- Must visit
Olympic Museum
The city’s flagship museum on Olympic history, sport, and interactive exhibits in a lakeside setting at Ouchy.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Lausanne
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$95
Fastest journey
2 h 21 m
Average duration
2 h 21 m
Trains per day
42
Distance
136 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Lausanne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Lausanne will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Fast trains
Of the 42 trains that leave Basel for Lausanne on Thu, Jul 09, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct trains cover the 136 km distance in an average of 2 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 21 m .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest trains will take 2 h 21 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.
S 3 17390 | 17390 · IC 51 1604 | 160412:46 AM6h10Basel SBB6:56 AMLausanne station$561One-way1 transfer- IC 61 607 | 607 · IC 1 704 | 7045:16 AM2h27Basel SBB7:43 AMLausanne station$571One-way1 transfer
- IR 26 2347 | 2347 · IC 8 842 | 842 · IR 15 2504 | 250412:04 AM6h16Basel SBB6:20 AMLausanne station$571One-way2 transfers
- S 3 17312 | 17312 · IC 51 506 | 5064:52 AM2h34Basel SBB7:26 AMLausanne station$581One-way1 transfer
- IC 51 1610 | 16106:32 AM2h24Basel SBB8:56 AMLausanne station$581One-way0 transfers
- IC 6 613 | 613 · IC 1 710 | 7108:22 AM2h21Basel SBB10:43 AMLausanne station$761One-way1 transfer
- IC 61 615 | 615 · IC 1 712 | 7129:22 AM2h21Basel SBB11:43 AMLausanne station$641One-way1 transfer
- IC 6 617 | 617 · IC 1 714 | 71410:22 AM2h21Basel SBB12:43 PMLausanne station$661One-way1 transfer
- IC 61 611 | 611 · IC 1 708 | 7087:22 AM2h21Basel SBB9:43 AMLausanne station$611One-way1 transfer
- EC 61 | 61 · IC 1 706 | 7066:22 AM2h21Basel SBB8:43 AMLausanne station$951One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basel to Lausanne
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basel to Lausanne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a train costs an average of $50.
Distance: 84 miles (136 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$72 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $95 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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 Lausanne is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Lausanne:
A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Lausanne costing on average $72 (€59).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Lausanne is by train with an average journey time of 2h 14m.
Other travel options to Lausanne take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Lausanne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Lausanne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 7m faster (2h 14m by train vs 2h 21m by car) and roughly $23 (€19) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($72 (€59) vs $95 (€78)). 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 SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Lausanne train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lausanne trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S 3 17312 | 17312 · IC 51 506 | 506 | 4:52 AM Basel SBB | 2h34 | 7:26 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 61 607 | 607 · IC 1 704 | 704 | 5:16 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 7:43 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 61 957 | 957 · IR 15 2508 | 2508 | 5:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 8:20 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1854 | 1854 · IC 5 508 | 508 | 6:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 8:26 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| EC 61 | 61 · IC 1 706 | 706 | 6:22 AM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 8:43 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1610 | 1610 | 6:32 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 8:56 AM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 6 959 | 959 · IR 15 2510 | 2510 | 6:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 9:20 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1856 | 1856 · IC 5 510 | 510 | 7:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 9:26 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
 5521+ 9261+ 96104 | 7:13 AM Basel St. Johann | 4h26 | 11:39 AM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| 5521+9261+96210 | 7:21 AM Basel SBB | 4h18 | 11:39 AM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 61 611 | 611 · IC 1 708 | 708 | 7:22 AM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 9:43 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1612 | 1612 | 7:32 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 9:56 AM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 271 | 271 · IR 15 2512 | 2512 | 7:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 10:20 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1858 | 1858 · IC 5 512 | 512 | 8:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 10:26 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 6 613 | 613 · IC 1 710 | 710 | 8:22 AM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 10:43 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1614 | 1614 | 8:32 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 10:56 AM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 6 963 | 963 · IR 15 2514 | 2514 | 8:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 11:20 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1860 | 1860 · RE 56 4560 | 4560 · IC 5 514 | 514 | 9:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 11:26 AM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| IC 61 615 | 615 · IC 1 712 | 712 | 9:22 AM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 11:43 AM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1616 | 1616 | 9:32 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 11:56 AM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 61 965 | 965 · IR 15 2516 | 2516 | 9:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 12:20 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1862 | 1862 · IC 5 516 | 516 | 10:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 12:26 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 6 617 | 617 · IC 1 714 | 714 | 10:22 AM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 12:43 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1618 | 1618 | 10:32 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 12:56 PM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9210 · 9269 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 5h05 | 3:39 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| 6704+9269+96112 | 10:38 AM Basel SBB | 5h01 | 3:39 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| 6704+9269+96112 | 10:43 AM Basel St. Johann | 4h56 | 3:39 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 101 | 101 · IR 15 2518 | 2518 | 10:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 1:20 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1864 | 1864 · IC 5 518 | 518 | 11:02 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 1:26 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 61 619 | 619 · IC 1 716 | 716 | 11:22 AM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 1:43 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1620 | 1620 | 11:32 AM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 1:56 PM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 61 969 | 969 · IR 15 2520 | 2520 | 11:53 AM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 2:20 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IR 56 1866 | 1866 · IC 5 520 | 520 | 12:02 PM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 2:26 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| EC 65 | 65 · IC 1 718 | 718 | 12:22 PM Basel SBB | 2h21 | 2:43 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| IC 51 1622 | 1622 | 12:32 PM Basel SBB | 2h24 | 2:56 PM Lausanne station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 6 971 | 971 · IR 15 2522 | 2522 | 12:53 PM Basel SBB | 2h27 | 3:20 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| 9226 · 9277+96127 | 4:15 PM Basel St. Johann | 5h24 | 9:39 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| 9226 · 9277 | 4:34 PM Basel SBB | 5h05 | 9:39 PM Lausanne station | 1 transfer | |
| 6708+9277+96128 | 5:08 PM Basel SBB | 4h31 | 9:39 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
| 6708+9277+96128 | 5:13 PM Basel St. Johann | 4h26 | 9:39 PM Lausanne station | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Lausanne 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Lausanne?
The best time to book your train from Basel to Lausanne is 28 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Lausanne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel to Lausanne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Basel to Lausanne.
Trains
from $47Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Lausanne
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Lausanne run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 2h 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
Bus from $27 (€22)
Distance 84 miles (136 km) |
Average train duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 7 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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), BLS AG from Basel to Lausanne trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), BLS AG trains will get you between Basel and Lausanne from $27 (€22). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
SBB frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€90)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
37 a day
BLS AG
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€75)
BLS AG frequency
13 a day
Complete guide to Lausanne
Things to do in Lausanne
Discover the best of Lausanne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lausanne trip today.
- Must visit
Collection de l'Art Brut
World-famous museum dedicated to outsider art, with a remarkable collection assembled from self-taught creators.
- Recommended
Musée cantonal des Beaux-Arts Lausanne
Major fine arts museum in the Plateforme 10 district, known for Swiss and international art in a striking modern building.
- Must visit
Ouchy
Lakeside district with promenades, marina views, and easy walks along Lake Geneva; one of Lausanne’s most popular areas.
- Recommended
Plateforme 10
New arts district by the station, combining major museums with contemporary architecture and a lively cultural atmosphere.
- Recommended
Esplanade de Montbenon
Elegant terrace park with classic city and lake views, popular for photos, walks, and a relaxed local atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Fondue Moitié-Moitié
A classic Swiss fondue made with Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois, served bubbling hot with bread. It is a beloved regional specialty around Lake Geneva and throughout French-speaking Switzerland.
- Gluten-free
Papet Vaudois
The signature dish of Vaud: slow-cooked leeks and potatoes served with saucisse aux choux, a local cabbage sausage. It is one of the most traditional foods associated with Lausanne and the canton.
- Vegetarian
Malakoffs
Deep-fried cheese fritters from the Vaud region, usually eaten hot with pickles and bread. They are a famous local specialty with roots in village inns near Lausanne.
Restaurant De L'Hôtel De Ville
A respected fine-dining address in the Lausanne area, known for polished Swiss gastronomy and a more formal experience suited to a splurge meal.
Le Chalet Suisse
A long-established traditional restaurant above Lausanne, known for fondue, rösti, and Swiss classics in a rustic chalet setting with panoramic views.
Café De Grancy
A well-known brasserie near the station with a lively local atmosphere, serving seasonal Swiss and French-inspired dishes in a classic Lausanne setting.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for dining and hotels, though public transport and lunch deals can help manage costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated in restaurants. Round up taxis; small tips are optional in cafes.
Official public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.20
- Day pass
- CHF 9.50
To the city center
Lausanne Railway Station, Lausanne -> Lausanne City Center, Lausanne
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets must be valid before boarding; use the tl app or ticket machines at stops and stations. Card payment is available at many machines, but not universally on board buses.
- Lausanne is in Mobilis fare zones; make sure your ticket covers the correct zones before travel. A day pass is usually worthwhile if you plan several trips.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Lausanne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Lausanne 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 Lausanne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Lausanne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $72 (€59).
The train from Basel to Lausanne takes 2h 13m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Lausanne is 84 miles (136 km).
The first train from Basel to Lausanne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Basel to Lausanne leaves at 11:52 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Lausanne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Lausanne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Lausanne.
The train station in Basel that goes to Lausanne is Basel SBB, which connects to Lausanne station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Lausanne is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Lausanne is scenic, offering views of picturesque Swiss countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the Jura Mountains and Lake Geneva as you approach Lausanne.
A day trip from Basel to Lausanne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 13m. However, trains run frequently with 15 trips per day. The distance between the two cities is 84 miles (136 km).
In Lausanne, you can explore the vibrant Flon District with its trendy shops and nightlife, take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva for picturesque views, visit the diverse Lausanne Botanical Garden, or enjoy a wine tasting tour in the nearby Lavaux vineyards. Attend a performance at the Lausanne Opera for culture and entertainment. Must-see sights include the Gothic Lausanne Cathedral, the engaging Olympic Museum, the unique Collection de l'Art Brut, the scenic Ouchy Promenade, and the Hermitage Foundation art museum.
Three days in Lausanne is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Olympic Museum, the historic Old Town, and the beautiful lakeside promenade.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Lausanne.
Since both Basel and Lausanne 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 Lausanne include Geneva, Bern, Montreux, Martigny, Sion.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Lausanne 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lausanne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or asking for donations. It’s advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Public transportation is generally safe, but always stay alert to avoid petty theft.
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.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Lausanne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lausanne and Basel
Most popular train connections to Lausanne
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