- Must visit
Mathematikum
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages, especially popular with families and curious adults.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Giessen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$149
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$156
Fastest journey on Sep 18
3 h 43 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
3 h 45 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
345 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Giessen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Giessen will cost around $156 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $149.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Basel to Giessen, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 345 km distance in an average of 3 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 43 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 3 h 47 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.
4:16 AM3h47Basel8:03 AMGiessen$1491One-way0 transfers- 10:16 AM3h43Basel1:59 PMGiessen$1631One-way0 transfers
- 10:16 AM3h43Basel1:59 PMGiessen$1631One-way0 transfers
- 4:16 AM3h47Basel8:03 AMGiessen$1491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Giessen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basel to Giessen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $48 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 5m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, while a flight costs an average of $910.
Distance: 214 miles (345 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$124 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $910 Average price | $140 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 39m Average total duration 9h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration 3h 26m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Giessen is a bus with an average price of $48 (€39).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Giessen:
A bus is $76 (€62) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Giessen costing on average $124 (€101).
A bus is $862 (€704) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Giessen costing on average $910 (€743).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Giessen is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 26m.
Other travel options to Giessen take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 35m.
Bus takes on average 9h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Giessen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Giessen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 37m faster (3h 35m by train vs 4h 12m by car) and roughly $17 (€14) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($124 (€101) vs $140 (€115)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Giessen train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Giessen trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:16 AM Basel | 3h47 | 8:03 AM Giessen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:16 AM Basel | 3h43 | 1:59 PM Giessen | 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 Giessen 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Basel to Giessen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Basel to Giessen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Giessen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Giessen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Giessen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Giessen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Basel to Giessen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $113 (€92) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 20:59. The fastest train covers the 214 miles (345 km) distance in 3h 25m.
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 $34 (€28)
Distance 214 miles (345 km) |
Average train duration 3h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $113 (€92) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 25m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 8:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $34 (€28)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Basel to Giessen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Basel and Giessen from $34 (€28). 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
3h 25m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$113 (€92)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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.
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.
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.
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
Complete guide to Giessen
Things to do in Giessen
Discover the best of Giessen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Giessen trip today.
- Recommended
Oberhessisches Museum Wallenfels-Haus
Giessen’s leading art museum with changing exhibitions, regional works, and modern presentation in a central location.
- Recommended
Röntgen-Gedenkstätte
Birthplace memorial museum for physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, highlighting his life, discoveries, and scientific impact.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Giessen
Botanical garden founded in the university tradition, valued for plant diversity, calm atmosphere, and seasonal beauty.
- Must visit
Kloster Schiffenberg Grounds
Historic monastery hill on the city edge, popular for walks, views, and combining nature with heritage architecture.
- Recommended
Berliner Platz
Central square framed by major civic buildings, useful as an orientation point and hub for events and city walks.
Hessische Kartoffelsuppe
A Hessian potato soup often served with sausage. It is simple regional comfort food long linked to home cooking in central Hesse.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäse Mit Musik
A rustic sour milk cheese from Hesse, usually served with onions, vinegar and oil. It is one of the region's most iconic tavern dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frankfurter Grüne Soße
Green sauce made with seven fresh herbs, traditionally eaten with eggs and potatoes. A classic Hessian spring and summer dish.
Bootshaus Giessen
Refined restaurant known for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant atmosphere, suited for a higher-end dinner.
Knossos Giessen
Popular beer garden and casual dining spot with German dishes and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere by the Lahn.
Brauhaus Giessen
Traditional Hessian brewery restaurant serving regional classics and beer in a lively rustic setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are fairly priced, and local transit is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than Frankfurt or Munich.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 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, but rounding up is standard. Tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
RMVgo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.65
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Giessen Bahnhof -> Marktplatz Giessen
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in RMVgo or at ticket machines before boarding; bus drivers may not always offer the full ticket range.
- Contactless card payment is available in RMVgo and at many ticket machines, but onboard bus payment options can vary.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Giessen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Giessen 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 Giessen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Giessen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $113 (€92), while the average price is around $124 (€101).
The train from Basel to Giessen takes 3h 25m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Giessen is 214 miles (345 km).
The first train from Basel to Giessen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Basel to Giessen leaves at 8:59 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Giessen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Giessen.
The train station in Basel that goes to Giessen is Basel SBB, which connects to Giessen station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Giessen is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€28).
The train journey from Basel to Giessen offers scenic views as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Upper Rhine Valley and hilly regions of Hesse, showcasing charming villages, lush forests, and rolling countryside.
A day trip from Basel to Giessen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 25m each way. Trains run 7 times per day, and the distance is 214 miles (345 km).
To fully explore Giessen, including its key attractions such as the Mathematikum science museum, the Botanical Garden of the University of Giessen, and the Liebig Museum, a two-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Giessen.
Since both Basel and Giessen 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 Giessen include Frankfurt am Main, Kassel, Mannheim, Marburg, Heidelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Giessen 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Giessen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and markets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of surroundings. There are no widespread scams reported, but standard precautions against overcharging or misleading offers at local vendors are recommended. Overall, Giessen is considered a safe destination with typical urban safety concerns.
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 Giessen
Most Basel to Giessen trains use the Basel SBB to Gießen station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Giessen 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 Giessen
Which Basel station do trains to Giessen leave from?
Trains from Basel to Giessen 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.
Which Giessen station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Giessen arrive at Gießen. Gießen is 0 miles (1 km) from Giessen city centre.
GießenGießen, Bahnhofstr. 102, 35390 Gießen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gießen from Giessen city centre
Bus2 · 6m · every ~7 min
371 · 8m · every ~2 min
Gießen train station facilities and services
Gießen 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 and drink
Food options include: Aydin Grill, Südwinde, Subway, Alt Giessen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gießen. ATMs are available at Gießen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gießen. Information desks are available at Gießen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gießen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gießen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gießen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gießen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Liebig-Hotel, Hotel Flamingo, Hotel Köhler, Hotel Adler.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Giessen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Giessen and Basel
Most popular train connections to Giessen
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