- Recommended
Museo Castelgrande
Main museum inside Castelgrande, presenting Bellinzona's archaeology and history within an exceptional UNESCO setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Bellinzona
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$86
Average price
$102
Fastest journey
2 h 38 m
Average duration
3 h 30 m
Trains per day
3
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 $102 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Basel for Bellinzona on Thu, Aug 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 187 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 38 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 56 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.
8:04 AM2h38Basel10:42 AMBellinzona$861One-way0 transfers- 7:04 AM3h56Basel11:00 AMBellinzona$871One-way0 transfers
- 6:04 AM3h56Basel10:00 AMBellinzona$1331One-way0 transfers
- 8:04 AM2h38Basel10:42 AMBellinzona$861One-way0 transfers
- 7:04 AM3h56Basel11:00 AMBellinzona$871One-way0 transfers
- 6:04 AM3h56Basel10:00 AMBellinzona$1331One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Bellinzona
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Bellinzona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a flight costs an average of $168.
Distance: 116 miles (187 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$91 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $463 Average price | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 43m Average total duration 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 5m Average total duration 8h 5m Onboard + 3h 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 |
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 $56 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Bellinzona:
A bus is $35 (€29) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Bellinzona costing on average $91 (€74).
A bus is $407 (€331) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Bellinzona costing on average $463 (€377).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Bellinzona is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 56m.
Other travel options to Bellinzona take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 13m.
Flight takes on average 8h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Bellinzona including taking a train, bus, 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. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $91 (€74) compared to roughly $107 (€87) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $15 (€13). The journey takes 3h 13m versus 3h 0m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Basel to Bellinzona train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Bellinzona trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TGV 9203 | 9203 · EC 19 | 19 | 10:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h39 | 1:12 PM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 671 | 671 | 11:04 AM Basel SBB | 2h38 | 1:42 PM Bellinzona station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| EC 151 | 151 | 11:07 AM Basel SBB | 3h05 | 2:12 PM Bellinzona station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 3 569 | 569 · EC 151 | 151 | 11:33 AM Basel SBB | 2h39 | 2:12 PM Bellinzona station | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, August 6 | |||||
| 6:04 AM Basel | 3h56 | 10:00 AM Bellinzona | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:04 AM Basel | 3h56 | 11:00 AM Bellinzona | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:04 AM Basel | 2h38 | 10:42 AM Bellinzona | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Bellinzona by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Bellinzona
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Bellinzona run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€58) but you can travel from only $40 (€33) by bus.
There are 3 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 32m.
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 $40 (€33)
Distance 116 miles (187 km) |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€58) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 32m |
First train 4:22 AM |
Last train 10:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
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 $40 (€33)
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Basel to Bellinzona trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Basel and Bellinzona from $40 (€33). 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 Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€58)
SBB frequency
9 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 Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$147 (€120)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
16 a day
Südostbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 38m
Südostbahn frequency
8 a day
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 $71 (€58), while the average price is around $91 (€74).
The train from Basel to Bellinzona takes 2h 32m and runs 9 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 3 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn.
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 $40 (€33).
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 32m. 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 train 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, with some services arriving at Bellinzona, Business Center. 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.
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.
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 · $4 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · $4 · 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.
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.
Bellinzona, Business CenterBellinzona, Business Center, 6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Bellinzona, Business Center from Bellinzona city centre
Bus2 · 1m · $2 · every ~5 min
Bellinzona, Business Center train station facilities and services
Bellinzona, Business Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several restaurants and cafes inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the station. ATMs are aTMs near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bellinzona, Business Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bellinzona, Business Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bellinzona, Business Center: Elevators and ramps available for accessibility.
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
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