- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
Major fine arts museum in the former bishops’ palace, known for paintings, sculpture, and its historic setting near the cathedral.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Tours
Showing times and prices for Jul 12
Cheapest price
$168
Average price
$248
Fastest journey
5 h 44 m
Average duration
6 h 18 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
518 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Tours is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Tours will cost around $248 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $168.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Tours without transferring at least once.
96238+
9538+
8605696:21 PM7h20Basel SBB1:41 AMTours station$1681One-way2 transfers
9218+86056112:34 PM6h07Basel SBB6:41 PMTours station$2071One-way1 transfer- 96117+9218+86056111:45 AM6h56Basel St. Johann6:41 PMTours station$2111One-way2 transfers
- 9222+8393+1054512:34 PM6h12Basel SBB8:46 PMTours station$2351One-way2 transfers
- 9226+83234:34 PM5h44Basel SBB10:18 PMTours station$2361One-way1 transfer
- 9226+83234:34 PM5h44Basel SBB10:18 PMTours station$2361One-way1 transfer
- 9218+86056112:34 PM6h07Basel SBB6:41 PMTours station$2071One-way1 transfer
- 9222+8393+1054512:34 PM6h12Basel SBB8:46 PMTours station$2351One-way2 transfers
- 96125+9226+83233:45 PM6h33Basel St. Johann10:18 PMTours station$2401One-way2 transfers
- 9206+8485+1054858:34 AM6h52Basel SBB3:26 PMTours station$3261One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basel to Tours
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basel to Tours among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a train costs an average of $126.
Distance: 321 miles (518 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$216 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $288 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 25m Average total duration 12h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Tours is a bus with an average price of $74 (€61).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Tours:
A bus is $142 (€116) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Tours costing on average $216 (€178).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Tours is by train with an average journey time of 4h 21m.
Other travel options to Tours take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Tours including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Tours among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 33m faster (4h 21m by train vs 5h 54m by car) and roughly $72 (€59) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($216 (€178) vs $288 (€237)). 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 Tours train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Tours trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 96151+9206+860557 | On time 8:15 AM Basel St. Johann | 6h43 | 2:58 PM Tours station | 2 transfers | |
| 9206+860557 | On time 8:34 AM Basel SBB | 6h24 | 2:58 PM Tours station | 1 transfer | |
| 9210+860519+860007 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 7h22 | 5:56 PM Tours station | 2 transfers | |
| 96117+9218+8315 | 11:45 AM Basel St. Johann | 7h07 | 6:52 PM Tours station | 2 transfers | |
| 9218+8315 | 12:34 PM Basel SBB | 6h18 | 6:52 PM Tours station | 1 transfer | |
| 96121+9222+8321 | 1:45 PM Basel St. Johann | 6h59 | 8:44 PM Tours station | 2 transfers | |
| 9222+8321 | 2:34 PM Basel SBB | 6h10 | 8:44 PM Tours station | 1 transfer | |
| 96125+9226+860567 | 3:45 PM Basel St. Johann | 7h08 | 10:53 PM Tours station | 2 transfers | |
| 9226+860567 | 4:34 PM Basel SBB | 6h19 | 10:53 PM Tours station | 1 transfer | |
| 96137+9234+860569 | 6:45 PM Basel St. Johann | 7h08 | 1:53 AM Tours station | 2 transfers | |
| 9234+860569 | 7:34 PM Basel SBB | 6h19 | 1:53 AM Tours station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Tours 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.
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Jul 12
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Jul 18
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Tours
Switzerland
France
Trains from Basel to Tours run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $126 (€104) but you can travel from only $49 (€40) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 19:34. The fastest train covers the 321 miles (518 km) distance in 5h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $49 (€40)
Distance 321 miles (518 km) |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $126 (€104) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 24m |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 7:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 $49 (€40)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Basel to Tours trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Basel and Tours from $49 (€40). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$214 (€176)
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 30m
Cheapest Price
$269 (€221)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Tours
Things to do in Tours
Discover the best of Tours — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tours trip today.
- Recommended
Centre de Création Contemporaine Olivier Debré
Contemporary art center with rotating exhibitions in a striking modern building, important for current French and international art.
- Recommended
Musée du Compagnonnage
Specialized museum on French craft guild traditions, displaying masterworks by artisans in a characterful historic abbey space.
- Must visit
Place Plumereau
The city’s most famous square, lined with half-timbered houses and always lively, making it a top old-town stop.
- Must visit
Vieux Tours
Historic old town with medieval streets, timber-framed buildings, and a dense concentration of heritage architecture.
- Recommended
Rue Nationale
Main central avenue useful for shopping and orientation, connecting key parts of the city center.
- Gluten-free
Rillettes De Tours
A traditional spread of slow-cooked pork, protected by a local quality label. It is richer and more textured than many other rillettes and is a classic specialty of Tours.
- Gluten-free
Rillons De Touraine
Chunks of pork belly confit until tender and browned. This rustic charcuterie specialty from Touraine is a classic item in local markets and wine bars.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Sainte-Maure-De-Touraine
A famous Loire Valley goat cheese with a straw through the center and a distinctive ash-coated rind. It is one of the best-known cheeses from the Touraine area.
L'Accalmie
A well-regarded contemporary restaurant offering carefully prepared French dishes with a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
La Deuvalière
A respected traditional restaurant in Tours known for refined regional cuisine, Loire wines, and an intimate historic setting.
Le Chien Fou
An established bistro in central Tours appreciated for creative French cooking, seasonal products, and a lively dining room.
Euro
Moderate by French standards. Cafes and casual meals are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for sandwiches, kebabs, or lunch deals.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for an espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 in cafes is appreciated; about 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up, but tipping is not obligatory.
Fil Bleu
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.70 EUR
- Day pass
- 4.30 EUR
To the city center
Gare De Tours, Tours -> Place Jean Jaurès, Tours
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- You can buy Fil Bleu tickets on ticket machines, at sales points, or in the official app. On-board card payment availability on buses and trams is limited, so buy before boarding when possible.
- Validate your ticket at the start of each journey and keep it until the end of your trip. Day passes are usually the best value for multiple rides in one day.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Tours
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Tours 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 Tours, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Tours can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $126 (€104), while the average price is around $216 (€178).
The train from Basel to Tours takes 5h 24m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Basel to Tours leaves at 3:20 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Tours is 321 miles (518 km).
The last train from Basel to Tours leaves at 7:34 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Basel to Tours.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Tours.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Tours.
The train station in Basel that goes to Tours is Basel SBB, which connects to Tours station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Tours is by bus, with a cost of around $49 (€40).
The train journey from Basel to Tours offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Alsace region with its vineyards and charming villages, and as it passes through the Loire Valley, renowned for its beautiful châteaux and lush countryside.
A day trip from Basel to Tours is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 24m. The distance is 321 miles (518 km), and there are 8 train trips per day.
In Tours, you can explore vibrant local markets for regional delicacies and souvenirs, take a scenic bike ride along the Loire River, attend a wine tasting tour in nearby vineyards, enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the Loire River, and participate in a guided walking tour of the historic old town. Don't miss the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien with its stunning stained glass windows, the historic Château de Tours, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours, the serene Jardin Botanique de Tours, and the lively Place Plumereau surrounded by half-timbered houses and cafes.
To fully enjoy the main attractions and charm of Tours, spending about 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows time to explore its historic sites, museums, and local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Tours.
Since both Basel and Tours 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 Tours include Nantes, Orléans, Amboise, Angers, Blois.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Tours 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 Tours, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without meters and fake charity appeals. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and using authorized services can help avoid these issues.
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 Tours
Most Basel to Tours trains use the Basel SBB to Tours station pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Tours 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 Tours
Which Basel station do trains to Tours leave from?
Trains from Basel to Tours 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 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.
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 Tours station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Tours most often arrive at Tours. Some services arrive at Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Tours arrival station.
Tours1 Place du Général Leclerc, 37000 Tours, France+33 2 47 05 47 47
City-centre transport
Getting to Tours from Tours city centre
Tours is 1 km from Tours city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus5, 50 · 8m · every ~11 min
Tours train station facilities and services
Tours 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: Le Saint Germain, La Maison des Halles
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tours. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Tours. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tours: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tours: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tours: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel de l'Univers Tours, Oceania L'Univers Tours, Best Western Plus L'Artist Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Tours
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Tours and Basel
Most popular train connections to Tours
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