- 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 Zurich Airport to Basel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15
Cheapest price on Sep 15
฿23
Average ticket price on Sep 15
฿31
Fastest journey on Sep 15
1 h 7 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
1 h 10 m
Trains on Sep 15
26
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 ฿31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only ฿23.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 26 trains from Zurich Airport to Basel, including 5 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 1 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 7 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 1 h 11 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 36 2066 | 20669:56 AM1h27Zurich Airport11:23 AMBasel SBB฿231One-way0 transfers- IR 75 2114 | 2114 · IC 3 564 | 56410:15 AM1h11Zurich Airport11:26 AMBasel SBB฿251One-way1 transfer
- IR 13 3260 | 3260 · ICE 108 | 1089:39 AM1h13Zurich Airport10:52 AMBasel SBB฿261One-way1 transfer
- IR 13 3262 | 3262 · ICE 370 | 37010:39 AM1h13Zurich Airport11:52 AMBasel SBB฿261One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2138 | 2138 · IR 36 1990 | 199010:15 PM1h37Zurich Airport11:52 PMBasel SBB฿261One-way1 transfer
- IC 5 1514 | 1514 · TGV 9210 | 92109:19 AM1h07Zurich Airport10:26 AMBasel SBB฿461One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2110 | 2110 · IC 3 560 | 5608:15 AM1h11Zurich Airport9:26 AMBasel SBB฿351One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2114 | 2114 · IC 3 564 | 56410:15 AM1h11Zurich Airport11:26 AMBasel SBB฿251One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2120 | 2120 · TGV 9222 | 92221:15 PM1h11Zurich Airport2:26 PMBasel SBB฿461One-way1 transfer
- IR 75 2122 | 2122 · EC 150 | 1502:15 PM1h11Zurich Airport3:26 PMBasel SBB฿341One-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 train, with an average ticket price of ฿34 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 45m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of ฿34, while a train costs an average of ฿34.
Distance: 46 miles (75 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
฿34 Average price Cheapest | ฿60 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
1h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Basel is a train with an average price of ฿34.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
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 ฿34 compared to roughly ฿60 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about ฿26. The journey takes 1h 15m versus 1h 11m 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 tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR 75 2110 | 2110 · IC 3 560 | 560 | 8:15 AM Zurich Airport | 1h11 | 9:26 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3258 | 3258 · IC 3 794 | 794 | 8:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h13 | 9:52 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| 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 5 1514 | 1514 · TGV 9210 | 9210 | 9:19 AM Zurich Airport | 1h07 | 10:26 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3260 | 3260 · ICE 108 | 108 | 9:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h13 | 10:52 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 | |
| IR 75 2114 | 2114 · IC 3 564 | 564 | 10:15 AM Zurich Airport | 1h11 | 11:26 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3262 | 3262 · ICE 370 | 370 | 10:39 AM Zurich Airport | 1h13 | 11:52 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2070 | 2070 | 11:56 AM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 1:23 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 75 2118 | 2118 · IC 3 568 | 568 | 12:15 PM Zurich Airport | 1h11 | 1:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3266 | 3266 · IC 3 772 | 772 | 12:39 PM Zurich Airport | 1h13 | 1:52 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 | |
| IR 75 2120 | 2120 · TGV 9222 | 9222 | 1:15 PM Zurich Airport | 1h11 | 2:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 13 3268 | 3268 · ICE 104 | 104 | 1:39 PM Zurich Airport | 1h13 | 2:52 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 5 524 | 524 · IR 37 2270 | 2270 | 1:49 PM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 3:16 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IR 36 2074 | 2074 | 1:56 PM Zurich Airport | 1h27 | 3:23 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 1 722 | 722 · IR 55 1774 | 1774 · IR 27 2474 | 2474 | 2:09 PM Zurich Airport | 1h35 | 3:44 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| IR 75 2122 | 2122 · EC 150 | 150 | 2:15 PM Zurich Airport | 1h11 | 3:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich Airport to Basel by train or bus
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich Airport to Basel
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Trains from Zurich Airport to Basel run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at ฿23 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:09, the last at 08:49. The fastest train covers the 46 miles (75 km) distance in 1h 1m.
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
Distance 46 miles (75 km) |
Average train duration 1h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price ฿23 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 1m |
First train 6:09 AM |
Last train 8:49 AM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: SBB, SNCF | TGV Lyria from Zurich Airport to Basel trainsSBB, SNCF | TGV Lyria trains will get you between Zurich Airport and Basel. 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 SBB Duration
1h 1m
Cheapest SBB Price
฿23
SBB frequency
8 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
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
฿53
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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 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 ฿23, while the average price is around ฿34.
The train from Zurich Airport to Basel takes 1h 1m and runs 11 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 8:49 AM.
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 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 1m 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
Most Zurich Airport to Basel trains use the Zürich HB to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel St Johann. Use this guide to compare Zurich Airport and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Basel
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 St Johann4056 Basel, Switzerland
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel St Johann from Basel city centre
Basel St Johann is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus50 · 8m · ฿2 · every ~15 min
Tram1, 21, 3, 6, 8, 6457, 8190, 8280, 8298, 8312 · 5m · ฿2 · every ~15 min
Basel St Johann train station facilities and services
Basel St Johann has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Basel St Johann.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Basel St Johann.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel St Johann: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel St Johann: Bike Parking.
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 · ฿3 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · ฿3 · 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.
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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