- Must visit
MASI Lugano - LAC
Lugano’s leading art museum inside the LAC cultural center, with modern and contemporary exhibitions and a strong program of temporary shows.
.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 Zurich Airport to Lugano
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
2 h 9 m
Average duration
2 h 9 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich Airport to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich Airport to Lugano will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Zurich Airport for Lugano on Mon, Jun 22, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 2 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 9 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 2 h 9 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.
6:49 AM2h09Zurich Airport8:58 AMLugano$781One-way0 transfers- 7:49 AM2h09Zurich Airport9:58 AMLugano$781One-way0 transfers
- 7:49 AM2h09Zurich Airport9:58 AMLugano$781One-way0 transfers
- 6:49 AM2h09Zurich Airport8:58 AMLugano$781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Zurich Airport to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich Airport to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $78.
Distance: 101 miles (164 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$85 Average price Cheapest | $222 Average price | $102 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 50m Average total duration 9h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Lugano is a train with an average price of $85 (€69).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich Airport to Lugano:
A train is $137 (€112) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich Airport to Lugano costing on average $222 (€182).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 2h 18m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 44m.
Flight takes on average 9h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich Airport and Lugano including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich Airport to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 32m faster (2h 18m by train vs 2h 50m by car) and roughly $17 (€14) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($85 (€69) vs $102 (€83)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich Airport to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich Airport to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Monday, June 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:49 AM Zurich Airport | 2h09 | 8:58 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:49 AM Zurich Airport | 2h09 | 9:58 AM Lugano | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich Airport to Lugano by train or flight
Compare 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.
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich Airport to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Zurich Airport to Lugano run on average 21 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€50) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:15, the last at 21:46. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 2h 9m.
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 101 miles (164 km) |
Average train duration 2h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€50) |
Trains per day 21 |
Fastest train 2h 9m |
First train 6:15 AM |
Last train 9:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich Airport to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich Airport and Lugano from $61 (€50). 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 Duration
2h 9m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
SBB frequency
21 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
$147 (€120)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
16 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
MASI Lugano - Palazzo Reali
Historic branch of MASI in the old town, hosting rotating exhibitions in a palazzo setting close to other central sights.
- Recommended
Museo delle Culture
Museum focused on extra-European art and ethnographic collections, especially known for African, Asian, and Oceanian works in Villa Malpensata.
- Must visit
Parco Ciani
Lugano’s signature lakeside park, loved for waterfront paths, mature trees, flowerbeds, and classic views over the lake and mountains.
- Must visit
Piazza della Riforma
The main square of Lugano, lined with pastel buildings and arcades, central to city life and a natural base for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Lungolago di Lugano
The lakeside promenade offers classic city-and-lake views, easy strolling, and some of the most recognizable scenes in Lugano.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
A staple in Ticino made from slowly cooked cornmeal, often served creamy or sliced and grilled with cheese, mushrooms, or braised meats.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Alla Ticinese
Creamy risotto prepared in the Lombard-Ticino style, often with local wine, butter, and cheese, reflecting the strong Italian influence of the region.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Con Polenta
Slow-braised beef, commonly cooked with red wine, served with polenta. It is a classic hearty Ticinese comfort dish.
Ristorante La Cucina di Alice
An established fine dining restaurant known for refined Italian cuisine, elegant presentation, and a polished atmosphere in central Lugano.
Grotto Morchino
A classic hillside grotto outside the center, appreciated for traditional regional dishes, wine, and a charming old-fashioned ambiance.
Grotto della Salute
A well-known traditional grotto serving Ticinese classics in a relaxed, rustic setting popular with locals and visitors.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but everyday costs are still steep for most travelers.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-55 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for a cappuccino or espresso.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included in prices. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
Arcobaleno
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.30
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Lugano Railway Station, Lugano -> Piazza della Riforma, Lugano
- Distance
- 1.0 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tickets are sold by Arcobaleno tariff zones, so check that your ticket covers all required zones before boarding. Buy tickets in advance from machines or the official app.
- On many local buses, card payment may not be available onboard, so use ticket machines or the app. Validate any paper ticket if required before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich Airport to Lugano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€50), while the average price is around $85 (€69).
The train from Zurich Airport to Lugano takes 2h 9m and runs 21 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich Airport to Lugano is 101 miles (164 km).
The first train from Zurich Airport to Lugano leaves at 6:15 AM.
The last train from Zurich Airport to Lugano leaves at 9:46 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich Airport to Lugano.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich Airport to Lugano.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich Airport to Lugano.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich Airport to Lugano is by train, with a cost of around $61 (€50).
Yes, the train journey from Zurich Airport to Lugano is scenic, offering views of picturesque landscapes, including beautiful lakes, charming Swiss villages, and the dramatic peaks of the Alps.
A day trip from Zurich Airport to Lugano is not feasible as the duration is 2h 9m. However, there are 18 train trips available per day. The distance is 101 miles (164 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 Zurich Airport to Lugano.
Since both Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport to Lugano
Most Zurich Airport to Lugano trains use the Zürich HB to Lugano, Stazione station pair, with some services arriving at Lugano-Paradiso. Use this guide to compare Zurich Airport and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Zürich OerlikonOerlikon, Zurich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Oerlikon from Zurich city centre
Zürich Oerlikon is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS8, S2, S24, Ir36, S14, Re48, S19, S, Ir13, Ic1, S21, S15, S9, Sn8, Ir, N1 · 4m · $2 · every ~31 min
9, S · 12m · $5 · every ~3 min
BusE · 13m · $4
N10 · 14m · $4
Tram10, 11, 17, 50, 51, 8 · 12m · $4 · every ~19 min
Zürich Oerlikon train station facilities and services
Zürich Oerlikon 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: Negishi Sushi Bar, Le Muh
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Oerlikon. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Oerlikon. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Oerlikon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Oerlikon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Oerlikon: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Courtyard Zurich North, Swissotel Zurich, Hotel Sternen Oerlikon.
Zürich AltstettenZürich Altstetten railway station, Altstetten, Zurich, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Altstetten from Zurich city centre
Zürich Altstetten is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS5, S11, S12, Sn1, Sn5, Sn11, Sn · 12m · $4 · every ~14 min
Bus31 · 14m · $4 · every ~16 min
N17, N1 · 18m · $4
31 · 22m · $4 · every ~16 min
Tram51 · 14m · $4 · every ~16 min
Zürich Altstetten train station facilities and services
Zürich Altstetten 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 Markthalle, Restaurant LaSalle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Altstetten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Altstetten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Altstetten: Elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Placid Hotel Zurich, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, H+ Hotel Zürich.
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.
Lugano-Paradiso6900 Paradiso, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano-Paradiso from Lugano city centre
Lugano-Paradiso is 1 km from Lugano city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS10, S, Re80, Re84, S90 · 3m · $2 · every ~11 min
Bus1, 2 · 8m · $4 · every ~19 min
434 · 10m · $2 · every ~3 min
2 · 23m · $4 · every ~9 min
Lugano-Paradiso train station facilities and services
Lugano-Paradiso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lugano-Paradiso.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Lugano-Paradiso.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Bike Rental.
Lugano Città (funicolare)6900 Lugano, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano Città (funicolare) from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 8m · $4 · every ~10 min
6 · 11m · $4 · every ~10 min
461 · 15m · $7 · every ~5 min
Lugano Città (funicolare) train station facilities and services
Lugano Città (funicolare) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano Città (funicolare).
Most popular train connections from Zurich Airport
More options for your journey from Zurich Airport to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Zurich Airport
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.
