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Trains from Waterloo to Lugano

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

About the train journey from Waterloo to Lugano

Want to travel from Waterloo to Lugano by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Waterloo to Lugano usually takes 12 hours on average to travel 387 miles (623 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 9 hours 17 minutes. You can expect to find 31 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Waterloo and Lugano, you’ll need to make 3 changes on your way to Lugano.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Waterloo to Lugano in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Lugano, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Trains to Lugano from Waterloo

First train

06:40

Last train

23:10

Departure stationWaterloo
Arrival stationLugano
Journey time

From 9h 17m

Distance

387 miles (623 km)

Frequency

31 trains per day

Changes

3 changes

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Waterloo to Lugano?

Want to know more about your journey from Waterloo to Lugano? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I get from Waterloo to Lugano?

You can travel from Waterloo to Lugano by train in about 12 hours and 0 minutes. With around 31 trains running each day, taking the train is easy. Find out more in our Journey Planner.

How long is the train journey from Waterloo to Lugano?

On average, the train journey from Waterloo to Lugano takes around 12 hours and 0 minutes, with 31 trains per day. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific train and any potential delays. Use our Journey Planner to check out more information.

What is the fastest train from Waterloo to Lugano?

The fastest trains from Waterloo to Lugano can cover the distance of 387 miles (623 km) in as little as 9 hours and 17 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Waterloo to Lugano?

No, you can’t travel from Waterloo to Lugano on a direct train, you’ll need to make at least 3 changes during the journey.

What are the train times from Waterloo to Lugano?

Check out the next trains departing from Waterloo to Lugano for Tuesday 7th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
09:4119:289h 47m, 5 changes
09:4120:2810h 47m, 4 changes
09:4919:5810h 9m, 6 changes
09:4920:2810h 39m, 5 changes
10:4120:5810h 17m, 3 changes
11:4120:589h 17m, 4 changes
12:4122:5810h 17m, 3 changes
13:4122:589h 17m, 4 changes
14:4100:259h 44m, 6 changes
15:4106:5815h 17m, 4 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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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