- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with works from the 19th century to contemporary art, plus changing exhibitions and a notable sculpture garden.
Cheapest price
$80
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
8 h 35 m
Average duration
12 h 15 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
773 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Kiel will cost around $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.
Of the 4 trains that leave Basel for Kiel on Fri, Jun 05, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 773 km distance in an average of 12 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 35 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 15 h 40 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 Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, and a flight costs an average of $86.
Distance: 480 miles (773 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$129 Average price | $189 Average price | $79 Average price Cheapest | $257 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 25m Average total duration 9h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 25m Average total duration 13h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.3 - 4.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Kiel:
A bus is $50 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Kiel costing on average $129 (€104).
A bus is $109 (€88) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Kiel costing on average $189 (€152).
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 55m.
Bus takes on average 13h 55m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Kiel trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 11:30 AM Basel | 15h40 | 3:10 AM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 9:16 PM Basel | 11h36 | 8:52 AM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
![]() | 5:46 AM Basel | 8h35 | 2:21 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:16 AM Basel | 9h05 | 3:21 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:30 AM Basel | 15h40 | 2:10 AM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Kiel run on average 11 times per day, taking around 9h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 (€46) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 480 miles (773 km) distance in 8h 6m.
Distance 480 miles (773 km) |
Average train duration 9h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $57 (€46) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 8h 6m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 56 days |
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
Major art museum of Kiel University with works from the 19th century to contemporary art, plus changing exhibitions and a notable sculpture garden.
Kiel’s maritime museum in a former fish auction hall, covering the city’s naval and shipping history with models, objects, and harbor context.
University museum with zoological specimens, whale skeletons, and scientific displays that appeal to families and natural history fans.
Kiel’s best-known waterfront promenade, ideal for walking along the fjord, watching ships, and enjoying one of the city’s classic views.
Popular viewing area at the Kiel Canal locks in Holtenau, excellent for watching large ships pass at close range.
Historic old market square with Nikolaikirche and surrounding city-center atmosphere, a natural starting point for exploring Kiel.
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked to Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or with potatoes and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, mashed potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring and a fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, often with potatoes. A staple of northern coastal cuisine and especially popular in Schleswig-Holstein.
Highly regarded restaurant in Kiel for refined Thai cuisine in a stylish setting, offering a contrast to traditional fare while remaining a local favorite.
Established restaurant at the Atlantic Hotel Kiel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and an upscale atmosphere near the fjord.
Well-known waterfront restaurant in Kiel focusing on fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual eats are affordable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills; tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Kiel Hbf -> Kiel Rathausplatz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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