FRANKFURT AM MAIN to LUGANO train from £33 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC)

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

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept

Cheapest price on 17 Sept

£40

Average ticket price on 17 Sept

£94

Fastest journey on 17 Sept

5 h 56 m

Average journey duration on 17 Sept

6 h 6 m

Trains on 17 Sept

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 £94 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £40.

Fast trains

On Thu 17 Sept, we found 12 trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano, including 1 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 458 km distance in an average of 6 h 6 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 8 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.

ICE 273 · IC 667
5:506h08
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
11:58Lugano station
£401One-way
1 change
IC 60408 · IC 561 · EC 31
3:416h47
Frankfurt South station
10:28Lugano station
£411One-way
2 changes
IC 60408 · EC 15
3:417h47
Frankfurt South station
11:28Lugano station
£411One-way
1 change
ICE 699 · IC 60403 · IC 559 · EC 13
2:257h03
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
9:28Lugano station
£501One-way
3 changes
ICE 699 · IC 60403 · IC 663
2:257h33
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
9:58Lugano station
£501One-way
2 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train 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 an average ticket price of £45 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £45, while a flight costs an average of £74.

Distance: 458 km

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Coach	Flight	Driving
£62 Average Price	£45 Average Price Cheapest	£74 Average Price	£137 Average Price (fuel + tolls)
6h 46m Average total duration 6h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	11h 2m Average total duration 10h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 1h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	6h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door)
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is a coach with an average price of £45.

This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano:

A coach is £18 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano costing on average £62.

A coach is £29 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano costing on average £74.

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 25m.

Other travel options to Lugano take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 16m.

Coach takes on average 10h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt am Main and Lugano including taking a coach, train and flight.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 25m faster (6h 16m by train vs 6h 41m by car) and roughly £74 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£62 vs £137). 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 Deutsche Bahn.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Frankfurt am Main to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains for today, Wednesday 16 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
IC 60471 · IC 563 · EC 15	Delayed 2:32 4:32Frankfurt South station	6h56	11:28 Lugano station	2 changes
ICE 273 · IC 667	Delayed 3:50 5:50Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h08	11:58 Lugano station	1 change
Thursday 17 September
ICE 275 · EC 19	On time 6:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h38	13:28 Lugano station	1 change
ICE 275 · IR 2319 · IC 869	On time 6:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h08	12:58 Lugano station	2 changes
ECE 151	On time 8:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h26	14:28 Lugano station	0 changesdirect
ECE 151 · IC 671	On time 8:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	5h56	13:58 Lugano station	1 change
ICE 277 · EC 21	On time 8:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h38	15:28 Lugano station	1 change
ICE 277 · IR 2323 · IC 873	On time 8:50 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h08	14:58 Lugano station	2 changes
ICE 593 · ICE 103 · IC 675	Delayed 7:59 9:50Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	6h08	15:58 Lugano station	2 changes
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare coach, 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.

Thu
17 Sept

Fri
18 Sept

Sat
19 Sept

Sun
20 Sept

Mon
21 Sept

Tue
22 Sept

Wed
23 Sept

Thu
24 Sept

Fri
25 Sept

Sat
26 Sept

Sun
27 Sept

Mon
28 Sept

Tue
29 Sept

Wed
30 Sept

Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.
Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano

Germany

Switzerland

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £38 but you can travel from only £33 by coach.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:25, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 458 km distance in 6h 8m.

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 £33

Distance

458 km

Average train duration

6h 16m

Cheapest ticket price

£38

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

6h 8m

First train

2:25

Last train

23:05

Cheapest Month

Sept

Cheapest Day

Sun

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Thu

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Coach from £33

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Lugano from £33. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration

6h 8m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

£38

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

What's included in each class

Compare Deutsche Bahn classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class

Power plugs
Wide seats
Extra legroom
Quiet zone
WC

2nd Class

Power plugs
WC

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration

6h 8m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price

£162

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

10 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 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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

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.

The cost of a train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £38, while the average price tends to be around £62.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano covers a distance of 458 km and takes approximately 6h 8m. Trains run 6 per day.

The train distance from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is 458 km.

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano leaves at 2:25.

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano departs at 23:05.

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano run approximately 6 times per day.

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 coach, train and flight.

There is no night train service from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Lugano is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, and it arrives at Lugano station.

The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is by coach, costing approximately £33.

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.

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.

A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 8m 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.

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 Frankfurt am Main to Lugano.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Frankfurt am Main and Lugano

Most Frankfurt am Main to Lugano trains use the Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Lugano station pair. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main

Arrival train stations in Lugano

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Lugano leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Lugano leave from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. The station is 2 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · £0.90 · every ~51 min

BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min

Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · £3 · every ~38 min

SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · £3 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.

More about Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · £2

Trn · 12m · £3

S8, S9 · 19m · £3 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · £5

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf 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, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.