- Must visit
Museo dell'Abbazia di San Fruttuoso
Abbey museum in a secluded bay with historic interiors, cloisters, and monastic collections. It is one of the region’s most atmospheric cultural sites.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Portofino
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$45
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$45
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 15 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
190 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Portofino is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lugano to Portofino will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Lugano to Portofino, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 190 km distance in an average of 4 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 15 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 15 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.
10:30 AM4h15Lugano2:45 PMPortofino$451One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 AM4h15Lugano2:45 PMPortofino$451One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Lugano to Portofino
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Portofino among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 39m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, while a flight costs an average of $619.
Distance: 118 miles (190 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$62 Average price | $619 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 39m Average total duration Fastest 4h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 16m Average total duration 3h 16m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 54m Average total duration 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lugano to Portofino is a bus with an average price of $39.
This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Portofino:
A bus is $23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Portofino costing on average $62.
A bus is $580 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lugano to Portofino costing on average $619.
The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Portofino is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 16m.
Other travel options to Portofino take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 9m.
Bus takes on average 4h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lugano and Portofino including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Portofino 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 $62 compared to roughly $56 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-6.24. The journey takes 4h 9m versus 3h 8m 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 Portofino train times
The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Portofino trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:30 AM Lugano | 4h15 | 2:45 PM Portofino | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Portofino 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lugano to Portofino
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Lugano to Portofino run on average 11 times per day, taking around 4h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 but you can travel from only $26 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 19:30. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 3h 25m.
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 $26
Distance 118 miles (190 km) |
Average train duration 4h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 3h 25m |
First train 4:44 AM |
Last train 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $26
Train companies: Intercity, Regionale from Lugano to Portofino trainsIntercity, Regionale trains will get you between Lugano and Portofino from $26. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$64
Intercity frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regionale Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest Regionale Price
$55
Regionale frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Portofino
Things to do in Portofino
Discover the best of Portofino — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portofino trip today.
- Recommended
Museo del Parco Castello Brown
Museum inside Portofino’s hilltop castle with exhibitions on local history and culture, plus one of the best panoramic terraces in the village.
- Recommended
Museo Giannettino Luxoro
Museum area at the nearby Giannettino Luxoro villa with decorative arts and historic interiors. It is a refined lesser-known cultural stop on the coast.
- Must visit
Piazzetta di Portofino
Portofino’s famous harbor square lined with colorful buildings. It is the essential place to stroll, sit, and absorb the village atmosphere.
- Must visit
Calata Marconi
Scenic waterfront promenade around the harbor with postcard views of boats and facades. It is ideal for a short classic Portofino walk.
- Must visit
Sentiero Portofino - San Fruttuoso
Popular path linking Portofino to San Fruttuoso through Portofino Natural Park. It rewards walkers with forest, cliffs, and sea views.
- Vegetarian
Trofie Al Pesto
Traditional Genoese basil sauce with pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano and olive oil, usually served with trofie. A Ligurian icon eaten throughout the Portofino area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Farinata
Thin savory chickpea pancake baked in a hot oven. Popular across Liguria as a simple street food and naturally free of gluten ingredients.
- Vegetarian
Pansoti
Fresh ravioli filled with wild herbs, greens and ricotta, often served with butter, sage or light sauce. A classic festive pasta from the Ligurian coast.
La Terrazza
Elegant Michelin-starred dining at Splendido with refined Ligurian tasting menus and panoramic Riviera views in a historic luxury hotel setting.
Ristorante Puny
Waterfront fine dining in the harbor, known for fresh seafood, classic Ligurian dishes and polished service with iconic Portofino scenery.
Taverna del Marinaio
Stylish restaurant and wine bar near the marina, serving seafood, pasta and Ligurian plates in a relaxed but polished setting.
Euro (€)
Portofino is pricier than many Italian coastal towns, with high hotel rates, upscale dining, and premium waterfront cafés; transit costs are moderate.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €12-18 for focaccia, panini, or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2-4 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included via coperto or servizio. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine at cafés.
AMT Genova
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- €10.00
To the city center
Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino -> Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta, Portofino
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy the Portofino bus ticket before boarding when possible; the Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino route is often busy in peak season.
- Contactless bank card payment may not be available on all local buses, so carry a valid ticket or cash as backup.
FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Portofino
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Portofino 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 Portofino, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Portofino can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55, while the average price is around $62.
The train from Lugano to Portofino takes 3h 25m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Lugano to Portofino leaves at 4:44 AM.
The distance by train from Lugano to Portofino is 118 miles (190 km).
The last train from Lugano to Portofino leaves at 7:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Portofino.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lugano to Portofino.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Portofino.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Portofino is Lugano FLP, which connects to Rapallo station.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Portofino is by bus, with a cost of around $26.
Yes, the train journey from Lugano to Portofino is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Swiss and Italian landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Lugano to Portofino is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 25m. However, there are 20 trains available per day for this route. The distance between the two locations is 118 miles (190 km).
In Portofino, you can hike to the Lighthouse of Portofino for stunning views over the Ligurian Sea, relax at Paraggi Beach, visit the secluded Abbey of San Fruttuoso, and enjoy a boat tour along the Ligurian coast. Don't miss indulging in local cuisine at a traditional Italian trattoria. For best sights, explore Castello Brown, Portofino Marina, the Church of San Giorgio, and the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino.
To fully experience Portofino, including its scenic harbor, nearby hiking trails, and luxury shopping, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Portofino.
Since both Lugano and Portofino 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 Portofino include Genoa, Pisa, La Spezia, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Portofino 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Portofino, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and near popular attractions. Overpriced taxis and unlicensed tour operators may also pose risks. It's advisable to use official services and stay alert in busy spots to avoid scams.
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 Portofino
Most Lugano to Portofino trains use the Lugano FLP to S. Margherita Ligure-Portofino station pair. Use this guide to compare Lugano and Portofino 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 Portofino
Which Lugano station do trains to Portofino leave from?
Trains from Lugano to Portofino leave from Lugano FLP. The station is from Lugano city centre at Piazzale Stazione, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.
Lugano FLPPiazzale Stazione, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland+41 91 923 23 23
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano FLP from Lugano city centre
BusSeveral lines available
FunicularConnection to Lugano city center
Lugano FLP train station facilities and services
Lugano FLP has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto, Ristorante Trani
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lugano FLP. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lugano FLP. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lugano FLP: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lugano FLP: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano FLP: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Lugano Dante Center, Hotel Federale Lugano, Hotel Pestalozzi Lugano.
Most popular train connections from Lugano
More options for your journey from Lugano to Portofino
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portofino and Lugano
Most popular train connections to Portofino
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