Train Zurich - Lugano prices from $21.66

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$21.66

Zurich to Lugano by train

The journey from Zurich to Lugano by train is 95.83 mi and takes 3 hr 2 min. There are 58 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:08 AM and the last at 11:35 PM. It is possible to travel from Zurich to Lugano by train for as little as $21.66 or as much as $89.10. The best price for this journey is $21.66.

Lowest Price$21.66
Journey Duration3 hr 2 min
Connection per Day58
Lowest Price$21.66
Highest Price$89.10
First Departure12:08 AM
Last Departure11:35 PM
Distance95.83 mi
DepartureZurich
ArrivalLugano
CarriersSchweizerische Bundesbahnen, FlixBus

Zurich to Lugano Train Times

Departure date
Thursday, Mar 28, 2024

Traveling from Zurich to Lugano by Train

The average train journey duration from Zurich to Lugano is approximately 3 hr 2 min. The distance between the primary stations of these two Swiss cities is around 95.83 mi. Travelers can select from nearly 58 daily train connections. The starting price for a train ticket on this picturesque route often hovers around $21.66. Most trains depart from Zurich Hauptbahnhof, Zurich's main station, and arrive at Lugano's central station. To have a hassle-free boarding experience, it's recommended that travelers arrive at the departure station roughly 30 minutes in advance.

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) predominantly operates trains on this route. Their offerings range from standard to premium classes. The first-class segment boasts spacious seating, power sockets, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The second-class compartment, while simpler, still promises a comfortable journey with the essential conveniences.

Zurich and Lugano: A Dive into Swiss Diversity

Zurich, situated in the north, is Switzerland's largest city and a major global financial hub. It's known for its well-preserved medieval old town, the picturesque Lake Zurich, and a vibrant cultural scene. In contrast, Lugano lies in the southern part of Switzerland in the Ticino canton, offering a unique blend of Swiss quality and Italian flair. With its lakeside setting, Lugano provides a Mediterranean-style warmth and ambiance, making it an attractive destination for relaxation and recreation.

What to Eat in Lugano:

  1. Risotto: A creamy rice dish often flavored with saffron or mushrooms.
  2. Polenta: Soft or grilled cornmeal, a staple in Ticino.
  3. Osso Buco: Braised veal shanks, usually served with risotto or polenta.
  4. Pizzoccheri: A pasta made from buckwheat flour, layered with potatoes, cheese, and greens.
  5. Bresaola: Air-dried beef, often served thinly sliced as an appetizer.
  6. Tiramisu: The classic Italian dessert made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.
  7. Gelato: Italian-style ice cream with a rich and creamy texture.
  8. Ticino Wine: Taste local wines, especially the Merlot from the Ticino region.
  9. Nocino: A traditional walnut liqueur.
  10. Gazzosa Ticinese: A popular lemon-flavored soda from the area.

What to Do in Lugano:

  1. Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC): Attend concerts and performances at this modern cultural center.
  2. Parco Ciani: Relax in Lugano's most famous lakeside park.
  3. Monte Brè: Reach the summit by funicular and enjoy panoramic views.
  4. Hermesvilla Museum: Delve into Lugano's history and art.
  5. Gandria: Visit this picturesque village by the lake.
  6. San Lorenzo Cathedral: Explore this historic church with its beautiful frescoes.
  7. Monte San Salvatore: Another vantage point offering stunning views of the city and Lake Lugano.
  8. Shop on Via Nassa: Lugano's main shopping street.
  9. Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC): Lugano's contemporary cultural and concert center.
  10. Take a Boat Trip: Explore Lake Lugano and its surroundings by boat.

Day trips from Lugano

Lugano's prime location provides easy access to various enticing spots like the Verzasca Valley, the cosmopolitan city of Milan, or even the serene Lake Como, all of which can be reached within a short drive or train journey.

Virail will help you with precise schedules, ticket prices, and other essential details when planning your train journey from Zurich to Lugano. Examining various routes and timings allows you to customize the trip to align with your preferences and budget.

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Compare prices and tickets from Zurich to Lugano

Cheap train tickets from Zurich to Lugano
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Zurich to Lugano.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Zurich to Lugano, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Zurich to Lugano.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

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Best time to book Zurich to Lugano travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $20.44 to $52.39 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 61% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Zurich to Lugano

The cheapest Zurich - Lugano train tickets can be found for as low as $32.58 if you’re lucky, or $45.91 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $64.92.

Find the best day to travel to Lugano by train

When travelling to Lugano by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

FlixBus, a long-distance bus company, operates in both Europe and the United States. Founded in 2013, it has grown to become one of the largest bus operators in Europe, connecting over 2,500 destinations in 30 countries. Originating in Germany, FlixBus has expanded quickly to neighboring countries including France, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Croatia, while also offering regular services to Norway, Spain, and England. With affordable fares and comfortable amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets, FlixBus provides a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.

Services on board FlixBus and SBB from Zurich to Lugano
Compare services on board when travelling from Zurich to Lugano by train.
Facilities FlixBus SBB
wifi WiFi check check
power_sockets Power sockets check check
luggage Luggage check check
food_and_drink Food and drink check check
air_con Air conditioning check check
quiet_zone Quiet zone cross check
accessibility Accessibility cross check
bicycle Bicycle cross check
sleeper_couchette Sleeper cross check

Zurich to Lugano CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
10.8kg
Bus
11.57kg
Flight
30.85kg
Car
24.68kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Zurich to Lugano by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Zurich and Lugano are 10.8kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Zurich and Lugano? By taking the train between Zurich and Lugano you will save 20.05kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 0.77kg compared to a bus and 13.88kg compared to a car.

Anything we can improve?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Zurich to Lugano?
A train ticket from Zurich to Lugano is $57.42. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $21.66.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Zurich to Lugano?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Zurich to Lugano is $21.66. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Zurich and Lugano by train?
Zurich to Lugano is 95.83 mi.
How long does the train between Zurich and Lugano take?
Zurich to Lugano is on average 3 hr 2 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 1 hr 53 min.
Which companies operate from Zurich to Lugano?
The train journey from Zurich to Lugano is covered by 2 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: Schweizerische Bundesbahnen, FlixBus and SBB.
How many train connections per day go from Zurich to Lugano?
Zurich to Lugano has 58 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Zurich to Lugano leave?
The earliest train from Zurich to Lugano departs at 12:08 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Zurich to Lugano depart?
The latest train from Zurich to Lugano departs at 11:35 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Zurich to Lugano in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $21.66 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
How many direct connections depart from Zurich to Lugano?
There are on average 30 direct connection(s) from Zurich to go to Lugano.
What's the fastest journey time between Zurich to Lugano by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Zurich and Lugano is 1 hr 53 min.
Is there a direct train from Zurich to Lugano?
Yes, there is a direct train between Zurich and Lugano.
What are the CO2 emissions for Zurich to Lugano by train?
The train journey from Zurich to Lugano creates 10.8kg of CO2 emissions.

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