- Recommended
Musée archéologique de Saintes
Main archaeology museum with Roman finds, sculptures, and local history collections. Essential for understanding Mediolanum Santonum, ancient Saintes.
.png){kind=small}
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 Saintes
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$288
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$288
Fastest journey on Aug 29
9 h 43 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
9 h 43 m
Trains on Aug 29
1
Distance
657 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Saintes is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Saintes will cost around $288 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $288.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Saintes without transferring at least 2 times.
.png)
10:30 AM9h43Basel8:13 PMSaintes$2881One-way2 transfers
- 10:30 AM9h43Basel8:13 PMSaintes$2881One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basel to Saintes
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Saintes among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $110 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 10h 20m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $110, while a train costs an average of $288.
Distance: 408 miles (657 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$288 Average price | $110 Average price Cheapest | $176 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 20m Average total duration Fastest 9h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 27h 21m Average total duration 26h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Saintes is a bus with an average price of $110.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Saintes:
A bus is $178 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Saintes costing on average $288.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Saintes is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 30m.
Other travel options to Saintes take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 50m.
Bus takes on average 26h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Saintes including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Saintes 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 $288 compared to roughly $176 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-112.19. The journey takes 9h 50m versus 7h 48m 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 Saintes train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Saintes trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:54 AM Basel | 9h51 | 8:45 PM Saintes | 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 Saintes 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.
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Saintes
Switzerland
France
Trains from Basel to Saintes run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $288 but you can travel from only $104 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:12, the last at 13:15. The fastest train covers the 408 miles (657 km) distance in 9h 43m.
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 $104
Distance 408 miles (657 km) |
Average train duration 9h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $288 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 9h 43m |
First train 8:12 AM |
Last train 1:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $104
Train companies: Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Basel to Saintes trainsSociété Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Basel and Saintes from $104. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 43m
Cheapest Price
$288
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Saintes
Things to do in Saintes
Discover the best of Saintes — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Saintes trip today.
- Recommended
Musée de l'Échevinage
Museum dedicated to Charente River navigation and local trades in a preserved historic setting. A worthwhile stop for regional life beyond monuments.
- Recommended
Abbaye aux Dames Parcours de visite
Interpretive gallery within the abbey complex focused on music, heritage, and digital experiences. Good for families and modern cultural programming.
- Recommended
Cours National
Main pedestrian shopping street lined with historic facades. Ideal for strolling between monuments and getting a feel for the everyday city center.
- Recommended
Quais de la Charente
Attractive riverside promenade along the Charente with bridges, boats, and views of old Saintes. A relaxing walk at any time of day.
- Recommended
Quartier Saint-Eutrope
Historic quarter around the basilica with sloping lanes and older houses. Best for travelers who enjoy quieter walks away from the busiest streets.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pineau des Charentes
Pineau des Charentes is a regional aperitif made by blending grape must with Cognac eau-de-vie. It is a classic Charente drink served before meals.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Cognac
Cognac is the famed brandy of the Charente region, distilled from local wine and aged in oak. Near Saintes, it is a signature digestif and tasting staple.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Melon Charentais
Charentais melon is a fragrant local cantaloupe prized in summer for its sweet flesh. It is a regional specialty often served simply or with cured ham.
La Cave Passe Table
Refined restaurant in central Saintes known for modern French cuisine, careful presentation, and a calm dining room suited to a special meal.
La Musardiere
Casual crêperie appreciated for savory galettes, sweet crêpes, and friendly service. A good lighter option in the old town.
Le Parvis
Established brasserie-style address serving traditional French dishes and regional products in a relaxed, reliable setting near the historic center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: hotels and dining are usually below Paris, while local transit is limited and most sights are low cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple lunch or fast food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxis; small change is fine in cafes.
Modalis
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Gare de Saintes -> Place Bassompierre, Saintes
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets before boarding where possible; validation is required when you enter the bus.
- Contactless bank card payment on board is not reliably documented, so carry a valid ticket or local payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Saintes
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Saintes 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 Saintes, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Saintes can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $288, while the average price is around $288.
The train from Basel to Saintes takes 9h 43m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Saintes is 408 miles (657 km).
The first train from Basel to Saintes leaves at 8:12 AM.
The last train from Basel to Saintes leaves at 1:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Saintes.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Saintes.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Saintes.
The train station in Basel that goes to Saintes is Basel SBB, which connects to Saintes station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Saintes is by bus, with a cost of around $104.
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Saintes is scenic, offering views of the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland and France, including the rolling vineyards and charming countryside along the way.
A day trip from Basel to Saintes is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 43m and covers 408 miles (657 km). There are 2 trains per day for this route.
To fully experience Saintes, including its historical sites such as the Amphitheatre, the Abbaye aux Dames, and the Arch of Germanicus, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Saintes.
Since both Basel and Saintes 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 Saintes include Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Royan, Rochefort, Cognac.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Saintes 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 Saintes, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas and near popular landmarks. It is advisable to stay vigilant in busy markets and public transportation. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so agree on a price before the ride. Travelers should also be mindful of their belongings when dining or enjoying outdoor events. Overall, common-sense precautions help ensure a safe visit to Saintes.
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 Saintes
Most Basel to Saintes trains use the Basel SBB to Saintes station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Saintes 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 Saintes
Which Basel station do trains to Saintes leave from?
Trains from Basel to Saintes 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.
Which Saintes station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Saintes arrive at Saintes. Saintes is 0 miles (1 km) from Saintes city centre.
SaintesPlace de la Gare, 17100 Saintes, France+33 5 46 93 52 52
City-centre transport
Getting to Saintes from Saintes city centre
Saintes is 1 km from Saintes city centre. Public transport options include:
BusA, C, Charriers, Gare · 7m · every ~5 min
Saintes train station facilities and services
Saintes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Parvis, La Table du Maroc
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Saintes. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Saintes. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Saintes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Saintes: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Saintes: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Comfort Inn Saintes, ibis Saintes, Campanile Saintes.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Saintes
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Saintes and Basel
Most popular train connections to Saintes
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.
