- Recommended
Historisches Museum Olten
Olten’s main history museum presents archaeology, city history, and changing exhibitions. A strong introduction to the region and its cultural development.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Olten
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$13
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$18
Fastest journey on Sep 18
24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
24 m
Trains on Sep 18
23
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Olten is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Olten will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 23 trains from Basel to Olten, including 23 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 34 km distance in an average of 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 24 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 25 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.
IR 27 2469 | 246911:16 AM0h33Basel SBB11:49 AMOlten station$131One-way0 transfers- IR 27 2467 | 246710:16 AM0h33Basel SBB10:49 AMOlten station$131One-way0 transfers
- IC 6 613 | 6138:30 AM0h25Basel SBB8:55 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
- IR 27 2463 | 24638:16 AM0h33Basel SBB8:49 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2315 | 23158:04 AM0h24Basel SBB8:28 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2315 | 23158:04 AM0h24Basel SBB8:28 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
- IC 21 667 | 6679:04 AM0h24Basel SBB9:28 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
- IR 26 2319 | 231910:04 AM0h24Basel SBB10:28 AMOlten station$161One-way0 transfers
- IC 21 671 | 67111:04 AM0h24Basel SBB11:28 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
- IC 6 613 | 6138:30 AM0h25Basel SBB8:55 AMOlten station$141One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Basel to Olten
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Olten among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $20 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $20, while a train costs an average of $20.
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$20 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 3m Average total duration Fastest 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Olten is a train with an average price of $20 (€16).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Olten is by train with an average journey time of 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Olten including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Olten among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 19m faster (33m by train vs 52m by car) and roughly $43 (€35) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($20 (€16) vs $63 (€52)). 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), Südostbahn.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Basel to Olten train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Olten trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:58 PM Basel | 0h27 | 5:25 PM Olten | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:04 PM Basel | 0h24 | 5:28 PM Olten | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
| S 3 17325 | 17325 | 8:00 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 8:40 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 26 2315 | 2315 | 8:04 AM Basel SBB | 0h24 | 8:28 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 27 2463 | 2463 | 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 0h33 | 8:49 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17327 | 17327 | 8:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 9:10 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 6 613 | 613 | 8:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h25 | 8:55 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 6 963 | 963 | 8:58 AM Basel SBB | 0h27 | 9:25 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17329 | 17329 | 9:00 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 9:40 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 21 667 | 667 | 9:04 AM Basel SBB | 0h24 | 9:28 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 27 2465 | 2465 | 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 0h33 | 9:49 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17331 | 17331 | 9:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 10:10 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 61 615 | 615 | 9:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h25 | 9:55 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 61 965 | 965 | 9:58 AM Basel SBB | 0h27 | 10:25 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17333 | 17333 | 10:00 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 10:40 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 26 2319 | 2319 | 10:04 AM Basel SBB | 0h24 | 10:28 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 27 2467 | 2467 | 10:16 AM Basel SBB | 0h33 | 10:49 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 6 617 | 617 | 10:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h25 | 10:55 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17335 | 17335 | 10:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 11:10 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 101 | 101 | 10:58 AM Basel SBB | 0h27 | 11:25 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17337 | 17337 | 11:00 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 11:40 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 21 671 | 671 | 11:04 AM Basel SBB | 0h24 | 11:28 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 27 2469 | 2469 | 11:16 AM Basel SBB | 0h33 | 11:49 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 3 17339 | 17339 | 11:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h40 | 12:10 PM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 61 619 | 619 | 11:30 AM Basel SBB | 0h25 | 11:55 AM Olten station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Olten by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Olten
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Basel to Olten run on average 13 times per day, taking around 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 24m.
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
Distance 21 miles (34 km) |
Average train duration 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 13 |
Fastest train 24m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Train companies: SBB from Basel to Olten trainsSBB trains will get you between Basel and Olten. 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
24m
Cheapest SBB Price
$12 (€10)
SBB frequency
5 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
Complete guide to Olten
Things to do in Olten
Discover the best of Olten — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Olten trip today.
- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Olten
Art museum with Swiss modern and regional works, especially linked to Martin Disteli. It is a refined stop for graphic art and local cultural context.
- Recommended
Naturmuseum Olten
Natural history museum focused on local geology, wildlife, and landscapes. Good for understanding the environment around the Aare and Jura foothills.
- Must visit
Säli-Schlössli
Well-known local viewpoint above the town with broad panoramas. A favorite for short walks and an excellent place to understand Olten’s geography.
- Recommended
Kirchgasse
Main old town lane lined with historic buildings, shops, and everyday city life. It is the best street for soaking up Olten’s compact historic center.
- Recommended
Aarequai
Riverside promenade ideal for walking, views, and photography. It shows off Olten’s strong relationship with the Aare and is popular with locals.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
A hearty potato rösti, often served in Swiss homes and inns. In Olten it is a classic side or main, prized for its crisp crust and comforting Alpine roots.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Fondue
Melted Swiss cheese blended with wine and garlic, shared communally with bread. It is a beloved cold-weather staple across the region around Olten.
- Vegetarian
Chäschnitten
Bread cubes soaked in white wine and topped with melted cheese, often served with onion soup. A traditional Swiss comfort dish found in taverns and homes.
Restaurant Pavillon
Refined fine dining by the Aare with seasonal Swiss cuisine and polished service. A strong choice for a special meal in an elegant setting.
Da Carlo
Popular casual venue for pizza, pasta, and Mediterranean dishes in a lively central setting. Reliable and well established for everyday dining.
Gasthof Zum Kreuz
Traditional Swiss restaurant known for hearty classics, meat dishes, and a cozy inn atmosphere. Good for tasting regional comfort food.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Olten is costly for most visitors. Hotels, restaurant meals, and Swiss rail fares are higher than in much of Europe, though it is often a bit cheaper than Zurich or Geneva.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave CHF 1-5 at cafes and casual meals, about 5-10% for great service. Taxis are commonly rounded up.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 8.80
To the city center
Olten Bahnhof -> Olten Bahnhof
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy local bus tickets in the SBB Mobile app or from ticket machines before boarding. On many regional buses, contactless card payment is not guaranteed onboard.
- Olten is compact and the main station is in the center. Check your fare zone in the A-Welle network before buying a ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Olten
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Olten 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 Olten, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Olten can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $20 (€16).
The train from Basel to Olten takes 24m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Olten is 21 miles (34 km).
The first train from Basel to Olten leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Basel to Olten leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Olten.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Olten. This service operates 13 times per day, provided by SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Olten.
The train station in Basel that goes to Olten is Basel SBB, which connects to Olten station.
The train journey from Basel to Olten offers pleasant views of the Swiss countryside, including rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, though it may not be considered as scenic as routes through mountainous regions.
Yes, a day trip from Basel to Olten is feasible. The journey takes 24m and covers 21 miles (34 km). With 11 trains per day, it's convenient to travel between these two cities.
A stay of 1 to 2 days in Olten is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the town’s atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Olten.
Since both Basel and Olten 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 Olten include Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Freiburg im Breisgau, Aarburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Olten 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 Olten, travelers should be aware of common petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially around busy train stations and crowded areas. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and be cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. No major scams specific to Olten are reported, but standard precautions like verifying ticket authenticity and using official transportation services are recommended.
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 Olten
Most Basel to Olten trains use the Basel SBB to Olten station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Olten 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 Olten
Which Basel station do trains to Olten leave from?
Trains from Basel to Olten 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.
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.
Basel St Johann4056 Basel, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel St Johann from Basel city centre
Basel St Johann is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus50 · 8m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram1, 21, 3, 6, 8, 6457, 8190, 8280, 8298, 8312 · 5m · $2 · every ~15 min
Basel St Johann train station facilities and services
Basel St Johann has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Basel St Johann.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Basel St Johann.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel St Johann: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel St Johann: Bike Parking.
Which Olten station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Olten most often arrive at Olten. Some services arrive at Olten Hammer, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Olten arrival station.
OltenBahnhofstrasse 22, 4600 Olten, Switzerland+41 58 668 86 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Olten from Olten city centre
TrainS20, S · 3m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus501, 503, 505, 507, 509 · 6m · $2 · every ~18 min
N55 · 3m
Olten train station facilities and services
Olten 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 Aarhof, Restaurant Salmen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Olten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Olten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Olten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Olten: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Olten: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Olten Swiss Quality, Hotel Amaris, Hotel Astoria.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Olten
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Olten and Basel
Most popular train connections to Olten
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