Lugano to Basel train with SBB

Wed, Dec 03
+ Add return
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
SBB
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Basel

Showing times and prices for Dec 03

Cheapest price

$84

Average price

$105

Fastest journey

2 h 54 m

Average duration

2 h 57 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 $84.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Lugano for Basel on Wed, Dec 03, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Dec 03 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 2 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 54 m .

On Wed, Dec 03 the slowest trains will take 2 h 59 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.

SBBIC 21 672 | 672 · IC 6 968 | 968
10:02AM2h59
Lugano, Stazione
01:01PMBasel SBB
$841One-way
1 transfer
SBBIC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316
09:02AM2h54
Lugano, Stazione
11:56AMBasel SBB
$851One-way
1 transfer
SBBIC 21 672 | 672
10:02AM2h54
Lugano, Stazione
12:56PMBasel SBB
$851One-way
0 transfers
SBBB 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 6 968 | 968
09:47AM3h14
Lugano
01:01PMBasel SBB
$881One-way
2 transfers
SBBB 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 2316
08:47AM3h09
Lugano
11:56AMBasel SBB
$881One-way
2 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, Tuesday, December 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:45 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sbbB 4 4209 | 4209 · IC 2 890 | 890 · IC 1260 | 12605:46 PM Lugano
3h28
9:14 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbB 4 4209 | 4209 · IC 2 890 | 890 · IR 26 2336 | 2336 · IC 6 986 | 9865:46 PM Lugano
3h15
9:01 PM Basel SBB3 transfers
sbbIC 2 890 | 890 · IC 1260 | 12606:02 PM Lugano, Stazione
3h12
9:14 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbIC 2 890 | 890 · IR 26 2336 | 2336 · IC 6 986 | 9866:02 PM Lugano, Stazione
2h59
9:01 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbB 4 4219 | 4219 · EC 32 | 32 · IC 60402 | 604026:17 PM Lugano
3h11
9:28 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbB 4 4219 | 4219 · EC 32 | 32 · NJ 402 | 4026:17 PM Lugano
3h11
9:28 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
Wednesday, December 3
sbbB 4 4041 | 4041 · EC 10 | 10 · IC 3 564 | 5647:17 AM Lugano
3h11
10:28 AM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbEC 10 | 10 · IC 3 564 | 5647:30 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h58
10:28 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4049 | 4049 · IC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 23167:47 AM Lugano
3h09
10:56 AM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbIC 2 870 | 870 · IR 26 2316 | 23168:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h54
10:56 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4057 | 4057 · EC 12 | 12 · TGV 9218 | 92188:17 AM Lugano
3h11
11:28 AM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbEC 12 | 12 · TGV 9218 | 92188:30 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h58
11:28 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbB 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 672 · IC 6 968 | 9688:47 AM Lugano
3h14
12:01 PM Basel SBB2 transfers
sbbB 4 4065 | 4065 · IC 21 672 | 6728:47 AM Lugano
3h09
11:56 AM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbIC 21 672 | 672 · IC 6 968 | 9689:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h59
12:01 PM Basel SBB1 transfer
sbbIC 21 672 | 6729:02 AM Lugano, Stazione
2h54
11:56 AM Basel SBB0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

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.

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Dec 23

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
Yes, the train journey from Lugano to Basel is scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque towns, and beautiful lakes along the route.
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Basel's key attractions, including its museums, old town, and the Rhine River.
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).
The distance by train from Lugano to Basel is 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.
There is no high speed train available from Lugano to Basel.
The first train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 1:00 AM.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $114 (€92).
Yes, you can take the train 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).
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The last train from Lugano to Basel leaves at 10:58 PM.
The train from Lugano to Basel takes 2h 54m and runs 8 per day.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Basel is Lugano, Stazione, which connects to Basel SBB.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available 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-Paradiso. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lugano-Paradiso for your trip from Lugano to Basel.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
Lugano Città (funicolare)Accessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information

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