- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
Major fine arts museum in a former abbey, with strong collections from antiquity to modern art. A core cultural stop in Lyon.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Lyon
Showing times and prices for Jul 21
Cheapest price
$93
Average price
$93
Fastest journey
13 h 17 m
Average duration
13 h 17 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
319 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Lyon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lugano to Lyon will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lugano to Lyon without transferring at least once.
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9:55 PM13h17Lugano11:12 AMLyon$931One-way1 transfer
- 9:55 PM13h17Lugano11:12 AMLyon$931One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lugano to Lyon
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a flight costs an average of $66.
Distance: 198 miles (319 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest | $164 Average price | $312 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 24m Average total duration 6h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 23m Average total duration 8h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration Fastest 3h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Lugano to Lyon is a bus with an average price of $50 (€41).
This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Lyon:
A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Lyon costing on average $93 (€76).
A bus is $114 (€93) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lugano to Lyon costing on average $164 (€134).
The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Lyon is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 15m.
Other travel options to Lyon take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 54m.
Bus takes on average 8h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lugano and Lyon including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Lyon 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 $93 (€76) compared to roughly $312 (€256) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $219 (€180). The journey takes 6h 54m versus 5h 37m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Lyon 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lugano to Lyon
Switzerland
France
Trains from Lugano to Lyon run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $93 (€76) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:30, the last at 12:05. The fastest train covers the 198 miles (319 km) distance in 6h 30m.
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 $29 (€24)
Distance 198 miles (319 km) |
Average train duration 6h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $93 (€76) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 6h 30m |
First train 8:30 AM |
Last train 12:05 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 56 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 $29 (€24)
Train companies: SBB, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lugano to Lyon trainsSBB, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Lyon from $29 (€24). 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
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
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€76)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Lyon
Things to do in Lyon
Discover the best of Lyon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lyon trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Cinéma et Miniature
Museum of cinema miniatures and film props in Vieux Lyon. Popular for detailed sets, special-effects history, and family-friendly exhibits.
- Must visit
Musée des Confluences
Excellent free natural history and ethnography museum with fossils, animals, and global cultures. A strong local favorite, especially for families.
- Must visit
Vieux Lyon
Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes, traboules, courtyards, and major monuments. Essential for atmosphere, history, and walking exploration.
- Must visit
Presqu'île
Central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône, packed with elegant streets, squares, shopping, and many of Lyon’s classic city views.
- Must visit
La Croix-Rousse
Historic silk-workers’ hill district with stairways, murals, markets, and hidden passageways. Great for local character and city panoramas.
Quenelles De Brochet
Pike dumplings in a rich crayfish sauce. A Lyon classic from traditional bouchons, prized for its delicate fish texture and luxurious sauce.
Salade Lyonnaise
Crisp salad of frisée, bacon lardons, croutons, and a poached egg. A staple Lyonnaise bistro dish that reflects the city's hearty cooking style.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cervelle De Canut
Slow-cooked onions with vinegar, often served warm or chilled. This old Lyonnais side dish is traditional in bouchons and pairs well with charcuterie.
L'Auberge Du Pont De Collonges
Refined dining by Paul Bocuse, known for polished French cuisine and iconic Lyon dishes in an elegant, historic dining room.
Le Musée
Well-known traditional bouchon in Vieux Lyon, praised for generous Lyonnais specialties and a lively old-city atmosphere.
Café Comptoir Abel
Historic bouchon near Place Bellecour serving quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and classic regional fare in a warm traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while public transport is good value for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Lyon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Lyon 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 Lyon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Lyon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $93 (€76), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The train from Lugano to Lyon runs once a day and takes approximately 6h 30m.
The distance by train from Lugano to Lyon is 198 miles (319 km).
The first train from Lugano to Lyon leaves at 8:30 AM.
The last train from Lugano to Lyon leaves at 12:05 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lugano to Lyon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lugano to Lyon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Lyon.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Lyon is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from Lugano to Lyon is indeed scenic, offering views of the picturesque Swiss landscape, including lush green valleys and the majestic Alps, as well as charming French countryside as you approach Lyon.
A day trip from Lugano to Lyon is not feasible due to a travel duration of 6h 30m and a distance of 198 miles (319 km). The frequency of trains is 2 per day.
In Lyon, you can explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an indoor market offering gourmet food, take a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône, and discover the secret passageways of the traboules in Vieux Lyon. Attend a performance at the Opéra de Lyon or visit the Institut Lumière for cinema history. Don't miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views, Vieux Lyon for its Renaissance architecture, Parc de la Tête d'Or with its zoo and botanical garden, the Musée des Confluences, or the bustling Place Bellecour.
For a fulfilling experience in Lyon, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows you to explore key attractions such as Vieux Lyon, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Musée des Confluences, while also enjoying the city's renowned gastronomy and vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Lyon.
Since both Lugano and Lyon 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 Lyon include Annecy, Saint-Étienne, Avignon, Grenoble, Perouges.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Lyon 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lyon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist spots, and markets. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Staying alert in busy zones ensures a safer visit.
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.
More options for your journey from Lugano to Lyon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lyon and Lugano
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