- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for its outstanding collection from Holbein to modern masters. A top choice for art lovers visiting Basel.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Calais to Basel
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$164
Average price
$243
Fastest journey
6 h 11 m
Average duration
6 h 46 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
561 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Calais to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Calais to Basel will cost around $243 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $164.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Calais for Basel on Fri, Jun 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 561 km distance in an average of 6 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 11 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 7 h 7 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.
8:07 AM7h01Calais3:08 PMBasel$1641One-way0 transfers
8:38 AM7h07Calais3:45 PMBasel$2501One-way0 transfers- 11:27 AM6h11Calais5:38 PMBasel$3161One-way0 transfers
- 11:27 AM6h11Calais5:38 PMBasel$3161One-way0 transfers
- 8:07 AM7h01Calais3:08 PMBasel$1641One-way0 transfers
- 8:38 AM7h07Calais3:45 PMBasel$2501One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Calais to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Calais to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $77. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 31m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, and a train costs an average of $155.
Distance: 348 miles (561 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$214 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest | $146 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 1m Average total duration Fastest 5h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 43m Average total duration 16h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Calais to Basel is a bus with an average price of $82 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Calais to Basel:
A bus is $132 (€108) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Calais to Basel costing on average $214 (€175).
The fastest way to travel from Calais to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 5h 31m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Calais and Basel including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Calais to Basel among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 55m sooner (5h 31m by train vs 7h 26m by car). Tickets start at around $214 (€175) compared to roughly $146 (€119) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Calais to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Calais to Basel trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:07 AM Calais | 7h01 | 3:08 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:38 AM Calais | 7h07 | 3:45 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:27 AM Calais | 6h11 | 5:38 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Calais to Basel 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.
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Calais to Basel
France
Switzerland
Trains from Calais to Basel run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $155 (€127) but you can travel from only $77 (€63) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:50, the last at 16:34. The fastest train covers the 348 miles (561 km) distance in 6h 11m.
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 $77 (€63)
Distance 348 miles (561 km) |
Average train duration 5h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $155 (€127) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 6h 11m |
First train 12:50 AM |
Last train 4:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $77 (€63)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, TGV, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Calais to Basel trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, TGV, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Calais and Basel from $77 (€63). 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
6h 57m
Cheapest Price
$155 (€127)
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
5 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
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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
6h 11m
Cheapest Price
$164 (€134)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
2 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
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 39m
Cheapest Price
$236 (€193)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Basel
Things to do in Basel
Discover the best of Basel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Basel trip today.
- Must visit
Fondation Beyeler
A celebrated museum in nearby Riehen with an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art, set in a striking Renzo Piano building and landscaped park.
- Recommended
Museum Tinguely
Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic sculptures, this riverside museum is one of Basel’s most distinctive cultural attractions and especially appealing for modern art fans.
- Must visit
Altstadt Grossbasel
The historic core on the south side of the Rhine, packed with narrow lanes, major sights, and classic Basel atmosphere.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s central market square, framed by the Rathaus and daily city life, making it a natural starting point for sightseeing.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
One of Basel’s defining walking areas, ideal for views, people-watching, and experiencing the city’s close relationship with the river.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
A traditional Basel flour soup, slowly browned for a deep roasted flavor and often served during Fasnacht. It is one of the city’s most iconic dishes.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s famous spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, candied peel, and kirsch. It is a classic local sweet strongly associated with the city.
- Vegetarian
Käsewähe
A Swiss cheese tart popular in Basel bakeries and homes, with a savory custard filling in pastry. It is a common casual lunch or snack.
Restaurant Schlüsselzunft
A historic guild-house restaurant serving classic Swiss cuisine and seasonal dishes in an elegant old-town atmosphere.
Restaurant Kunsthalle Basel
A long-established Basel brasserie near the museum quarter, known for refined Swiss and French-influenced dishes in a stylish historic setting.
Walliser Kanne
A well-known traditional Swiss restaurant specializing in fondue, raclette, and hearty alpine fare in a cozy, rustic setting.
Swiss Franc
Basel is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though supermarkets and lunch specials can help reduce daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for very good service is appreciated. Round up for taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.
BLT Basel
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.70
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB, Basel -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- In Basel, local buses and trams generally accept contactless card payment at ticket machines, but not always onboard, so buy before boarding when possible.
- If you stay in Basel accommodation, ask for the BaselCard, which gives discounted public transport and attractions.
FAQs: Trains from Calais to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Calais to Basel 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 Basel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Calais to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $155 (€127), while the average price is around $214 (€175).
The train from Calais to Basel takes 6h 11m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Calais to Basel leaves at 12:50 AM.
The distance by train from Calais to Basel is 348 miles (561 km).
The last train from Calais to Basel leaves at 4:34 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Calais to Basel.
There is no direct train service currently available from Calais to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Calais to Basel.
The train station in Calais that goes to Basel is Calais - Fréthun, which connects to Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Calais to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $77 (€63).
The train journey from Calais to Basel offers scenic views, including glimpses of the picturesque French countryside, charming villages, and the rolling hills of the Alsace region, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Calais to Basel is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 11m each way and covers 348 miles (561 km). The frequency is 7 per day for trains.
In Basel, you can visit the Tinguely Museum to see kinetic sculptures by Jean Tinguely, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and explore the charming Old Town with its medieval buildings and vibrant markets. Art enthusiasts can visit the Fondation Beyeler for modern and tribal art or attend Art Basel for contemporary artworks. Notable sights include the Gothic Basel Minster, the Kunstmuseum Basel, the playful Tinguely Fountain, Basel Zoo, and the historically significant Rathaus Basel with its red sandstone facade.
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Basel's key attractions, including its museums, old town, and the Rhine River.
Yes, you can take the train from Calais to Basel.
Since both Calais and Basel 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 Basel include Colmar, Strasbourg, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Calais to Basel 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 Basel, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. Staying alert and using official transportation services can help ensure a safe 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 Calais to Basel
Most Calais to Basel trains use the Calais - Fréthun to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel St Johann. Use this guide to compare Calais and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Calais
Arrival train stations in Basel
Which Calais station do trains to Basel leave from?
Trains from Calais to Basel leave from Calais - Fréthun. The station is 4 miles (7 km) from Calais city centre at Gare de Calais-Fréthun, 62185 Fréthun, France.
Calais - FréthunGare de Calais-Fréthun, 62185 Fréthun, France+33 892 35 35 35
City-centre transport
Getting to Calais - Fréthun from Calais city centre
Calais - Fréthun is 6 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 8m · $1
Bus427 · 13m · $5
6 · 22m · every ~1 min
Calais - Fréthun train station facilities and services
Calais - Fréthun 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: Le Channel, Restaurant du Golf
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Calais - Fréthun. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Calais - Fréthun. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Calais - Fréthun: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Calais - Fréthun: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Calais - Fréthun: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Calais, Hotel Meurice, Hotel de la Plage.
Calais VillePlace de la Gare, 62100 Calais, France+33 3 21 96 23 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Calais Ville from Calais city centre
Bus3, 2, 6, Atc, Ts37, 13 · 2m · every ~10 min
Calais Ville train station facilities and services
Calais Ville 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 Channel, Au Cote d'Argent
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Calais Ville. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Calais Ville. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Calais Ville: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Calais Ville: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Calais Ville: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Meurice, Holiday Inn Calais, Hotel de la Plage.
Les Fontinettes62100 Calais, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Les Fontinettes from Calais city centre
Les Fontinettes is 1 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 3m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus2, 7, 6, Ts25, Ts43, Ts44, Ts18, Ts21, Ts13, Ts32 · 3m · every ~7 min
Les Fontinettes train station facilities and services
Les Fontinettes has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Les Fontinettes.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Les Fontinettes.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Les Fontinettes: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Les Fontinettes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Les Fontinettes.
Which Basel station do trains from Calais arrive at?
Trains from Calais to Basel most often arrive at Basel SBB. Some services arrive at Basel St Johann, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Basel arrival station.
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.
Most popular train connections from Calais
More options for your journey from Calais to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Calais
Most popular train connections to Basel
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