- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for its outstanding collection from Old Masters to modern and contemporary art. A top cultural stop in Basel.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mechelen to Basel
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$182
Average price
$182
Fastest journey
6 h 34 m
Average duration
6 h 34 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
446 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mechelen to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mechelen to Basel will cost around $182 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $182.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Mechelen for Basel on Thu, May 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 446 km distance in an average of 6 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 34 m .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest trains will take 6 h 34 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.
7:14 AM6h34Mechelen1:48 PMBasel$1821One-way0 transfers
- 7:14 AM6h34Mechelen1:48 PMBasel$1821One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Mechelen to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mechelen to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $71. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, and a flight costs an average of $188.
Distance: 277 miles (446 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$237 Average price | $84 Average price Cheapest | $324 Average price | $124 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 31m Average total duration Fastest 6h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 44m Average total duration 10h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Mechelen to Basel is a bus with an average price of $84 (€68).
This is compared to other travel options from Mechelen to Basel:
A bus is $153 (€123) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mechelen to Basel costing on average $237 (€191).
A bus is $240 (€194) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mechelen to Basel costing on average $324 (€262).
The fastest way to travel from Mechelen to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 6h 1m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 20m.
Flight takes on average 10h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mechelen and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mechelen to Basel among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $237 (€191) compared to roughly $124 (€100) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-112.45 (€-90.82). The journey takes 6h 1m versus 5h 50m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Mechelen to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Mechelen to Basel trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:14 AM Mechelen | 6h34 | 1:48 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mechelen 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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May 28
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Why should you book Mechelen to Basel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCB offer trains services from Mechelen to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mechelen to Basel.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Mechelen to Basel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Basel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mechelen to Basel
Belgium
Switzerland
Trains from Mechelen to Basel run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $182 (€147) but you can travel from only $71 (€57) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 17:07. The fastest train covers the 277 miles (446 km) distance in 6h 34m.
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 $71 (€57)
Distance 277 miles (446 km) |
Average train duration 6h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $182 (€147) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 6h 34m |
First train 5:13 AM |
Last train 5:07 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 56 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 $71 (€57)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Mechelen to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Mechelen and Basel from $71 (€57). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 34m
Cheapest Price
$182 (€147)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 23m
Cheapest Price
$156 (€126)
SNCB 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
Fondation Beyeler
A world-class museum in nearby Riehen with masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Rothko, and others, set in a celebrated Renzo Piano building and landscaped grounds.
- Recommended
Museum Tinguely
Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic sculptures, this museum combines playful mechanical artworks with a striking riverside setting.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s central market square, framed by the town hall and daily market activity, making it one of the city’s liveliest gathering places.
- Must visit
Old Town Basel
A walkable historic core of lanes, fountains, church squares, and traditional facades, ideal for exploring the city’s character on foot.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
The riverfront paths are essential to Basel life, popular for scenic walks, sunset views, and watching local river swimmers in warm months.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Traditional Basel spice biscuits made with honey, nuts, candied peel, and spices. They are the city’s best-known sweet specialty and a classic souvenir.
- Vegetarian
Mehlsuppe
A dark roasted flour soup often served during Basel Fasnacht. Its deep, toasty flavor makes it one of the city’s most iconic seasonal dishes.
- Vegetarian
Zwiebelwähe
Savory onion tart popular in Basel and northwestern Switzerland, especially in autumn. It is usually made with onions, cream, and egg in a pastry crust.
Restaurant Schlüsselzunft
Historic Basel restaurant in an elegant guild house, known for refined Swiss cuisine and a formal atmosphere in the Old Town.
Löwenzorn
Well-known traditional Basel restaurant serving regional Swiss dishes in a cozy, historic setting. A good place to try local classics.
Volkshaus Basel Brasserie
Stylish brasserie with a lively atmosphere, offering Swiss and French-influenced dishes in a beautifully restored landmark building.
Swiss Franc
Basel is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and daily transport are pricey, though supermarkets and lunch specials can help reduce costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for takeaway or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxis; small tips for hotel staff are optional.
BLT Basel
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.70
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- You can buy tickets in the BVB or TNW apps, from ticket machines, or at sales points before boarding.
- Card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably on board all trams and buses, so buy your ticket in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Mechelen to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $182 (€147), while the average price is around $237 (€191).
The train from Mechelen to Basel takes 6h 34m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Mechelen to Basel leaves at 5:13 AM.
The distance by train from Mechelen to Basel is 277 miles (446 km).
The last train from Mechelen to Basel leaves at 5:07 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Mechelen to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mechelen to Basel.
The train station in Mechelen that goes to Basel is Mechelen station, which connects to Basel Bad Bhf.
The cheapest way to get from Mechelen to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $71 (€57).
The train journey from Mechelen to Basel offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Ardennes and the rolling hills of the Alsace region, providing travelers with glimpses of charming villages, lush forests, and the Rhine River.
A day trip from Mechelen to Basel is not feasible due to the travel duration of 6h 34m. Trains operate 3 times per day between the two cities, covering a distance of 277 miles (446 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 Mechelen to Basel.
Since both Mechelen 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 Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Basel
Mechelen
Basel
The major train station for departures in Mechelen is Mechelen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Mechelen for your trip from Mechelen to Basel.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Stationsstraat.
Dining
- Restaurant De Graspoort
- Il Cardinale
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- NH Mechelen
- Hotel Elisabeth
- Martin's Patershof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for trains to Brussels, Antwerp, and regional destinations
Public transit options for Mechelen
- Train: IC, S-train
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Basel is Basel Bad Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel Bad Bhf for your journey to Basel from Mechelen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 kmNumber of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 330 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel Markthalle
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMost popular train connections from Mechelen
More options for your journey from Mechelen to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Mechelen
Most popular train connections to Basel
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