- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for Old Masters, modern art, and major temporary exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Mechelen to Basel
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$153
Average price
$190
Fastest journey
6 h 34 m
Average duration
7 h 50 m
Trains per day
4
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 $190 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $153.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Mechelen to Basel without transferring at least 2 times.
12:14 PM6h34Mechelen6:48 PMBasel$1531One-way2 transfers- 3:58 PM6h50Mechelen10:48 PMBasel$1531One-way2 transfers
- 12:18 PM7h50Mechelen8:08 PMBasel$1901One-way2 transfers
- 8:14 PM10h07Mechelen6:21 AMBasel$2631One-way2 transfers
- 12:14 PM6h34Mechelen6:48 PMBasel$1531One-way2 transfers
- 3:58 PM6h50Mechelen10:48 PMBasel$1531One-way2 transfers
- 12:18 PM7h50Mechelen8:08 PMBasel$1901One-way2 transfers
- 8:14 PM10h07Mechelen6:21 AMBasel$2631One-way2 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 $70. 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 $70, and a flight costs an average of $185.
Distance: 277 miles (446 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$233 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest | $318 Average price | $122 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 $82 (€68).
This is compared to other travel options from Mechelen to Basel:
A bus is $150 (€123) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mechelen to Basel costing on average $233 (€191).
A bus is $236 (€194) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mechelen to Basel costing on average $318 (€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 $233 (€191) compared to roughly $122 (€100) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-110.41 (€-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 today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:03 AM Mechelen | 6h45 | 12:48 PM Basel | 2 transfers | |
| 6:37 AM Mechelen | 7h31 | 2:08 PM Basel | 2 transfers | |
| 8:03 AM Mechelen | 6h45 | 2:48 PM Basel | 2 transfers | |
| 10:03 AM Mechelen | 6h45 | 4:48 PM Basel | 2 transfers | |
| 12:03 PM Mechelen | 6h45 | 6:48 PM Basel | 2 transfers |
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.
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
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 $178 (€147) but you can travel from only $70 (€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 $70 (€57)
Distance 277 miles (446 km) |
Average train duration 6h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $178 (€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 $70 (€57)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Mechelen to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Mechelen and Basel from $70 (€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
$178 (€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
$153 (€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
World-famous art museum in nearby Riehen with masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Rothko, and acclaimed special shows.
- Recommended
Museum Tinguely
Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic sculptures, this riverside museum is one of Basel’s most distinctive cultural stops.
- Must visit
Altstadt Grossbasel
Basel’s Old Town core with medieval lanes, squares, fountains, and many of the city’s signature sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
The city’s main market square, lively and photogenic, anchored by the Town Hall and central tram connections.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Popular walking area along the river, especially scenic at sunset and central to Basel’s outdoor social life.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
A dark roasted flour soup, traditionally eaten during Basel Fasnacht. It has a deep, nutty flavor and is one of the city’s signature carnival dishes.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s famous spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, candied peel, and kirsch, then glazed. It is the city’s best-known traditional sweet.
- Vegetarian
Käsewähe
A Swiss savory cheese tart common in Basel bakeries and homes. It is a simple, comforting regional classic often eaten for lunch or a light meal.
Brasserie Les Trois Rois
An upscale brasserie in one of Basel’s landmark hotels, offering polished French and Swiss cuisine with Rhine views and classic grand-hotel atmosphere.
Restaurant Schlüsselzunft
A historic Basel restaurant serving refined Swiss cuisine in an elegant old-town setting. Known for classic regional dishes and a formal atmosphere.
Walliser Kanne
A long-established Swiss restaurant known for fondue, raclette, and hearty traditional fare. Cozy and reliable for an authentic local meal.
Swiss Franc
Basel is costly for tourists. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricier than in many European cities, though public transit and supermarket food can help control spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a 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 or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is included by law. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. Round up taxis and small café bills.
BaselMobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.70
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB, Basel -> Marktplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tickets for trams and buses are usually bought before boarding; use the BVB or TNW app, ticket machines, or sales points.
- Card payment is available at many ticket machines, but onboard payment is generally not available on Basel trams and buses.
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 $178 (€147), while the average price is around $233 (€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 $70 (€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
Most Mechelen to Basel trains use the Mechelen to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel Bad Bhf. Use this guide to compare Mechelen and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mechelen
Arrival train stations in Basel
Which Mechelen station do trains to Basel leave from?
Trains from Mechelen to Basel leave from Mechelen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Mechelen city centre at Stationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · $4 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Which Basel station do trains from Mechelen arrive at?
Trains from Mechelen to Basel most often arrive at Basel Bad Bhf. Some services arrive at Basel SBB, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Basel arrival station.
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.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre
Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $2 · every ~25 min
Basel SBB train station facilities and services
Basel SBB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.
Basel MarkthalleCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel Markthalle from Basel city centre
Basel Markthalle is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 8m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 6m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 3m · $2
1, 3, 2 · 6m · $2 · every ~25 min
Basel Markthalle train station facilities and services
Basel Markthalle has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Markthalle.
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
