How to get from Lugano to Locarno using public transport

32 minutes

You can drive to your destination: about 39 km.

Fuel

~€4–6

Tolls

~€43

Rental

~€35–70/day

Tolls on this route

Swiss motorway vignette (year) Buy online ↗ ~€43
Compare rental cars

Estimates for the whole car. Parking is not included. We may earn a commission when you book a rental car.

2 hours, 7 minutes
You can use a bike to reach your destination
32 minutes

You can take a taxi to your destination: about 39 km.

Taxi companies

Price from the city's daytime taxi tariff, for the whole car. Night, holiday, luggage and waiting supplements are extra.

1 hour, 15 minutes
  • Travel to Locarno, Stazione Ticket Explore similar


  • Travel time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
42 minutes

More destinations from Lugano.

More destinations from Locarno.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get from Lugano to Locarno?
The fastest route from Lugano to Locarno takes 42min, primarily by train. Depending on the combination of transport modes and number of transfers you choose, journey times range from 42min up to 1h 15min. We recommend checking live departure times using the search feature to find the option that best fits your schedule.
What is the distance from Lugano to Locarno?
The distance from Lugano to Locarno is approximately 32 km by public transport. The actual distance travelled may vary slightly depending on the route and combination of transport modes chosen, as some itineraries involve indirect connections through intermediate stations or stops.
How much does it cost to travel from Lugano to Locarno?
Based on published operator tariffs, the estimated cost for travelling from Lugano to Locarno is ~€2–9. This is an approximate range — the actual price depends on the operator, ticket class, and how far in advance you book. Always verify the final price on the operator's website before purchasing.
Is there a direct connection from Lugano to Locarno?
Yes, there is at least one direct connection from Lugano to Locarno with no transfers required. The fastest direct option takes 42min. Direct services are the most comfortable choice if you have heavy luggage or want to avoid the stress of changing vehicles.
Can I travel from Lugano to Locarno entirely by train?
Yes, the journey from Lugano to Locarno can be made by train. On the fastest rail option the train journey takes about 32min without changing trains; local transport such as a bus, tram or metro may be needed to reach the station. Travelling by train is generally the most comfortable option for this route, with more legroom than buses and no airport security to deal with.
Can I travel from Lugano to Locarno by bus?
Yes, bus or coach services are available on at least part of the route from Lugano to Locarno. The fastest option including a bus leg takes 1h 15min. Bus options are often more affordable than trains and can be a good choice if you are travelling on a budget and have flexible timing.
What transport modes are available from Lugano to Locarno?
Several transport modes are available for travelling from Lugano to Locarno: bus, train. EuroPlanner shows you all possible combinations so you can compare journey times, number of transfers, and environmental impact before deciding which option suits you best.
Which companies operate routes from Lugano to Locarno?
Routes from Lugano to Locarno are operated by SBB Infrastruktur AG Bahnersatz, Schweizerische Bundesbahnen SBB, among others. Each itinerary on EuroPlanner includes a direct link to the relevant operator's website so you can check live schedules and purchase tickets directly.
How much time should I allocate for a trip from Lugano to Locarno?
For a trip from Lugano to Locarno, you should plan for between 42min and 1h 15min of travel time depending on the route you choose. We also recommend arriving at your departure point at least 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled departure, and allowing extra buffer time if your itinerary includes multiple transfers or an airport leg.