- Must visit
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
National museum of antiquities with acclaimed collections from Ancient Egypt, Rome, and the Netherlands' archaeological past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Leiden
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$167
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$167
Fastest journey on Sep 19
9 h 14 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
9 h 14 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
557 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Leiden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Leiden will cost around $167 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $167.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Basel to Leiden, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 557 km distance in an average of 9 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 14 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 9 h 14 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.
5:46 AM9h14Basel3:00 PMLeiden$1671One-way0 transfers
- 5:46 AM9h14Basel3:00 PMLeiden$1671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Leiden
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Basel to Leiden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $102 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $102, while a flight costs an average of $622.
Distance: 346 miles (557 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$111 Average price | $622 Average price | $102 Average price Cheapest | $234 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 15m Average total duration 7h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 13h 29m Average total duration 12h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.7 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.4kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Leiden is a bus with an average price of $102.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Leiden:
A bus is $9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Leiden costing on average $111.
A bus is $520 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Leiden costing on average $622.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Leiden is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 40m.
Other travel options to Leiden take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 45m.
Bus takes on average 12h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Leiden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Leiden 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 $111 compared to roughly $234 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $123. The journey takes 7h 45m versus 7h 15m 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 Leiden train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Leiden trains for today, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:34 PM Basel | 6h28 | 7:02 PM Leiden | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 5:46 AM Basel | 9h14 | 3:00 PM Leiden | 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 Leiden 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Why should you book Basel to Leiden trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Basel to Leiden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Leiden.
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 Leiden.
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 Leiden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Leiden
Switzerland
Netherlands
Trains from Basel to Leiden run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 but you can travel from only $50 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 346 miles (557 km) distance in 6h 55m.
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 $50
Distance 346 miles (557 km) |
Average train duration 7h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 6h 55m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 63 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 $50
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Basel to Leiden trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Basel and Leiden from $50. 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
6h 55m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$55
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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 Leiden
Things to do in Leiden
Discover the best of Leiden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leiden trip today.
- Must visit
Naturalis Biodiversity Center
Major natural history museum famous for dinosaurs, biodiversity displays, and interactive galleries suitable for all ages.
- Must visit
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
Museum about human body science in Leiden's academic tradition, featuring anatomy, medicine, and curious medical objects.
- Must visit
Rapenburg
Leiden's oldest canal is lined with monuments, bridges, and terraces, making it a classic route for a first city walk.
- Recommended
Leidse Singels
Tree-lined ring canal around the historic center, ideal for walking past gates, mills, and broad water views.
- Recommended
Nieuwe Rijn
Busy central square beside the church, often hosting markets and events and serving as a lively meeting point.
- Vegetarian
Stroopwafels
Buttery cookies from nearby Gouda, sold across Leiden. Their crisp texture and caramel notes make them a classic Dutch sweet with coffee or tea.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Fluffy small pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. A beloved Dutch treat found in Leiden cafés and traditional pancake houses.
Kroketten
Deep-fried ragout croquettes, often eaten with mustard. This classic Dutch snack is common in Leiden bars, cafés, and lunch spots.
In den Doofpot
Elegant fine dining in a historic setting, known for refined French-inspired cuisine and polished service near central Leiden.
Oudt Leyden
Established Leiden pancake house specializing in Dutch pancakes and poffertjes in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Waag
Historic restaurant in a former weighing house, serving classic Dutch and French-influenced dishes in a grand, traditional atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Netherlands. Hotels and restaurants are not cheap, but transit is manageable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or lunch specials.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. In cafes, small change is enough.
9292
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.08 + €0.196 per km
- Day pass
- €9.50
To the city center
Leiden Centraal -> Leiden City Center
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can check in and out on buses with OVpay using a contactless bank card, phone, or smartwatch.
- For local buses in Leiden, fares are distance-based. Plan routes and live departures in the 9292 app.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Leiden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Leiden 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 Leiden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Leiden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55, while the average price is around $111.
The train from Basel to Leiden takes 6h 55m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Basel to Leiden leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Leiden is 346 miles (557 km).
The last train from Basel to Leiden leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Leiden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Leiden.
The train station in Basel that goes to Leiden is Basel SBB, which connects to Leiden Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Leiden is by bus, with a cost of around $50.
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Leiden is scenic, as it passes through picturesque landscapes including the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and quaint villages, offering travelers a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Basel to Leiden is not feasible as the travel duration is 6h 55m. Trains operate 4 times per day for this route covering a distance of 346 miles (557 km).
In Leiden, you can enjoy scenic boat tours along the Leiden Canals, visit the Naturalis Biodiversity Center for interactive exhibits, explore the historic Pieterskerk, and admire art at Museum De Lakenhal. Don't miss the vibrant Leiden Market for local produce and delicacies. Key sights include the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, Hortus Botanicus Leiden, the prestigious Leiden University, Molen de Valk windmill, and the Burcht van Leiden fortress with panoramic city views.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Leiden's rich history, museums, and charming canals.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Leiden.
Since both Basel and Leiden 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 Leiden include Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp, The Hague, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Leiden 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leiden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Bicycle theft is also common, so securing bikes properly is important. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial transport services can occur; travelers are advised to use licensed providers. Overall, staying alert and safeguarding belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Leiden
Most Basel to Leiden trains use the Basel SBB to Leiden Centraal station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Leiden 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 Leiden
Which Basel station do trains to Leiden leave from?
Trains from Basel to Leiden 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 Leiden station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Leiden arrive at Leiden Centraal. Leiden Centraal is 0 miles (1 km) from Leiden city centre.
Leiden CentraalStationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155
City-centre transport
Getting to Leiden Centraal from Leiden city centre
Leiden Centraal is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus45 · 6m · $2 · every ~7 min
54, 1, 2, 3, 4, 169 · 7m · $4 · every ~24 min
54, 56, 3, 4 · 9m · $5 · every ~16 min
Leiden Centraal train station facilities and services
Leiden Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Bruine Boon, Grand Café Van Buuren
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leiden Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leiden Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leiden Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leiden Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Centraal: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis Leiden Centre, Golden Tulip Leiden Centre, City Hotel Nieuw Minerva.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Leiden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leiden and Basel
Most popular train connections to Leiden
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