- Must visit
LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura
A cultural center hosting varied art exhibits and performances.
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$63
Fastest journey
6 h 7 m
Average duration
6 h 7 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
221 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Riomaggiore to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Riomaggiore to Lugano will cost around $63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Of the 1 trains that leave Riomaggiore for Lugano on Mon, May 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 18 the direct trains cover the 221 km distance in an average of 6 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 7 m .
On Mon, May 18 the slowest trains will take 6 h 7 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.


Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Riomaggiore to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $63, and a bus costs an average of $57.
Distance: 137 miles (221 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$63 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 16m Average total duration Fastest 4h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 25m Average total duration 7h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Riomaggiore to Lugano:
A train is $8 (€7) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Riomaggiore to Lugano costing on average $72 (€58).
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 55m.
Tickets start at around $63 (€51) compared to roughly $71 (€57) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $7 (€6). The journey takes 4h 46m versus 3h 35m 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 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.
Trains from Riomaggiore to Lugano run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 (€51) but you can travel from only $57 (€46) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:30, the last at 19:30. The fastest train covers the 137 miles (221 km) distance in 6h 7m.
Distance 137 miles (221 km) |
Average train duration 4h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 (€51) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 6h 7m |
First train 8:30 AM |
Last train 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 2 days |
Discover the best of Lugano — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lugano trip today.
A cultural center hosting varied art exhibits and performances.
A prominent art museum in Lugano featuring Swiss and Italian artworks spanning several centuries.
Renowned for its extensive collection of Swiss artists, located in a beautiful building.
A charming area filled with historical buildings, narrow alleys, and vibrant squares.
One of Lugano's main shopping streets, offering luxury brands and boutiques.
A creamy risotto made with local Luganighetta sausage, often flavored with white wine and saffron.
Slow-cooked beef stew served with creamy polenta, a traditional comfort food in the Ticino region.
Buckwheat pasta cooked with potatoes, cabbage, and plenty of cheese and butter. Originating from nearby Valtellina, it is popular in southern Switzerland.
Fine dining with lakeside views, specializing in innovative fish and seafood dishes.
An Italian trattoria offering a cozy atmosphere with authentic homemade pasta and risotto.
A traditional venue offering classic Ticino dishes in a rustic setting, surrounded by nature.
Lugano is known for its high cost of living, with accommodation and dining being particularly costly.
5-10% in restaurants, round up in taxis, not expected in cafes.
Official public transport app
Lugano Railway Station -> Lugano City Center
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riomaggiore 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.

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