Frankfurt am Main to Lugano train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Sun 21 Dec
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Showing times and prices for 21 Dec

Cheapest price

£89

Average price

£131

Fastest journey

5 h 56 m

Average duration

6 h 15 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

458 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano will cost around £131 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £89.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Frankfurt am Main for Lugano every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 458 km distance in an average of 6 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 56 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 38 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.

Deutsche BahnICE 277 · IR 2323 · IC 873
08:506h08
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
14:58Lugano station
£891One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 277 · EC 21
08:506h38
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
15:28Lugano station
£1031One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnECE 151 · IC 671
08:025h56
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
13:58Lugano station
£1431One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 593 · ICE 103 · IC 675
09:506h08
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
15:58Lugano station
£1431One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnECE 151
08:026h26
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
14:28Lugano station
£1751One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, and a train costs an average of £34.

Distance: 458 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£85

Average Price

£47

Average Price

Cheapest

£72

Average Price

6h 37m

Average total duration

6h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 34m

Average total duration

10h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 14m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 14m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

easyJet

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Frankfurt am Main to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains for today, Saturday 20 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 04:08
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnECE 151 · IC 671
On time
07:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
5h56
12:58 Lugano station
1 change
deutsche_bahnECE 151
On time
07:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
6h26
13:28 Lugano station
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 277 · EC 21
On time
07:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
6h38
14:28 Lugano station
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 277 · IR 2323 · IC 873
On time
07:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
6h08
13:58 Lugano station
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 593 · ICE 103 · IC 675
On time
08:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
6h08
14:58 Lugano station
2 changes

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main to Lugano by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Sun
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
Mon
29 Dec
Tue
30 Dec
Wed
31 Dec
Thu
01 Jan
Fri
02 Jan
Sat
03 Jan

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £34 but you can travel from only £23 by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:45, the last at 22:55. The fastest train covers the 458 km distance in 5h 57m.

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
Flight from £23
Distance
458 km
Average train duration
6h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
£34
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 57m
First train
02:45
Last train
22:55
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
Flight from £23

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Lugano from £23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 57m
Cheapest Price
£41
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Frankfurt am Main to Lugano train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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
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.
Booking trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cost of a train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £34, while the average price tends to be around £85.
The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is by flight, costing approximately £23.
The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Lugano is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, and it arrives at Lugano station.
The train distance from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is 458 km.
Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano covers a distance of 458 km and takes approximately 5h 57m. Trains run 7 per day.
The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano leaves at 2:45.
The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano departs at 22:55.
Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano run approximately 7 times per day.
There is no night train service from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 57m and the distance is 458 km. However, there are 7 trains per day available for this route.
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.
Yes, there is a direct train between Frankfurt am Main and Lugano. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
To get from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Yes, the train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is considered scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and the stunning Swiss Alps as you approach Lugano.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Frankfurt am Main and Lugano

Frankfurt am Main
Lugano
The major train station for departures in Frankfurt am Main is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf for your trip from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located in the main hall.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Burger King
  • Ciao Bella
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Crepes de France Express
  • dean&david
  • Starbucks
  • Uddin's Sky Sportsbar
  • McDonald's
  • Dunkin Donuts
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Cristall
  • Grand Hotel Empire
  • Hotel Carlton
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
Frankfurt (Main) SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Merals Imbiss
  • Bootshaus am Eisernen Steg
  • Freigut
  • Holbein's
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel am Berg
  • Leonardo Royal Hotel Frankfurt
  • Hotel Ritter
  • Lindner Main Plaza
Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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
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
10 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking areas.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Käfer's
  • McDonald's
  • Asia Snack Box
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • €1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel
  • Hilton Frankfurt Airport
  • Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport
Shower
Shower
  • Cost €6
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
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, platform 1-4 for long-distance and regional trains
  • Hall 2: connection to Terminal 1 of the airport
  • Hall 3: connection to Terminal 2 of the airport
Public transport options for Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf
  • S-Bahn: Lines S8, S9
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Long-distance buses: Available at the airport

More options for your journey from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

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