LUGANO to BASEL train from $36 (€30) with SBB

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Basel

Showing times and prices for Jul 22

Cheapest price

$72

Average price

$93

Fastest journey

3 h

Average duration

3 h 1 m

Trains per day

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 $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Lugano to Basel without transferring at least once.

B 4 4001 | 4001 · IC 21 664 | 664 · IC 6 960 | 960
5:44 AM3h20
Lugano
9:04 AMBasel SBB
$721One-way
2 transfers
S 10 25104 | 25104 · IC 2 862 | 862 · IR 26 2308 | 2308 · ICE 5324 | 5324
4:32 AM3h32
Lugano, Stazione
8:04 AMBasel SBB
$771One-way
3 transfers
IC 2 1474 | 1474 · IR 75 2576 | 2576 · IR 27 2472 | 2472+IR VAE 2018 | 2018
11:30 AM3h16
Lugano, Stazione
2:46 PMBasel SBB
$771One-way
3 transfers
S 10 25104 | 25104 · IC 2 862 | 862 · IR 37 2256 | 2256
4:32 AM3h44
Lugano, Stazione
8:16 AMBasel SBB
$781One-way
2 transfers
S 10 25792 | 25792 · IC 2 862 | 862 · IR 26 2308 | 2308 · ICE 5324 | 5324
12:55 AM7h09
Lugano, Stazione
8:04 AMBasel SBB
$791One-way
3 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 $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 18m. 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 $36, and a flight costs an average of $143.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$103 Average price	$53 Average price Cheapest	$456 Average price	$112 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 48m Average total duration Fastest 3h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 32m Average total duration 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	22h 59m Average total duration 19h 59m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	3h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions	- 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 Lugano to Basel is a bus with an average price of $53 (€44).

This is compared to other travel options from Lugano to Basel:

A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lugano to Basel costing on average $103 (€85).

A bus is $402 (€331) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lugano to Basel costing on average $456 (€375).

The fastest way to travel from Lugano to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 3h 18m.

Other travel options to Basel take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 2m.

Flight takes on average 19h 59m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lugano and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lugano to Basel among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 6m faster (3h 18m by train vs 3h 24m by car) and roughly $9 (€8) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($103 (€85) vs $112 (€92)). 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.

Direct services run with SBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Lugano to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Basel trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
B 4 4001 \| 4001 · IC 21 664 \| 664 · IC 6 960 \| 960	5:44 AM Lugano	3h20	9:04 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
IC 21 664 \| 664 · IC 6 960 \| 960	6:00 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h04	9:04 AM Basel SBB	1 transfer
B 4 4009 \| 4009 · IC 2 1462 \| 1462 · IR 36 1962 \| 1962	6:17 AM Lugano	3h35	9:52 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
IC 2 1462 \| 1462 · IR 36 1962 \| 1962	6:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h22	9:52 AM Basel SBB	1 transfer
B 4 4017 \| 4017 · IC 2 866 \| 866 · IR 26 2312 \| 2312 · ICE 2552 \| 2552	6:47 AM Lugano	3h17	10:04 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
B 4 4017 \| 4017 · IC 2 866 \| 866 · IR 37 2260 \| 2260	6:47 AM Lugano	3h29	10:16 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
IC 2 866 \| 866 · IR 26 2312 \| 2312 · ICE 2552 \| 2552	7:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h02	10:04 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
IC 2 866 \| 866 · IR 37 2260 \| 2260	7:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h14	10:16 AM Basel SBB	1 transfer
B 4 4025 \| 4025 · IC 2 1466 \| 1466 · IR 36 1964 \| 1964	7:17 AM Lugano	3h35	10:52 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4025 \| 4025 · IC 2 1466 \| 1466 · IR 75 2110 \| 2110 · IR 27 2464 \| 2464	7:17 AM Lugano	3h29	10:46 AM Basel SBB	4 transfers
IC 2 1466 \| 1466 · IR 36 1964 \| 1964	7:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h22	10:52 AM Basel SBB	1 transfer
IC 2 1466 \| 1466 · IR 75 2110 \| 2110 · IR 27 2464 \| 2464+IR VAE 2010 \| 2010	7:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h16	10:46 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
B 4 4033 \| 4033 · IC 21 668 \| 668 · IC 61 964 \| 964	7:47 AM Lugano	3h17	11:04 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4041 \| 4041 · EC 10 \| 10 · IR 36 1966 \| 1966	8:17 AM Lugano	3h35	11:52 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4041 \| 4041 · EC 10 \| 10 · IR 75 2112 \| 2112 · IR 27 2466 \| 2466	8:17 AM Lugano	3h29	11:46 AM Basel SBB	4 transfers
EC 10 \| 10 · IR 36 1966 \| 1966	8:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h22	11:52 AM Basel SBB	1 transfer
EC 10 \| 10 · IR 75 2112 \| 2112 · IR 27 2466 \| 2466+IR VAE 2012 \| 2012	8:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h16	11:46 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
B 4 4049 \| 4049 · IC 2 870 \| 870 · IR 37 2264 \| 2264	8:47 AM Lugano	3h29	12:16 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4049 \| 4049 · IC 2 870 \| 870 · IR 26 2316 \| 2316 · IC 6 966 \| 966	8:47 AM Lugano	3h17	12:04 PM Basel SBB	3 transfers
IC 2 870 \| 870 · IR 37 2264 \| 2264	9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h14	12:16 PM Basel SBB	1 transfer
IC 2 870 \| 870 · IR 26 2316 \| 2316 · IC 6 966 \| 966	9:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h02	12:04 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4057 \| 4057 · EC 12 \| 12 · IR 36 1968 \| 1968	9:17 AM Lugano	3h35	12:52 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4057 \| 4057 · EC 12 \| 12 · IR 75 2114 \| 2114 · IR 27 2468 \| 2468	9:17 AM Lugano	3h29	12:46 PM Basel SBB	4 transfers
EC 12 \| 12 · IR 36 1968 \| 1968	9:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h22	12:52 PM Basel SBB	1 transfer
EC 12 \| 12 · IR 75 2114 \| 2114 · IR 27 2468 \| 2468+IR VAE 2014 \| 2014	9:30 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h16	12:46 PM Basel SBB	3 transfers
B 4 4065 \| 4065 · IC 21 672 \| 672 · ICE 106 \| 106	9:47 AM Lugano	3h17	1:04 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
IC 21 672 \| 672 · ICE 106 \| 106	10:02 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h02	1:04 PM Basel SBB	1 transfer
B 4 4073 \| 4073 · EC 14 \| 14 · IR 36 1970 \| 1970	10:17 AM Lugano	3h35	1:52 PM Basel SBB	2 transfers
B 4 4073 \| 4073 · EC 14 \| 14 · IR 75 2116 \| 2116 · IR 27 2470 \| 2470	10:17 AM Lugano	3h29	1:46 PM Basel SBB	4 transfers
Wednesday, July 22
B 461 590 \| 590 · S 10 25792 \| 25792 · IC 2 862 \| 862 · IR 37 2256 \| 2256	12:37 AM Lugano	7h39	8:16 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
B 461 590 \| 590 · S 10 25792 \| 25792 · IC 2 862 \| 862 · IR 26 2308 \| 2308	12:37 AM Lugano	7h27	8:04 AM Basel SBB	4 transfers
S 10 25792 \| 25792 · IC 2 862 \| 862 · IR 37 2256 \| 2256	12:55 AM Lugano, Stazione	7h21	8:16 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers
S 10 25792 \| 25792 · IC 2 862 \| 862 · IR 26 2308 \| 2308 · ICE 5324 \| 5324	12:55 AM Lugano, Stazione	7h09	8:04 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
S 10 25104 \| 25104 · IC 2 862 \| 862 · IR 26 2308 \| 2308 · ICE 5324 \| 5324	4:32 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h32	8:04 AM Basel SBB	3 transfers
S 10 25104 \| 25104 · IC 2 862 \| 862 · IR 37 2256 \| 2256	4:32 AM Lugano, Stazione	3h44	8:16 AM Basel SBB	2 transfers

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.

Tue
Jul 21

Wed
Jul 22

Thu
Jul 23

Fri
Jul 24

Sat
Jul 25

Sun
Jul 26

Mon
Jul 27

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.

Trains

from $67

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lugano to Basel

Switzerland

Trains from Lugano to Basel run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $36 (€30) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:37, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 53m.

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 (€30)

Distance

125 miles (202 km)

Average train duration

3h 18m

Cheapest ticket price

$72 (€59)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 53m

First train

12:37 AM

Last train

10:05 PM

Cheapest Month

Sep

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Fri

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

63 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $36 (€30)

Train companies: SBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lugano to Basel trainsSBB, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Basel from $36 (€30). 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 53m

Cheapest Price

$72 (€59)

SBB frequency

12 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

Learn more about SBB

Trenitalia EuroCity

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 56m

Cheapest Price

$109 (€90)

Trenitalia EuroCity frequency

1 a day

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 53m

Cheapest Price

$137 (€113)

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency

7 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

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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Museum Tinguely

A major contemporary art museum in a former paper mill, known for ambitious temporary exhibitions and a beautiful riverside location.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

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.

Train ticket prices from Lugano to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€59), while the average price is around $103 (€85).

The train from Lugano to Basel takes 2h 53m and runs 12 per day.

The distance by train from Lugano to Basel is 125 miles (202 km).

The first train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 12:37 AM.

The last train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 10:05 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 Federal 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 (€30).

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 53m. 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.

Since both Lugano 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 Lugano 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 Lugano to Basel

Most Lugano to Basel trains use the Lugano, Stazione to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel, Brausebad. Use this guide to compare Lugano and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Lugano

Arrival train stations in Basel

Which Lugano station do trains to Basel leave from?

Trains from Lugano to Basel leave from Lugano, Stazione. The station is from Lugano city centre at 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.

Lugano, Stazione6900 Lugano, Switzerland Accessibility

City-centre transport

Getting to Lugano, Stazione from Lugano city centre

Bus6 · 7m · $4 · every ~10 min

6 · 10m · $4 · every ~10 min

461 · 12m · $7 · every ~5 min

Lugano, Stazione train station facilities and services

Lugano, Stazione has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lugano, Stazione.

More about Lugano, Stazione

Lugano-Paradiso6900 Paradiso, Switzerland Parking

City-centre transport

Getting to Lugano-Paradiso from Lugano city centre

Lugano-Paradiso is 1 km from Lugano city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS10, S, Re80, Re84, S90 · 3m · $2 · every ~11 min

Bus1, 2 · 8m · $4 · every ~19 min

434 · 10m · $2 · every ~3 min

2 · 23m · $4 · every ~9 min

Lugano-Paradiso train station facilities and services

Lugano-Paradiso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Lugano-Paradiso.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Lugano-Paradiso.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lugano-Paradiso: Bike Rental.

More about Lugano-Paradiso

Lugano Città (funicolare)6900 Lugano, Switzerland Accessibility

City-centre transport

Getting to Lugano Città (funicolare) from Lugano city centre

Bus6 · 8m · $4 · every ~10 min

6 · 11m · $4 · every ~10 min

461 · 15m · $7 · every ~5 min