- Recommended
Museo civico e archeologico
Main local museum inside the Visconti castle, with archaeology and city history collections in a strong medieval setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Locarno
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 27 Oct
Cheapest price on 27 Oct
£41
Average ticket price on 27 Oct
£56
Fastest journey on 27 Oct
2 h 10 m
Average journey duration on 27 Oct
2 h 10 m
Trains on 27 Oct
14
Distance
134 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Locarno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Locarno will cost around £56 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £41.
Fast trains
On Tue 27 Oct, we found 14 trains from Zurich to Locarno, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 134 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 12 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.
IR 46 2409 | 24096:053h22Zurich HB9:27Locarno station£411One-way0 changes- IR 46 2413 | 24138:053h22Zurich HB11:27Locarno station£421One-way0 changes
- IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 256419:052h10Zurich HB11:15Locarno station£461One-way1 change
- IR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 659 · S 20 25629 | 256296:052h10Zurich HB8:15Locarno station£461One-way2 changes
- IR 46 2413 | 2413 · IC 21 663 | 663 · S 20 25637 | 256378:052h10Zurich HB10:15Locarno station£471One-way2 changes
- IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 256419:052h10Zurich HB11:15Locarno station£461One-way1 change
- IR 46 2413 | 2413 · IC 21 663 | 663 · S 20 25637 | 256378:052h10Zurich HB10:15Locarno station£471One-way2 changes
- IC 2 861 | 861 · S 20 25633 | 256337:052h10Zurich HB9:15Locarno station£531One-way1 change
- IR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 659 · S 20 25629 | 256296:052h10Zurich HB8:15Locarno station£461One-way2 changes
- EC 15 | 15 · S 20 25643 | 256439:332h12Zurich HB11:45Locarno station£671One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Locarno
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Zurich to Locarno run on average 16 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 134 km distance in 1h 58m.
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 134 km |
Average train duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:05 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 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
Frequently asked questions about your Zurich to Locarno trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Zurich to Locarno.
The cost of a train ticket from Zurich to Locarno can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £60.
The train journey from Zurich to Locarno covers a distance of 134 km and takes approximately 1h 58m. Trains run 16 per day.
The train distance from Zurich to Locarno is 134 km.
The first train from Zurich to Locarno leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Zurich to Locarno departs at 23:05.
Trains from Zurich to Locarno run approximately 16 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Zurich and Locarno. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by SBB.
Live departures
Zurich to Locarno train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Locarno trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 27 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 659 · S 20 25629 | 25629 · B 1 1040 | 1040 | 6:05 Zurich HB | 2h14 | 8:19 Locarno, Debarcadero | 3 changes | |
| IR 46 2409 | 2409 | 6:05 Zurich HB | 3h22 | 9:27 Locarno station | 0 changesdirect | |
| IR 46 2409 | 2409 · IC 21 659 | 659 · S 20 25629 | 25629 | 6:05 Zurich HB | 2h10 | 8:15 Locarno station | 2 changes | |
| EC 11 | 11 · S 20 25631 | 25631 · B 4 4014 | 4014 | 6:33 Zurich HB | 2h17 | 8:50 Locarno, Debarcadero | 2 changes | |
| EC 11 | 11 · S 20 25631 | 25631 | 6:33 Zurich HB | 2h12 | 8:45 Locarno station | 1 change | |
| IC 2 861 | 861 · S 20 25633 | 25633 | 7:05 Zurich HB | 2h10 | 9:15 Locarno station | 1 change | |
| EC 13 | 13 · S 20 25635 | 25635 | 7:33 Zurich HB | 2h12 | 9:45 Locarno station | 1 change | |
| IR 46 2413 | 2413 · IC 21 663 | 663 · S 20 25637 | 25637 · B 4 4020 | 4020 | 8:05 Zurich HB | 2h15 | 10:20 Locarno, Debarcadero | 3 changes | |
| IR 46 2413 | 2413 · IC 21 663 | 663 · S 20 25637 | 25637 | 8:05 Zurich HB | 2h10 | 10:15 Locarno station | 2 changes | |
| IR 46 2413 | 2413 | 8:05 Zurich HB | 3h22 | 11:27 Locarno station | 0 changesdirect | |
| EC 31 | 31 · S 20 25639 | 25639 · B 4 4022 | 4022 | 8:33 Zurich HB | 2h17 | 10:50 Locarno, Debarcadero | 2 changes | |
| EC 31 | 31 · S 20 25639 | 25639 | 8:33 Zurich HB | 2h12 | 10:45 Locarno station | 1 change | |
| IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 25641 | 9:05 Zurich HB | 2h10 | 11:15 Locarno station | 1 change | |
| EC 15 | 15 · S 20 25643 | 25643 | 9:33 Zurich HB | 2h12 | 11:45 Locarno station | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: SBB from Zurich to Locarno trainsSBB trains will get you between Zurich and Locarno from £33. 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
1h 58m
Cheapest SBB Price
£33
SBB frequency
16 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Zurich and Locarno
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Zurich to Locarno.
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich to Locarno.
Complete guide to Locarno
Things to do in Locarno
Discover the best of Locarno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Locarno trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Casa Rusca
Museum on the lakeside devoted to modern art in the Casa Rusca. It hosts changing exhibitions and is a strong stop for culture lovers.
- Recommended
Fondazione Ghisla Art Collection
Contemporary art space in a restored industrial building at Muralto station area. Visit for ambitious temporary exhibitions and architecture.
- Must visit
Piazza Grande
Locarno’s main square, framed by arcades and historic buildings. It is the city’s social heart and a base for events, markets and strolls.
- Recommended
Lungolago Giuseppe Motta
Elegant lakeside promenade with palms, flowerbeds and open views across Lago Maggiore. Ideal for a relaxed walk near the centre.
- Recommended
Parco delle Camelie
Headland and park area with one of Locarno’s best lake panoramas. Popular for sunset walks, photography and a quieter atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Polenta ticinese
Polenta from Ticino maize, often served creamy or set, traditionally paired with braised meat or cheese. It is a staple of local alpine and rural cooking.
- Gluten-free
Brasato al Merlot
Slow-cooked beef braised in Merlot, the signature red wine of Ticino. It reflects the canton’s strong wine culture and hearty home-style cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Carne secca
Air-dried beef from the southern Alps, sliced thin and served as an antipasto. It is prized for its intense flavour and mountain preservation tradition.
Ristorante Eden Roc Ascona
Refined lakeside dining in Ascona near Locarno, known for polished seasonal cuisine, seafood and an elegant setting for a special meal.
Grotto Broggini
Traditional grotto-style venue above Locarno serving Ticino classics, local wine and hearty dishes in a rustic hillside atmosphere.
Ristorante Sensi
Well-known pizzeria and Italian restaurant in central Locarno, popular for reliable pizzas, pasta and a lively casual atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Locarno is expensive versus many European towns: hotels, dining and local transport cost more, though supermarkets and simple lunches help control spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up bills or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Round up small taxi fares and leave small change in cafés if service is good.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.40
- Day pass
- CHF 6.80
To the city centre
Locarno FART -> Piazza Grande, Locarno
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Buy your ticket before boarding; Swiss public transport generally requires a valid ticket before departure.
- SBB Mobile supports ticket purchase and EasyRide. On many regional buses and trains, contactless bank card payment is not the primary fare method, so buy in the app or at a machine first.
Plan your visit to Locarno
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Locarno.
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Locarno is considered scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, lakes, and mountains, particularly as it passes through the Gotthard Base Tunnel and along the shores of Lake Maggiore.
FAQs: Zurich to Locarno train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Locarno 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 Locarno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Zurich to Locarno in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Locarno.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Zurich and Locarno
Most Zurich to Locarno trains use the Zürich HB to Locarno station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Locarno train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Locarno
Which Zurich station do trains to Locarno leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Locarno leave from Zürich HB. The station is 2 km from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · £3 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · £1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · £2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · £2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · £2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Zürich OerlikonOerlikon, Zurich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Oerlikon from Zurich city centre
Zürich Oerlikon is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS8, S2, S24, Ir36, S14, Re48, S19, S, Ir13, Ic1, S21, S15, S9, Sn8, Ir, N1 · 4m · £2 · every ~31 min
9, S · 12m · £4 · every ~3 min
BusE · 13m · £3
N10 · 14m · £3
Tram10, 11, 17, 50, 51, 8 · 12m · £3 · every ~19 min
Zürich Oerlikon train station facilities and services
Zürich Oerlikon 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: Negishi Sushi Bar, Le Muh
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Oerlikon. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Oerlikon. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Oerlikon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Oerlikon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Oerlikon: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Courtyard Zurich North, Swissotel Zurich, Hotel Sternen Oerlikon.
Zürich AltstettenZürich Altstetten railway station, Altstetten, Zurich, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich Altstetten from Zurich city centre
Zürich Altstetten is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS5, S11, S12, Sn1, Sn5, Sn11, Sn · 12m · £3 · every ~14 min
Bus31 · 14m · £3 · every ~16 min
N17, N1 · 18m · £3
31 · 22m · £3 · every ~16 min
Tram51 · 14m · £3 · every ~16 min
Zürich Altstetten train station facilities and services
Zürich Altstetten 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: Restaurant Markthalle, Restaurant LaSalle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Altstetten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Altstetten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich Altstetten: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Altstetten: Elevators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Placid Hotel Zurich, Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, H+ Hotel Zürich.
Which Locarno station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Locarno arrive at Locarno. Locarno is from Locarno city centre.
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.
Train stations for Zurich to Locarno
Check train stations information for Zurich and Locarno, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Locarno is Zürich HB, and it arrives at Locarno.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Locarno
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Locarno and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Locarno
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