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Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
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How to travel from Locarno to Lugano by train
Want to find out more about taking the train from Locarno to Lugano? Look no further.
You'll usually find 51 trains per day running between Locarno and Lugano, which usually take 37 minutes to complete the 22 km journey. It can take as little as 32 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. As soon as you board the train, you'll be able to make yourself comfortable and enjoy the journey as there are direct services available. All or part of your journey will be onboard a train operated by SBB, as they are the main carrier on this route.
You can save money on train tickets from Locarno to Lugano if you book in advance. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for train schedules (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
Locarno to Lugano by train
| First train | 4:35 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 10:52 pm | |
| Departure station | Locarno | |
| Arrival station | Lugano | |
| Journey time | From 32m | |
| Distance | 13 miles (22 km) | |
| Frequency | 51 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Locarno to Lugano
Want to know more about your journey from Locarno to Lugano? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How close is Locarno to Lugano by train?
Which train companies operate from Locarno to Lugano?
Is it possible to get from Locarno to Lugano without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Locarno to Lugano?
What time does the first train from Locarno to Lugano leave?
What time does the last train from Locarno to Lugano leave?
How often are trains from Locarno and Lugano?
Do you need to book the train from Locarno to Lugano in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Locarno to Lugano?
SBB trains from Locarno to Lugano
The Swiss rail network is operated by SBB. SBB train ticket prices are based on travel and not on the type of trains. You will find available return tickets (standard price, one way or round trip), Multiple journey tickets (for six individual trips on a pre-determined itinerary) and the City-Ticket (including a one-day transportation pass from the city of departure or arrival).
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Cheap train tickets from Locarno to Lugano
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Locarno to Lugano by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.