- 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$271
Average price
$379
Fastest journey
9 h 3 m
Average duration
9 h 51 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
881 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel will cost around $379 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $271.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel without transferring at least once.
8530 · 2421+
962237:05 AM9h03Hendaye station4:08 PMBasel SBB$2711One-way2 transfers- 8530+
92157:05 AM10h16Hendaye station5:21 PMBasel SBB$3591One-way1 transfer - 8530+9215+961307:05 AM10h38Hendaye station5:43 PMBasel St. Johann$3631One-way2 transfers
- 8536+
9515+9624711:05 AM9h33Hendaye station8:38 PMBasel SBB$3701One-way2 transfers - 8534+92199:31 AM9h55Hendaye station7:26 PMBasel SBB$4141One-way1 transfer
- 8530 · 2421+962237:05 AM9h03Hendaye station4:08 PMBasel SBB$2711One-way2 transfers
- 8536+9515+9624711:05 AM9h33Hendaye station8:38 PMBasel SBB$3701One-way2 transfers
- 8534+92199:31 AM9h55Hendaye station7:26 PMBasel SBB$4141One-way1 transfer
- 8530+92157:05 AM10h16Hendaye station5:21 PMBasel SBB$3591One-way1 transfer
- 8536+922311:05 AM10h27Hendaye station9:32 PMBasel SBB$4141One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a flight costs an average of $156.
Distance: 547 miles (881 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$241 Average price | $600 Average price | $98 Average price Cheapest | $404 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 18m Average total duration 7h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 50m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 45m Average total duration 18h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is a bus with an average price of $98 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel:
A bus is $143 (€117) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel costing on average $241 (€197).
A bus is $502 (€410) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel costing on average $600 (€491).
The fastest way to travel from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 50m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 48m.
Bus takes on average 18h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Donostia-San Sebastian and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 9m faster (7h 48m by train vs 9h 57m by car) and roughly $163 (€133) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($241 (€197) vs $404 (€330)). 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
Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8536 · 6709+96239 | 11:05 AM Hendaye station | 10h03 | 9:08 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| 8536+9223 | 11:05 AM Hendaye station | 10h21 | 9:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
8512+9223+ D51 (866468) | 12:00 PM Hendaye station | 9h26 | 9:26 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| 8540 · 6711+96241 | 1:06 PM Hendaye station | 9h32 | 10:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 8530 · 2421+96223 | 7:05 AM Hendaye station | 9h03 | 4:08 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| 8530+9215 | 7:05 AM Hendaye station | 10h16 | 5:21 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| 8530+9215+96130 | 7:05 AM Hendaye station | 10h38 | 5:43 PM Basel St. Johann | 2 transfers | |
| 8534+9219 | 9:31 AM Hendaye station | 9h55 | 7:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| 8534+9219+96143 | 9:31 AM Hendaye station | 10h44 | 8:15 PM Basel St. Johann | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel 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.
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Jun 21
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Spain
Switzerland
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $131 (€107) but you can travel from only $60 (€49) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:21, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 547 miles (881 km) distance in 9h 2m.
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 $60 (€49)
Distance 547 miles (881 km) |
Average train duration 7h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $131 (€107) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 9h 2m |
First train 5:21 AM |
Last train 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 6 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 $60 (€49)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, Euskotren from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, Euskotren trains will get you between Donostia-San Sebastian and Basel from $60 (€49). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
9h 2m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€107)
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
Euskotren
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 53m
Cheapest Price
$456 (€373)
Euskotren 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $131 (€107), while the average price is around $241 (€197).
The train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel takes 9h 2m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is 547 miles (881 km).
The first train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel leaves at 5:21 AM.
The last train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel leaves at 9:35 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel.
There is no direct train service currently available from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel.
The train station in Donostia-San Sebastian that goes to Basel is Hendaye station, which connects to Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $60 (€49).
The train journey from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Basque Country and the Pyrenees, with opportunities to see charming villages, lush greenery, and mountainous terrain along the way.
No, a day trip from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 2m. The distance is 547 miles (881 km). There are 6 trains per day.
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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel.
Since both Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Most Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel trains use the Hendaye to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel St Johann. Use this guide to compare Donostia-San Sebastian and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Donostia-San Sebastian
Arrival train stations in Basel
Which Basel station do trains from Donostia-San Sebastian arrive at?
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian 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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Donostia-San Sebastian
More options for your journey from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Donostia-San Sebastian
Most popular train connections to Basel
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