- Must visit
Aargauer Kunsthaus
Aargau’s major art museum with strong Swiss collections and rotating exhibitions. A top cultural stop in the city center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Aarau
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
€13
Average ticket price on Sep 01
€18
Fastest journey on Sep 01
42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
1 h 31 m
Trains on Sep 01
5
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Aarau is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Aarau will cost around €18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €13.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Aarau without transferring at least once.
IR 26 2347 | 2347 · IC 5 543 | 54312:04 AM0h42Basel SBB12:46 AMAarau station€131One-way1 transfer- IC 61 607 | 607 · IR 16 2159 | 21595:24 AM0h49Basel SBB6:13 AMAarau station€131One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 659 | 659 · RE 12 4757 | 47575:02 AM0h42Basel SBB5:44 AMAarau station€171One-way1 transfer
- S 3 17391 | 17391 · IR 2155 | 215512:30 AM4h25Basel SBB4:55 AMAarau station€231One-way1 transfer
- S 3 17313 | 17313 · IR 35 2353 | 23534:38 AM0h56Basel SBB5:34 AMAarau station€231One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 659 | 659 · RE 12 4757 | 47575:02 AM0h42Basel SBB5:44 AMAarau station€171One-way1 transfer
- IR 26 2347 | 2347 · IC 5 543 | 54312:04 AM0h42Basel SBB12:46 AMAarau station€131One-way1 transfer
- IC 61 607 | 607 · IR 16 2159 | 21595:24 AM0h49Basel SBB6:13 AMAarau station€131One-way1 transfer
- S 3 17313 | 17313 · IR 35 2353 | 23534:38 AM0h56Basel SBB5:34 AMAarau station€231One-way1 transfer
- S 3 17391 | 17391 · IR 2155 | 215512:30 AM4h25Basel SBB4:55 AMAarau station€231One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Basel to Aarau
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Aarau among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €4 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 9m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €4, while a train costs an average of €16.
Distance: 24 miles (40 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€16 Average price | €4 Average price Cheapest | €54 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 9m Average total duration Fastest 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 17m Average total duration 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Aarau is a bus with an average price of €4.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Aarau:
A bus is €12 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Aarau costing on average €16.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Aarau is by train with an average journey time of 39m.
Other travel options to Aarau take longer:
Bus takes on average 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Aarau including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Aarau among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 17m faster (39m by train vs 56m by car) and roughly €38 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€16 vs €54). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Aarau train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Aarau trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR 26 2347 | 2347 · IC 5 543 | 543 | 12:04 AM Basel SBB | 0h42 | 12:46 AM Aarau station | 1 transfer | |
| S 3 17391 | 17391 · IR 2155 | 2155 | 12:30 AM Basel SBB | 4h25 | 4:55 AM Aarau station | 1 transfer | |
| S 3 17313 | 17313 · IR 35 2353 | 2353 | 4:38 AM Basel SBB | 0h56 | 5:34 AM Aarau station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 659 | 659 · RE 12 4757 | 4757 | 5:02 AM Basel SBB | 0h42 | 5:44 AM Aarau station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 61 607 | 607 · IR 16 2159 | 2159 | 5:24 AM Basel SBB | 0h49 | 6:13 AM Aarau station | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Aarau by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Sep 02
Thu
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Sep 03
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Aarau
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Aarau run on average 12 times per day, taking around 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €14 but you can travel from only €4 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (40 km) distance in 38m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €4
Distance 24 miles (40 km) |
Average train duration 39m |
Cheapest ticket price €14 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 38m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €4
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Basel to Aarau trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Basel and Aarau from €4. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SBB Duration
38m
Cheapest SBB Price
€14
SBB frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
38m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
€35
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
45 a day
Südostbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Südostbahn Duration
40m
Südostbahn frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Aarau
Things to do in Aarau
Discover the best of Aarau — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aarau trip today.
- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Aarau
City history museum in the historic Schlössli. It introduces Aarau’s development through engaging local collections and displays.
- Recommended
Naturama Aargau
Natural history museum with regional wildlife, geology, and family-friendly exhibits. A practical choice for science-minded visitors.
- Must visit
Altstadt Aarau
Aarau’s old town is famed for painted roof eaves, historic houses, and compact lanes. It is the essential area for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central square framed by historic facades and the Obertorturm. It is ideal for soaking up the old town’s atmosphere and architecture.
- Recommended
Rathausgasse
Historic lane known for fine old buildings and Aarau’s distinctive decorated eaves. A rewarding walk for architecture lovers.
- Vegetarian
Aargauer Rüeblitorte
Aargauer Rüeblitorte is a moist carrot cake from Aargau, traditionally made with ground nuts and topped with icing or marzipan carrots. It is the canton’s best-known sweet specialty.
- Vegetarian
Chäschnöpfli
Chäschnöpfli are small egg noodles baked or served with melted cheese and onions. They are a beloved Swiss comfort dish often eaten in homes and taverns around Aargau.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Rösti is a crisp fried potato cake from the Swiss-German region. In Aarau it is a classic side or main dish and a staple of traditional local cooking.
Halde 6
Well-regarded restaurant offering modern Swiss cuisine and seasonal menus with a polished but welcoming feel.
Gasthof zum Schützen
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for seasonal Swiss and French-influenced cuisine in a refined historic setting.
Restaurant Mühle
Traditional Swiss venue serving hearty regional dishes and classics in a relaxed old-town atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Aarau is pricey versus many European cities; hotels, dining, and Swiss transit cost more, though local options and supermarket meals can help control budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated in restaurants. Round up small taxi fares and café bills, but tipping is not required.
A-Welle
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.00
- Day pass
- CHF 10.40
To the city center
Aarau Bahnhof -> Aarau Bahnhof
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets before boarding buses; Swiss local buses usually do not sell onboard tickets.
- Contactless card payment usually works at ticket machines and in the A-Welle app, but not directly on most buses.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Aarau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Aarau by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Aarau, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Aarau can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €14, while the average price is around €16.
The train from Basel to Aarau takes 38m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Aarau is 24 miles (40 km).
The first train from Basel to Aarau leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Basel to Aarau leaves at 11:46 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Aarau.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Aarau. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Aarau.
The train station in Basel that goes to Aarau is Basel SBB, which connects to Aarau station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Aarau is by bus, with a cost of around €4.
The train journey from Basel to Aarau offers scenic views, featuring picturesque Swiss landscapes, rolling hills, charming villages, and stretches of the Aare River, making it a visually pleasant experience.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Basel to Aarau as the journey takes 38m and covers 24 miles (40 km). Trains run 11 times per day.
For a comprehensive experience in Aarau, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal to explore its charming old town, visit cultural sites like the Aargauer Kunsthaus, and enjoy nearby nature trails.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Aarau.
Since both Basel and Aarau are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Aarau include Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Freiburg im Breisgau, Nafels.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Aarau among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Aarau, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings. Additionally, be cautious of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers. There are no widespread scams unique to Aarau, but general vigilance regarding common travel scams is recommended.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Basel to Aarau
Most Basel to Aarau trains use the Basel SBB to Aarau station pair, with some services arriving at Binzenhof. Use this guide to compare Basel and Aarau train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Basel
Arrival train stations in Aarau
Which Basel station do trains to Aarau leave from?
Trains from Basel to Aarau leave from Basel SBB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre
Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 5m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · €2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · €2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · €2 · every ~25 min
Basel SBB train station facilities and services
Basel SBB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.
Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel Bad Bhf from Basel city centre
Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus30 · 11m · €3 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · €3 · every ~20 min
Basel Bad Bhf train station facilities and services
Basel Bad Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.
Basel, BrausebadBrausebad, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel, Brausebad from Basel city centre
Tram1, 2, 3 · 6m · €2 · every ~25 min
Basel, Brausebad train station facilities and services
Basel, Brausebad has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the station. ATMs are available at Basel, Brausebad.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel, Brausebad.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel, Brausebad: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel, Brausebad: The station has accessible entrances and facilities.
Which Aarau station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Aarau most often arrive at Aarau. Some services arrive at Binzenhof, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Aarau arrival station.
AarauBahnhofstrasse, 5000 Aarau, Switzerland+41 62 836 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Aarau from Aarau city centre
Bus1, 2, 4, 6, N22 · 5m · every ~22 min
Aarau train station facilities and services
Aarau has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Nonna Aarau, Thai Time
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aarau. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Aarau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aarau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aarau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aarau: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sorell Hotel Aarauerhof, Hotel Kettenbrücke, Hotel Sternen.
Binzenhof5000 Aarau, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Binzenhof from Aarau city centre
Binzenhof is 1 km from Aarau city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 2, 4, 6, N22 · 16m · every ~22 min
Binzenhof train station facilities and services
Binzenhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Binzenhof.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Binzenhof.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Binzenhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Binzenhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Binzenhof.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Aarau
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Aarau and Basel
Most popular train connections to Aarau
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