Special Rail Services for New Year's Eve

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Locarno travel info.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Locarno travel info.

TILO trains connect Locarno to Bellinzona and Lugano with frequent services throughout the night. These trains usually run every thirty minutes until at least three in the morning. You can purchase your tickets at the station kiosks or through the official mobile app. Buying tickets in advance will save you a lot of time during the busy evening hours.

The cost for a regional train ticket generally ranges between five and fifteen Swiss Francs. Prices depend on your final destination and whether you have a discount travel card. The trains will be very crowded immediately after the main event concludes on the lakefront. Waiting for a later train might provide a much more comfortable journey back home.

Station staff are usually present to help travelers find the correct platform for their journey. Make sure to keep your ticket ready for inspection by the transit police on board. The station area is well-lit and remains very safe for all passengers during the night. Following the crowds will usually lead you directly to the main station entrance easily.

Late Night Bus Networks and Routes

The local bus network provides an excellent alternative to trains for shorter regional trips. Special night buses serve the surrounding hills and smaller villages near the city center. These routes often depart from the bus stops located right outside the main train station. You can find detailed maps of the night network at most major bus shelters.

The "Pigiama" bus service is the most common night transport option in the Ticino region. These buses operate on specific routes that cover Ascona, Minusio, and the Muralto areas. Most of these services require a small night supplement fee of five Swiss Francs. You must pay this fee in addition to your standard bus ticket or pass.

Using the SBB mobile application is the best way to track live bus arrivals. The app provides real-time updates on any delays or changes to the holiday schedule. Many buses will have extra security personnel to ensure a peaceful environment for all riders. It is a very reliable way to reach residential areas outside the center.

Check the Ascona-Locarno Tourism website for the latest 2026 bus route announcements. Some roads may be closed to traffic which could change the usual bus stop locations. Arriving at the bus stop ten minutes early is a smart move on New Year's. This ensures you do not miss the last scheduled service for your specific route.

Taxis and Private Transport Options

Taxis are a popular choice for those who prefer a direct and private journey home. However, finding an available taxi on New Year's Eve can be quite a difficult task. You should definitely book your taxi several hours or even days before the event starts. Most local companies will be fully booked by the time the fireworks begin.

Expect to pay a premium rate for taxi services during the late night holiday hours. A short trip within the city limits might cost you around thirty Swiss Francs. Longer journeys to nearby towns like Brissago will likely cost significantly more than that. Always ask the driver for an estimated price before you begin your journey home.

There are designated taxi ranks located near the train station and the Locarno on Ice 2026 guide area. You might have to wait in a long line if you did not pre-book. Ride-sharing apps have very limited availability in this part of Switzerland during the holidays. Relying on traditional taxi companies is usually a much safer bet for travelers.

Keep the phone numbers of several local taxi firms saved in your mobile device. This allows you to call for a ride if your original plans change suddenly. Many drivers only accept cash or local cards so carry some Swiss Francs with you. Being prepared will make your late-night transport experience much smoother and less stressful.

Walking and Staying in the City Center

Many visitors find that walking is the most convenient way to get around the city. The Piazza Grande New Year's Eve party 2026 is very close to many hotels. Walking allows you to avoid the stress of traffic jams and crowded public transport. The city streets are beautifully decorated and provide a festive atmosphere for a stroll.

You should consider booking New Year's Eve hotels in Locarno well in advance of your trip. Staying in the center means you are only a short walk from the main festivities. This eliminates the need for any late-night transport services after the party ends. Most central hotels are within a fifteen-minute walk of the famous Piazza Grande.

The pedestrian zones in Locarno are very safe and well-monitored by the local police. You will see many families and groups of friends walking through the streets at night. Wear comfortable shoes as some of the older streets have uneven cobblestone surfaces. The crisp winter air makes the walk back to your room very refreshing.

If you are staying further away, plan your walking route using a digital map. Stick to the main well-lit roads to ensure you stay on the right path. Avoid taking shortcuts through dark alleys or unfamiliar parks during the late night hours. Walking with a group is always the best way to stay safe and enjoy the night.