Zurich to Lugano train with SBB

Sun, May 24
+ 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 Lugano

Showing times and prices for May 24

Cheapest price

$49

Average price

$78

Fastest journey

1 h 53 m

Average duration

1 h 53 m

Trains per day

89

Distance

155 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich 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 to Lugano will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.

Fast trains

Of the 89 trains that leave Zurich for Lugano on Sun, May 24, 21 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 24 the direct trains cover the 155 km distance in an average of 1 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 53 m .

On Sun, May 24 the slowest trains will take 1 h 53 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.

  • SBBIC 2 1479 | 1479
    4:33 PM1h55
    Zurich HB
    6:28 PMLugano, Stazione
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • SBBIR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 659
    6:05 AM1h53
    Zurich HB
    7:58 AMLugano, Stazione
    $501One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBS 5 18561 | 18561 · IC 2 1479 | 1479
    4:16 PM2h12
    Zurich Altstetten
    6:28 PMLugano, Stazione
    $521One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBS 5 18577 | 18577 · IC 2 1487 | 1487
    8:16 PM2h12
    Zurich Altstetten
    10:28 PMLugano, Stazione
    $521One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBS 9 18961 | 18961 · IC 2 1479 | 1479
    4:16 PM2h12
    Zürich Oerlikon
    6:28 PMLugano, Stazione
    $521One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 47m. 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 $16, and a flight costs an average of $103.

Distance: 96 miles (155 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$82

Average price

$20

Average price

Cheapest

$319

Average price

$101

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 42m

Average total duration

2h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 44m

Average total duration

2h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 47m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

SBB

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Helvetic Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Lugano is a bus with an average price of $20 (€16).

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

A bus is $62 (€50) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Lugano costing on average $82 (€67).

A bus is $299 (€242) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Lugano costing on average $319 (€258).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 47m.

Other travel options to Lugano take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 12m.

Bus takes on average 2h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Lugano including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Lugano among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 28m faster (2h 12m by train vs 2h 40m by car) and roughly $19 (€15) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($82 (€67) vs $101 (€82)). 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 SBB, 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

Zurich to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Lugano trains for today, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SBBS 5 18519 | 18519 · IR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 6595:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
7:58 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 9 18919 | 18919 · IR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 6595:46 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
7:58 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 6596:05 AM Zurich HB
1h53
7:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18921 | 18921 · EC 11 | 116:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18521 | 18521 · EC 11 | 116:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 11 | 116:33 AM Zurich HB
1h55
8:28 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18523 | 18523 · IC 2 861 | 861 · IC 31061 | 310616:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
9:11 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 5 18523 | 18523 · IC 2 861 | 8616:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18623 | 18623 · IC 2 861 | 861 · IC 31061 | 310616:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h20
9:11 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18623 | 18623 · IC 2 861 | 8616:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 861 | 861 · IC 31061 | 310617:05 AM Zurich HB
2h06
9:11 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 861 | 8617:05 AM Zurich HB
1h53
8:58 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 9 18925 | 18925 · IC 31013 | 310137:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h25
9:41 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18525 | 18525 · EC 13 | 137:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
9:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18925 | 18925 · EC 13 | 137:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
9:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18525 | 18525 · IC 31013 | 310137:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
9:41 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18625 | 18625 · IR 75 2108 | 2108 · S 2 21227 | 21227 · IC 21 663 | 6637:21 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h37
9:58 AM Lugano, Stazione3 transfers
SBBIC 31013 | 310137:30 AM Zurich HB
2h11
9:41 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBEC 13 | 137:33 AM Zurich HB
1h55
9:28 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIR 75 2108 | 2108 · S 2 21227 | 21227 · IC 21 663 | 6637:35 AM Zurich HB
2h23
9:58 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 5 18527 | 18527 · IC 31063 | 310637:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
10:11 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18627 | 18627 · IC 31063 | 310637:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h20
10:11 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 31063 | 310638:05 AM Zurich HB
2h06
10:11 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 9 18929 | 18929 · EC 301 | 3018:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18529 | 18529 · EC 301 | 3018:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 31031 | 310318:30 AM Zurich HB
2h11
10:41 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBEC 301 | 3018:33 AM Zurich HB
1h55
10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18531 | 18531 · IC 2 865 | 8658:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
10:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18531 | 18531 · IC 2 865 | 865 · IC 31065 | 310658:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
11:11 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18631 | 18631 · IC 2 865 | 8658:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
10:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18631 | 18631 · IC 2 865 | 865 · IC 31065 | 310658:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h20
11:11 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIC 2 865 | 8659:05 AM Zurich HB
1h53
10:58 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIC 2 865 | 865 · IC 31065 | 310659:05 AM Zurich HB
2h06
11:11 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18533 | 18533 · EC 15 | 159:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18933 | 18933 · EC 15 | 159:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18533 | 18533 · IC 31015 | 310159:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
11:41 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18933 | 18933 · IC 31015 | 310159:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h25
11:41 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18633 | 18633 · IR 75 2112 | 2112 · S 2 21235 | 21235 · IC 21 667 | 6679:21 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h37
11:58 AM Lugano, Stazione3 transfers
SBBIC 31015 | 310159:30 AM Zurich HB
2h11
11:41 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBEC 15 | 159:33 AM Zurich HB
1h55
11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIR 75 2112 | 2112 · S 2 21235 | 21235 · IC 21 667 | 6679:35 AM Zurich HB
2h23
11:58 AM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 5 18535 | 18535 · IC 31067 | 310679:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
12:11 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18635 | 18635 · IC 31067 | 310679:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h20
12:11 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 31067 | 3106710:05 AM Zurich HB
2h06
12:11 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 9 18937 | 18937 · EC 33 | 3310:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18537 | 18537 · EC 33 | 3310:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18537 | 18537 · IC 31033 | 3103310:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
12:41 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18937 | 18937 · IC 31033 | 3103310:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h25
12:41 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 31033 | 3103310:30 AM Zurich HB
2h11
12:41 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBEC 33 | 3310:33 AM Zurich HB
1h55
12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18539 | 18539 · IC 2 869 | 86910:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
12:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18639 | 18639 · IC 2 869 | 86910:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
12:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 869 | 86911:05 AM Zurich HB
1h53
12:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18541 | 18541 · IC 31019 | 3101911:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
1:41 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18541 | 18541 · EC 19 | 1911:16 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
1:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18941 | 18941 · EC 19 | 1911:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
1:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18941 | 18941 · IC 31019 | 3101911:16 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h25
1:41 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18641 | 18641 · IR 75 30116 | 30116 · S 2 21243 | 21243 · IC 21 671 | 67111:21 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h37
1:58 PM Lugano, Stazione3 transfers
SBBIC 31019 | 3101911:30 AM Zurich HB
2h11
1:41 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBEC 19 | 1911:33 AM Zurich HB
1h55
1:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBIR 75 30116 | 30116 · S 2 21243 | 21243 · IC 21 671 | 67111:35 AM Zurich HB
2h23
1:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 5 18543 | 18543 · IC 31071 | 3107111:46 AM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
2:11 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18643 | 18643 · IC 31071 | 3107111:51 AM Zürich Oerlikon
2h20
2:11 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 31071 | 3107112:05 PM Zurich HB
2h06
2:11 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18545 | 18545 · EC 151 | 15112:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
2:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18945 | 18945 · EC 151 | 15112:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
2:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 151 | 15112:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
2:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18547 | 18547 · IC 2 873 | 87312:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
2:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18647 | 18647 · IC 2 873 | 87312:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
2:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 873 | 8731:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
2:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18549 | 18549 · EC 21 | 211:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
3:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18949 | 18949 · EC 21 | 211:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
3:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 21 | 211:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
3:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18551 | 18551 · IR 46 2425 | 2425 · IC 21 675 | 6751:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
3:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18651 | 18651 · IR 46 2425 | 2425 · IC 21 675 | 6751:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
3:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIR 46 2425 | 2425 · IC 21 675 | 6752:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
3:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18553 | 18553 · EC 37 | 372:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
4:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18953 | 18953 · EC 37 | 372:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
4:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 37 | 372:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
4:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18555 | 18555 · IC 2 877 | 8772:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
4:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18655 | 18655 · IC 2 877 | 8772:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
4:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 877 | 8773:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
4:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 9 18957 | 18957 · EC 123 | 1233:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
5:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18557 | 18557 · EC 123 | 1233:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
5:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 123 | 1233:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
5:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18559 | 18559 · IR 46 2429 | 2429 · EC 173 | 1733:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
5:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18659 | 18659 · IR 46 2429 | 2429 · EC 173 | 1733:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
5:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIR 46 2429 | 2429 · EC 173 | 1734:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
5:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18561 | 18561 · IC 2 1479 | 14794:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
6:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18961 | 18961 · IC 2 1479 | 14794:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
6:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 1479 | 14794:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
6:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18563 | 18563 · IC 2 881 | 8814:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
6:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18663 | 18663 · IC 2 881 | 8814:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
6:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 881 | 8815:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
6:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18565 | 18565 · EC 25 | 255:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
7:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18965 | 18965 · EC 25 | 255:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
7:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 25 | 255:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
7:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18567 | 18567 · IR 46 2433 | 2433 · IC 21 683 | 6835:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
7:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18667 | 18667 · IR 46 2433 | 2433 · IC 21 683 | 6835:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
7:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIR 46 2433 | 2433 · IC 21 683 | 6836:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
7:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18969 | 18969 · EC 27 | 276:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
8:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18569 | 18569 · EC 27 | 276:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
8:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 27 | 276:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
8:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18571 | 18571 · IC 2 885 | 8856:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
8:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18671 | 18671 · IC 2 885 | 8856:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
8:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 885 | 8857:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
8:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18573 | 18573 · EC 29 | 297:16 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
9:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 9 18973 | 18973 · EC 29 | 297:16 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h12
9:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBEC 29 | 297:33 PM Zurich HB
1h55
9:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18575 | 18575 · IR 46 2437 | 2437 · IC 21 687 | 6877:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
9:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18675 | 18675 · IR 46 2437 | 2437 · IC 21 687 | 6877:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
9:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIR 46 2437 | 2437 · IC 21 687 | 6878:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
9:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18579 | 18579 · IC 2 889 | 8898:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
10:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18679 | 18679 · IC 2 889 | 8898:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
10:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 889 | 8899:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
10:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
SBBS 5 18583 | 18583 · IR 46 2441 | 2441 · IC 21 691 | 6919:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h12
11:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBS 6 18683 | 18683 · IR 46 2441 | 2441 · IC 21 691 | 6919:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h07
11:58 PM Lugano, Stazione2 transfers
SBBIR 46 2441 | 2441 · IC 21 691 | 69110:05 PM Zurich HB
1h53
11:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 5 18587 | 18587 · IC 2 895 | 89510:46 PM Zurich Altstetten
2h25
1:11 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBS 6 18687 | 18687 · IC 2 895 | 89510:51 PM Zürich Oerlikon
2h20
1:11 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
SBBIC 2 895 | 89511:05 PM Zurich HB
2h06
1:11 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Lugano by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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.

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Zurich to Lugano?

The best time to book your train from Zurich to Lugano is 28 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Zurich to Lugano route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Zurich to Lugano per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Zurich to Lugano.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Lugano

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Lugano run on average 20 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 96 miles (155 km) distance in 1h 53m.

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 $16 (€13)
Distance
96 miles (155 km)
Average train duration
2h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$54 (€44)
Trains per day
20
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 53m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
70 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 $16 (€13)

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Zurich to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Zurich and Lugano from $16 (€13). 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
1h 53m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€44)
SBB frequency
20 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
1h 53m
Cheapest Price
$124 (€100)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
11 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 53m
Südostbahn frequency
5 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.

  • Must visit

MASI Lugano - LAC

Lugano's leading art museum inside the LAC cultural center, known for modern and contemporary exhibitions and a strong program of temporary shows.

  • Recommended

MASI Lugano - Palazzo Reali

Historic branch of MASI in the old town, hosting exhibitions in an elegant palace setting and complementing the main LAC venue.

  • Recommended

Museo d'arte della Svizzera italiana

The museum institution behind MASI, central to Lugano's visual arts scene and well regarded for Swiss and international art programming.

Swiss Franc

Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and dining. Groceries and takeaway help reduce costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 3.50-5.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.

FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Lugano

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€44), while the average price is around $82 (€67).
The train from Zurich to Lugano takes 1h 53m and runs 20 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Lugano is 96 miles (155 km).
The first train from Zurich to Lugano leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Lugano. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Lugano.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Lugano is Zurich HB, which connects to Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Lugano is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
Yes, the Zurich to Lugano train journey is considered scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, including lakes, mountains, and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Zurich to Lugano is not feasible as the travel duration is 1h 53m. However, trains run frequently with 20 trips per day. The journey covers a distance of 96 miles (155 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 to Lugano.
Since both Zurich 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 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 to Lugano

Zurich
Lugano
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 Lugano.
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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