- 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 Varese to Lugano
Showing times and prices for Jul 22
Cheapest price
$4
Average price
$19
Fastest journey
40 m
Average duration
44 m
Trains per day
36
Distance
23 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Varese to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Varese to Lugano will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.
Fast trains
Of the 36 trains that leave Varese for Lugano on Wed, Jul 22, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 22 the direct trains cover the 23 km distance in an average of 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 40 m .
On Wed, Jul 22 the slowest trains will take 48 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.
12:06 AM0h48Varese12:54 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers- 5:00 AM0h54Varese5:54 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
- 6:06 AM0h48Varese6:54 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
- 6:36 AM0h41Varese7:17 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
- 7:06 AM0h40Varese7:46 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
- 7:06 AM0h40Varese7:46 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
- 6:36 AM0h41Varese7:17 AMLugano$271One-way1 transfer
- 6:36 AM0h41Varese7:17 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
- 12:06 AM0h48Varese12:54 AMLugano$271One-way1 transfer
- 12:06 AM0h48Varese12:54 AMLugano$41One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Varese to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Varese to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $4. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $4, and a train costs an average of $4.
Distance: 14 miles (23 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$18 Average price Cheapest | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 8m Average total duration Fastest 2h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Varese to Lugano is a train with an average price of $18 (€18).
The fastest way to travel from Varese to Lugano is by bus with an average journey time of 29m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 38m.
Yes, you can take a train between Varese and Lugano.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Varese 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 $18 (€18) compared to roughly $51 (€51) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $33 (€33). The journey takes 2h 38m versus 49m 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.
Direct services run with Trenord.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Varese to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Varese to Lugano trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 8:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 8:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 8:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 9:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 9:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 9:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 10:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 10:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 10:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 11:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 11:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 11:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 22 | |||||
| 12:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 12:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 12:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 12:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:00 AM Varese | 0h54 | 5:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 5:00 AM Varese | 0h54 | 5:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:36 AM Varese | 0h48 | 6:24 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 6:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 6:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 6:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 6:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:36 AM Varese | 0h41 | 7:17 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 6:36 AM Varese | 0h41 | 7:17 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:06 AM Varese | 0h40 | 7:46 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:36 AM Varese | 0h48 | 8:24 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 8:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 8:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 8:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 8:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:36 AM Varese | 0h48 | 9:24 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 9:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 9:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 9:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 9:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:36 AM Varese | 0h48 | 10:24 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 10:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 10:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 10:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 10:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:36 AM Varese | 0h48 | 11:24 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 11:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 11:54 AM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 11:06 AM Varese | 0h48 | 11:54 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:36 AM Varese | 0h48 | 12:24 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 12:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 12:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 12:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 12:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:36 PM Varese | 0h48 | 1:24 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 1:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 1:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 1:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 1:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:36 PM Varese | 0h48 | 2:24 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 2:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 2:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 2:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 2:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:36 PM Varese | 0h48 | 3:24 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 3:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 3:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 3:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 3:54 PM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:36 PM Varese | 0h48 | 4:24 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
| 4:06 PM Varese | 0h48 | 4:54 PM Lugano | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Varese to Lugano by train
Compare train 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.
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
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Jul 23
Fri
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Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28
Jul 28
Journey information
Overview: Train from Varese to Lugano
Italy
Switzerland
Trains from Varese to Lugano run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 (€4) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:46, the last at 20:30. The fastest train covers the 14 miles (23 km) distance in 40m.
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 14 miles (23 km) |
Average train duration 2h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 (€4) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 40m |
First train 4:46 AM |
Last train 8:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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: Regionale, Trenord from Varese to Lugano trainsRegionale, Trenord trains will get you between Varese and Lugano from $4 (€4). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
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
Trenord
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
40m
Cheapest Price
$4 (€4)
Trenord frequency
25 a day
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 Varese to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Varese 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 Varese to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4 (€4), while the average price is around $18 (€18).
The train from Varese to Lugano takes 40m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Varese to Lugano leaves at 4:46 AM.
The distance by train from Varese to Lugano is 14 miles (23 km).
The last train from Varese to Lugano leaves at 8:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Varese to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Varese to Lugano. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Trenord.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Varese to Lugano.
The train station in Varese that goes to Lugano is Varese station, which connects to Lugano FLP.
The cheapest way to get from Varese to Lugano is by train, with a cost of around $4 (€4).
The train journey from Varese to Lugano offers scenic views of the rolling hills of the Italian countryside and picturesque landscapes, with glimpses of Lake Lugano as you approach the Swiss border, making it a visually appealing route.
A day trip from Varese to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 40m. However, there are 12 trains per day for this route, covering a distance of 14 miles (23 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 Varese to Lugano.
Since both Varese 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Varese 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 Varese to Lugano
Most Varese to Lugano trains use the Varese to Lugano FLP station pair. Use this guide to compare Varese and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Varese
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Varese station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Varese to Lugano leave from Varese. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Varese city centre at Piazzale Trento, 21100 Varese VA, Italy.
VaresePiazzale Trento, 21100 Varese VA, Italy+39 0332 255111
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese from Varese city centre
BusB, Z, Ab · 3m · every ~5 min
Varese train station facilities and services
Varese 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: Ristorante Bologna, Trattoria Caprese
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varese. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Varese. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varese: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Varese: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Palace Grand Hotel Varese, Hotel di Varese, UNAHOTELS Varese.
Varese Nord21100 Varese, VA, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese Nord from Varese city centre
BusH, P · 3m · every ~8 min
Varese Nord train station facilities and services
Varese Nord has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese Nord.
Varese Casbeno21100 Varese, VA, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese Casbeno from Varese city centre
Varese Casbeno is 1 km from Varese city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR22, Re1 · 4m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusB, Ab · 3m · every ~3 min
Bus · 10m
Varese Casbeno train station facilities and services
Varese Casbeno has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Varese Casbeno.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varese Casbeno: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Varese Casbeno: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese Casbeno.
Which Lugano station do trains from Varese arrive at?
Trains from Varese to Lugano arrive at Lugano FLP. Lugano FLP is from Lugano city centre.
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 Varese
More options for your journey from Varese to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Varese
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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