BASEL to BUCHAREST train from $20 (€16) with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Bucharest

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 13

Cheapest price on Sep 13

$528

Average ticket price on Sep 13

$528

Fastest journey on Sep 13

1 d 17 h 5 m

Average journey duration on Sep 13

1 d 17 h 5 m

Trains on Sep 13

Distance

1469 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Bucharest is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Bucharest will cost around $528 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $528.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Basel to Bucharest without transferring at least 2 times.

8:33 PM41h05
Basel
1:38 PMBucharest
$5281One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Bucharest

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basel to Bucharest among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $158 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 20m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $158, while a flight costs an average of $722.

Distance: 912 miles (1469 km)

Compare train with

Train	Most popular Bus	Flight	Driving
$448 Average price	$158 Average price Cheapest	$722 Average price	$499 Average price (fuel + tolls)
26h 54m Average total duration 26h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	33h 34m Average total duration 33h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 20m Average total duration Fastest 4h 20m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	20h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door)
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

The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Bucharest is a bus with an average price of $158 (€128).

This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Bucharest:

A bus is $290 (€234) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Bucharest costing on average $448 (€362).

A bus is $564 (€457) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Bucharest costing on average $722 (€584).

The fastest way to travel from Basel to Bucharest is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 20m.

Other travel options to Bucharest take longer:

Train takes on average 26h 24m.

Bus takes on average 33h 4m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Bucharest including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Bucharest 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 $448 (€362) compared to roughly $499 (€404) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $52 (€42). The journey takes 26h 24m versus 20h 52m 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.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Compare prices and tickets Basel to Bucharest 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.

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Bucharest

Switzerland

Romania

Trains from Basel to Bucharest run on average 2 times per day, taking around 26h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $420 (€340) but you can travel from only $75 (€61) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 12:33. The fastest train covers the 912 miles (1469 km) distance in 26h 7m.

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 $75 (€61)

Distance

912 miles (1469 km)

Average train duration

26h 24m

Cheapest ticket price

$420 (€340)

Trains per day

Fastest train

26h 7m

First train

3:45 AM

Last train

12:33 PM

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Sun

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $75 (€61)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Basel to Bucharest trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Basel and Bucharest from $137 (€111). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Duration

26h 7m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$420 (€340)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves

Luggage storage

Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.

Cancellation Policy

Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?

Refund

If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.

Seat reservation

Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.

Pets

Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.

Quiet zone

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Complete guide to Bucharest

Things to do in Bucharest

Discover the best of Bucharest — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bucharest trip today.

Must visit

National Museum of Art of Romania

Romania’s premier art museum, housing European masters and major national collections inside the former Royal Palace.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

National Village Museum Dimitrie Gusti

An outstanding open-air museum of traditional Romanian village life, with historic houses, churches, and windmills.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History

A leading natural history museum with fossils, geology, and biodiversity displays, popular with families and science fans.

View on map Visit website

Romanian leu (lei)

Budget-friendly for Europe: hotels, meals, and public transit usually cost less than in Western EU capitals, though central areas and upscale venues cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget: 35-60 lei for fast food or street food.
Mid-range: 70-140 lei per person for a meal.
Fine dining: 180+ lei per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee: 12-18 lei for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 5-10% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare or add about 5%.

FAQs: Trains from Basel to Bucharest

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Bucharest 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 Bucharest, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Basel to Bucharest can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $420 (€340), while the average price is around $448 (€362).

The train from Basel to Bucharest takes 26h 7m and runs 2 per day.

The distance by train from Basel to Bucharest is 912 miles (1469 km).

The first train from Basel to Bucharest leaves at 3:45 AM.

The last train from Basel to Bucharest leaves at 12:33 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Basel to Bucharest.

There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Bucharest.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Bucharest.

The train station in Basel that goes to Bucharest is Basel Bad Bhf, which connects to Bucharest.

The cheapest way to get from Basel to Bucharest is by flight, with a cost of around $137 (€111).

The train journey from Basel to Bucharest offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Alps, the rolling hills and charming villages of Austria, and the dramatic Carpathian Mountains in Romania, providing a diverse and captivating travel experience.

A day trip from Basel to Bucharest is not feasible as the journey takes 26h 7m and covers 912 miles (1469 km). The trip frequency is 1 per day for trains.

In Bucharest, you can explore the National Museum of Art of Romania, stroll through the historic Cismigiu Gardens, and enjoy a guided tour of the Palace of the Parliament. Attend a concert at the Romanian Athenaeum and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bucharest's Old Town. Don't miss the iconic sights like the Palace of the Parliament, Romanian Athenaeum, Village Museum, Herăstrău Park, and the lively Old Town district.

Typically, spending three to four days in Bucharest allows visitors to explore major attractions like the Palace of the Parliament, the Old Town, and Herăstrău Park, and experience the local culture and cuisine.

Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Bucharest.

Since both Basel and Bucharest 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.

We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Bucharest 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.

The currency used in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards for most purchases, especially in cities and larger establishments, though carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors, rural areas, and transportation where card acceptance may be limited.

In Bucharest, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and tourist attractions. Common scams include taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes, so using authorized taxi services or ride-hailing apps is recommended. Additionally, travelers should avoid unofficial currency exchange booths to prevent counterfeit bills. Staying vigilant in busy places and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.

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 Bucharest

Most Basel to Bucharest trains use the Basel SBB to Bucharest station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Bucharest 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 Bucharest

Which Basel station do trains to Bucharest leave from?

Trains from Basel to Bucharest leave from Basel Bad Bhf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Basel city centre at Schwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.

Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13 Wifi

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.

More about Basel Bad Bhf

Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22 Wifi

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.