By Train. For our day trip from Como, Italy to Lugano, Switzerland, we took the train from Como San Giovanni station to Lugano station. We bought tickets from vending machines (multiple language options) at each station just before the train departed. Our 2nd class tickets cost €20 per person one way.

Yes, a day trip from Northern Italy to Switzerland is one of the most popular and scenic excursions in Europe. The most iconic route is taking the Bernina Express from Tirano (on the Italian border) to St. Moritz, Switzerland. This UNESCO World Heritage rail journey takes about 2.5 hours each way and climbs over the Alps, offering breathtaking views of glaciers and alpine lakes. Another easy option is a day trip from Milan to Lugano; the high-speed EuroCity train takes just over an hour, allowing you to enjoy a lakeside lunch in a Swiss-Italian city and be back in Milan for dinner. You can also visit the town of Zermatt (home of the Matterhorn) from the Aosta Valley, though this requires more logistical planning. Since both countries are part of the Schengen Area, there are typically no border checks, making the transition seamless. Just remember that Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) rather than the Euro, and while many places in border towns accept Euros, your change will likely be given in Francs at a less-than-ideal exchange rate.