- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for its outstanding collection from Holbein to modern masters. A top choice for art lovers visiting Basel.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich Airport to Basel
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$41
Fastest journey
1 h 8 m
Average duration
1 h 14 m
Trains per day
70
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich Airport to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich Airport to Basel will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast trains
Of the 70 trains that leave Zurich Airport for Basel on Wed, Jun 17, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 1 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 8 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the slowest trains will take 1 h 19 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.
IR 75 2136 | 2136 · IR 36 1988 | 19889:15 PM1h37Zurich Airport10:52 PMBasel SBB$361One-way1 transfer- IR 36 2066 | 20669:56 AM1h27Zurich Airport11:23 AMBasel SBB$371One-way0 transfers
- IR 36 2064 | 20648:56 AM1h27Zurich Airport10:23 AMBasel SBB$371One-way0 transfers
- IR 13 3264 | 3264 · IC 3 770 | 77011:39 AM1h19Zurich Airport12:58 PMBasel SBB$371One-way1 transfer
- IC 1 716 | 716 · IR 55 1768 | 1768 · IC 61 616 | 61611:09 AM1h24Zurich Airport12:33 PMBasel SBB$371One-way2 transfers
- IC 5 1530 | 1530 · IC 3 578 | 5785:19 PM1h08Zurich Airport6:27 PMBasel SBB$411One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2124 | 2124 · TGV 30326 | 303263:15 PM1h12Zurich Airport4:27 PMBasel SBB$591One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2126 | 2126 · IC 3 576 | 5764:15 PM1h12Zurich Airport5:27 PMBasel SBB$401One-way1 transfer
- IR 13 3258 | 3258 · IC 3 794 | 7948:39 AM1h19Zurich Airport9:58 AMBasel SBB$411One-way1 transfer
- IR 13 3260 | 3260 · ICE 108 | 1089:39 AM1h19Zurich Airport10:58 AMBasel SBB$391One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Zurich Airport to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich Airport to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 4m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 46 miles (75 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$44 Average price | $18 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 48m Average total duration 1h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Basel is a bus with an average price of $18 (€15).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich Airport to Basel:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich Airport to Basel costing on average $44 (€35).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Basel is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 4m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich Airport and Basel including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich Airport 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with SBB.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Zurich Airport to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich Airport to Basel trains for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 5 514 | 514 · IR 37 2260 | 2260 | 8:49 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 10:16 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2064 | 2064 | 8:56 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 10:23 AM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 1 712 | 712 · IR 55 1764 | 1764 · IC 61 612 | 612 | 9:09 AM Zurich Airport | 1h24 | 10:33 AM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| IC 5 1514 | 1514 · IR 36 1964 | 1964 | 9:19 AM Zurich Airport | 1h33 | 10:52 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3260 | 3260 · ICE 108 | 108 | 9:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h19 | 10:58 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 516 | 516 · IR 37 2262 | 2262 | 9:49 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 11:16 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2066 | 2066 | 9:56 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 11:23 AM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 1 714 | 714 · IR 55 1766 | 1766 · EC 30460 | 30460 | 10:09 AM Zurich Airport | 1h23 | 11:32 AM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| IR 75 2114 | 2114 · IR 36 1966 | 1966 | 10:15 AM Zurich Airport | 1h37 | 11:52 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3262 | 3262 · ICE 370 | 370 | 10:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h19 | 11:58 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 518 | 518 · IR 37 2264 | 2264 | 10:49 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 12:16 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2068 | 2068 | 10:56 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 12:23 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 1 716 | 716 · IR 55 1768 | 1768 · IC 61 616 | 616 | 11:09 AM Zurich Airport | 1h24 | 12:33 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| IC 5 1518 | 1518 · IR 36 1968 | 1968 | 11:19 AM Zurich Airport | 1h33 | 12:52 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3264 | 3264 · IC 3 770 | 770 | 11:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h19 | 12:58 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 520 | 520 · IR 37 2266 | 2266 | 11:49 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 1:16 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2070 | 2070 | 11:56 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 1:23 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 1 718 | 718 · IR 55 1770 | 1770 · IC 6 618 | 618 | 12:09 PM Zurich Airport | 1h24 | 1:33 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| IR 75 2118 | 2118 · IR 36 1970 | 1970 | 12:15 PM Zurich Airport | 1h37 | 1:52 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3266 | 3266 · IC 3 772 | 772 | 12:39 PM Zurich Airport | 1h19 | 1:58 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 522 | 522 · IR 37 2268 | 2268 | 12:49 PM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 2:16 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2072 | 2072 | 12:56 PM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 2:23 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, June 17 | |||||
| IC 1 710 | 710 · IR 55 1762 | 1762 · IC 6 610 | 610 | 8:09 AM Zurich Airport | 1h24 | 9:33 AM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| IR 75 2110 | 2110 · IR 36 1962 | 1962 | 8:15 AM Zurich Airport | 1h37 | 9:52 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3258 | 3258 · IC 3 794 | 794 | 8:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h19 | 9:58 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich Airport to Basel by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich Airport to Basel
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Zurich Airport to Basel run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:09, the last at 21:46. The fastest train covers the 46 miles (75 km) distance in 1h 7m.
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 $15 (€12)
Distance 46 miles (75 km) |
Average train duration 1h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€24) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 7m |
First train 6:09 AM |
Last train 9:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $15 (€12)
Train companies: SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich Airport to Basel trainsSBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich Airport and Basel from $15 (€12). 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
1h 7m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
SBB frequency
13 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 13m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€75)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
25 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 celebrated museum in nearby Riehen with an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art, set in a striking Renzo Piano building and landscaped park.
- Recommended
Museum Tinguely
Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic sculptures, this riverside museum is one of Basel’s most distinctive cultural attractions and especially appealing for modern art fans.
- Must visit
Altstadt Grossbasel
The historic core on the south side of the Rhine, packed with narrow lanes, major sights, and classic Basel atmosphere.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s central market square, framed by the Rathaus and daily city life, making it a natural starting point for sightseeing.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
One of Basel’s defining walking areas, ideal for views, people-watching, and experiencing the city’s close relationship with the river.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
A traditional Basel flour soup, slowly browned for a deep roasted flavor and often served during Fasnacht. It is one of the city’s most iconic dishes.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s famous spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, candied peel, and kirsch. It is a classic local sweet strongly associated with the city.
- Vegetarian
Käsewähe
A Swiss cheese tart popular in Basel bakeries and homes, with a savory custard filling in pastry. It is a common casual lunch or snack.
Restaurant Schlüsselzunft
A historic guild-house restaurant serving classic Swiss cuisine and seasonal dishes in an elegant old-town atmosphere.
Restaurant Kunsthalle Basel
A long-established Basel brasserie near the museum quarter, known for refined Swiss and French-influenced dishes in a stylish historic setting.
Walliser Kanne
A well-known traditional Swiss restaurant specializing in fondue, raclette, and hearty alpine fare in a cozy, rustic setting.
Swiss Franc
Basel is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though supermarkets and lunch specials can help reduce daily costs.
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. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for very good service is appreciated. Round up for taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.
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, Basel -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- In Basel, local buses and trams generally accept contactless card payment at ticket machines, but not always onboard, so buy before boarding when possible.
- If you stay in Basel accommodation, ask for the BaselCard, which gives discounted public transport and attractions.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich Airport to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $44 (€35).
The train from Zurich Airport to Basel takes 1h 7m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich Airport to Basel is 46 miles (75 km).
The first train from Zurich Airport to Basel leaves at 6:09 AM.
The last train from Zurich Airport to Basel leaves at 9:46 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich Airport to Basel.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich Airport to Basel. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by SBB.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich Airport to Basel.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich Airport to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Zurich Airport to Basel offers pleasant views of the Swiss countryside, including glimpses of rolling hills, charming villages, and the Rhine River, making it a scenic trip for travelers.
Yes, a day trip from Zurich Airport to Basel is feasible. The journey takes 1h 7m with a distance of 46 miles (75 km). Trains run frequently with 12 trips available per day.
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 Zurich Airport to Basel.
Since both Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport to Basel
Zurich
Basel
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
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, 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 St Johann
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisWCBike ParkingAmenities 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
Most popular train connections from Zurich Airport
More options for your journey from Zurich Airport to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Zurich Airport
Most popular train connections to Basel
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