- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
One of Europe’s leading art museums, with outstanding Old Masters and modern works. An essential stop for Basel’s world-class cultural scene.
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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€134
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€196
Fastest journey on Sep 19
9 h 32 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
9 h 48 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
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 €196 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €134.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 881 km distance in an average of 9 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 32 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 10 h 3 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.
10:05 AM10h03Donostia-San Sebastian8:08 PMBasel€1341One-way0 transfers- 12:06 PM9h32Donostia-San Sebastian9:38 PMBasel€2571One-way0 transfers
- 12:06 PM9h32Donostia-San Sebastian9:38 PMBasel€2571One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 AM10h03Donostia-San Sebastian8:08 PMBasel€1341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Omio recommends booking the bus 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 an average ticket price of €123 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 36m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €123, while a flight costs an average of €316.
Distance: 547 miles (881 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€226 Average price | €123 Average price Cheapest | €316 Average price | €333 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 35m Average total duration 8h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 59m Average total duration 19h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 36m Average total duration Fastest 4h 36m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 9h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 €123.
This is compared to other travel options from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel:
A bus is €103 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel costing on average €226.
A bus is €193 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel costing on average €316.
The fastest way to travel from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 36m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 5m.
Bus takes on average 19h 29m.
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 bus 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 1h 52m faster (8h 5m by train vs 9h 57m by car) and roughly €107 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€226 vs €333). 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 tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:05 AM Donostia-San Sebastian | 10h03 | 8:08 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:06 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 9h32 | 9:38 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 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel
Spain
Switzerland
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel run on average 7 times per day, taking around 8h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €118 but you can travel from only €23 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:21, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 547 miles (881 km) distance in 7h 45m.
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
Flight from €23
Distance 547 miles (881 km) |
Average train duration 8h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price €118 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 7h 45m |
First train 5:21 AM |
Last train 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Flight from €23
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | TGV Lyria from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | TGV Lyria trains will get you between Donostia-San Sebastian and Basel from €67. 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 SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
7h 45m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
€118
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
7 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
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 SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
7h 52m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
€176
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
1 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
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
Museum Tinguely
A major contemporary art museum in a former paper mill, known for ambitious temporary exhibitions and a beautiful riverside location.
- Must visit
Fondation Beyeler
A renowned private museum presenting modern and contemporary art in a landmark building by Renzo Piano, set within a landscaped park.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s lively market square is framed by historic facades and the town hall. It is a practical and scenic starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Pfalz and Münsterhügel
This beautifully preserved old-town hill has narrow lanes, fountains, and noble houses. It offers some of Basel’s most atmospheric walks and views.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
A riverside promenade packed with locals, swimmers, and postcard views of the old city. It captures Basel’s relaxed everyday life exceptionally well.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s signature hard honey-almond spice biscuit, traditionally made for autumn fairs and Christmas. A protected regional specialty with medieval roots.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mandelbärli
A flaky butter pastry filled with hazelnut or almond mix. It is a classic Basel sweet sold in local bakeries and closely tied to the city’s confectionery tradition.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
Basel-style flour soup, slowly browned for a deep roasted flavor and often served during Carnival. A comforting local classic linked to Fasnacht traditions.
Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl
Elegant fine dining in Hotel Les Trois Rois, known for refined French-inspired cuisine, Rhine views, and one of Basel’s most celebrated gastronomic experiences.
Atelier im Teufelhof
Stylish restaurant in Teufelhof Basel offering modern Swiss and seasonal cuisine. A polished but relaxed option with a strong local reputation.
Löwenzorn
Historic traditional venue serving Swiss classics in a lively old-town setting. A dependable place to try local dishes with a casual Basel atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Very high hotel, dining, and everyday costs; transit is efficient but not cheap. Basel is pricier than most European city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up small amounts in cafes, add about CHF 5-10 in restaurants for good service, and round up taxi fares.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.90
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Basel trams and buses use zone-based fares; most city trips are in Zone 10. Buy the correct zone ticket before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not generally onboard trams or buses. Use the official app or buy at a machine before travel.
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 €118, while the average price is around €226.
The train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel takes 7h 45m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel leaves at 5:21 AM.
The distance by train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel is 547 miles (881 km).
The last train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Basel leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available 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 €67.
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 7h 45m. 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 bus 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.
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
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.
