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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Lyon
Showing times and prices for May 13
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$127
Fastest journey
3 h 25 m
Average duration
3 h 36 m
Trains per day
27
Distance
289 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Lyon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Lyon will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Lyon without transferring at least once.
96210+
5521+177697:21 AM5h23Basel SBB12:44 PMLyon Part Dieu$941One-way2 transfers- 96210+5521+178277:21 AM4h23Basel SBB11:44 AMLyon Part Dieu$941One-way2 transfers
- 96210+5521+
42007:21 AM4h43Basel SBB12:04 PMLyon Part Dieu$961One-way2 transfers - 96112+6704+1783110:43 AM5h01Basel St. Johann3:44 PMLyon Part Dieu$991One-way2 transfers
- 96218+12179+177719:21 AM5h23Basel SBB2:44 PMLyon Part Dieu$1001One-way2 transfers
9222+121772:34 PM3h25Basel SBB5:59 PMLyon Part Dieu$2471One-way1 transfer- 12180+962624:21 PM3h37Basel SBB7:58 PMLyon Part Dieu$1251One-way1 transfer
- 96210+55217:21 AM3h38Basel SBB10:59 AMLyon Part Dieu$1041One-way1 transfer
- 9879+962821:24 PM3h39Basel SBB5:03 PMLyon Part Dieu$1141One-way1 transfer
- 12179+962189:21 AM3h39Basel SBB1:00 PMLyon Part Dieu$1251One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Lyon
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $26, and a flight costs an average of $142.
Distance: 179 miles (289 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $381 Average price | $183 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 19m Average total duration 5h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 54m Average total duration 7h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Lyon is a bus with an average price of $42 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Lyon:
A bus is $48 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Lyon costing on average $90 (€72).
A bus is $288 (€230) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Lyon costing on average $330 (€263).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Lyon is by train with an average journey time of 3h 30m.
Other travel options to Lyon take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 55m.
Flight takes on average 7h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Lyon including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Lyon among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 50m faster (3h 30m by train vs 4h 20m by car) and roughly $93 (€75) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($90 (€72) vs $183 (€146)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Lyon train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Lyon trains for today, Tuesday, May 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9210+17773 | On time 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 6h10 | 4:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 9210+17833 | On time 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 7h10 | 5:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 9210+17771 | On time 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 4h10 | 2:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 9210+17831 | On time 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 5h10 | 3:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96112+6704+17831 | On time 10:43 AM Basel St. Johann | 5h01 | 3:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96222+6704 · 9879 | On time 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 5h42 | 5:03 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96222+6704+17773 | On time 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 5h23 | 4:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96222+6704+17831 | On time 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 4h23 | 3:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96222+6704+17833 | On time 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 6h23 | 5:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96116+9879 | 12:43 PM Basel St. Johann | 4h20 | 5:03 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96282+9879+17833 | 1:24 PM Basel SBB | 4h20 | 5:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96282+9879 | 1:24 PM Basel SBB | 3h39 | 5:03 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96118+12177 | 1:43 PM Basel St. Johann | 4h16 | 5:59 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96121+9222+12177 | 1:45 PM Basel St. Johann | 4h14 | 5:59 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 9222+12177 | 2:34 PM Basel SBB | 3h25 | 5:59 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96124+9580 | 4:13 PM Basel St. Johann | 3h45 | 7:58 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96127+9226+17777 | 4:15 PM Basel St. Johann | 4h29 | 8:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96262+9580 | 4:21 PM Basel SBB | 3h37 | 7:58 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 9226+17777 | 4:34 PM Basel SBB | 4h10 | 8:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96128+6708+17837 | 5:08 PM Basel SBB | 4h36 | 9:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96128+6708+17837 | 5:13 PM Basel St. Johann | 4h31 | 9:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| Wednesday, May 13 | |||||
| 96146+12179 | 9:13 AM Basel St. Johann | 3h47 | 1:00 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96218+12179+17829 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 4h23 | 1:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96218+12179+17771 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 5h23 | 2:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96218+12179+17831 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 6h23 | 3:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
| 96218+12179 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 3h39 | 1:00 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 1 transfer | |
| 96115+9210+17771 | 9:45 AM Basel St. Johann | 4h59 | 2:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Lyon 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.
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Why should you book Basel to Lyon trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV INOUI as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) and more offer trains services from Basel to Lyon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV INOUI tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV INOUI?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV INOUI, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Lyon.
- 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 SNCF | TGV INOUI with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Lyon.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Lyon?
The best time to book your train from Basel to Lyon is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Lyon route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel to Lyon 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 Lyon.
Trains
from $101Buses
from $32Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Lyon
Switzerland
France
Trains from Basel to Lyon run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 (€44) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:46, the last at 20:10. The fastest train covers the 179 miles (289 km) distance in 3h 25m.
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 179 miles (289 km) |
Average train duration 3h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 (€44) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 3h 25m |
First train 12:46 AM |
Last train 8:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Basel to Lyon trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, TER, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Basel and Lyon from $26 (€21). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€78)
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€53)
TER frequency
6 a day
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 24m
Cheapest Price
$164 (€131)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Lyon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Lyon 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 Lyon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Lyon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $94 (€75).
The train from Basel to Lyon takes 3h 43m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Basel to Lyon leaves at 5:21 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Lyon is 179 miles (289 km).
The last train from Basel to Lyon leaves at 8:10 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Basel to Lyon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Lyon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Lyon.
The train station in Basel that goes to Lyon is Basel SBB, which connects to Lyon Part Dieu.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Lyon is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
The train journey from Basel to Lyon is scenic, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Jura Mountains and offering views of charming French countryside, with rolling hills and quaint villages.
A day trip from Basel to Lyon is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 43m. Trains run 11 times per day for this 179 miles (289 km) journey.
In Lyon, you can explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an indoor market offering gourmet food, take a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône, and discover the secret passageways of the traboules in Vieux Lyon. Attend a performance at the Opéra de Lyon or visit the Institut Lumière for cinema history. Don't miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views, Vieux Lyon for its Renaissance architecture, Parc de la Tête d'Or with its zoo and botanical garden, the Musée des Confluences, or the bustling Place Bellecour.
For a fulfilling experience in Lyon, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows you to explore key attractions such as Vieux Lyon, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Musée des Confluences, while also enjoying the city's renowned gastronomy and vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Lyon.
Since both Basel and Lyon 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 Lyon include Annecy, Saint-Étienne, Avignon, Grenoble, Perouges.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Lyon 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lyon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist spots, and markets. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Staying alert in busy zones ensures a safer 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 Lyon
Basel
Lyon
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Lyon.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel St Johann
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisWCBike ParkingThe major train station for arrivals in Lyon is Lyon Part Dieu. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lyon Part Dieu for your journey to Lyon from Basel.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45
- Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:45
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free unlimited WiFi.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk.
Dining
- Alto Café
- Paul
- Paul The Café
- Starbucks
- Exki
- Sushi Shop
- Carrefour
Accessibility
- Complimentary personalized care is available.
Hotel
- Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon
- Mercure Lyon Center
- ibis Styles Lyon Center
Ticket Office
- Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45
- Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:45
Information Desk
- Located in the station's main hall.
Public transit options for Lyon Part Dieu
- Metro lines: A, B, C, D
- Tram lines: T4, K240, T3, K100
- Bus lines: 2960, C2, C3, C6, C9
- Train lines: TGV, TGV Lyria, TGV INOUI, OUIGO, TER, Intercités, Eurostar, AVE
Lyon-Jean-Macé
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with access from Avenue Jean Jaurès.
Dining
- Le Jean Moulin
- Brasserie de l'Est
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Ibis Lyon Centre
- Hotel des Facultés
- Comfort Suites Rive Gauche Lyon Centre
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 100 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for regional and local trains
- Hall 2: access to metro and tramway connections
Public transit options for Lyon-Jean-Macé
- Metro: Line B
- Tramway: Line T2
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmMost popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Lyon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lyon and Basel
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