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Travel from Bologna to Lugano by train in 2 hours 32 minutes
If you want to know more about the journey from Bologna to Lugano by train, look no further!
The average journey time from Bologna to Lugano by train is 3 hours 25 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 2 hours 32 minutes. Around 43 trains per day travel the 157 miles (252 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 Trenitalia service for all or at least part of your journey to Lugano.
Book train tickets from Bologna to Lugano in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. You can check prices from Bologna 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.
FAQs about the train journey from Bologna to Lugano
Want to know more about your journey from Bologna to Lugano? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How close is Bologna to Lugano by train?
Which train companies operate from Bologna to Lugano?
Is it possible to get from Bologna to Lugano without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Bologna to Lugano?
What time does the first train from Bologna to Lugano leave?
What time does the last train from Bologna to Lugano leave?
How often are trains from Bologna to Lugano?
Do you need to book the train from Bologna to Lugano in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Bologna to Lugano?
Trenitalia trains from Bologna to Lugano
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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Trenitalia Eurocity classes from Bologna to Lugano
Compare the different travel classes offered by Trenitalia Eurocity when travelling from Bologna to Lugano.
Second Class
From spacious armchairs to at-seat power sockets and reading lights, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy your journey in EuroCity's Second Class.
- Seat reservation
- Power sockets
- Clothes hanger
- Reading light
- Luggage storage
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- More legroom
First Class
In addition to all the services available in Second Class, you’ll get to enjoy extra-wide and comfier seats, more legroom, and an at-seat catering service in EuroCity’s First Class:
- Seat reservation
- Power sockets
- Clothes hanger
- Reading light
- Luggage storage
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- More legroom
Onboard services on Trenitalia Eurocity
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Bologna to Lugano.
- You can take your bags on board Trenitalia's Eurocity trains free of charge.
- In most cases, there are no luggage size limits – you can even travel with musical instruments and sports equipment. You’ll just need to make sure that your luggage is compatible with the space available on board.
- You’ll find a Bar-Bistrò on Eurocity trains that are travelling between Italy, Switzerland and Germany.
- A minibar trolley service is also available – you can choose from a wide range of snacks and drinks.
Free WiFi is available on Eurocity Giruno trains.
Children under 4 can travel for free if they're accompanied by an adult and don't occupy a seat.
Not all Eurocity trains allow you to take your bike on board – you’ll need to check in advance if you can travel with your bike. If that’s the case, you’ll need to buy a ticket and book your bike space before departure at the ticket office.
Guide and assistance dogs can travel for free and don't need a ticket.
All of Trenitalia’s Eurocity trains offer dedicated spaces to passengers with disabilities.
A quiet area (or Area Silenzio) is available on all Eurocity Giruno trains.
Cheap train tickets from Bologna 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 Bologna 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.