- Must visit
Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode
Major Calais museum in a converted lace factory, covering the city’s lace-making heritage and fashion links with working looms and temporary exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Calais
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$239
Average price
$239
Fastest journey
7 h 48 m
Average duration
7 h 48 m
Trains per day
1
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 $239 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $239.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Basel for Calais on Sun, Jun 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 561 km distance in an average of 7 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 48 m .
On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 7 h 48 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.
9:34 AM7h48Basel5:22 PMCalais$2391One-way0 transfers
- 9:34 AM7h48Basel5:22 PMCalais$2391One-way0 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 $83. 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 $83, and a train costs an average of $115.
Distance: 348 miles (561 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$231 Average price | $87 Average price Cheapest | $146 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 $87 (€71).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Calais:
A bus is $144 (€117) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Calais costing on average $231 (€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 $231 (€188) compared to roughly $146 (€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 tomorrow, Sunday, June 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:34 AM Basel | 7h48 | 5:22 PM Calais | 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 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.
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
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Jun 13
Jun 13
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 $115 (€94) but you can travel from only $83 (€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 $83 (€68)
Distance 348 miles (561 km) |
Average train duration 5h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $115 (€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 $83 (€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 $83 (€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
$178 (€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
$115 (€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
$239 (€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
City fine arts museum with works linked to Rodin, local history, and changing exhibitions near the Town Hall and central park.
- Recommended
Musée Mémoire 39-45
Private World War II museum in a German naval bunker, presenting military objects, uniforms, vehicles, and Calais wartime history.
- Must visit
Calais Beach
Long sandy seafront popular for walks, sunsets, and contemporary photo spots, with broad views across the Channel on clear days.
- Must visit
Dragon de Calais
Seafront area known for the giant mechanical dragon ride and modern promenade atmosphere, highly popular with families and on social media.
- Recommended
Place d'Armes
Historic central square in the old town, lined with civic buildings and useful as a base for exploring older Calais on foot.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Mussels cooked with white wine, cream, or shallots and served with fries. A classic Northern French and Channel coast specialty widely eaten in Calais.
Welsh
A hearty regional dish of toasted bread covered with melted cheddar cheese, beer, and mustard, often topped with ham and egg. Popular across Hauts-de-France.
- Gluten-free
Potjevleesch
A traditional Flemish meat terrine made from several white meats set in jelly and usually served cold with fries. It is strongly associated with French Flanders near Calais.
La Buissonnière
Reliable traditional French restaurant known for regional cuisine and a warm, intimate setting suited to a relaxed meal.
Au Côte d'Argent
Well-known Calais seafood restaurant with a classic brasserie feel, noted for fish, shellfish, and regional coastal dishes.
Le Channel
Established restaurant in Calais appreciated for refined French cooking, seafood, and a more polished dining atmosphere.
Euro
Prices are generally moderate for France. Casual dining is reasonable, while tourist areas and ferry routes can cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for kebabs, bakeries, or simple cafés.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for an espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Locals may round up or leave EUR 1-5 for good service. Tipping is modest in cafés and taxis, not obligatory.
Imag'in
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.20 EUR
- Day pass
- 3.50 EUR
To the city center
Calais Ville -> Place D'Armes, Calais
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- You can buy SITAC tickets on board and at official sales points; check the operator for accepted payment methods by vehicle. Validate your ticket when boarding buses.
- Calais city center is walkable from Calais Ville, so walking is often faster than waiting for a bus for short trips. Use the official SITAC app for routes and timetables.
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 $115 (€94), while the average price is around $231 (€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 $83 (€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
Basel
Calais
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Calais.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel St Johann
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisWCBike ParkingThe major train station for arrivals in Calais is Calais - Fréthun. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Calais - Fréthun for your journey to Calais from Basel.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
6 kmNumber of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from the main road leading to the station.
Dining
- Le Channel
- Restaurant du Golf
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Calais
- Hotel Meurice
- Hotel de la Plage
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 200 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, Eurostar check-in
- Hall 2: TGV and TER platforms
- Hall 3: parking and car rental services
Public transit options for Calais - Fréthun
- Bus: Line 1 from Calais city center
- Shuttle services available from Calais ferry terminal
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available at the station with 24/7 access.
Dining
- Le Channel
- Au Cote d'Argent
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Meurice
- Holiday Inn Calais
- Hotel de la Plage
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 50 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for trains to regional and local destinations
Public transit options for Calais Ville
- Bus: Several lines available
- Balad'in free bus service connects to various parts of the city.
Les Fontinettes
Amenities at train station
DiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalMost 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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