- Must visit
Optisches Museum Jena
Major science center with hands-on exhibitions on light, optics, and perception, ideal for families and curious adults.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Jena
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 03
Cheapest price on Sep 03
$123
Average ticket price on Sep 03
$142
Fastest journey on Sep 03
5 h 57 m
Average journey duration on Sep 03
6 h 31 m
Trains on Sep 03
5
Distance
475 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Jena is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Jena will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $123.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Jena without transferring at least once.
ICE 200 · ICE 690 · IC 21559:16 AM5h57Basel SBB3:13 PMJena West station$1231One-way2 transfers- ICE 374 · IC 21558:16 AM6h57Basel SBB3:13 PMJena West station$1231One-way1 transfer
- ICE 372 · ICE 1651 · 366310:16 AM6h04Basel SBB4:20 PMJena West station$1421One-way2 transfers
- ICE 74 · 36638:46 AM7h34Basel SBB4:20 PMJena West station$1571One-way1 transfer
- ICE 374 · ICE 1559 · 36618:16 AM6h04Basel SBB2:20 PMJena West station$1641One-way2 transfers
- ICE 200 · ICE 690 · IC 21559:16 AM5h57Basel SBB3:13 PMJena West station$1231One-way2 transfers
- ICE 372 · ICE 1651 · 366310:16 AM6h04Basel SBB4:20 PMJena West station$1421One-way2 transfers
- ICE 374 · ICE 1559 · 36618:16 AM6h04Basel SBB2:20 PMJena West station$1641One-way2 transfers
- ICE 374 · IC 21558:16 AM6h57Basel SBB3:13 PMJena West station$1231One-way1 transfer
- ICE 74 · 36638:46 AM7h34Basel SBB4:20 PMJena West station$1571One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basel to Jena
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Jena among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $69 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 7h 0m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $69, while a train costs an average of $159.
Distance: 295 miles (475 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$159 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $190 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 0m Average total duration Fastest 6h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 8m Average total duration 9h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Jena is a bus with an average price of $69.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Jena:
A bus is $91 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Jena costing on average $159.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Jena is by train with an average journey time of 6h 30m.
Other travel options to Jena take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Jena including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Jena 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 $159 compared to roughly $190 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $30. The journey takes 6h 30m versus 5h 38m 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 Jena train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Jena trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 374 · IC 2155 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 6h57 | 3:13 PM Jena West station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 374 · ICE 1559 · 3661 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 6h04 | 2:20 PM Jena West station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 74 · 3663 | On time 8:46 AM Basel SBB | 7h34 | 4:20 PM Jena West station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 200 · ICE 690 · IC 2155 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h57 | 3:13 PM Jena West station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 372 · ICE 1651 · 3663 | On time 10:16 AM Basel SBB | 6h04 | 4:20 PM Jena West station | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Jena 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.
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Why should you book Basel to Jena trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Basel to Jena.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Jena.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Jena.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Jena.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Jena.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Jena
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Basel to Jena run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 but you can travel from only $46 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 23:29. The fastest train covers the 295 miles (475 km) distance in 5h 27m.
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 $46
Distance 295 miles (475 km) |
Average train duration 6h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 27m |
First train 2:15 AM |
Last train 11:29 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 70 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 $46
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Basel to Jena trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Basel and Jena from $46. 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
5h 27m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$69
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 Jena
Things to do in Jena
Discover the best of Jena — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Jena trip today.
- Recommended
Universitätsmuseum Jena
University museum presenting the city's academic history, student culture, and notable scholars in a compact setting.
- Recommended
Schillers Gartenhaus
Literary memorial house dedicated to Romantic writer Friedrich Schiller, who lived and worked in Jena.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central market square framed by historic buildings, a main gathering point and practical base for exploring old Jena.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Jena
One of Germany's oldest botanical gardens, ideal for a peaceful walk among themed plant collections and greenhouses.
- Recommended
Jenzig
Popular limestone hill viewpoint above the city with rewarding hikes and classic vistas over Jena and the Saale valley.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringia’s famous grilled pork sausage, seasoned with marjoram and traditionally cooked over charcoal. It is one of the region’s best-known street foods.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
A hearty potato dumpling central to Thuringian cooking, usually served with roasts and gravy. It is a defining staple of Sunday and festive meals.
Rinderroulade
Slow-cooked beef roulade filled with bacon, onion, mustard, and pickles. It is a classic celebratory dish across Thuringia and often paired with dumplings.
Scala Restaurant
Refined fine dining with modern German cuisine and tasting menus in an elegant setting. A strong choice for a special meal in Jena.
Zur Noll
Historic traditional inn known for Thuringian specialties, local beer, and a warm rustic atmosphere. Good for classic regional dishes.
Brauhaus Papiermühle
Popular brewery restaurant serving hearty German fare and house-brewed beer in a lively, casual setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels, dining, and local transit are generally cheaper than in Berlin or Munich, but pricier than smaller towns.
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 or adding 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Jena
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Jena 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 Jena, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Jena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69, while the average price is around $159.
The train from Basel to Jena takes 5h 27m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Jena is 295 miles (475 km).
The first train from Basel to Jena leaves at 2:15 AM.
The last train from Basel to Jena leaves at 11:29 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Jena.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Jena.
The train station in Basel that goes to Jena is Basel SBB, which connects to Jena West station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Jena is by bus, with a cost of around $46.
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Jena is quite scenic, offering views of the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Swiss countryside and the Thuringian Forest in Germany.
A day trip from Basel to Jena is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 27m. Trains operate 6 times per day over a distance of 295 miles (475 km).
Two to three days in Jena is ideal to explore its cultural landmarks, such as the Zeiss Planetarium, the Optical Museum, and the scenic Saale Valley, while also enjoying the local cuisine and vibrant student atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Jena.
Since both Basel and Jena 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 Jena include Leipzig, Saalfeld/Saale, Magdeburg, Weimar, Lichtenfels.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Jena 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 Jena, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded places like public transportation and popular tourist spots. It is advisable to stay alert when using ATMs and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Overall, Jena is considered a safe city, but standard precautions for urban areas apply.
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 Jena
Most Basel to Jena trains use the Basel SBB to Jena West station pair, with some services arriving at Jena Paradies. Use this guide to compare Basel and Jena 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 Jena
Which Basel station do trains to Jena leave from?
Trains from Basel to Jena 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 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 · $4 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · $4 · 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.
Which Jena station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Jena most often arrive at Jena West. Some services arrive at Jena Paradies, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Jena arrival station.
Jena West07745 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena West from Jena city centre
Jena West is 1 km from Jena city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 12, 11 · 3m · every ~17 min
410 · 8m · every ~2 min
Jena West train station facilities and services
Jena West 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena West. ATMs are available at Jena West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena West. Information desks are available at Jena West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Jena Paradies07743 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena Paradies from Jena city centre
Bus431, 426, 422, 420, 410 · 3m · every ~3 min
Tram2 · 6m · every ~10 min
Jena Paradies train station facilities and services
Jena Paradies 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena Paradies. ATMs are available at Jena Paradies.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena Paradies. Information desks are available at Jena Paradies.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena Paradies. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena Paradies: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena Paradies: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena Paradies.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Jena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Jena and Basel
Most popular train connections to Jena
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
