- Must visit
MASI Lugano
Lugano’s leading art museum presents major modern and contemporary exhibitions in a striking lakeside cultural complex.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Olten to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
€71
Average ticket price on Aug 29
€94
Fastest journey on Aug 29
2 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
2 h 40 m
Trains on Aug 29
22
Distance
170 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Olten to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Olten to Lugano will cost around €94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €71.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Olten to Lugano without transferring at least once.
IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 865 · IC 10367 | 103678:20 AM3h21Olten station11:41 AMLugano, Stazione€711One-way2 transfers- IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 865 · IC 10367 | 10367 · B 4 4098 | 40988:20 AM3h32Olten station11:52 AMLugano€731One-way3 transfers
- S 29 8926 | 8926 · IC 1455 | 1455 · S 10 30767 | 307678:12 AM2h53Olten station11:05 AMLugano, Stazione€891One-way2 transfers
- IR 27 2463 | 2463 · IC 10367 | 103678:50 AM2h51Olten station11:41 AMLugano, Stazione€891One-way1 transfer
- RE 24 4715 | 4715 · IC 21 667 | 6679:06 AM2h56Olten station12:02 PMLugano, Stazione€891One-way1 transfer
- IR 27 2463 | 2463 · EC 15 | 15+
IR VAE 2019 | 20198:50 AM2h38Olten station11:28 AMLugano, Stazione€891One-way2 transfers - IR 27 2465 | 2465 · EC 153 | 153+IR VAE 2021 | 20219:50 AM2h38Olten station12:28 PMLugano, Stazione€891One-way2 transfers
- IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 8658:20 AM2h42Olten station11:02 AMLugano, Stazione€1021One-way1 transfer
- IC 5 515 | 515 · IC 2 869 | 86910:20 AM2h42Olten station1:02 PMLugano, Stazione€1021One-way1 transfer
- IC 5 513 | 513 · IR 46 2417 | 2417 · IC 21 667 | 6679:20 AM2h42Olten station12:02 PMLugano, Stazione€1021One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Olten to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Olten to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €64 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 53m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €64, while a train costs an average of €80.
Distance: 105 miles (170 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€80 Average price | €64 Average price Cheapest | €85 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 20m Average total duration 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 46m 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 Olten to Lugano is a bus with an average price of €64.
This is compared to other travel options from Olten to Lugano:
A bus is €16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Olten to Lugano costing on average €80.
The fastest way to travel from Olten to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 2h 23m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Olten and Lugano including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Olten to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 23m faster (2h 23m by train vs 2h 46m by car) and roughly €5 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€80 vs €85). 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.
Direct services run with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Olten to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Olten to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S 29 8926 | 8926 · IC 1455 | 1455 · S 10 30767 | 30767 · B 461 721 | 721 | 8:12 AM Olten station | 3h02 | 11:14 AM Lugano | 3 transfers | |
| S 29 8926 | 8926 · IC 1455 | 1455 · S 10 30767 | 30767 | 8:12 AM Olten station | 2h53 | 11:05 AM Lugano, Stazione | 2 transfers | |
| IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 461 721 | 721 | 8:20 AM Olten station | 2h54 | 11:14 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 865 | 8:20 AM Olten station | 2h42 | 11:02 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 865 · IC 10367 | 10367 · B 4 4098 | 4098 | 8:20 AM Olten station | 3h32 | 11:52 AM Lugano | 3 transfers | |
| IC 5 511 | 511 · IC 2 865 | 865 · IC 10367 | 10367 | 8:20 AM Olten station | 3h21 | 11:41 AM Lugano, Stazione | 2 transfers | |
| IR 35 2361 | 2361 · EC 15 | 15 · B 5 5137 | 5137 | 8:30 AM Olten station | 3h09 | 11:39 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 35 2361 | 2361 · EC 15 | 15 | 8:30 AM Olten station | 2h58 | 11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 27 2463 | 2463 · IC 10367 | 10367 | 8:50 AM Olten station | 2h51 | 11:41 AM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 27 2463 | 2463 · IC 10367 | 10367 · B 4 4098 | 4098 | 8:50 AM Olten station | 3h02 | 11:52 AM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 27 2463 | 2463 · EC 15 | 15+IR VAE 2019 | 2019 | 8:50 AM Olten station | 2h38 | 11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione | 2 transfers | |
| IR 27 2463 | 2463 · EC 15 | 15 · B 5 5137 | 5137+IR VAE 2019 | 2019 | 8:50 AM Olten station | 2h49 | 11:39 AM Lugano | 3 transfers | |
| RE 24 4715 | 4715 · IC 21 667 | 667 · B 461 725 | 725 | 9:06 AM Olten station | 3h08 | 12:14 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| RE 24 4715 | 4715 · IC 21 667 | 667 | 9:06 AM Olten station | 2h56 | 12:02 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 513 | 513 · IR 46 2417 | 2417 · IC 21 667 | 667 · B 461 725 | 725 | 9:20 AM Olten station | 2h54 | 12:14 PM Lugano | 3 transfers | |
| IC 5 513 | 513 · IR 46 2417 | 2417 · IC 21 667 | 667 | 9:20 AM Olten station | 2h42 | 12:02 PM Lugano, Stazione | 2 transfers | |
| IR 35 2363 | 2363 · EC 153 | 153 · B 5 5161 | 5161 | 9:30 AM Olten station | 3h09 | 12:39 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IR 35 2363 | 2363 · EC 153 | 153 | 9:30 AM Olten station | 2h58 | 12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
| IR 27 2465 | 2465 · EC 153 | 153+IR VAE 2021 | 2021 | 9:50 AM Olten station | 2h38 | 12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione | 2 transfers | |
| IR 27 2465 | 2465+IR VAE 2021 | 2021+EC 153 | 153 · B 5 5161 | 5161 | 9:50 AM Olten station | 2h49 | 12:39 PM Lugano | 3 transfers | |
| IC 5 515 | 515 · IC 2 869 | 869 · B 461 729 | 729 | 10:20 AM Olten station | 2h54 | 1:14 PM Lugano | 2 transfers | |
| IC 5 515 | 515 · IC 2 869 | 869 | 10:20 AM Olten station | 2h42 | 1:02 PM Lugano, Stazione | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Olten 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.
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
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Aug 30
Aug 30
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Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Olten to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Olten to Lugano run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €46 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 22:02. The fastest train covers the 105 miles (170 km) distance in 2h 13m.
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
Distance 105 miles (170 km) |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price €46 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 4:32 AM |
Last train 10:02 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 4 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
Train companies: SBB from Olten to Lugano trainsSBB trains will get you between Olten and Lugano from €64. 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
2h 13m
Cheapest SBB Price
€46
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 Olten to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Olten 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 Olten to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €46, while the average price is around €80.
The train from Olten to Lugano takes 2h 13m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Olten to Lugano leaves at 4:32 AM.
The distance by train from Olten to Lugano is 105 miles (170 km).
The last train from Olten to Lugano leaves at 10:02 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Olten to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Olten to Lugano. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Olten to Lugano.
The train station in Olten that goes to Lugano is Olten station, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Olten to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around €64.
Yes, the train journey from Olten to Lugano is scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, picturesque lakes, and the stunning landscape of the Alps, especially as the route passes through the Gotthard Base Tunnel and emerges into the southern Swiss region.
A day trip from Olten to Lugano is not feasible, as the journey duration is 2h 13m. However, there are 14 train trips per day available for this route, covering a distance of 105 miles (170 km).
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 Olten to Lugano.
Since both Olten 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 Olten 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 Olten to Lugano
Most Olten to Lugano trains use the Olten to Lugano, Stazione station pair. Use this guide to compare Olten and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Olten
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Olten station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Olten to Lugano leave from Olten. The station is from Olten city centre at Bahnhofstrasse 22, 4600 Olten, Switzerland.
OltenBahnhofstrasse 22, 4600 Olten, Switzerland+41 58 668 86 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Olten from Olten city centre
TrainS20, S · 3m · €1 · every ~5 min
Bus501, 503, 505, 507, 509 · 6m · €2 · every ~18 min
N55 · 3m
Olten train station facilities and services
Olten has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Aarhof, Restaurant Salmen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Olten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Olten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Olten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Olten: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Olten: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Olten Swiss Quality, Hotel Amaris, Hotel Astoria.
Which Lugano station do trains from Olten arrive at?
Trains from Olten 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 · €3 · every ~10 min
6 · 10m · €3 · every ~10 min
461 · 12m · €6 · 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 Olten
More options for your journey from Olten to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Olten
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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