Getting from Milan to Lugano by train
Taking a trip over the Italian border and through to Switzerland is a lot easier than you may think. Crossing rivers and mountains, lakes and wooded peaks, the journey is just as exciting as the destination. There’s only one way to soak up the stunning views from Milan to Lugano, and that’s by train.
Board a Eurocity service in central Milan and be transported on a ride through the tip of Lake Como to the picturesque Swiss city of Lugano. Lugano station is centrally located, you’ll arrive in the heart of the city close to Lugano Lake and the nearby cultural sights in less than an hour and a half.
So, what are you waiting for? Find everything you need to know about train timetables and tickets from Milan to Lugano below.
Milan Central Station to Lugano by train
| Journey time | From 1h 15m |
|---|---|
| Price | From €12 |
| Distance | 38 miles (61 km) |
| Frequency | 32 trains per day |
| First train | 00:25 |
| Last train | 22:52 |
| Departure station | Milan Central Station |
| Arrival station | Lugano |
| Changes | Direct trains available |
| Train and bus operators | Regiojet, Marino, Trenitalia, SBB CFF FFS, Flixbus, Trenord, Calanda Viaggi (Bus) |
Trenitalia and Trenord trains from Milan Central Station to Lugano
Trenitalia
Trenord
Trenitalia is the national railway company of Italy, with a fleet including high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca), Intercity and Intercity night trains and regional trains. Trenitalia offers discounts and special promotions on selected routes, two types of discounted tickets for young people under 30 and people over 60.
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Founded by Trenitalia and FNM (Ferrovie Nord Milano), Trenord run suburban and regional trains in Lombardy and from Lombardy to Ticino, the Italian-speaking region in Switzerland. With Trenord, you can travel between Milan, Bergamo, Como, Varese, Pavia, Brescia, Chiasso, Milan Malpensa Airport and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport in total comfort. All Trenord trains have First and Second Class and offer special discounts to travellers under 14, over 60 and groups.
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Cheap train tickets from Milan Central Station 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 Milan Central Station 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.
Journey details
How long does the train from Milan Central Station to Lugano take?
The average journey time by train between Milan Central Station and Lugano is 1 hour and 53 minutes, with around 32 trains per day. 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 Milan Central Station and Lugano by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Milan Central Station to Lugano is 1 hour and 15 minutes.
How much does the train from Milan Central Station to Lugano cost?
Train ticket prices from Milan Central Station to Lugano can start from as little as €12 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Milan Central Station to Lugano?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Milan Central Station to Lugano without having to change trains. There are 15 direct trains from Milan Central Station to Lugano each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Milan Central Station to Lugano leave?
The first train from Milan Central Station to Lugano leaves at 00:25. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Milan Central Station to Lugano leave?
The last train from Milan Central Station to Lugano leaves at 22:52. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Milan Central Station and Lugano by train?
Trains travelling from Milan Central Station to Lugano cover a distance of around 38 miles (61 km) during the journey.