City in Ticino, Switzerland
Getting around Lugano
How to get around Lugano
The center is walkable; buses cover the rest, and funiculars climb Monte Brè and San Salvatore. The Gotthard Base Tunnel makes trains to Zurich around two hours.
Ways to get around Lugano
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Buses (TPL) | CHF 2.50–4 per ride | Buy at stop machines or in the TPL app |
| Funiculars | About CHF 20–35 return | Monte Brè and San Salvatore for lake views |
| Lake boats (SNL) | From about CHF 10 | To Gandria and Morcote; free with Swiss Travel Pass |
Taxis in Lugano
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. Taxis are metered and expensive; the center is walkable and buses cover the rest. Book by phone or use the station taxi rank.
Arriving in Lugano
Via Milan Malpensa (MXP)
Train or direct bus to Lugano in about 2 hr; fares €20–40. Often cheaper than flying to Switzerland.
Via Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Train via the Gotthard tunnel in about 2 hr 30 min, around CHF 70.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the right. Foreign licences valid 12 months; IDP needed unless in German, French, Italian or English. Motorway vignette CHF 40.
- Onward travel in Switzerland: Trains run on time and reach nearly every valley, with connecting buses, boats and cable cars. Fares are high; the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card cuts costs.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Lugano?
No ride-hailing apps work here. Taxis are metered and expensive; the center is walkable and buses cover the rest. Book by phone or use the station taxi rank.
What's the best way to get around Lugano?
The center is walkable; buses cover the rest, and funiculars climb Monte Brè and San Salvatore. The Gotthard Base Tunnel makes trains to Zurich around two hours.
How do I get from the airport to Lugano?
Train or direct bus to Lugano in about 2 hr; fares €20–40. Often cheaper than flying to Switzerland.
Is Lugano walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Lugano
Going to Lugano solo?
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.