Geneva, Geneva (Area) to Lugano, Ticino from $42: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Geneva to Lugano: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$42 by busBest price

219.79 kmDistance

4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Geneva to Lugano with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Geneva to Lugano

Journeying from Geneva’s cosmopolitan charm to Lugano's serene lakeside beauty offers you a delightful contrast between urban sophistication and tranquil nature.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lugano

Lugano’s neighborhoods offer diverse experiences blending culture and stunning scenery.

Lugano City Center

• Bustling markets and high-end shops abound.

• Rich cultural events attract locals and tourists.

Paradiso

• Scenic lakeside views charm visitors daily.

• Vibrant nightlife scene with trendy bars.

Collina d'Oro

• Lush landscapes are perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

• Quiet, residential area ideal for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Lugano's Attractions

Understanding the best times to visit Lugano's highlights can enhance your experience.

Parco Ciani

For a peaceful visit, explore early in the morning or on weekdays.

Monte Brè

Weekends can be busy; plan your trip for Tuesday to Thursday.

Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC)

Attend weekday events for a quieter, more immersive cultural experience.

Lugano Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lugano enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are spring and early fall, when pleasant temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Lugano

For an authentic taste of Lugano, try the risotto alla luganese at Grotto della Salute, where the rustic atmosphere and fresh, local ingredients reflect the region's culinary heritage. This dish showcases a depth of flavor that contrasts sharply with Geneva's more international flair, offering you a truly local dining adventure.

Geneva - Lugano operators

Explore transport companies operating between Geneva and Lugano, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+41 848 44 66 88

Website

https://www.sbb.ch/en

Train from Genève to Zürich Hb

Average Duration

2h 41m

Estimated price

$90-170

Train from Zürich Hb to Lugano

Average Duration

2h 43m

Estimated price

$55-100

Train from Geneve to Domodossola

Average Duration

2h 33m

Estimated price

$85-160

Train from Genève to Brig

Average Duration

2h 33m

Estimated price

$70-130

Train from Brig to Domodossola

Average Duration

28m

Estimated price

$12-23

Plane Show flights

Website

swiss.com

Plane from Geneva (GVA) to Zurich (ZRH)

Average Duration

51m

Estimated price

$100-390

Plane from Geneva (GVA) to Milano Malpensa (MXP)

Average Duration

2h 52m

Estimated price

$170-490

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+49 30 300 137 300

Website

https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Geneva to Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano

Average Duration

4h 35m

Estimated price

$27-40

Bus from Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano to Lugano

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$16-23

Contact phone

+33 1 71 53 01 80

Website

https://www.blablacar.co.uk

Bus from Geneva - Bus station to Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano

Average Duration

5h 15m

Estimated price

$25-40

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

48/796 473 308

Website

autokarpolska.com.pl

Other from Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano to Lugano

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$16-23

Geneva to Lugano: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Geneva and Lugano offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Geneva to Lugano, spanning 232 miles of stunning Swiss landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely 4-hour drive through charming towns and breathtaking scenery. 💰 Discover flexibility in travel costs, as prices to journey from Geneva to Lugano by car range from €69 to €101. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your scenic drive.

Average price

€69 - €101

While there's no direct route, you can take a service from Genève to Zürich Hb, then transfer to reach beautiful Lugano in approximately 5h 42m with Swiss Railways. 🌍 The journey covers a distance of 434 km and involves one transfer through Zurich HB. Travelers can enjoy scenic views along the way as they pass through various regions of Switzerland on this comfortable train journey. 💰 Ticket prices for this Geneva to Lugano train trip range from €136 to €242, depending on the class of service chosen.

Departure Point

Genève station

Arrival Point

Lugano station

🛫 Begin your Swiss adventure with a quick and convenient flight from Geneva Airport to Zurich Airport, which only takes 45 minutes. Both Royal Jordanian and Swiss are reputable airlines that operate this route.

Departure Point

Geneva Airport

Arrival Point

Zurich Airport

🚌 The journey from Geneva to Lugano by bus takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes, including transfers. While there is no direct bus route, travelers will depart from Geneva and make a transfer at Milano Lampugnano. 🗺️ Route 1 covers a distance of 519 km and involves a transfer in Milan before reaching Lugano. The total travel time is 9 hours and 10 minutes, with the FlixBus agency operating the buses for both legs of the trip. 🛣️ For Route 2, the distance is 606 km with two transfers along the way. Passengers will make stops in cities like Bucharest, Würzburg, and Milan, totaling a travel time of 10 hours and 15 minutes. FlixBus is the operating agency for this route.

Departure Point

Geneva station

Arrival Point

Lugano station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Geneva to Lugano.

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The distance between Geneva and Lugano is approximately 136 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 5 hours and 1 minute to reach Lugano from Geneva. Alternatively, taking a flight to Zurich and then catching a train to Lugano takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes. By car, the journey from Geneva to Lugano takes about 4 hours, while traveling by bus can take around 7 hours and 19 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Geneva to Lugano is by bus, with prices ranging from €32 to €60. However, this is also the longest option, taking approximately 7 hours and 19 minutes. Alternatively, driving is the quickest way to reach Lugano, taking around 4 hours, but it is slightly more expensive with costs ranging from €69 to €101. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency depends on individual preferences and priorities.

The prices for a train journey between Geneva and Lugano can range from €138 to €244. On the other hand, the cost of taking a bus from Lugano to Geneva can range from €35 to €55. It is important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as time of travel and availability. It is recommended to check with the specific transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

To get from Geneva to Lugano without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 232 miles, and it takes about 4 hours to reach Lugano by car. Car rental prices for this journey typically range from €69 to €101. You can enjoy the flexibility and comfort of traveling at your own pace while admiring the beautiful Swiss scenery along the way.

The best way to travel from Geneva to Lugano without a car is by train via Zürich. This journey takes approximately 5 hours and 1 minute and can cost between €138 and €248, depending on the ticket type and class. The train route allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Swiss countryside while avoiding the hassle of driving.

No, there is no direct link between Geneva and Lugano by train. However, there are trains available with transfers in Zurich, making the journey approximately 5 hours and 1 minute. Similarly, there is no direct bus route, but buses with transfers in Milan can take around 7 hours and 19 minutes. Additionally, there are no direct flights between the two cities.

The flight between Geneva and Lugano does not have a direct route as there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The quickest flight option is to fly from Geneva Airport to Zurich Airport, which takes approximately 45 minutes. From Zurich, you would then need to take a train or another mode of transportation to reach Lugano, which could take additional time. The cost of the flight would depend on the airline and the time of booking, so it is recommended to check with various airlines for pricing information.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Lugano with over 5045 hotels to choose from. Prices start at €55, so there are options available for different budgets. Visitors can find a range of hotels, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay near Lugano. It is advisable to check for availability and book in advance, especially during peak travel season.

Geneva, Geneva (Area) to Lugano, Ticino from $42: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Geneva to Lugano: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Geneva to Lugano

Best Neighbourhoods in Lugano

Best Times To Visit Lugano's Attractions

Lugano Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Lugano

Geneva - Lugano operators

Geneva to Lugano: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Geneva

Trips to Lugano

Popular routes