TrainlineTrainline is Europe’s leading platform for train and bus tickets

What customers say about Trainline

Read real reviews from real users

Lugano to Zurich by train

In just over two hours, SBB trains will take you from the heart of Lugano to the centre of Zurich. This ultra-modern railway has thought of every comfort for a smooth transfer - from a Swiss-inspired onboard menu, to a dedicated business zone and extra comfy seats. If you’re lucky, you might even get the exciting double-decker train service!

Both quicker and less stressful than driving, it’s a popular route with locals commuting for work, and pleasure. And with 27 trains a day available, it’s easy to see why the train is everyone’s first choice.

Should you need more information before committing to your Lugano to Zurich trip, help is at hand. There are further details below, covering all your burning questions and FAQs. So, go ahead and jump on board – Zurich is waiting.

Lugano to Zurich Hb by train

First train

06:00

Last train

22:02

Departure station

Lugano

Arrival station

Zurich Hb

Journey time

From 1h 55m

Distance

97 miles (156 km)

Frequency

29 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Train and bus operators

SBB CFF FFS

Lugano to Zurich Hb train times

Check out the next trains departing from Lugano to Zurich Hb for Tuesday 2nd April 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
09:30 12:27 2h 57m, direct
10:02 12:55 2h 53m, 1 change
11:02 13:55 2h 53m, direct
11:30 14:27 2h 57m, direct
12:02 14:55 2h 53m, 1 change
13:02 15:55 2h 53m, direct
13:30 16:27 2h 57m, direct
14:02 16:55 2h 53m, 1 change
15:02 17:55 2h 53m, direct
15:30 18:27 2h 57m, direct

SBB trains from Lugano to Zurich Hb

You can travel from Lugano to Zurich Hb 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).

Intercity and Eurocity classes from Lugano to Zurich Hb

Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity and Eurocity when travelling from Lugano to Zurich Hb.

Onboard services on Intercity and Eurocity

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Lugano to Zurich Hb.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Many SBB Intercity trains will have a restaurant or bistro carriage so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

There are plug sockets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard. On Intercity trains, there is also a dedicated family carriage.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You can take your bicycle onboard SBB Intercity trains. Between 21st March and 31st October, it's compulsory to reserve a bike space on some Intercity trains. You must also buy a ticket for your bike at a ticket office, ticket machine or online.

PetPetPets

Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

InfoInfoOther

There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Eurocity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.​

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Many SBB Eurocity trains will have a restaurant or bistro carriage so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

There are plug sockets and free WiFi on SBB Eurocity trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You can take your bike onboard SBB Eurocity trains provided that you can fit it into the storage space onboard, but you'll need to buy a ticket for it. You'll also need a reservation for the Swiss part of your journey when travelling internationally. You can make a reservation online or at a ticket office.

PetPetPets

Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

There is a wheelchair-accessible toilet onboard, plus priority seating for passengers with reduced mobility.

InfoInfoOther

There is air conditioning on board newer SBB Eurocity trains, so you can travel in comfort.

Cheap train tickets from Lugano to Zurich Hb

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 Lugano to Zurich Hb 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

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

How long does the train from Lugano to Zurich Hb take?

The average journey time by train between Lugano and Zurich Hb is 2 hours and 52 minutes, with around 29 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 Lugano and Zurich Hb by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Lugano to Zurich Hb is 1 hour and 55 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Lugano to Zurich Hb?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Lugano to Zurich Hb without having to change trains. There are 19 direct trains from Lugano to Zurich Hb each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

What time does the first train from Lugano to Zurich Hb leave?

The first train from Lugano to Zurich Hb leaves at 06:00. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Lugano to Zurich Hb leave?

The last train from Lugano to Zurich Hb leaves at 22:02. 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 Lugano and Zurich Hb by train?

Trains travelling from Lugano to Zurich Hb cover a distance of around 97 miles (156 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Zurich Hb to Lugano. If you’re looking for other options, you can also catch the bus from Lugano to Zurich Hb.

Europe’s leading train and coach app

We help customers across Europe make more than 172,000 smarter journeys every day.