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Lugano to Basel train with SBB

Sat, Jan 17
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SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Basel

Showing times and prices for Jan 18

Cheapest price

$65

Average price

$94

Fastest journey

2 h 58 m

Average duration

3 h 12 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Lugano to Basel will cost around $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Lugano for Basel on Sun, Jan 18, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jan 18 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 3 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .

On Sun, Jan 18 the slowest trains will take 3 h 26 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.

SBB
04:00AM3h01
Lugano
07:01AMBasel
$651One-way
0 transfers
SBB
04:58AM3h26
Lugano
08:24AMBasel
$741One-way
0 transfers
SBB
06:30AM2h58
Lugano
09:28AMBasel
$831One-way
0 transfers
SBB
06:58AM3h26
Lugano
10:24AMBasel
$1181One-way
0 transfers
SBB
08:30AM3h07
Lugano
11:37AMBasel
$1291One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Lugano to Basel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €29, and a flight costs an average of €71.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€92

Average price

€47

Average price

Cheapest

€284

Average price

3h 57m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

4h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

18h 52m

Average total duration

15h 52m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Lugano to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Basel trains for today, Saturday, January 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:44 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbbB 4 4043 | 4043 · EC 10010 | 10010 · TGV 9218 | 92187:17 AM Lugano
4h09
11:26 AM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbEC 10010 | 10010 · TGV 9218 | 92187:30 AM Lugano, Stazione
3h56
11:26 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4051 | 4051 · IC 21 10672 | 106727:47 AM Lugano
4h08
11:55 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbIC 21 10672 | 106728:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
3h53
11:55 AM Basel SBB0 transfersDirect
sbbB 4 4059 | 4059 · EC 10012 | 10012 · IC 3 568 | 5688:17 AM Lugano
4h09
12:26 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbEC 10012 | 10012 · IC 3 568 | 5688:30 AM Lugano, Stazione
3h56
12:26 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4067 | 4067 · IC 2 10874 | 10874 · IR 26 2320 | 23208:47 AM Lugano
4h08
12:55 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbB 4 4067 | 4067 · IC 2 10874 | 10874 · IR 37 2268 | 22688:47 AM Lugano
4h29
1:16 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbIC 2 10874 | 10874 · IR 37 2268 | 22689:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
4h14
1:16 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbIC 2 10874 | 10874 · IR 26 2320 | 23209:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
3h53
12:55 PM Basel SBB1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lugano 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
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21
Thu
Jan 22
Fri
Jan 23
Sat
Jan 24

Why should you book Lugano to Basel trains with Omio?

SBB as well as Trenitalia EuroCity and Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) offer trains services from Lugano to Basel. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lugano to Basel.

Why book with Omio vs SBB?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SBB, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia EuroCity and Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Lugano 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 SBB with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lugano to Basel.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While SBB tickets can be bought on SBB's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Trenitalia EuroCity and Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) to help you choose the right option for your journey from Lugano to Basel.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lugano to Basel.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lugano to Basel?

The best time to book your train from Lugano to Basel is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Lugano to Basel route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Lugano to Basel per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Lugano to Basel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lugano to Basel

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Lugano to Basel run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 22:58. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 54m.

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 $36 (€29)
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
3h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$65 (€52)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 54m
First train
01:00
Last train
22:58
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 $36 (€29)

Train companies: SBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) from Lugano to Basel trainsSBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Basel from $36 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

SBB

About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
SBB frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Trenitalia EuroCity

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€86)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day

Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$135 (€109)
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS) frequency
7 a day

FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Basel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $114 (€92).
The train from Lugano to Basel takes 2h 54m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Lugano to Basel is 125 miles (202 km).
The first train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 1:00 AM.
The last train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 10:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Basel.
Yes, there is a direct train from Lugano to Basel. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by SBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Basel.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Basel is Lugano, Stazione, which connects to Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
Yes, the train journey from Lugano to Basel is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque towns, and beautiful lakes along the route.
A day trip from Lugano to Basel is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 54m. There are 8 train trips available per day, with a distance of 125 miles (202 km).
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 Lugano to Basel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Lugano to Basel

Lugano
Basel
The major train station for departures in Lugano is Lugano, Stazione. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lugano, Stazione for your trip from Lugano to Basel.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Lugano Città (funicolare)Accessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information

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