- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
€700
Average price
€708
Fastest journey
12 h 13 m
Average duration
18 h 5 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
1189 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Edinburgh will cost around €708 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €700.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Edinburgh without transferring at least 4 times.
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10:54 AM12h13Basel11:07 PMEdinburgh€7001One-way4 transfers- 7:24 PM23h47Basel7:11 PMEdinburgh€7001One-way4 transfers
- 4:54 PM18h14Basel11:08 AMEdinburgh€7251One-way4 transfers
- 10:54 AM12h13Basel11:07 PMEdinburgh€7001One-way4 transfers
- 4:54 PM18h14Basel11:08 AMEdinburgh€7251One-way4 transfers
- 7:24 PM23h47Basel7:11 PMEdinburgh€7001One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Basel to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Basel to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €80. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 36m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €80, and a train costs an average of €700.
Distance: 738 miles (1189 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€705 Average price | €143 Average price | €129 Average price Cheapest | €265 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 49m Average total duration 18h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 36h 44m Average total duration 36h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of €129.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Edinburgh:
A bus is €14 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Edinburgh costing on average €143.
A bus is €576 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Edinburgh costing on average €705.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 36m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 18h 19m.
Bus takes on average 36h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Edinburgh 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 €705 compared to roughly €265 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-440.17. The journey takes 18h 19m versus 15h 29m 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.
Live departures
Basel to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Edinburgh 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:54 AM Basel | 12h13 | 11:07 PM Edinburgh | 4 transfers | |
| 4:54 PM Basel | 18h14 | 11:08 AM Edinburgh | 4 transfers | |
| 7:24 PM Basel | 23h47 | 7:11 PM Edinburgh | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Edinburgh 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Edinburgh
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Trains from Basel to Edinburgh run on average 1 times per day, taking around 18h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €700 but you can travel from only €40 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 07:09, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 738 miles (1189 km) distance in 12h 13m.
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
Flight from €40
Distance 738 miles (1189 km) |
Average train duration 18h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price €700 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 12h 13m |
First train 7:09 AM |
Last train 10:40 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Flight from €40
Train companies: Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Basel to Edinburgh trainsSociété Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Basel and Edinburgh from €40. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 13m
Cheapest Price
€700
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Scotland
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
- Recommended
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
British pound sterling (£)
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €700, while the average price is around €705.
The train from Basel to Edinburgh runs once a day and takes approximately 12h 13m.
The first train from Basel to Edinburgh leaves at 7:09 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Edinburgh is 738 miles (1189 km).
The last train from Basel to Edinburgh leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Edinburgh is by flight, with a cost of around €40.
The train journey from Basel to Edinburgh is quite scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, the rolling hills and picturesque villages of France, and the stunning landscapes of the English and Scottish countryside.
A day trip from Basel to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 13m with a distance of 738 miles (1189 km), and there is only 1 trip per day by train.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Basel will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Edinburgh 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 the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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 Edinburgh
Most Basel to Edinburgh trains use the Basel Bad Bhf to station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh
Which Basel station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?
Trains from Basel to Edinburgh 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
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 · €3 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · €3 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Basel
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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