- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for Old Masters and major modern collections. A top cultural stop in Basel.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leiden to Basel
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$178
Average price
$282
Fastest journey
8 h 18 m
Average duration
8 h 26 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
557 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leiden to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leiden to Basel will cost around $282 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $178.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Leiden for Basel on Sun, Jun 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 557 km distance in an average of 8 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 18 m .
On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 8 h 34 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.
8:30 AM8h18Leiden4:48 PMBasel$1781One-way0 transfers
10:58 AM8h34Leiden7:32 PMBasel$3851One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 AM8h18Leiden4:48 PMBasel$1781One-way0 transfers
- 10:58 AM8h34Leiden7:32 PMBasel$3851One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Leiden to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leiden to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a flight costs an average of $162.
Distance: 346 miles (557 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$215 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $226 Average price | $158 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 55m Average total duration 9h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 56m Average total duration 13h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration Fastest 1h 22m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.3kg 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 Leiden to Basel is a bus with an average price of $69 (€56).
This is compared to other travel options from Leiden to Basel:
A bus is $146 (€119) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leiden to Basel costing on average $215 (€175).
A bus is $157 (€128) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leiden to Basel costing on average $226 (€185).
The fastest way to travel from Leiden to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 22m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 25m.
Bus takes on average 13h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leiden and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leiden to Basel 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 $215 (€175) compared to roughly $158 (€129) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-57.00 (€-46.44). The journey takes 9h 25m versus 7h 19m 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
Leiden to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Leiden to Basel trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:32 AM Leiden | 9h16 | 3:48 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:58 AM Leiden | 8h28 | 5:26 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 Leiden 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.
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
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Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Why should you book Leiden to Basel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Leiden to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leiden to Basel.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Leiden to Basel.
- 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leiden to Basel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leiden to Basel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leiden to Basel
Netherlands
Switzerland
Trains from Leiden to Basel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 (€57) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 346 miles (557 km) distance in 7h 24m.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 346 miles (557 km) |
Average train duration 9h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€57) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 7h 24m |
First train 4:40 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $43 (€35)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Leiden to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Leiden and Basel from $43 (€35). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 24m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€57)
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 21m
Cheapest Price
$248 (€202)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) 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
World-class museum in nearby Riehen with outstanding modern and contemporary art, plus a celebrated park setting.
- Recommended
Tinguely Museum
Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic works, this museum is one of Basel’s most distinctive and widely visited art venues.
- Must visit
Basel Old Town
The city’s essential walking area, packed with medieval streets, historic squares, fountains, and major sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square in front of the Town Hall, lively with markets and one of Basel’s best-known urban scenes.
- Recommended
St. Alban Quarter
Picturesque district with canals, historic buildings, and a quieter atmosphere often called one of Basel’s prettiest neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
A dark, slow-roasted flour soup traditionally served during Basel Fasnacht. It is one of the city’s most iconic seasonal specialties.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s famous spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, candied peel, and Kirsch icing. It is the city’s best-known traditional sweet.
- Vegetarian
Käsewähe
A savory Swiss cheese tart popular in Basel bakeries and homes, often eaten for lunch or a light meal.
Restaurant Schlüsselzunft
An established fine dining address in a historic guild house, known for polished seasonal cuisine and elegant Basel ambiance.
Restaurant Kunsthalle Basel
A well-known Basel restaurant near the arts district, serving refined Swiss and European cuisine in a lively brasserie setting.
Löwenzorn
A historic traditional restaurant in the Old Town known for Swiss specialties, regional dishes, and a cozy heritage atmosphere.
Swiss Franc
Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and dining. Supermarkets and lunch deals help reduce costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-55 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not required. Round up taxi fares.
BLT App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.80
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Basel hotels often provide the BaselCard, which includes free public transport in the city during your stay.
- You can buy tickets from machines and in official apps; onboard card payment on trams and buses is not generally available, so buy before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Leiden to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leiden 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 Leiden to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70 (€57), while the average price is around $215 (€175).
The train from Leiden to Basel takes 7h 24m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Leiden to Basel leaves at 4:40 AM.
The distance by train from Leiden to Basel is 346 miles (557 km).
The last train from Leiden to Basel leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leiden to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leiden to Basel.
The train station in Leiden that goes to Basel is Leiden Centraal, which connects to Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Leiden to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $43 (€35).
The train journey from Leiden to Basel offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the charming countryside of the Netherlands and Germany.
A day trip from Leiden to Basel is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 24m one way and covers 346 miles (557 km). There are 5 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 Leiden to Basel.
Since both Leiden 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 Leiden 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 Leiden to Basel
Leiden
Basel
The major train station for departures in Leiden is Leiden Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leiden Centraal for your trip from Leiden to Basel.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from the main entrance.
Dining
- Restaurant De Bruine Boon
- Grand Café Van Buuren
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Ibis Leiden Centre
- Golden Tulip Leiden Centre
- City Hotel Nieuw Minerva
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 4720 places, some covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 5-9 for local trains
Public transit options for Leiden Centraal
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Intercity and local services
Leiden Lammenschans
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike ParkingCar RentalDe Vink
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmThe major train station for arrivals in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your journey to Basel from Leiden.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 kmNumber of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 330 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel Markthalle
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMost popular train connections from Leiden
More options for your journey from Leiden to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Leiden
Most popular train connections to Basel
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