- Recommended
Castello di Masnago - Museo d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea
Municipal art museum inside a medieval castle, showing frescoes, paintings, and decorative arts tied to Varese's local history.
.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 Varese
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€73
Average price
€75
Fastest journey
3 h 30 m
Average duration
3 h 45 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
216 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Varese is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Varese will cost around €75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €73.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Basel for Varese on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 216 km distance in an average of 3 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 30 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 59 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.
7:33 AM3h30Basel11:03 AMVarese€731One-way0 transfers- 8:04 AM3h59Basel12:03 PMVarese€781One-way0 transfers
- 7:33 AM3h30Basel11:03 AMVarese€731One-way0 transfers
- 8:04 AM3h59Basel12:03 PMVarese€781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Varese
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Varese among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €31. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €31, and a flight costs an average of €197.
Distance: 134 miles (216 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€90 Average price | €41 Average price Cheapest | €403 Average price | €97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 47m Average total duration 9h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Varese is a bus with an average price of €41.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Varese:
A bus is €49 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Varese costing on average €90.
A bus is €362 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Varese costing on average €403.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Varese is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 20m.
Other travel options to Varese take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 45m.
Flight takes on average 9h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Varese including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Varese 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 €90 compared to roughly €97 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €7. The journey takes 5h 45m versus 3h 49m 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 Varese train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Varese trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:33 AM Basel | 3h30 | 11:03 AM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:04 AM Basel | 3h59 | 12:03 PM Varese | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Varese 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Basel to Varese trains with Omio?
Trenitalia as well as SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn and more offer trains services from Basel to Varese.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Varese.
Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Südostbahn to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Varese.
- 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Varese.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Varese.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Varese
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Basel to Varese run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €70 but you can travel from only €31 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 21:26. The fastest train covers the 134 miles (216 km) distance in 3h 30m.
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 €31
Distance 134 miles (216 km) |
Average train duration 5h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price €70 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 30m |
First train 12:35 AM |
Last train 9:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 €31
Train companies: Trenitalia, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Basel to Varese trainsTrenitalia, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Basel and Varese from €31. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
6h 44m
Cheapest Price
€70
Trenitalia frequency
3 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
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 Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest Price
€73
SBB frequency
8 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
€128
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
6 a day
Südostbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Südostbahn frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Varese
Things to do in Varese
Discover the best of Varese — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Varese trip today.
- Recommended
Villa Mirabello - Musei Civici
Museum in a lakeside Liberty villa presenting contemporary works and exhibitions in one of Varese's most architecturally distinctive settings.
- Recommended
Museo Baroffio e del Santuario del Sacro Monte
Archaeological displays in a former monastery at Sacro Monte, illuminating regional prehistory and the long settlement of the Varese area.
- Must visit
Pista ciclopedonale del Lago di Varese
Scenic lakeside nature route through reeds and woodland on Lake Varese. Popular for walking, cycling, and sunset views.
- Recommended
Giardini Estensi
Grand public gardens behind Palazzo Estense, loved for flowerbeds, fountains, and a calm promenade near the center.
- Recommended
Corso Matteotti
Central pedestrian avenue lined with shops and historic buildings. It is ideal for a first walk through the city's daily life.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Con Asparagi Di Cantello
Creamy risotto cooked with local asparagus from Cantello, prized in the Varese area for its delicate flavor and spring harvest tradition.
- Gluten-free
Stracotto D'Asino
Slow-braised donkey stew, a Lombard specialty found around Varese, traditionally served with polenta and valued for its rustic mountain character.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Polenta E Formaggi
Soft polenta enriched with local Alpine cheeses, common in Varese's prealpine cuisine and loved as a hearty cold-season comfort dish.
Il Sole Di Ranco
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in nearby Sacro Monte, known for refined seasonal cuisine and a polished historic setting.
Ristorante Al Belvedere
Historic lakeside restaurant in Varese, appreciated for seafood, classic Italian dishes, and a traditional atmosphere by Lake Varese.
Premiata Gnoccheria E Risotteria
Well-known casual spot in Varese serving Lombard and Italian staples, valued for reliable cooking and a welcoming local feel.
Euro (€)
Moderate for northern Italy. Hotels and dining cost more than smaller towns, but local transit and casual meals are reasonable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for pizza slices, panini, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included via coperto. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
MooneyGo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.60
- Day pass
- €4.40
To the city center
Varese Nord Station -> Piazza Monte Grappa, Varese
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Urban tickets are valid on Varese city buses operated within the CTPI system; validate your ticket when boarding if required.
- Mobile tickets are available in MooneyGo. Contactless bank card payment on board is not reliably documented, so buy before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Varese
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Varese 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 Varese, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Varese can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €70, while the average price is around €90.
The train from Basel to Varese takes 3h 30m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Varese is 134 miles (216 km).
The first train from Basel to Varese leaves at 12:35 AM.
The last train from Basel to Varese leaves at 9:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Varese.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Varese.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Varese.
The train station in Basel that goes to Varese is Basel SBB, which connects to Varese Casbeno.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Varese is by bus, with a cost of around €31.
Yes, the train journey from Basel to Varese is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Swiss countryside, charming villages, and the stunning landscapes of the Alps en route.
A day trip from Basel to Varese is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 30m each way. However, there are 3 train trips available per day. The distance is 134 miles (216 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Varese, allowing time to visit its beautiful gardens, historic villas, and the scenic Sacro Monte di Varese.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Varese.
Since both Basel and Varese 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 Varese include Milan, Como, Turin, Gallarate, Porto Ceresio.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Varese 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Varese, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides. It’s advisable to use official transportation services and keep valuables secure to avoid theft. Overall, Varese is considered safe, but staying alert in busy spots helps prevent common travel-related 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 Varese
Most Basel to Varese trains use the Basel SBB to Varese Casbeno station pair, with some services arriving at Varese Nord. Use this guide to compare Basel and Varese 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 Varese
Which Basel station do trains to Varese leave from?
Trains from Basel to Varese 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.
Which Varese station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Varese most often arrive at Varese Casbeno. Some services arrive at Varese Nord, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Varese arrival station.
Varese Casbeno21100 Varese, VA, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese Casbeno from Varese city centre
Varese Casbeno is 1 km from Varese city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR22, Re1 · 4m · €2 · every ~2 min
BusB, Ab · 3m · every ~3 min
Bus · 10m
Varese Casbeno train station facilities and services
Varese Casbeno has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Varese Casbeno.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varese Casbeno: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Varese Casbeno: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese Casbeno.
Varese Nord21100 Varese, VA, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese Nord from Varese city centre
BusH, P · 3m · every ~8 min
Varese Nord train station facilities and services
Varese Nord has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese Nord.
VaresePiazzale Trento, 21100 Varese VA, Italy+39 0332 255111
City-centre transport
Getting to Varese from Varese city centre
BusB, Z, Ab · 3m · every ~5 min
Varese train station facilities and services
Varese 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 Bologna, Trattoria Caprese
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varese. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Varese. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varese: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Varese: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varese: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Palace Grand Hotel Varese, Hotel di Varese, UNAHOTELS Varese.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Varese
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Varese and Basel
Most popular train connections to Varese
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.
