- Recommended
Museo Civico e Archeologico, Castello Visconteo
Locarno's main museum inside the Visconti castle, presenting archaeology, local history, and period collections in a landmark setting.
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 Locarno
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
- Cheapest price on Nov 01
- $77
- Average ticket price on Nov 01
- $104
- Fastest journey on Nov 01
- 3 h 28 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 01
- 3 h 29 m
- Trains on Nov 01
- 9
- Distance
- 180 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Locarno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Locarno will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Locarno without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 21 667 | 667 · S 20 25645 | 25645 · EV EV1 25645 | 256459:04 AM 3h28 Basel SBB 12:32 PM Locarno $77 1 One-way 2 transfers- IC 21 667 | 667 · S 20 25645 | 25645 · EV EV1 25645 | 25645
9:04 AM 3h28 Basel SBB 12:32 PM Locarno station $84 1 One-way 2 transfers - IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 25641 · EV EV1 25641 | 25641
8:04 AM 3h28 Basel SBB 11:32 AM Locarno station $86 1 One-way 3 transfers - IC 21 667 | 667 · B 311 1837 | 1837
9:04 AM 3h43 Basel SBB 12:47 PM Locarno $88 1 One-way 1 transfer - IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 311 1833 | 1833
8:04 AM 3h44 Basel SBB 11:48 AM Locarno, Debarcadero $97 1 One-way 2 transfers
- IC 21 667 | 667 · S 20 25645 | 25645 · EV EV1 25645 | 25645
9:04 AM 3h28 Basel SBB 12:32 PM Locarno $77 1 One-way 2 transfers - IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 25641 · EV EV1 25641 | 25641
8:04 AM 3h28 Basel SBB 11:32 AM Locarno station $86 1 One-way 3 transfers - IC 21 667 | 667 · S 20 25645 | 25645 · EV EV1 25645 | 25645
9:04 AM 3h28 Basel SBB 12:32 PM Locarno station $84 1 One-way 2 transfers - IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · S 20 25643 | 25643 · EV EV1 25643 | 25643
8:33 AM 3h29 Basel SBB 12:02 PM Locarno station $122 1 One-way 3 transfers - IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 25641 · EV EV1 25641 | 25641
8:04 AM 3h32 Basel SBB 11:36 AM Locarno, Debarcadero $125 1 One-way 4 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Locarno
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Locarno run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 but you can travel from only $36 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:55, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 111 miles (180 km) distance in 2h 38m.
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 $36
Distance 111 miles (180 km) |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 38m |
First train 12:55 AM |
Last train 9:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $36
Frequently asked questions about your Basel to Locarno trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Basel to Locarno.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Locarno can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64, while the average price is around $107.
The train from Basel to Locarno takes 2h 38m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Locarno is 111 miles (180 km).
The first train from Basel to Locarno leaves at 12:55 AM.
The last train from Basel to Locarno leaves at 9:45 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Locarno. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by SBB.
Live departures
Basel to Locarno train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Locarno trains for tomorrow, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 25641 · EV EV1 25641 | 25641 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h28 | 11:32 AM Locarno station | 3 transfers | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · S 20 25641 | 25641 · EV EV1 25641 | 25641 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h32 | 11:36 AM Locarno, Debarcadero | 4 transfers | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 · IC 2 865 | 865 · B 311 1833 | 1833 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h44 | 11:48 AM Locarno, Debarcadero | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · S 20 25643 | 25643 · EV EV1 25643 | 25643 | 8:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h33 | 12:06 PM Locarno, Debarcadero | 4 transfers | |
| IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · B 311 1835 | 1835 | 8:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h45 | 12:18 PM Locarno, Debarcadero | 2 transfers | |
| IC 3 563 | 563 · EC 15 | 15 · S 20 25643 | 25643 · EV EV1 25643 | 25643 | 8:33 AM Basel SBB | 3h29 | 12:02 PM Locarno station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 · S 20 25645 | 25645 · EV EV1 25645 | 25645 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h28 | 12:32 PM Locarno | 2 transfers | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 · B 311 1837 | 1837 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h43 | 12:47 PM Locarno | 1 transfer | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 · S 20 25645 | 25645 · EV EV1 25645 | 25645 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 3h28 | 12:32 PM Locarno station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Basel to Locarno trains with Omio?
SBB as well as Trenitalia offer trains services from Basel to Locarno.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SBB tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SBB?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SBB, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Locarno.
- 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 SBB with all available travel options, which are train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Locarno.
Train companies: SBB, Trenitalia from Basel to Locarno trainsSBB, Trenitalia trains will get you between Basel and Locarno from $36. 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 SBB Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest SBB Price
$64
SBB frequency
9 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
Trenitalia
About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Trenitalia Duration
6h 13m
Cheapest Trenitalia Price
$158
Trenitalia frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Basel and Locarno
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Basel to Locarno.
Yes, there is a night train from Basel to Locarno.
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.
Complete guide to Locarno
Things to do in Locarno
Discover the best of Locarno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Locarno trip today.
- Recommended
Pinacoteca Comunale Casa Rusca
Important modern and contemporary art museum in the old town, known for quality exhibitions and works linked to Swiss and international artists.
- Recommended
Casa Anatta
House museum in nearby Brissago devoted to painter and writer Raffaele Leoncavallo, offering insight into regional artistic life.
- Must visit
Piazza Grande
Locarno's lively main square is framed by arcades and historic buildings and is essential for strolling, events, and people-watching.
- Must visit
Lungolago Giuseppe Motta
The lakeside promenade offers palms, mountain views, and a relaxed walking route ideal for sunsets, photos, and easy access to central Locarno.
- Recommended
Città Vecchia
Charming old town streets with arcades, boutiques, and historic houses, perfect for wandering and discovering Locarno's everyday urban character.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Merlot
Risotto made with Ticino Merlot wine, giving it a rich color and local character. It reflects the canton’s rice tradition and famous red wine.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Slow-braised beef cooked in Ticino Merlot until tender. A classic festive dish in the region, often served with polenta.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
Creamy cornmeal polenta, a staple of Ticino mountain cooking. It is traditional comfort food and often paired with cheese, stew, or mushrooms.
Ristorante La Brezza
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with refined Ticino and Italian influences in a polished lakeside setting at Villa Orselina above Locarno.
Grotto Broggini
Historic grotto-style venue known for traditional Ticino dishes, hearty polenta, local wine, and a relaxed, rustic atmosphere.
Ristorante Fontana
Well-known restaurant at Hotel Belvedere serving seasonal cuisine with regional products, plus panoramic views over Locarno and the lake.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Locarno is pricier than many nearby Italian towns. Hotels, dining, and local transport are typically Swiss-priced, though budget snacks and supermarkets help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills, but tipping is not obligatory.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.50
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Locarno railway station -> Piazza Grande
- Distance
- 450 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy Arcobaleno zone tickets before boarding buses; fares depend on zones, and Locarno urban trips are usually within local zones.
- Contactless card payment is not consistently available on buses, so use the FAIRTIQ app, ticket machines, or sales points.
Plan your visit to Locarno
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Locarno.
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Locarno is scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, picturesque towns, and the stunning landscapes of the Alps.
Popular day trips by train from Locarno include Milan, Lugano, Domodossola, Bellinzona, Andermatt.
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 Locarno, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular tourist spots and public transport hubs. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unofficial tour guides are rare but worth noting. Overall, Locarno is considered a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions like securing belongings and using licensed services are advised.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Locarno
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Locarno 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 Locarno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Locarno.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Basel to Locarno
Most Basel to Locarno trains use the Basel SBB to Locarno station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Locarno 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 Locarno
Which Basel station do trains to Locarno leave from?
Trains from Basel to Locarno 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 · $2 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $3 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $3
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $3 · 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 Locarno station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Locarno arrive at Locarno. Locarno is from Locarno city centre.
LocarnoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland+41 91 751 82 90
City-centre transport
Getting to Locarno from Locarno city centre
Bus1, 311, 312, 316, 3, 4, 7 · 4m · $3 · every ~38 min
Locarno train station facilities and services
Locarno 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: Ristorante Sensi, Osteria Chiara
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Locarno. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Locarno. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Locarno: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Locarno: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Locarno: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Locarno, Hotel Belvedere Locarno, Hotel Garni Muralto.
Train stations for Basel to Locarno
Check train stations information for Basel and Locarno, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Basel that goes to Locarno is Basel SBB, which connects to Locarno.
More options for your journey from Basel to Locarno
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Locarno and Basel
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.
