- Must visit
MASI Lugano
Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Montreux to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 11
Cheapest price on Sep 11
$101
Average ticket price on Sep 11
$130
Fastest journey on Sep 11
4 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 11
4 h 48 m
Trains on Sep 11
3
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Montreux to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Montreux to Lugano will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 11, we found 3 trains from Montreux to Lugano, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 11 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 4 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 35 m .
On Fri, Sep 11 the slowest trains will take 5 h 14 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.
7:23 AM4h35Montreux11:58 AMLugano$1011One-way0 transfers- 8:10 AM5h14Montreux1:24 PMLugano$1231One-way0 transfers
- 11:23 AM4h35Montreux3:58 PMLugano$1651One-way0 transfers
- 11:23 AM4h35Montreux3:58 PMLugano$1651One-way0 transfers
- 7:23 AM4h35Montreux11:58 AMLugano$1011One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM5h14Montreux1:24 PMLugano$1231One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Montreux to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Montreux to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $128 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 49m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $128, while a bus costs an average of $133.
Distance: 101 miles (164 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$128 Average price Cheapest | $133 Average price | $113 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 49m Average total duration Fastest 4h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 0m Average total duration 19h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m 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 Montreux to Lugano is a train with an average price of $128 (€104).
This is compared to other travel options from Montreux to Lugano:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Montreux to Lugano costing on average $133 (€108).
The fastest way to travel from Montreux to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 4h 19m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Montreux and Lugano including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Montreux to Lugano 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 $128 (€104) compared to roughly $113 (€91) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.64 (€-12.64). The journey takes 4h 19m versus 4h 16m 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
Montreux to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Montreux to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:23 AM Montreux | 4h35 | 11:58 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 AM Montreux | 5h14 | 1:24 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:23 AM Montreux | 4h35 | 3:58 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Montreux to Lugano 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.
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Why should you book Montreux to Lugano trains with Omio?
SBB as well as Rhatische Bahn or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Montreux to Lugano.
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 or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Montreux to Lugano.
- 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 Montreux to Lugano.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Montreux to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Montreux to Lugano run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $94 (€76) but you can travel from only $89 (€72) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:33, the last at 22:02. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 4h 4m.
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 $89 (€72)
Distance 101 miles (164 km) |
Average train duration 4h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $94 (€76) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 4m |
First train 12:33 AM |
Last train 10:02 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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 $89 (€72)
Train companies: SBB from Montreux to Lugano trainsSBB trains will get you between Montreux and Lugano from $94 (€76). 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 4m
Cheapest SBB Price
$94 (€76)
SBB frequency
6 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
Complete guide to Lugano
Things to do in Lugano
Discover the best of Lugano — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lugano trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Santa Maria degli Angioli
Intimate museum inside the church complex, famous for Bernardino Luini frescoes and Renaissance religious art of exceptional local importance.
- Recommended
Museo Hermann Hesse Montagnola
Museum and archive dedicated to writer Hermann Hesse in nearby Montagnola. It is essential for literary fans and lovers of the Collina d’Oro setting.
- Must visit
Parco Ciani
Lugano’s elegant waterfront park offers flowerbeds, sculptures, and lake views. It is one of the city’s most relaxing and photogenic walking areas.
- Must visit
Via Nassa
The city’s famous shopping street is lined with arcades, boutiques, and historic buildings. It is ideal for strolling through central Lugano.
- Must visit
Piazza della Riforma
Main square facing the lake and city hall, often animated by markets and events. It is the natural hub of Lugano’s historic center.
- Gluten-free
Polenta
A rich polenta dish from Ticino, often topped with braised beef, rabbit, or cheese. It reflects the region's Alpine farming roots and northern Italian influence.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Slow-cooked beef braise in red wine, commonly served with polenta. It is a hearty Ticinese classic suited to the cooler mountain climate.
- Gluten-free
Pesce Di Lago
Lake fish such as perch or pike-perch, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It showcases the fresh catch from nearby lakes in southern Switzerland.
Ristorante Principe Leopoldo
Elegant Michelin-starred dining at Villa Principe Leopoldo, known for refined Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic views over Lugano.
Ristorante La Cucina Di Alice
Historic lakeside restaurant serving polished Ticinese and Italian dishes in a classic setting near Parco Ciani.
Grotto Del Pep
Traditional grotto-style venue above Lugano, appreciated for local specialties, grilled meats, polenta, and a rustic hillside atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Very high by Swiss standards: hotels, dining, and local transport usually cost more than in nearby Italian cities and many European lake destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Round up small taxi fares and café bills.
Arcobaleno
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.30
- Day pass
- CHF 13.00
To the city center
Lugano Stazione -> Piazza della Riforma
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy Arcobaleno zone tickets before boarding buses and funiculars. Contactless card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not guaranteed onboard.
- For the city center from Lugano Stazione, the Funicolare Città–Stazione is usually the fastest option. Validate the correct zone before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Montreux to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Montreux to Lugano 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 Lugano, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Montreux to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $94 (€76), while the average price is around $128 (€104).
The train from Montreux to Lugano takes 4h 4m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Montreux to Lugano is 101 miles (164 km).
The first train from Montreux to Lugano leaves at 12:33 AM.
The last train from Montreux to Lugano leaves at 10:02 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Montreux to Lugano.
There is no direct train service currently available from Montreux to Lugano.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Montreux to Lugano.
The train station in Montreux that goes to Lugano is Montreux station, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Montreux to Lugano is by train, with a cost of around $94 (€76).
Yes, the train journey from Montreux to Lugano is scenic, offering views of Lake Geneva, the Swiss Alps, and picturesque landscapes as you travel through the beautiful Swiss countryside.
A day trip from Montreux to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 4m. The distance is 101 miles (164 km), and there are 15 train trips available per day.
In Lugano, you can enjoy scenic boat tours and lakeside promenades around Lake Lugano, with stunning views. Hike or take a funicular to Monte San Salvatore for breathtaking regional views, and explore vibrant local markets for Swiss culture and cuisine. Visit the Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola, stroll through the historic streets of Lugano's Old Town, or enjoy panoramic views from Monte Brè. Relax at Parco Ciani, experience culture at Lugano Arte e Cultura, and explore Swissminiatur's miniature landmarks. Discover Gandria, a charming village with traditional architecture.
To fully experience Lugano, including its scenic lakeside views, cultural attractions, and nearby hiking trails, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Montreux to Lugano.
Since both Montreux and Lugano 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 Lugano include Milan, Como, Bellinzona, Locarno, Chiasso.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Montreux to Lugano 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 Lugano, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include distraction techniques used by thieves near popular tourist spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and remain vigilant in busy places. Overall, Lugano is considered safe, but usual travel precautions apply.
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 Montreux to Lugano
Most Montreux to Lugano trains use the Montreux to Lugano, Stazione station pair. Use this guide to compare Montreux and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Montreux
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Montreux station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Montreux to Lugano leave from Montreux. The station is from Montreux city centre at Avenue des Alpes 45, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland.
MontreuxAvenue des Alpes 45, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland+41 21 989 81 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Montreux from Montreux city centre
Bus204, 205, 206 · 1m · $2 · every ~20 min
290, 291 · 1m · $2
Montreux train station facilities and services
Montreux has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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: Restaurant Zurcher, La Rouvenaz
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Montreux. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Montreux. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Montreux: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Montreux: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Montreux: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, Eurotel Montreux, Hotel Eden Palace au Lac.
Montreux-Les Planches1820 Montreux, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Montreux-Les Planches from Montreux city centre
Bus206 · 4m · $4 · every ~4 min
Montreux-Les Planches train station facilities and services
Montreux-Les Planches has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Montreux-Les Planches.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Montreux-Les Planches.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Montreux-Les Planches: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Montreux-Les Planches: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Which Lugano station do trains from Montreux arrive at?
Trains from Montreux to Lugano arrive at Lugano, Stazione. Lugano, Stazione is from Lugano city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Montreux
More options for your journey from Montreux to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Montreux
Most popular train connections to Lugano
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
