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Trains from Locarno to Lugano

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Locarno to Lugano

Travel from Locarno to Lugano by train in 32 minutes

If you want to know more about the journey from Locarno to Lugano by train, look no further!

The average journey time from Locarno to Lugano by train is 37 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 32 minutes. Around 51 trains per day travel the 13 miles (22 km) between these two destinations. Direct trains are usually available every day on the route to Lugano. As the main train operator on this route, you'll probably be travelling on a SBB service for all or at least part of your journey to Lugano.

Book train tickets from Locarno to Lugano in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. You can check prices from Locarno to Lugano in our Journey Planner.

Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times, as well as tips on how to find cheap train tickets.

Trains to Lugano from Locarno

First train

04:35

Last train

22:52

Departure stationLocarno
Arrival stationLugano
Journey time

From 32m

Distance

13 miles (22 km)

Frequency

51 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Train and bus operators

SBB CFF FFS

What do people frequently ask 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 do I travel from Locarno to Lugano?

You can get from Locarno to Lugano by train in 37 minutes on average, with the fastest journeys taking just 32 minutes. Check out our Journey Planner for more details.

How long does the train from Locarno to Lugano take?

The average journey time by train between Locarno and Lugano is 37 minutes, with around 51 trains per day running on this route. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Locarno and Lugano by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Locarno to Lugano is 32 minutes.

Can you take a train directly from Locarno to Lugano?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Locarno to Lugano without having to change trains. There are 35 direct trains from Locarno to Lugano each day. However, there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

What are the train times from Locarno to Lugano?

Check out the next trains departing from Locarno to Lugano for Tuesday 14th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
11:2211:5432m, direct
11:3312:2148m, 1 change
11:5212:2432m, direct
12:2212:5432m, direct
12:3313:2148m, 1 change
12:5213:2432m, direct
13:2213:5432m, direct
13:3314:2148m, 1 change
13:5214:2432m, direct
14:2214:5432m, direct

SBB trains from Locarno to Lugano

You can travel from Locarno to Lugano on SBB trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

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).

More information

How do I find cheap train tickets from Locarno to Lugano?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Locarno to Lugano starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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