Train Basel - Zurich prices from $18.91

Start From
$18.91

Basel to Zurich by train

The journey from Basel to Zurich by train is 47.56 mi and takes 1 hr 35 min. There are 89 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:04 AM and the last at 11:31 PM. It is possible to travel from Basel to Zurich by train for as little as $18.91 or as much as $64.34. The best price for this journey is $18.91.

Lowest Price$18.91
Journey Duration1 hr 35 min
Connection per Day89
Lowest Price$18.91
Highest Price$64.34
First Departure12:04 AM
Last Departure11:31 PM
Distance47.56 mi
DepartureBasel
ArrivalZurich
CarriersTGV Lyria, SBBMore

Basel to Zurich Train Times

Departure date
Tuesday, Mar 19, 2024

Traveling from Basel to Zurich by Train

The train journey from Basel to Zurich, two of Switzerland's most dynamic cities, is a swift and scenic experience. The average duration of the trip is 1 hr 35 min, covering a distance of 47.56 mi. Trains run frequently between these cities, with approximately 89 departures daily. For those looking for economical options, the lowest-priced tickets for this route are around $18.91. Departures are mainly from in Basel, arriving at in Zurich.

Basel's primary train station, the Basel SBB, is a central transportation hub in the region, offering various services, including high-speed trains and international connections. In Zurich, trains typically arrive at the centrally located Zurich Hauptbahnhof (HB), one of Europe's largest railway stations. This route is well-served by both Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and other operators, providing options like the InterCity and EuroCity trains. These services are known for their punctuality, comfort, and efficiency, making train travel in Switzerland a preferred choice for locals and tourists. To ensure a smooth trip, it's recommended to arrive at the station a bit before the departure time.

Onboard amenities on Swiss trains are designed for comfort and convenience, with services including free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and dining options. The journey between Basel and Zurich offers picturesque views of the Swiss countryside, making it not just a travel necessity but also a pleasant experience. Whether traveling for business or leisure, the train journey between these two cities is an efficient and enjoyable way to explore the heart of Switzerland.

Things to Do in Zurich:

  1. Visit the historic Old Town (Altstadt) with its medieval and Renaissance buildings.
  2. Explore the world-renowned Kunsthaus Zurich, featuring an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  3. Stroll along Lake Zurich and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  4. Discover the vibrant Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets.
  5. Experience the diverse culinary scene, from traditional Swiss dishes to international cuisine.
  6. Take a boat tour of Lake Zurich for a different city perspective.
  7. Visit the Swiss National Museum to learn about the country's cultural history.
  8. Relax in the serene settings of the Zurich Botanical Garden.
  9. Enjoy the nightlife in Zurich West, a former industrial area turned trendy district.
  10. Take a day trip to the nearby Uetliberg Mountain for hiking and spectacular city views.

Things to eat in Zurich

  1. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: Thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti (Swiss-style grated and fried potatoes).
  2. Raclette: Melted cheese served with small potatoes, pickles, and onions.
  3. Fondue: A popular Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot (fondue pot) and eaten by dipping bread into the cheese using long-stemmed forks.
  4. Birchermüesli: A healthy Swiss breakfast dish made from rolled oats, lemon juice, condensed milk, grated apples, and nuts.
  5. Swiss Chocolate: Renowned globally, Swiss chocolate is a must-try, with many local chocolatiers offering a variety of rich and innovative creations.
  6. Zürcher Eintopf: A hearty one-pot stew made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables, perfect for colder days.
  7. Luxemburgerli: Small, airy macarons with various sweet fillings, available at the famous Confiserie Sprüngli.
  8. Saffron Risotto: A popular dish in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, this risotto is cooked with high-quality saffron and often served with Luganighe, a type of Swiss sausage.
  9. Rösti: A Swiss potato dish, considered more of a national dish of the German-speaking Swiss, it's potatoes that are grated and pan-fried until crisp and golden.
  10. Engadiner Nusstorte: A delicious nut-filled pastry from the Engadine Valley, made with a shortcrust pastry filled with caramelized nuts (usually walnuts) and honey.

Day Trips from Zurich:

Zurich's central location in Switzerland makes it an ideal starting point for various day trips. The picturesque town of Lucerne, with its iconic Chapel Bridge and stunning lake, is just a short train ride away. The Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall near Schaffhausen, offers a breathtaking natural spectacle. For mountain enthusiasts, a trip to the Swiss Alps, with destinations like Mount Titlis and Jungfrau region, is easily accessible. The medieval town of Rapperswil, known as the "town of roses," is another charming destination to explore.

Travel Tips for Zurich:

When visiting Zurich, it's advisable to carry a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on the country's extensive public transport network, including trains, buses, and boats. The city is known for its walkability, so comfortable shoes are necessary. Zurich's weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers and a raincoat is recommended. The city is also a hub for art and culture, so check out the local event calendars for exhibitions, concerts, and festivals during your stay.

Ready to embark on your journey from Basel to Zurich? Let Virail help you find the best train options. Our platform compares many transportation choices, ensuring you find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your travel needs. Book your train journey now and experience the efficiency and beauty of Swiss rail travel with Virail.

Show full descriptionHide full description

Compare prices and tickets from Basel to Zurich

Cheap train tickets from Basel to Zurich
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Basel to Zurich.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Basel to Zurich, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Basel to Zurich.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Show tickets by
Best time to book Basel to Zurich travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $10.10 to $18.39 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 45% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Basel to Zurich

The cheapest Basel - Zurich train tickets can be found for as low as $9.95 if you’re lucky, or $16.27 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $30.28.

Find the best day to travel to Zurich by train

When travelling to Zurich by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Swiss Federal Railways, or SBB, is the country's railroad organization. All around Switzerland, SBB offers passenger rail services with connections to nations including Germany, Austria, Italy, and France. SBB provides a range of train services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and international trains, and offers different classes of service, from standard seating to luxurious sleeper cabins.

SNCF, the French national railway company, offers TER, a comprehensive regional train service. TER (Transport Express Régional) trains connect cities, and villages within regions of France, offering local transportation for commuters and tourists as they explore the regional culture, landscape, and attractions through its vast network of regional routes. TER trains are slower than the high-speed trains but offer a more affordable and comfortable alternative for shorter journeys within the regions.

TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service that operates between France and Switzerland. It is a joint venture between the French national railway company SNCF and SBB, the Swiss national railway company. TGV Lyria trains operate on several routes between major cities in France and Switzerland, including Paris, Geneva, Zurich, Basel, and Bern. The trains are known for their high speed, with some routes reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph), making them one of the fastest trains in Europe.

Ticket types and facilities from Basel to Zurich

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by TER and TGV Lyria when traveling from Basel to Zurich.

Standard

TER train tickets have a fixed "Tarif Normal" fare and are valid for a single journey until midnight the day after validation in platform stamp machines. Some regions may offer off-peak discounts.
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Standard

STANDARD ticket provides an affordable 2nd class journey experience with three levels of exchange and refund flexibility - full, partial, and no flexibility - on all France - Switzerland international routes.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Standard 1ère

STANDARD 1ÈRE ticket provides a value-for-money first-class journey with flexibility and access to all trains, available on all international routes between France and Switzerland.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Business 1ère

BUSINESS 1ÈRE caters to passengers seeking a luxurious travel experience, with flexibility, tailored amenities and services, and is available on specific routes during weekdays and select times on Sundays.
wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.

wifi WiFi open icon close icon
TER trains are currently without WiFi services.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Modern TER trains come equipped with power sockets.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
TER trains have no restrictions on the size of bags, as long as they are within your personal handling capability and can fit in designated luggage areas.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
Accès TER' offers specialized assistance for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
TER trains do not provide onboard catering; consider bringing your refreshments.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
Traveling with a bike on TER trains is free, simply hang it or store it in designated areas on a first-come, first-served basis, booking not available.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Connect to _WIFI_LYRIA for free WiFi and access the TGV Lyria Portal via your browser.
quiet_zone Quiet zone open icon close icon
A quiet car exclusive to TGV Lyria BUSINESS 1ERE, perfect for focused work or relaxation.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Carriages are air-conditioned, with air filtered every three minutes and fully refreshed every nine minutes.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
All seats in both classes have 2-pin, 230v power sockets for laptops and mobiles.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On TGV Lyria trains, you can bring hand luggage that's easy to carry and fits neatly in the designated spaces. This ensures everyone has room for their belongings and can enjoy a smooth ride
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
First Class carriages 1 or 11 have 2 seats for passengers with reduced mobility. Book these seats in advance, or a standard seat if they're taken. Station assistance for wheelchair storage is available upon request.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
On TGV Lyria trains, choose between 'Le Deli' available in the café-bar or at your seat with a STANDARD ticket, and 'La Table' for a French-Swiss meal with a BUSINESS 1ÈRE ticket.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
On TGV Lyria trains, you're welcome to bring a variety of items with you. This includes folded bikes (no larger than 130 x 90 cm), kids' pushchairs, skis, foldable scooters (both electric and manual), surf and snowboards, encased musical instruments, and wheelchairs (manual or electric) for those with mobility challenges.
Services on board TGV Lyria, SBB and TER from Basel to Zurich
Compare services on board when travelling from Basel to Zurich by train.
Facilities TGV Lyria SBB TER FlixBus
quiet_zone Quiet zone check check cross cross
wifi WiFi check check check check
power_sockets Power sockets check check check check
luggage Luggage check check check check
accessibility Accessibility check check cross cross
food_and_drink Food and drink check check check check
air_con Air conditioning check check cross check
bicycle Bicycle check check cross cross
sleeper_couchette Sleeper check check cross cross

Basel to Zurich CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
5.36kg
Bus
5.74kg
Flight
15.31kg
Car
12.25kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Basel to Zurich by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Basel and Zurich are 5.36kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Basel and Zurich? By taking the train between Basel and Zurich you will save 9.95kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 0.38kg compared to a bus and 6.89kg compared to a car.

Anything we can improve?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Basel to Zurich?
A train ticket from Basel to Zurich is $35.21. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $18.91.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Basel to Zurich?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Basel to Zurich is $18.91. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Basel and Zurich by train?
Basel to Zurich is 47.56 mi.
How long does the train between Basel and Zurich take?
Basel to Zurich is on average 1 hr 35 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 0 hr 53 min.
Which companies operate from Basel to Zurich?
The train journey from Basel to Zurich is covered by 4 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: TGV Lyria, SBB, Schweizerische Bundesbahnen, TER and FlixBus.
How many train connections per day go from Basel to Zurich?
Basel to Zurich has 89 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Basel to Zurich leave?
The earliest train from Basel to Zurich departs at 12:04 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Basel to Zurich depart?
The latest train from Basel to Zurich departs at 11:31 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Basel to Zurich in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $18.91 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
From which stations can I leave from Basel to Zurich?
There are 4 station(s) that you can depart from Basel to go to Zurich. You can go from BASEL, Basel St Johann, Basel EuroAirport and Basel Bad Bf and you can arrive at Zürich Enge Bahnhof/Bederstr., Zürich Opernhaus, Zürich Oerlikon, Zürich Altstetten and Zürich.
How many direct connections depart from Basel to Zurich?
There are on average 70 direct connection(s) from Basel to go to Zurich.
What's the fastest journey time between Basel to Zurich by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Basel and Zurich is 0 hr 53 min.
Is there a direct train from Basel to Zurich?
Yes, there is a direct train between Basel and Zurich.
What are the CO2 emissions for Basel to Zurich by train?
The train journey from Basel to Zurich creates 5.36kg of CO2 emissions.

Go local from Basel

Trending routes

Weekend getaways from Basel

International routes from Basel and nearby areas

Other destinations from Basel

Main routes to Zurich

Related routes

Other popular routes