- 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 Locarno to Lugano
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Sept
Cheapest price on 12 Sept
£18
Average ticket price on 12 Sept
£18
Fastest journey on 12 Sept
32 m
Average journey duration on 12 Sept
32 m
Trains on 12 Sept
20
Distance
22 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Locarno to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Locarno to Lugano will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £18.
Fast trains
On Sat 12 Sept, we found 20 trains from Locarno to Lugano, including 7 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 22 km distance in an average of 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 32 m .
The slowest trains will take 32 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.
RE 80 25813 | 25813 · B 4 4048 | 40487:520h45Locarno station8:37Lugano£181One-way1 change- RE 80 25509 | 255096:220h32Locarno station6:54Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- RE 80 25813 | 258137:520h32Locarno station8:24Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- IR 26 2316 | 2316 · S 90 25961 | 259617:330h48Locarno station8:21Lugano, Stazione£181One-way1 change
- RE 80 25811 | 258116:520h32Locarno station7:24Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- RE 80 25509 | 255096:220h32Locarno station6:54Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- RE 80 25813 | 258137:520h32Locarno station8:24Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- RE 80 25811 | 258116:520h32Locarno station7:24Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- RE 80 25511 | 255117:220h32Locarno station7:54Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
- RE 80 25815 | 258158:520h32Locarno station9:24Lugano, Stazione£181One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Locarno to Lugano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Locarno to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £20 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 4m. 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 train costs an average of £20, while a train costs an average of £20.
Distance: 22 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£20 Average Price Cheapest | £45 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 4m Average total duration Fastest 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Locarno to Lugano is a train with an average price of £20.
The fastest way to travel from Locarno to Lugano is by train with an average journey time of 34m.
Other travel options to Lugano take longer:
Coach takes on average 40m.
Yes, you can take a train between Locarno and Lugano.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 13m faster (34m by train vs 47m by car) and roughly £25 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£20 vs £45). 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
Locarno to Lugano train times
The table below shows live departures for Locarno to Lugano trains for tomorrow, Saturday 12 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RE 80 25509 | 25509 | 6:22 Locarno station | 0h32 | 6:54 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| RE 80 25509 | 25509 · B 4 4024 | 4024 | 6:22 Locarno station | 0h45 | 7:07 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25811 | 25811 | 6:52 Locarno station | 0h32 | 7:24 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| RE 80 25811 | 25811 · B 4 4032 | 4032 | 6:52 Locarno station | 0h45 | 7:37 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25511 | 25511 · B 4 4040 | 4040 | 7:22 Locarno station | 0h45 | 8:07 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25511 | 25511 | 7:22 Locarno station | 0h32 | 7:54 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| IR 26 2316 | 2316 · S 90 25961 | 25961 | 7:33 Locarno station | 0h48 | 8:21 Lugano, Stazione | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25813 | 25813 · B 4 4048 | 4048 | 7:52 Locarno station | 0h45 | 8:37 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25813 | 25813 | 7:52 Locarno station | 0h32 | 8:24 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| RE 80 25513 | 25513 · B 4 4056 | 4056 | 8:22 Locarno station | 0h45 | 9:07 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25513 | 25513 | 8:22 Locarno station | 0h32 | 8:54 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| IR 46 2418 | 2418 · S 90 25963 | 25963 | 8:33 Locarno station | 0h48 | 9:21 Lugano, Stazione | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25815 | 25815 | 8:52 Locarno station | 0h32 | 9:24 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| RE 80 25815 | 25815 · B 4 4064 | 4064 | 8:52 Locarno station | 0h45 | 9:37 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25515 | 25515 · B 4 4072 | 4072 | 9:22 Locarno station | 0h45 | 10:07 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25515 | 25515 | 9:22 Locarno station | 0h32 | 9:54 Lugano, Stazione | 0 changesdirect | |
| IR 26 2320 | 2320 · S 90 25965 | 25965 | 9:33 Locarno station | 0h48 | 10:21 Lugano, Stazione | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25817 | 25817 · B 4 4080 | 4080 | 9:52 Locarno station | 0h45 | 10:37 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25517 | 25517 · B 4 4088 | 4088 | 10:22 Locarno station | 0h45 | 11:07 Lugano | 1 change | |
| RE 80 25819 | 25819 · B 4 4096 | 4096 | 10:52 Locarno station | 0h45 | 11:37 Lugano | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Locarno to Lugano by train
Compare 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.
Sat
12 Sept
12 Sept
Sun
13 Sept
13 Sept
Mon
14 Sept
14 Sept
Tue
15 Sept
15 Sept
Wed
16 Sept
16 Sept
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Locarno to Lugano
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Locarno to Lugano run on average 19 times per day, taking around 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 22 km distance in 30m.
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
Distance 22 km |
Average train duration 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £19 |
Trains per day 19 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 30m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Locarno to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Locarno and Lugano from £19. 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
30m
Cheapest SBB Price
£19
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
32m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
£24
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
36 a day
Südostbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Südostbahn Duration
44m
Südostbahn frequency
14 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: Locarno to Lugano train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Locarno 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 Locarno to Lugano can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £20.
The train journey from Locarno to Lugano covers a distance of 22 km and takes approximately 30m. Trains run 19 per day.
The train distance from Locarno to Lugano is 22 km.
The first train from Locarno to Lugano leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Locarno to Lugano departs at 23:50.
Trains from Locarno to Lugano run approximately 19 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Locarno to Lugano.
Yes, there is a direct train between Locarno and Lugano. The service operates 8 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
To travel from Locarno to Lugano, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Locarno to Lugano.
The train station in Locarno that goes to Lugano is Locarno station, and it arrives at Lugano, Stazione.
The cheapest way to get from Locarno to Lugano is by train, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Locarno 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 Locarno to Lugano is considered scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, including lush landscapes and beautiful lakes.
Yes, a day trip from Locarno to Lugano is feasible. The journey takes 30m, covers a distance of 22 km, and there are 18 trains 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 Locarno to Lugano.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Locarno and Lugano
Most Locarno to Lugano trains use the Locarno to Lugano, Stazione station pair, with some services arriving at Lugano-Paradiso. Use this guide to compare Locarno and Lugano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Locarno
Arrival train stations in Lugano
Which Locarno station do trains to Lugano leave from?
Trains from Locarno to Lugano leave from Locarno. The station is from Locarno city centre at Piazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland.
LocarnoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland+41 91 751 82 90
City-centre transport
Getting to Locarno from Locarno city centre
Bus1, 311, 312, 316, 3, 4, 7 · 4m · £2 · every ~38 min
Locarno train station facilities and services
Locarno has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Sensi, Osteria Chiara
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Locarno. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Locarno. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Locarno: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Locarno: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Locarno: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Locarno, Hotel Belvedere Locarno, Hotel Garni Muralto.
Solduno6600 Locarno, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Solduno from Locarno city centre
Solduno is 1 km from Locarno city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR70 · 3m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Bus7 · 9m · £2 · every ~9 min
Solduno train station facilities and services
Solduno has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Solduno.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Solduno.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Solduno: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Solduno: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Solduno.
San Martino6600 Locarno, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to San Martino from Locarno city centre
San Martino is 2 km from Locarno city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR70 · 5m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Bus370 · 12m · £3
7 · 18m · £2 · every ~9 min
San Martino train station facilities and services
San Martino has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Martino.
Which Lugano station do trains from Locarno arrive at?
Trains from Locarno 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.
Lugano-Paradiso6900 Paradiso, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Lugano-Paradiso from Lugano city centre
Lugano-Paradiso is 1 km from Lugano city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS10, S, Re80, Re84, S90 · 3m · £2 · every ~11 min
Bus1, 2 · 8m · £3 · every ~19 min
434 · 10m · £2 · every ~3 min
2 · 23m · £3 · every ~9 min
Lugano-Paradiso train station facilities and services
Lugano-Paradiso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lugano-Paradiso.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Lugano-Paradiso.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Bike Rental.
Most popular train connections from Locarno
More options for your journey from Locarno to Lugano
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lugano and Locarno
Most popular train connections to Lugano
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