Lugano to Basel train with SBB

Tue, Apr 21
+ Add return
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Basel

Showing times and prices for Apr 22

Cheapest price

$88

Average price

$105

Fastest journey

2 h 53 m

Average duration

2 h 55 m

Trains per day

10

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 $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Lugano for Basel on Wed, Apr 22, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Apr 22 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 2 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 53 m .

On Wed, Apr 22 the slowest trains will take 2 h 58 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.

  • SBBEC 10 | 10 · IC 3 564 | 564
    8:30 AM2h56
    Lugano, Stazione
    11:26 AMBasel SBB
    $881One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBB 4 4041 | 4041 · EC 10 | 10 · IC 3 564 | 564
    8:17 AM3h09
    Lugano
    11:26 AMBasel SBB
    $891One-way
    2 transfers
  • SBBIC 21 672 | 672 · ICE 106 | 106
    10:02 AM2h58
    Lugano, Stazione
    1:00 PMBasel SBB
    $921One-way
    1 transfer
  • SBBIC 21 672 | 672
    10:02 AM2h53
    Lugano, Stazione
    12:55 PMBasel SBB
    $921One-way
    0 transfers
  • SBBB 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · ICE 106 | 106
    9:47 AM3h13
    Lugano
    1:00 PMBasel SBB
    $941One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, 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 $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 22m. 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 $38, and a flight costs an average of $152.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

$99

Average price

$58

Average price

Cheapest

$524

Average price

3h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

4h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

25h 22m

Average total duration

22h 22m

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 tomorrow, Tuesday, April 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbbB 4 4041 | 4041 · EC 10 | 10 · IC 3 564 | 5648:17 AM Lugano
3h09
11:26 AM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbEC 10 | 10 · IC 3 564 | 5648:30 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h56
11:26 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 23168:47 AM Lugano
3h08
11:55 AM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbIC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 23169:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h53
11:55 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4057 | 4057 · EC 12 | 12 · TGV 9218 | 92189:17 AM Lugano
3h09
12:26 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbEC 12 | 12 · TGV 9218 | 92189:30 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h56
12:26 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · ICE 106 | 1069:47 AM Lugano
3h13
1:00 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbB 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 6729:47 AM Lugano
3h08
12:55 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbIC 21 672 | 67210:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h53
12:55 PM Basel SBB0 transfersDirect
sbbIC 21 672 | 672 · ICE 106 | 10610:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h58
1:00 PM Basel SBB1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Basel by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Wed
Apr 22
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Fri
Apr 24
Sat
Apr 25
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Mon
Apr 27
Tue
Apr 28
Wed
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Fri
May 01
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May 02
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May 05

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 11 times per day, taking around 3h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€56) but you can travel from only $38 (€30) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:19, 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 $38 (€30)
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
3h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$71 (€56)
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 53m
First train
4:19 AM
Last train
10:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
63 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
Bus from $38 (€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 $38 (€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
$71 (€56)
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
$113 (€90)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
$142 (€113)
Swiss Federal 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 $71 (€56), while the average price is around $99 (€79).
The train from Lugano to Basel takes 2h 53m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Lugano to Basel is 125 miles (202 km).
The first train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 4:19 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 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 $38 (€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

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.
Lugano, StazioneAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
address
Address
6900 Lugano, Switzerland
Lugano-ParadisoParkingDiningATMWCHotelBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
address
Address
6900 Paradiso, Switzerland
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Lugano Città (funicolare)Accessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
address
Address
6900 Lugano, Switzerland

More options for your journey from Lugano to Basel

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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