- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Basel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 03
Cheapest price on Sep 03
$612
Average ticket price on Sep 03
$618
Fastest journey on Sep 03
13 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 03
17 h 53 m
Trains on Sep 03
2
Distance
1189 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Basel will cost around $618 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $612.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Basel without transferring at least 3 times.
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3:00 PM22h08Edinburgh1:08 PMBasel$6121One-way3 transfers- 6:30 AM13h38Edinburgh8:08 PMBasel$6241One-way3 transfers
- 6:30 AM13h38Edinburgh8:08 PMBasel$6241One-way3 transfers
- 3:00 PM22h08Edinburgh1:08 PMBasel$6121One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Edinburgh to Basel
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $249 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 58m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $249, while a flight costs an average of $597.
Distance: 738 miles (1189 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$597 Average price | $249 Average price Cheapest | $340 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
4h 58m Average total duration Fastest 2h 58m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 29h 52m Average total duration 29h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Basel is a bus with an average price of $249 (€202).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Basel:
A bus is $349 (€283) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Basel costing on average $597 (€485).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 58m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Bus takes on average 29h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Basel among Omio's users.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Basel trains for today, Wednesday, September 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:00 PM Edinburgh | 22h08 | 1:08 PM Basel | 3 transfers | |
| Thursday, September 3 | |||||
| 6:30 AM Edinburgh | 13h38 | 8:08 PM Basel | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Basel by train, bus, or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Basel
United Kingdom
Switzerland
Take a train from Edinburgh to Basel and enjoy the approximately 738 miles (1189 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 07:09, the last at 22:40.
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 $66 (€53)
Distance 738 miles (1189 km) |
First train 7:09 AM |
Last train 10:40 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Flight from $66 (€53)
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 Edinburgh to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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.
The first train from Edinburgh to Basel leaves at 7:09 AM.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Basel is 738 miles (1189 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Basel leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Basel.
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Basel is by flight, with a cost of around $66 (€53).
The train journey from Edinburgh to Basel offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the English countryside and the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, before continuing through France's scenic regions. However, much of the journey involves transfers, which may include less scenic urban areas.
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 Edinburgh to Basel.
Basel is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Basel include Colmar, Strasbourg, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Basel among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
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 Edinburgh to Basel
Most Edinburgh to Basel trains use the to Basel Bad Bhf station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Basel
Which Basel station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Basel arrive at Basel Bad Bhf. Basel Bad Bhf is 1 miles (3 km) from Basel city centre.
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 Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Basel
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