Basel to Lugano train with SBB

Wed, Mar 25
+ Add return
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
EuroCity
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
EuroCity
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Lugano

Showing times and prices for Mar 26

Cheapest price

€69

Average price

€73

Fastest journey

2 h 54 m

Average duration

2 h 55 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Lugano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Lugano will cost around €73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €69.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Basel for Lugano on Thu, Mar 26, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Mar 26 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 2 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 54 m .

On Thu, Mar 26 the slowest trains will take 2 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

SBB
08:04AM2h54
Basel
10:58AMLugano
691One-way
0 transfers
SBB
08:03AM2h55
Basel
10:58AMLugano
691One-way
0 transfers
SBB
08:43AM4h05
Basel
12:48PMLugano
741One-way
0 transfers
SBB
06:04AM2h54
Basel
08:58AMLugano
751One-way
0 transfers
SBB
06:03AM2h55
Basel
08:58AMLugano
761One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €30, and a flight costs an average of €52.

Distance: 202 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€78

Average price

€44

Average price

Cheapest

€211

Average price

3h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 33m

Average total duration

4h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 16m

Average total duration

6h 16m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Basel to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lugano trains for today, Wednesday, March 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 6:57 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbbIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 8657:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
9:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 5 5123 | 51237:04 AM Basel SBB
3h05
10:09 AM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 157:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
10:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · B 5 5135 | 51357:33 AM Basel SBB
3h06
10:39 AM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIC 21 667 | 667 · B 5 5147 | 51478:04 AM Basel SBB
3h05
11:09 AM Lugano1 transfer
sbbIC 21 667 | 6678:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
10:58 AM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
sbbIC 3 553 | 553 · IC 2 1467 | 14678:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
11:28 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIC 3 553 | 553 · IC 2 1467 | 1467 · B 5 5159 | 51598:33 AM Basel SBB
3h06
11:39 AM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 8699:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
11:58 AM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIR 26 2319 | 2319 · IC 2 869 | 869 · B 5 5171 | 51719:04 AM Basel SBB
3h05
12:09 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbTGV 9203 | 9203 · EC 19 | 199:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
12:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbTGV 9203 | 9203 · EC 19 | 19 · B 5 5183 | 51839:33 AM Basel SBB
3h06
12:39 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIC 21 671 | 67110:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
12:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
sbbIC 21 671 | 671 · B 5 5195 | 519510:04 AM Basel SBB
3h05
1:09 PM Lugano1 transfer
sbbEC 151 | 151 · B 5 5207 | 520710:07 AM Basel SBB
3h32
1:39 PM Lugano1 transfer
sbbEC 151 | 15110:07 AM Basel SBB
3h21
1:28 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
sbbIC 3 569 | 569 · EC 151 | 15110:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
1:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIC 3 569 | 569 · EC 151 | 151 · B 5 5207 | 520710:33 AM Basel SBB
3h06
1:39 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 87311:04 AM Basel SBB
2h54
1:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIR 26 2323 | 2323 · IC 2 873 | 873 · B 5 5219 | 521911:04 AM Basel SBB
3h05
2:09 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 2111:33 AM Basel SBB
2h55
2:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIC 3 591 | 591 · EC 21 | 21 · B 5 5231 | 523111:33 AM Basel SBB
3h06
2:39 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIC 21 675 | 675 · B 5 5243 | 524312:04 PM Basel SBB
3h05
3:09 PM Lugano1 transfer
sbbIC 21 675 | 67512:04 PM Basel SBB
2h54
2:58 PM Lugano, Stazione0 transfersDirect
sbbTGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 37 · B 3 3275 | 327512:33 PM Basel SBB
3h07
3:40 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbTGV 9211 | 9211 · EC 37 | 3712:33 PM Basel SBB
2h55
3:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 877 · B 461 1551 | 15511:04 PM Basel SBB
3h10
4:14 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIR 26 2327 | 2327 · IC 2 877 | 8771:04 PM Basel SBB
2h54
3:58 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbbIC 3 575 | 575 · EC 23 | 23 · B 461 1553 | 15531:33 PM Basel SBB
3h11
4:44 PM Lugano2 transfers
sbbIC 3 575 | 575 · EC 23 | 231:33 PM Basel SBB
2h55
4:28 PM Lugano, Stazione1 transfer
sbb5:03 AM Basel
2h55
7:58 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect
sbb6:03 AM Basel
2h55
8:58 AM Lugano0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Basel to Lugano by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Mar 26
Fri
Mar 27
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Apr 15

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Lugano?

The best time to book your train from Basel to Lugano is 28 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Lugano route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel to Lugano per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Basel to Lugano.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Lugano

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Lugano run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €53 but you can travel from only €30 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:37, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 202 km distance in 2h 54m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €30
Distance
202 km
Average train duration
3h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
€53
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 54m
First train
01:37
Last train
23:05
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €30

Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Basel to Lugano trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Basel and Lugano from €30. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

SBB

About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
€53
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Price
€120
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
19 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Südostbahn frequency
6 a day

FAQs: Trains from Basel to Lugano

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Lugano by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lugano, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Basel to Lugano can start from as little as €53 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Basel to Lugano is €78; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Basel to Lugano is 2h 54m to travel the 202 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 1:37 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Basel to Lugano leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes,there are 2 direct trains a day from Basel to Lugano with SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Basel to Lugano, you can count on SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn for the best way to get you to Lugano. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Basel and Lugano and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Lugano from Basel is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 54m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Basel to Lugano is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Lugano including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Lugano

Basel
Lugano
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Lugano.
Basel SBBWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Da Roberto
  • Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Victoria
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
  • GAIA Hotel
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 800 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
  • Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
  • Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
Basel, Brausebad
information
Basel Bad BhfWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
8
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Les Gareçons
  • Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Alexander
  • Hotel Wettstein
  • Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 330 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
  • Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
  • Tram: Line 2, Line 6
  • Bus: Several lines available

More options for your journey from Basel to Lugano

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to Lugano

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