- Must visit
MASI Lugano at LAC
Lugano’s flagship art museum presents modern and contemporary exhibitions in a lakeside cultural centre. A top stop for architecture, art and temporary shows.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bellinzona to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£13
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£13
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
14 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
18 m
Trains on 17 Sept
10
Distance
22 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bellinzona to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bellinzona to Lugano will cost around £13 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.
Fast trains
On Thu 17 Sept, we found 10 trains from Bellinzona to Lugano, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 22 km distance in an average of 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 14 m .
The slowest trains will take 26 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.
S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 25513 · B 4 4054 | 40548:190h48Bellinzona station9:07Lugano£131One-way2 changes- S 10 25113 | 25113 · B 4 4050 | 40508:160h36Bellinzona station8:52Lugano£131One-way1 change
- S 10 25113 | 251138:160h19Bellinzona station8:35Lugano, Stazione£131One-way0 changes
- S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 255138:190h35Bellinzona station8:54Lugano, Stazione£131One-way1 change
- EC 11 | 118:140h14Bellinzona station8:28Lugano, Stazione£131One-way0 changes
- EC 11 | 118:140h14Bellinzona station8:28Lugano, Stazione£131One-way0 changes
- IC 2 861 | 8618:440h14Bellinzona station8:58Lugano, Stazione£131One-way0 changes
- S 10 25113 | 251138:160h19Bellinzona station8:35Lugano, Stazione£131One-way0 changes
- S 10 25763 | 257638:460h19Bellinzona station9:05Lugano, Stazione£131One-way0 changes
- IC 2 861 | 861 · B 3 3095 | 30958:440h26Bellinzona station9:10Lugano£131One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Bellinzona to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bellinzona to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £3 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 46m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £3, while a train costs an average of £14.
Distance: 22 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£14 Average Price | £3 Average Price Cheapest | £44 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
46m Average total duration Fastest 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 0m Average total duration 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Bellinzona to Lugano is a coach with an average price of £3.
This is compared to other travel options from Bellinzona to Lugano:
A coach is £11 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bellinzona to Lugano costing on average £14.
The fastest way to travel from Bellinzona to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 16m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Coach takes on average 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bellinzona and Lugano including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 15m faster (16m by train vs 31m by car) and roughly £30 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£14 vs £44). 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
Bellinzona to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Bellinzona to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 11 | 11 | 8:14 Bellinzona station | 0h14 | 8:28 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5061 | 5061 | 8:14 Bellinzona station | 0h29 | 8:43 Lugano | 1 change | |
| EC 11 | 11 · B 5 5061 | 5061 · B 4 4049 | 4049 | 8:14 Bellinzona station | 0h32 | 8:46 Lugano | 2 changes | |
| S 10 25113 | 25113 | 8:16 Bellinzona station | 0h19 | 8:35 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| S 10 25113 | 25113 · B 4 4050 | 4050 | 8:16 Bellinzona station | 0h36 | 8:52 Lugano | 1 change | |
| S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 25513 · B 4 4054 | 4054 | 8:19 Bellinzona station | 0h48 | 9:07 Lugano | 2 changes | |
| S 20 25631 | 25631 · RE 80 25513 | 25513 | 8:19 Bellinzona station | 0h35 | 8:54 Lugano, Stazione | 1 change | |
| IC 2 861 | 861 | 8:44 Bellinzona station | 0h14 | 8:58 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| IC 2 861 | 861 · B 3 3095 | 3095 | 8:44 Bellinzona station | 0h26 | 9:10 Lugano | 1 change | |
| S 10 25763 | 25763 | 8:46 Bellinzona station | 0h19 | 9:05 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bellinzona to Lugano by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
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21 Sept
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23 Sept
23 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bellinzona to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano run on average 21 times per day, taking around 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £3 by coach.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 22 km distance in 16m.
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
Coach from £3
Distance 22 km |
Average train duration 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 21 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 16m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Coach from £3
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Bellinzona to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Bellinzona and Lugano from £3. 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 SBB Duration
16m
Cheapest SBB Price
£13
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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
14m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
£24
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
51 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 delle Culture
A lakeside museum in Villa Ciani with exhibitions on Swiss customs, arts and regional culture. It is a manageable visit near the city centre and park.
- Recommended
Museo delle Dogane Svizzere
Museum of customs and smuggling history in Cantine di Gandria. It offers a distinctive local story in a scenic lakeside setting reached on foot or by boat.
- Must visit
Piazza della Riforma
Elegant central square facing the lake, lined with historic buildings and arcades. It is the classic meeting point for views, walks and city atmosphere.
- Must visit
Parco Ciani
Large lakeside park with mature trees, lawns, sculptures and open views. Ideal for a relaxed stroll close to museums, the waterfront and the city centre.
- Must visit
Lungolago di Lugano
The main promenade along Lake Lugano, popular for walking, photographs and easy access to cultural sites. A simple way to enjoy the city’s lakeside setting.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
Creamy polenta from maize meal, a staple in Ticino often served with braised meats or cheese. It reflects the region’s Alpine-Italian food heritage.
- Gluten-free
Brasato al Merlot
Slow-cooked beef braise in red wine, traditionally served with polenta. It is a classic celebratory dish in Ticino and northern Italian-influenced homes.
- Gluten-free
Salame ticinese
Air-dried raw salami from Ticino pork, seasoned and cured. It is a traditional local charcuterie eaten as an antipasto or with bread and wine.
Ristorante Galerie Arté al Lago
Elegant dining room in central Lugano offering refined Italian cuisine, seafood and tasting menus in a formal atmosphere.
Grotto della Salute
Historic grotto-style venue known for Ticinese classics, local wines and a relaxed traditional atmosphere near the centre.
La Cucina di Alice
Well-known lakeside restaurant serving fish, pasta and regional dishes with scenic views and a polished but approachable setting.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Lugano is pricier than many Swiss and Italian-border cities, with high hotel rates, dining costs and everyday expenses; public transport is efficient but not cheap.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a 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 a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service in restaurants; round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafés.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 5.20
To the city centre
Lugano Stazione -> Piazza della Riforma, Lugano
- Distance
- 1.0 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Arcobaleno fares are zone-based; central Lugano uses 1 zone, and the ticket is valid on buses, trains and the Lugano Station–Centre funicular within its validity.
- Buy tickets before boarding where possible using SBB Mobile or official sales channels; fare products in Lugano are provided through the Arcobaleno tariff network.
FAQs: Bellinzona to Lugano train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bellinzona 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Bellinzona to Lugano can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £14.
The train journey from Bellinzona to Lugano covers a distance of 22 km and takes approximately 16m. Trains run 21 per day.
The train distance from Bellinzona to Lugano is 22 km.
The first train from Bellinzona to Lugano leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Bellinzona to Lugano departs at 23:55.
Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano run approximately 21 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bellinzona to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bellinzona and Lugano. The service operates 10 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
To get from Bellinzona to Lugano, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Bellinzona to Lugano.
The train station in Bellinzona that goes to Lugano is Bellinzona station, and it arrives at Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Bellinzona to Lugano is by coach, costing approximately £3.
Booking trains from Bellinzona to Lugano in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Bellinzona to Lugano is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, lush mountains, and charming villages along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Bellinzona to Lugano is feasible. The journey takes only 16m and covers 22 km. Trains run 17 times per day.
In Lugano, you can enjoy scenic boat tours and lakeside promenades on Lake Lugano, with stunning views. Hike or take a funicular to Monte San Salvatore for breathtaking regional vistas. Explore vibrant local markets for a taste of Swiss culture, or visit the Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola. Stroll through Lugano's Old Town to discover charming shops and cafes. For the best sights, Monte Brè offers panoramic views of the Alps, while Parco Ciani provides walking paths and gardens. The LAC hosts cultural events, and Swissminiatur showcases miniature Swiss landmarks. Gandria, a lakeside village, features narrow streets and traditional architecture.
Three to four days in Lugano allows visitors to explore its key attractions, enjoy the picturesque lake, hike surrounding mountains, and experience the local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Bellinzona to Lugano.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bellinzona and Lugano
Most Bellinzona to Lugano trains use the Bellinzona to Lugano, Stazione station pair. Use this guide to compare Bellinzona and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bellinzona
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Bellinzona station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano leave from Bellinzona. The station is 1 km from Bellinzona city centre at Viale Stazione 1, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland.
BellinzonaViale Stazione 1, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland+41 91 825 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Bellinzona from Bellinzona city centre
Bus1, 3, 5 · 6m · £2 · every ~18 min
Bellinzona train station facilities and services
Bellinzona has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Casa del Popolo, Ristorante Locanda Orico
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bellinzona. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bellinzona. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bellinzona: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bellinzona: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bellinzona: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Internazionale Bellinzona, Hotel & SPA Internazionale, Hotel Unione.
Which Lugano station do trains from Bellinzona arrive at?
Trains from Bellinzona to Lugano most often arrive at Lugano, Stazione. Some services arrive at Lugano-Paradiso, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Lugano arrival station.
Lugano, Stazione6900 Lugano, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano, Stazione from Lugano city centre
Bus6 · 7m · £3 · every ~10 min
6 · 10m · £3 · every ~10 min
461 · 12m · £5 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Bellinzona
More options for your journey from Bellinzona to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Bellinzona
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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