- Recommended
Museo Castelgrande
Main museum inside Castelgrande, presenting Bellinzona's archaeology and history within an exceptional UNESCO setting.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Bellinzona
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$77
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$104
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 38 m
Trains on Sep 20
10
Distance
187 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Bellinzona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Bellinzona will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 10 trains from Basel to Bellinzona, including 4 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 187 km distance in an average of 2 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 38 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 39 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
IC 21 663 | 6637:04 AM2h38Basel SBB9:42 AMBellinzona station$771One-way0 transfers- IR 26 2311 | 23116:04 AM3h56Basel SBB10:00 AMBellinzona station$771One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 8616:04 AM2h38Basel SBB8:42 AMBellinzona station$781One-way1 transfer
- IC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 136:33 AM2h39Basel SBB9:12 AMBellinzona station$1161One-way1 transfer
- IC 3 561 | 561 · EC 301 | 3017:33 AM2h39Basel SBB10:12 AMBellinzona station$1161One-way1 transfer
- IR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 8616:04 AM2h38Basel SBB8:42 AMBellinzona station$781One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 663 | 6637:04 AM2h38Basel SBB9:42 AMBellinzona station$771One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 8658:04 AM2h38Basel SBB10:42 AMBellinzona station$1161One-way1 transfer
- IC 21 667 | 6679:04 AM2h38Basel SBB11:42 AMBellinzona station$1161One-way0 transfers
- IC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 136:33 AM2h39Basel SBB9:12 AMBellinzona station$1161One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Basel to Bellinzona
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basel to Bellinzona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $60 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 19m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, while a flight costs an average of $693.
Distance: 116 miles (187 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$102 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $693 Average price | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 53m Average total duration 3h 53m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Bellinzona is a bus with an average price of $60.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Bellinzona:
A bus is $42 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Bellinzona costing on average $102.
A bus is $633 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Bellinzona costing on average $693.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Bellinzona is by train with an average journey time of 2h 49m.
Other travel options to Bellinzona take longer:
Flight takes on average 3h 53m.
Bus takes on average 4h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Bellinzona including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Bellinzona among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 11m faster (2h 49m by train vs 3h 0m by car) and roughly $5 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($102 vs $107). 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 SBB.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Bellinzona train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Bellinzona trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR 26 2311 | 2311 · IC 2 861 | 861 | 6:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h38 | 8:42 AM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2311 | 2311 | 6:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h56 | 10:00 AM Bellinzona station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 3 559 | 559 · EC 13 | 13 | 6:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h39 | 9:12 AM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 663 | 663 | 7:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h38 | 9:42 AM Bellinzona station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 3 561 | 561 · EC 301 | 301 | 7:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h39 | 10:12 AM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h56 | 12:00 PM Bellinzona station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h38 | 10:42 AM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 | 8:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h39 | 11:12 AM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h38 | 11:42 AM Bellinzona station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 3 553 | 553 · EC 153 | 153 | 9:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h39 | 12:12 PM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Bellinzona by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Bellinzona
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Bellinzona run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 but you can travel from only $37 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:22, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 116 miles (187 km) distance in 2h 18m.
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 $37
Distance 116 miles (187 km) |
Average train duration 2h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 18m |
First train 4:22 AM |
Last train 10:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $37
Train companies: SBB from Basel to Bellinzona trainsSBB trains will get you between Basel and Bellinzona from $37. 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
2h 18m
Cheapest SBB Price
$59
SBB frequency
5 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
Complete guide to Bellinzona
Things to do in Bellinzona
Discover the best of Bellinzona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bellinzona trip today.
- Recommended
Museo di Montebello
Museum space in Montebello Castle with exhibits linked to the fortress and regional heritage, plus memorable castle views.
- Recommended
Museo di Sasso Corbaro
Museum venue in Sasso Corbaro Castle, combining fortress atmosphere with cultural displays in a striking hilltop location.
- Must visit
Centro Storico di Bellinzona
Historic quarter climbing toward the castles, attractive for narrow lanes, stone houses and a strong medieval atmosphere.
- Recommended
Piazza Collegiata
Bellinzona's main old-town square, lined with arcades and historic buildings; ideal for orienting yourself in the city center.
- Recommended
Piazza Nosetto
Lively central square known for markets and events, surrounded by elegant facades and close to major monuments.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
Polenta cooked slowly from cornmeal, often served with braised meats or cheese. A staple of Ticino mountain cooking and one of the region’s most emblematic dishes.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Slow-cooked beef stew braised in Merlot, Ticino’s signature wine. It reflects the canton’s strong wine culture and hearty alpine-Italian food tradition.
- Gluten-free
Carne Secca
Air-dried beef from the Alpine region, sliced thin. It is prized locally for its intense flavor and long preservation tradition in mountain areas.
Ristorante Locanda Orico
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in Bellinzona, known for refined seasonal cuisine and polished service in a sophisticated setting.
Grotto San Michele
Historic grotto-style venue popular for Ticinese classics, local wines, and a relaxed traditional atmosphere near Bellinzona’s castles.
Ristorante Pizzeria Casa del Popolo
Well-known casual pizzeria and restaurant serving Italian and regional dishes in a lively, central setting with dependable local popularity.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Bellinzona is pricey versus many European cities. Hotels, dining, and everyday items cost more, though public transport is efficient and some lunch deals help manage 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 70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about CHF 1-5 at cafes and casual meals, 5-10% for excellent restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
Arcobaleno
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.30
- Day pass
- CHF 6.90
To the city center
Bellinzona railway station -> Piazza Collegiata, Bellinzona
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Buy Ticino zone tickets in the Arcobaleno app or from machines before boarding. Bellinzona city trips usually use local Arcobaleno zones.
- Contactless card payment is commonly available at ticket machines, but not reliably on board every bus. Buy your ticket before boarding when possible.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Bellinzona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Bellinzona 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 Bellinzona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Bellinzona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59, while the average price is around $102.
The train from Basel to Bellinzona takes 2h 18m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Bellinzona is 116 miles (187 km).
The first train from Basel to Bellinzona leaves at 4:22 AM.
The last train from Basel to Bellinzona leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Bellinzona.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Bellinzona. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by SBB.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Bellinzona.
The train station in Basel that goes to Bellinzona is Basel SBB, which connects to Bellinzona station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Bellinzona is by bus, with a cost of around $37.
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Bellinzona is scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, picturesque towns, and the stunning landscapes of the Alps.
A day trip from Basel to Bellinzona is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 18m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 116 miles (187 km).
Spending 1 to 2 days in Bellinzona is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed castles, the charming old town, and nearby scenic areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Bellinzona.
Since both Basel and Bellinzona 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 Bellinzona include Milan, Lucerne, Lugano, Como, Locarno.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Bellinzona 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 Bellinzona, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and near popular tourist sites like the castles. It is advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. There are no widespread reports of specific scams, but standard vigilance against common travel frauds is recommended. Overall, Bellinzona is considered a safe destination with low crime rates.
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 Bellinzona
Most Basel to Bellinzona trains use the Basel SBB to Bellinzona station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Bellinzona 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 Bellinzona
Which Basel station do trains to Bellinzona leave from?
Trains from Basel to Bellinzona 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.
Which Bellinzona station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Bellinzona most often arrive at Bellinzona. Some services arrive at Bellinzona, Business Center, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bellinzona arrival station.
BellinzonaViale Stazione 1, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland+41 91 825 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Bellinzona from Bellinzona city centre
Bus1, 3, 5 · 6m · $2 · every ~18 min
Bellinzona train station facilities and services
Bellinzona 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: Ristorante Casa del Popolo, Ristorante Locanda Orico
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bellinzona. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bellinzona. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bellinzona: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bellinzona: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bellinzona: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Internazionale Bellinzona, Hotel & SPA Internazionale, Hotel Unione.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Bellinzona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bellinzona and Basel
Most popular train connections to Bellinzona
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
