- Must visit
Städel Museum
One of Germany’s premier art museums, with major European works from Old Masters to contemporary art on the Museumsufer.
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$60
Fastest journey
2 h 52 m
Average duration
3 h 59 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
287 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport will cost around $60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Of the 4 trains that leave Basel for Frankfurt am Main Airport on Mon, Jun 22, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 287 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 5 h 6 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.








Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $434.
Distance: 178 miles (287 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$65 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $652 Average price | $127 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 26m Average total duration 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 1m 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport:
A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport costing on average $65 (€54).
A bus is $611 (€500) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport costing on average $652 (€534).
Other travel options to Frankfurt am Main Airport take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 56m.
Bus takes on average 5h 25m.
The journey is about 5m faster (2h 56m by train vs 3h 1m by car) and roughly $62 (€51) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($65 (€54) vs $127 (€104)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 11:08 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 11:08 AM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 12:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 200 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 12:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 10:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 1:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 10:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 1:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 108 | On time 11:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 2:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 108 | On time 11:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 2:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 370 · ICE 518 | On time 12:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 3:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 370 · ICE 518 | On time 12:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 3:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 106 | On time 1:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 4:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 106 | On time 1:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 4:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 278 · ICE 516 | On time 2:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 5:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 278 · ICE 516 | On time 2:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 5:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ECE 4 · ICE 224 | On time 2:46 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 5:38 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
EC 4+ ICE 224 | On time 2:46 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 5:38 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 276 · ICE 514 | 4:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 7:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 102 | 5:16 PM Basel SBB | 2h52 | 8:08 PM Frankfurt Airport long-distance station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport run on average 17 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€20) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 20:16. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (287 km) distance in 2h 52m.
Distance 178 miles (287 km) |
Average train duration 2h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€20) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 52m |
First train 6:44 AM |
Last train 8:16 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Discover the best of Frankfurt am Main Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Frankfurt am Main Airport trip today.
One of Germany’s premier art museums, with major European works from Old Masters to contemporary art on the Museumsufer.
Major exhibition hall for ambitious temporary shows in modern and contemporary art beside the Römer area.
A highly popular natural history museum, especially known for dinosaur skeletons and strong fossil and biodiversity displays.
Frankfurt’s historic central square, lined with reconstructed timbered houses and surrounded by many of the city’s key sights.
Riverside museum district along the Main, ideal for walking and one of the city’s most culturally rich areas.
Rebuilt old town quarter mixing reconstructed historic houses with modern architecture, now one of Frankfurt’s most photographed areas.
Thin smoked pork sausages traditionally served with mustard, bread, and potato salad. A classic Frankfurt specialty with protected regional status.
Frankfurt’s famous cold herb sauce made with seven fresh herbs, usually served with boiled eggs and potatoes. It is one of the city’s most iconic dishes.
A small sour milk cheese marinated with onions, vinegar, and oil. A traditional Hessian tavern dish loved for its sharp, rustic flavor.
A stylish upscale restaurant blending Austrian and regional influences, suitable for travelers seeking refined dining beyond standard tavern fare.
Established traditional restaurant near the airport and city forest, known for Hessian specialties, apple wine, and a rustic atmosphere.
Well-known apple wine tavern in Sachsenhausen serving classic Frankfurt dishes such as Grüne Soße, schnitzel, and Handkäs in a lively traditional setting.
Airport prices are higher than in the city. Meals, coffee, and convenience items cost noticeably more than average in Germany.
Service is usually included. Round up small bills or leave about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. For taxis, round up the fare. Tipping is not expected for quick takeaway coffee.
Official public transport app
Frankfurt Airport Regionalbahnhof, Frankfurt am Main -> Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof, Frankfurt am Main
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport 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 Frankfurt am Main Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Basel to Frankfurt am Main Airport trains use the Basel SBB to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Use this guide to compare Basel and Frankfurt am Main Airport train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.
Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.
Basel, Badischer Bahnhof is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Basel, Badischer Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof.
ATMs are available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof.
Available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof.
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport.
Frankfurt (Main) Süd is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (Main) Süd has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Merals Imbiss, Bootshaus am Eisernen Steg, Freigut, Holbein's
Wi-Fi is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Information desks are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Süd.
Nearby hotels include Hotel am Berg, Leonardo Royal Hotel Frankfurt, Hotel Ritter, Lindner Main Plaza.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need