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Zermatt, Valais to Lugano, Ticino from $38: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Zermatt, Switzerland
to
Lugano, Switzerland

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$38 - OtherBest price
204 kmDistance
3h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Zermatt 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.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$67-143
Recommended
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$38-58
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 204 km
Duration: 3h 19m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
6h  3m
Estimated price
$74-137

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Train $74 $79 $75 $79 $101 $86 $80
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Traveling From Zermatt to Lugano

The journey from Zermatt to Lugano offers a fascinating shift from the Alpine charm of snow-capped mountains to the Mediterranean flair of picturesque lakes and palm-lined promenades.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lugano

Lugano features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Lugano City Center
• Bustling shops and cafes line the vibrant streets.
• Home to cultural attractions like the Art Museum.
Paradiso
• Beautiful lakeside promenade with stunning views.
• Close proximity to funicular access to Mount Brè.
Collina d’Oro
• Scenic hillside area with luxurious villas.
• Offers hiking trails with panoramic vistas.

Best Times To Visit Lugano's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Lugano’s top spots.

Parco Ciani
Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful strolls among beautiful trees.
Monte Brè
Afternoons are ideal for panoramic views with fewer hikers around.
Lugano Arte e Cultura (LAC)
Weekday mornings often feature fewer visitors, allowing for a relaxed exploration.

Lugano Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lugano enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool winters that make it appealing year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and early fall, when pleasant weather enhances your experience of the city's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Dining Recommendation in Lugano

At Ristorante Grotto Morchino, savor the delightful risotto with lake fish, highlighting the region’s fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean influences. This contrasts with Zermatt's hearty mountain fare, as the lively atmosphere and flavors in Lugano provide a refreshing culinary adventure.

Zermatt - Lugano operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+41 (0)848 642 442
Website
matterhorngotthardbahn.ch

Train from Zermatt to Brig Bahnhofplatz

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
600-54

Train from Zermatt to Visp

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
603-604
Contact phone
+41 81 288 65 65
Website
glacierexpress.ch

Train from Zermatt to Brig

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+41 848 44 66 88
Website
sbb.ch

Train from Brig to Domodossola

Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
605-36

Train from Visp to Domodossola

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
606-607
Contact phone
+41 58 327 32 71
Website
bls.ch

Train from Brig to Domodossola

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
608-609
Contact phone
+41 (0)91 756 04 00
Website
centovalli.ch

Train from Domodossola to Locarno Fart

Average Duration
1h 54m
Estimated price
1350-1351

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

Traveling between Zermatt 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 journey from Zermatt to Lugano by car, covering a distance of 127 miles. The scenic route offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and charming villages nestled along the way. ⏰ Enjoy a leisurely drive of approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes, experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the Swiss countryside. Stop along the route to savor local cuisine or capture stunning photos of the landscape. 💰 The cost of traveling from Zermatt to Lugano by car ranges between €37 to €55, making it a budget-friendly and convenient way to explore the diverse landscapes of Switzerland. So, sit back, relax, and kick off an unforgettable road trip filled with unforgettable memories.
Average price
€37 - €55
🚆 Traveling from Zermatt to Lugano by train requires a few transfers, with services departing from Zermatt and passing through Brig, Domodossola, and Locarno. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 22 minutes. 🚆 The route from Zermatt to Lugano covers a distance of 166 km and involves 3 transfers. Passengers will experience a scenic journey passing through different stations operated by various train agencies along the way.
Departure Point
Zermatt station
Arrival Point
Locarno Fart station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: While traveling from Zermatt to Lugano, you will find catering services provided by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). They offer a selection of drinks, snacks, and light meals available for purchase, including local cheeses and pastries. You can also find a trolley service that comes through the train, making it easy to enjoy refreshments without leaving your seat.
• Seating Options: The trains on this route typically offer three seating classes: First Class, Second Class (often referred to as Business Class), and Economy Class. First Class features more spacious seats and often quieter carriages, while Second Class offers comfortable seating at a lower price. Be sure to book your tickets with SBB (sbb.ch) or other operators like Zermatt-Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (mgbahn.ch) for the best options.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Lugano Station, you'll find facilities including restrooms and luggage storage services available. If you want to explore the city without carrying your bags, the station offers both locker rentals and a left-luggage service. Make sure to check the station's operational hours for luggage services.
• Fastest Way to City Center: To get from Lugano Station to the city center quickly, the best option is to catch Bus Line 1, which runs frequently and connects directly to the main areas of the city. Look for the bus stop just outside the station; the ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Zermatt to Lugano.

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The distance between Zermatt and Lugano is approximately 58 miles. The typical travel time by train is 5 hours and 14 minutes, while taking a drive and then a car ferry takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. These times may vary depending on traffic conditions and transportation schedules.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Zermatt to Lugano is to drive and take a car ferry. This method typically takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes and costs approximately €37-€60. Alternatively, there are trains available that take around 5 hours and 14 minutes, but they may be less cost-effective. Overall, driving and taking a car ferry would be the recommended option for both saving time and money.
When traveling from Zermatt to Lugano, the prices for a train ticket can range from €59 to €109. It's important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as the type of train, travel class, and whether you book in advance or on the day of travel. It's recommended to check with the respective train operators or travel agencies for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
The most convenient way to travel from Zermatt to Lugano without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes and the train tickets cost around €56 to €111. The train ride offers scenic views of the Swiss countryside and is a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.
There is no direct train link between Zermatt and Lugano. However, there are alternative routes available. One option is to take a train from Zermatt to Brig, then transfer to a train to Domodossola, and finally switch to a train to Locarno. From Locarno, you can take a separate train to Lugano. This journey typically takes around 5 hours and 14 minutes. Another option is to take a combination of driving and a car ferry. From Zermatt, you can drive to a nearby car ferry port, take the ferry across a lake, and then continue driving to Lugano. This route usually takes about 3 hours and 50 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Lugano. With over 5000 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices. Prices start at €56 per night, making it suitable for various budgets. Some popular areas to stay include Lugano city center, Paradiso, and Lake Lugano.