- Must visit
Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode
Calais' main museum in a former lace factory, explaining the city's globally important lace industry through machines and design.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Calais
Showing times and prices for Jul 23
Cheapest price
$195
Average price
$240
Fastest journey
7 h 12 m
Average duration
11 h 12 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
561 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Calais is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Calais will cost around $240 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $195.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Calais without transferring at least 2 times.
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7:24 PM15h07Basel10:31 AMCalais$1951One-way2 transfers- 2:54 PM7h28Basel10:22 PMCalais$2151One-way2 transfers
- 10:54 AM7h12Basel6:06 PMCalais$2621One-way4 transfers
- 10:54 AM8h39Basel7:33 PMCalais$2651One-way2 transfers
- 4:54 PM17h32Basel10:26 AMCalais$2651One-way2 transfers
- 10:54 AM7h12Basel6:06 PMCalais$2621One-way4 transfers
- 2:54 PM7h28Basel10:22 PMCalais$2151One-way2 transfers
- 10:54 AM8h39Basel7:33 PMCalais$2651One-way2 transfers
- 7:24 PM15h07Basel10:31 AMCalais$1951One-way2 transfers
- 4:54 PM17h32Basel10:26 AMCalais$2651One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basel to Calais
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Calais among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $68. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $68, and a train costs an average of $94.
Distance: 348 miles (561 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$188 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $119 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 5h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 47m Average total duration 20h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Calais is a bus with an average price of $71 (€71).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Calais:
A bus is $117 (€117) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Calais costing on average $188 (€188).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Calais is by train with an average journey time of 5h 10m.
Other travel options to Calais take longer:
Bus takes on average 20h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Calais including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Calais among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 22m sooner (5h 10m by train vs 6h 32m by car). Tickets start at around $188 (€188) compared to roughly $119 (€119) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Calais train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Calais trains for today, Wednesday, July 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 96108+ 9206+ 7569 | 8:13 AM Basel St. Johann | 5h59 | 2:12 PM Calais - Fréthun | 2 transfers | |
| 9206+7569 | On time 8:25 AM Basel SBB | 5h47 | 2:12 PM Calais - Fréthun | 1 transfer | |
| 9210+7047+844407 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 7h19 | 5:53 PM Calais - Fréthun | 2 transfers | |
| 96117+9218+7577 | 11:45 AM Basel St. Johann | 6h58 | 6:43 PM Calais - Fréthun | 2 transfers | |
| 9218+7577 | 12:34 PM Basel SBB | 6h09 | 6:43 PM Calais - Fréthun | 1 transfer | |
9222+ K21 (848850) · K11 (848551) | 2:34 PM Basel SBB | 7h19 | 9:53 PM Calais Ville | 2 transfers | |
| 96127+9226+7591 | 4:15 PM Basel St. Johann | 5h58 | 10:13 PM Calais - Fréthun | 2 transfers | |
| 9226+7591 | 4:34 PM Basel SBB | 5h39 | 10:13 PM Calais - Fréthun | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Calais by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Calais
Switzerland
France
Trains from Basel to Calais run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $94 (€94) but you can travel from only $68 (€68) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 17:17. The fastest train covers the 348 miles (561 km) distance in 5h 41m.
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 $68 (€68)
Distance 348 miles (561 km) |
Average train duration 5h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $94 (€94) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 41m |
First train 5:29 AM |
Last train 5:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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 $68 (€68)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Basel to Calais trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Basel and Calais from $68 (€68). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$145 (€145)
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 57m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€94)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 24m
Cheapest Price
$195 (€195)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Calais
Things to do in Calais
Discover the best of Calais — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Calais trip today.
- Recommended
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Calais
Fine arts museum featuring Rodin works and collections on local history, ideal for understanding Calais through art and memory.
- Recommended
Musée Mémoire 39-45
Museum in a wartime bunker focusing on the German occupation and liberation of Calais during the Second World War.
- Must visit
Plage de Calais
Broad sandy beach backed by a modern promenade, excellent for walks, sunsets, and views of ferries crossing the Channel.
- Recommended
Place du Soldat Inconnu
The city's rebuilt central square, framed by the town hall and Rodin statue, and a natural starting point for sightseeing.
- Recommended
Front de Mer de Calais
Lively seafront esplanade ideal for walking, cycling, and enjoying open views toward the beach and maritime skyline.
Welsh
Welsh is a Nord-Pas-de-Calais pub classic: bread topped with ham, covered in melted Cheddar and beer, then baked. Rich, hearty and strongly tied to local brasserie culture.
Moules-Frites
Moules-frites pairs mussels with fries, reflecting Calais's port and Channel seafood trade. It is a staple in local brasseries, especially in season.
- Gluten-free
Potjevleesch
Potjevleesch is a traditional Flemish meat terrine of chicken, rabbit, pork and veal set in jelly. It is a regional specialty widely eaten across French Flanders.
Le Grand Bleu
Recognized fine-dining address in Calais with refined French cuisine, polished service and an elegant setting suited to a longer meal.
Au Cote d'Argent
Well-known seafood restaurant near the port, appreciated for fresh fish, shellfish and classic regional cooking in a relaxed setting.
Le Channel
Established brasserie serving northern French staples such as Welsh, mussels and meat dishes in a traditional, casual atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local transit are often a bit cheaper than in Paris or the Riviera.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunches.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up, and small café change is appreciated.
My Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.10
- Day pass
- €3.30
To the city center
Calais Ville -> Place d'Armes, Calais
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in advance or on board depending on the line; check current sales channels in the My Bus app or on the official operator website.
- Contactless bank card acceptance is not reliably published for all buses, so carry a valid ticket or cash as backup.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Calais
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Calais 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 Calais, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Calais can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $94 (€94), while the average price is around $188 (€188).
The train from Basel to Calais takes 5h 41m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Calais is 348 miles (561 km).
The first train from Basel to Calais leaves at 5:29 AM.
The last train from Basel to Calais leaves at 5:17 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Basel to Calais.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Calais.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Calais.
The train station in Basel that goes to Calais is Basel SBB, which connects to Calais - Fréthun.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Calais is by bus, with a cost of around $68 (€68).
The train journey from Basel to Calais offers scenic views of the Swiss countryside, the rolling hills of the Jura region, and picturesque landscapes in northern France, providing a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Basel to Calais is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 41m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day. The distance is 348 miles (561 km).
In Calais, you can explore a collection of fine arts at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, enjoy a leisurely stroll in Parc Richelieu, and visit the serene Les Baraques Military Cemetery. Experience the impressive Calais Dragon and explore the local market for regional delicacies. Don't miss the historic Calais Lighthouse for panoramic views, the famous sculpture "The Burghers of Calais" by Auguste Rodin, and the impressive Calais Town Hall. Relax at Calais Beach and discover the history of lace-making at the Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode.
A visit to Calais can be well-suited for a day trip or a short two-day stay, allowing time to explore its main attractions such as the Calais Lighthouse, the City of Lace and Fashion, and the historic Town Hall.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Calais.
Since both Basel and Calais 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 Calais include Lille, Brussels, Dunkirk, Boulogne-sur-Mer, Arras.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Calais 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Calais, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially near busy areas like the ferry terminal and train station. There have been reports of scams involving unofficial transportation offers and overpriced services. It's advisable to use licensed transport providers and avoid accepting rides from strangers. Additionally, travelers should stay clear of migrant camps on the outskirts, as these areas can be unpredictable and unsafe. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings reduces the risk of incidents.
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 Calais
Most Basel to Calais trains use the Basel SBB to Calais - Fréthun station pair, with some services arriving at Calais Ville. Use this guide to compare Basel and Calais 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 Calais
Which Basel station do trains to Calais leave from?
Trains from Basel to Calais 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 St Johann4056 Basel, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel St Johann from Basel city centre
Basel St Johann is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus50 · 8m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram1, 21, 3, 6, 8, 6457, 8190, 8280, 8298, 8312 · 5m · $2 · every ~15 min
Basel St Johann train station facilities and services
Basel St Johann has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Basel St Johann.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Basel St Johann.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel St Johann: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel St Johann: Bike Parking.
Which Calais station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Calais most often arrive at Calais - Fréthun. Some services arrive at Calais Ville, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Calais arrival station.
Calais - FréthunGare de Calais-Fréthun, 62185 Fréthun, France+33 892 35 35 35
City-centre transport
Getting to Calais - Fréthun from Calais city centre
Calais - Fréthun is 6 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 8m · $1
Bus427 · 13m · $4
6 · 22m · every ~1 min
Calais - Fréthun train station facilities and services
Calais - Fréthun 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: Le Channel, Restaurant du Golf
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Calais - Fréthun. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Calais - Fréthun. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Calais - Fréthun: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Calais - Fréthun: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Calais - Fréthun: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Calais, Hotel Meurice, Hotel de la Plage.
Calais VillePlace de la Gare, 62100 Calais, France+33 3 21 96 23 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Calais Ville from Calais city centre
Bus3, 2, 6, Atc, Ts37, 13 · 2m · every ~10 min
Calais Ville train station facilities and services
Calais Ville 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: Le Channel, Au Cote d'Argent
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Calais Ville. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Calais Ville. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Calais Ville: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Calais Ville: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Calais Ville: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Meurice, Holiday Inn Calais, Hotel de la Plage.
Les Fontinettes62100 Calais, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Les Fontinettes from Calais city centre
Les Fontinettes is 1 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 3m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus2, 7, 6, Ts25, Ts43, Ts44, Ts18, Ts21, Ts13, Ts32 · 3m · every ~7 min
Les Fontinettes train station facilities and services
Les Fontinettes has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Les Fontinettes.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Les Fontinettes.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Les Fontinettes: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Les Fontinettes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Les Fontinettes.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Calais
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Calais and Basel
Most popular train connections to Calais
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