Zurich to Locarno train with SBB

Thu, May 07
+ Add return
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Locarno

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$57

Average price

$60

Fastest journey

2 h 10 m

Average duration

2 h 46 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

134 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Locarno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Zurich to Locarno will cost around $60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Zurich for Locarno on Thu, May 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 134 km distance in an average of 2 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .

On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 3 h 22 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.

  • SBB
    8:05 AM2h10
    Zurich
    10:15 AMLocarno
    $571One-way
    0 transfers
  • SBB
    7:05 AM3h22
    Zurich
    10:27 AMLocarno
    $621One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Zurich to Locarno

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Locarno among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $52.

Distance: 83 miles (134 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$66

Average price

$25

Average price

Cheapest

$100

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 27m

Average total duration

2h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 36m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

SBB

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Locarno is a bus with an average price of $25 (€20).

This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Locarno:

A bus is $41 (€33) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Locarno costing on average $66 (€53).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Locarno is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 30m.

Other travel options to Locarno take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 57m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Locarno including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Locarno 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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 SBB, Südostbahn.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Zurich to Locarno train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Locarno trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbb7:05 AM Zurich
3h22
10:27 AM Locarno0 transfersDirect
sbb8:05 AM Zurich
2h10
10:15 AM Locarno0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Locarno by bus or train

Compare bus and 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Locarno

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Locarno run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€42) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 83 miles (134 km) distance in 2h 10m.

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 $25 (€20)
Distance
83 miles (134 km)
Average train duration
2h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
$52 (€42)
Trains per day
25
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 10m
First train
12:13 AM
Last train
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $25 (€20)

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Zurich to Locarno trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Zurich and Locarno from $25 (€20). 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 10m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
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 11m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€115)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
13 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 22m
Südostbahn frequency
3 a day

FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Locarno

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Locarno 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 Locarno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Locarno can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€42), while the average price is around $66 (€53).
The train from Zurich to Locarno takes 2h 10m and runs 25 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Locarno is 83 miles (134 km).
The first train from Zurich to Locarno leaves at 12:13 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Locarno leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Locarno.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Locarno. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by SBB, Südostbahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Locarno.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Locarno is Zurich HB, which connects to Locarno station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Locarno is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Locarno is scenic, featuring picturesque views of Lake Zurich, rolling hills, charming Swiss villages, and the beautiful landscapes of the Swiss Alps.
A day trip from Zurich to Locarno is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 10m, and there are 23 trains available per day. The distance is 83 miles (134 km).
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Locarno allows visitors to explore its main attractions, including the Piazza Grande, Madonna del Sasso, and the beautiful shores of Lake Maggiore, while also enjoying local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Locarno.
Since both Zurich and Locarno 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 Locarno include Milan, Lugano, Domodossola, Bellinzona, Andermatt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Locarno 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 Locarno, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular tourist spots and public transport hubs. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unofficial tour guides are rare but worth noting. Overall, Locarno is considered a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions like securing belongings and using licensed services are advised.
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 to Locarno

Zurich
Locarno
The major train station for departures in Zurich is Zürich HB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich HB for your trip from Zurich to Locarno.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
26
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Au Premier
  • Brasserie Federal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
  • Hotel St. Gotthard
  • Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
Shower
  • Cost CHF 12
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
  • Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
  • Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transit options for Zürich HB
  • Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
8
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Andreasstrasse and Franklinstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Negishi Sushi Bar
  • Le Muh
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Courtyard Zurich North
  • Swissotel Zurich
  • Hotel Sternen Oerlikon
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 72 places, 60 places
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for S-Bahn trains
  • Hall 2: platform 5-8 for regional and long-distance trains
Public transit options for Zürich Oerlikon
  • Tram: Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • S-Bahn: Lines S2, S6, S7, S8, S9, S14, S16, S19, S24
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
5
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available 24/7 with access from the main road.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Markthalle
  • Restaurant LaSalle
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators.
WC
WC
  • CHF 1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Placid Hotel Zurich
  • Best Western Hotel Spirgarten
  • H+ Hotel Zürich
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 240 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for S-Bahn and regional trains
  • Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Zürich Altstetten
  • S-Bahn: Lines S3, S9, S12, S15
  • Tram: Line 4
  • Bus: Several lines available

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