used to steal wallets or bags. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Additionally, always use licensed taxi services and official ticket counters to avoid overcharging. Overall, Lucerne is considered safe, but standard urban vigilance is recommended.

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 Lucerne

Most Lugano to Lucerne trains use the Lugano, Stazione to Luzern Bhf station pair, with some services arriving at Luzern Bahnhofquai. Use this guide to compare Lugano and Lucerne 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 Lucerne

Which Lugano station do trains to Lucerne leave from?

Trains from Lugano to Lucerne leave from Lugano, Stazione. The station is from Lugano city centre at 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.

Lugano, Stazione6900 Lugano, Switzerland Accessibility

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.

More about Lugano, Stazione

Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo)Via Trevano 100, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo) from Lugano city centre

Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo) is 2 km from Lugano city centre. Public transport options include:

TRUE

Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo) train station facilities and services

Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Several dining options available.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi available throughout the station. ATMs are aTM machines located next to the ticket office.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lugano, Via Giacomo e Filippo Ciani (Stadio Cornaredo): Parking, Taxis, WC.