- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Basel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$332
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$332
Fastest journey on Sep 14
1 d 19 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
1 d 19 m
Trains on Sep 14
1
Distance
1200 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Basel will cost around $332 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $332.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Basel without transferring at least 3 times.
9:07 PM24h19Madrid9:26 PMBasel$3321One-way3 transfers
- 9:07 PM24h19Madrid9:26 PMBasel$3321One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Basel
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $163 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 44m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 1.2 - 3.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $163, while a flight costs an average of $513.
Distance: 745 miles (1200 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$513 Average price | $163 Average price Cheapest | $343 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
5h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 44m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 26h 17m Average total duration 25h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
- CO2 emissions | 3.6 - 7.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Madrid to Basel is a bus with an average price of $163 (€132).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Basel:
A bus is $350 (€283) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Basel costing on average $513 (€416).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 44m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Bus takes on average 25h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Basel among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madrid to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Basel trains for today, Sunday, September 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:07 PM Madrid | 24h19 | 9:26 PM Basel | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid 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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Why should you book Madrid to Basel trains with Omio?
AVE operates all trains services from Madrid to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Basel.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- 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 AVE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Basel.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Basel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Basel
Spain
Switzerland
Take a train from Madrid to Basel and enjoy the approximately 745 miles (1200 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 01:05, the last at 23:50.
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
Flight from $35 (€28)
Distance 745 miles (1200 km) |
First train 1:05 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Flight from $35 (€28)
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
Museum Tinguely
A major contemporary art museum in a former paper mill, known for ambitious temporary exhibitions and a beautiful riverside location.
- 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.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s lively market square is framed by historic facades and the town hall. It is a practical and scenic starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Pfalz and Münsterhügel
This beautifully preserved old-town hill has narrow lanes, fountains, and noble houses. It offers some of Basel’s most atmospheric walks and views.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
A riverside promenade packed with locals, swimmers, and postcard views of the old city. It captures Basel’s relaxed everyday life exceptionally well.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s signature hard honey-almond spice biscuit, traditionally made for autumn fairs and Christmas. A protected regional specialty with medieval roots.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mandelbärli
A flaky butter pastry filled with hazelnut or almond mix. It is a classic Basel sweet sold in local bakeries and closely tied to the city’s confectionery tradition.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
Basel-style flour soup, slowly browned for a deep roasted flavor and often served during Carnival. A comforting local classic linked to Fasnacht traditions.
Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl
Elegant fine dining in Hotel Les Trois Rois, known for refined French-inspired cuisine, Rhine views, and one of Basel’s most celebrated gastronomic experiences.
Atelier im Teufelhof
Stylish restaurant in Teufelhof Basel offering modern Swiss and seasonal cuisine. A polished but relaxed option with a strong local reputation.
Löwenzorn
Historic traditional venue serving Swiss classics in a lively old-town setting. A dependable place to try local dishes with a casual Basel atmosphere.
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.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.90
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Basel trams and buses use zone-based fares; most city trips are in Zone 10. Buy the correct zone ticket before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not generally onboard trams or buses. Use the official app or buy at a machine before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.
The first train from Madrid to Basel leaves at 1:05 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Basel is 745 miles (1200 km).
The last train from Madrid to Basel leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Basel.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $43 (€34).
The train journey from Madrid to Basel is moderately scenic, offering views of diverse landscapes including the Spanish countryside, the Pyrenees mountains, and rural France, providing a picturesque experience especially in daylight.
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 Madrid to Basel.
Since both Madrid 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid 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 Madrid to Basel
Most Madrid to Basel trains use the to Basel Bad Bhf station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Madrid
Arrival train stations in Basel
Which Basel station do trains from Madrid arrive at?
Trains from Madrid to Basel arrive at Basel Bad Bhf. Basel Bad Bhf is 1 miles (3 km) from Basel city centre.
Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel Bad Bhf from Basel city centre
Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus30 · 11m · $4 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · $4 · every ~20 min
Basel Bad Bhf train station facilities and services
Basel Bad Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Basel
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