- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie
Fine arts and archaeology museum with paintings, ancient collections and a notable modernist interior. A strong introduction to Besançon’s cultural heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Besançon
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Sept
Cheapest price on 14 Sept
£31
Average ticket price on 14 Sept
£33
Fastest journey on 14 Sept
1 h 42 m
Average journey duration on 14 Sept
2 h 21 m
Trains on 14 Sept
6
Distance
122 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Besançon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Besançon will cost around £33 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.
Fast trains
On Mon 14 Sept, we found 6 trains from Basel to Besançon, including 6 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 122 km distance in an average of 2 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 42 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 7 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.
16:131h42Basel17:55Besançon£311One-way0 changes- 12:212h31Basel14:52Besançon£311One-way0 changes
- 15:131h42Basel16:55Besançon£311One-way0 changes
10:432h45Basel13:28Besançon£341One-way0 changes- 16:433h07Basel19:50Besançon£361One-way0 changes
- 16:131h42Basel17:55Besançon£311One-way0 changes
- 15:131h42Basel16:55Besançon£311One-way0 changes
- 12:212h31Basel14:52Besançon£311One-way0 changes
- 10:432h45Basel13:28Besançon£341One-way0 changes
- 16:433h07Basel19:50Besançon£361One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Basel to Besançon
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Besançon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £13 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £13, while a train costs an average of £29.
Distance: 122 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£29 Average Price | £13 Average Price Cheapest | £74 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 36m Average total duration 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Besançon is a coach with an average price of £13.
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Besançon:
A coach is £16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Besançon costing on average £29.
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Besançon is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Besançon take longer:
Coach takes on average 2h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Besançon including taking a train and coach.
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 £29 compared to roughly £74 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £44. The journey takes 2h 2m versus 1h 42m 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
Basel to Besançon train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Besançon trains for today, Sunday 13 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 9222+6743 | On time 14:34 Basel SBB | 2h52 | 17:26 Besançon Viotte | 1 change | |
 96120+6706+894542 | 14:38 Basel SBB | 2h14 | 16:52 Besançon Viotte | 2 changes | |
| 96120+6706+894542 | 14:44 Basel St. Johann | 2h08 | 16:52 Besançon Viotte | 2 changes | |
| 96125+9226+6745 | 15:45 Basel St. Johann | 3h41 | 19:26 Besançon Viotte | 2 changes | |
| 9226+6745 | 16:34 Basel SBB | 2h52 | 19:26 Besançon Viotte | 1 change | |
| 96234 · 830426 · 895859 | 17:21 Basel SBB | 2h25 | 19:46 Besançon Viotte | 2 changes | |
| 96136+5539+894566 | 19:13 Basel St. Johann | 2h12 | 21:25 Besançon Viotte | 2 changes | |
| 9234+5539+894566 | 19:34 Basel SBB | 1h51 | 21:25 Besançon Viotte | 2 changes | |
| Monday 14 September | |||||
| 9:43 Basel | 3h45 | 13:28 Besançon | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:43 Basel | 2h45 | 13:28 Besançon | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Besançon by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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
14 Sept
14 Sept
Tue
15 Sept
15 Sept
Wed
16 Sept
16 Sept
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
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20 Sept
Why should you book Basel to Besançon trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV INOUI as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria, TER, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 and more offer trains services from Basel to Besançon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV INOUI tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV INOUI?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV INOUI, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria, TER or TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Besançon.
- 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 SNCF | TGV INOUI with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Besançon.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Besançon
Switzerland
France
Trains from Basel to Besançon run on average 18 times per day, taking around 2h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 but you can travel from only £10 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:21, the last at 20:38. The fastest train covers the 122 km distance in 1h 42m.
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
Coach from £10
Distance 122 km |
Average train duration 2h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 18 |
Fastest train 1h 42m |
First train 5:21 |
Last train 20:38 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 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
Coach from £10
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria, TER, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Basel to Besançon trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | TGV Lyria, TER, TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Basel and Besançon from £10. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a \Bistro TGV INOUI\" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
1h 42m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
£25
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
£34
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid 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
2h 30m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
£53
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
4 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
TER
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Duration
2h 33m
Cheapest TER Price
£34
TER frequency
1 a day
TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest TER Mobigo | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
£17
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
1h 48m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
£65
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Besançon
Things to do in Besançon
Discover the best of Besançon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Besançon trip today.
- Recommended
Maison natale de Victor Hugo
Museum in Victor Hugo’s birthplace presenting the writer’s life and his commitments. Compact, thoughtful and easy to combine with a walk in the centre.
- Recommended
Musée du Temps
Museum devoted to timekeeping, watchmaking and local industry inside the citadel. It offers interactive displays and a distinctive regional story.
- Recommended
Place de la Révolution
Grand riverside square lined with handsome buildings and terraces, often used for events. It is a natural starting point for exploring central Besançon.
- Recommended
Grande Rue
Main shopping street through the old town with historic façades, arcades and everyday city life. Ideal for an easy stroll between major sights.
- Recommended
Esplanade des Glacis
Popular viewpoint above the city with broad panoramas over the Doubs loop, roofs and citadel. A rewarding stop for walkers and photographers.
- Gluten-free
Saucisse de Morteau
Smoked pork sausage from nearby Morteau, slowly cooked and often served with potatoes or lentils. It is a Franche-Comté staple with protected regional identity.
- Gluten-free
Saucisse de Montbéliard
Air-dried smoked sausage from the Haut-Doubs, traditionally eaten cooked with warm dishes or cold in charcuterie platters. A classic local mountain product.
- Vegetarian
Tarte au Comté
Rich cheese tart from Franche-Comté made with Comté, eggs and cream in pastry. It is a signature regional comfort dish often found in local brasseries.
Crêperie La Rozell
Popular casual spot for crêpes and galettes with a warm, informal atmosphere. Good for a lighter meal in the old town.
Le Poker d'As
Established restaurant serving refined French cuisine with regional produce in an elegant but relaxed setting close to the historic centre.
Brasserie du Commerce
Traditional brasserie near the centre known for regional Franche-Comté dishes, generous portions and a lively classic dining room.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Paris, while local transport and everyday cafés stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included in restaurant bills. Locals may round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.
Ginko Mobilités
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- > null
- Day pass
- > null
To the city centre
Besançon Viotte -> Centre-ville, Besançon
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use Tram T2 or LIANES L3/L5 from Besançon Viotte for the centre-ville; Ginko states the trip takes about 5 min.
- Check live departures and disruption alerts in Ginko Mobilités before travel.
FAQs: Basel to Besançon train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Besançon 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 Besançon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Basel to Besançon can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from Basel to Besançon covers a distance of 122 km and takes approximately 1h 42m. Trains run 18 per day.
The train distance from Basel to Besançon is 122 km.
The first train from Basel to Besançon leaves at 5:21.
The last train from Basel to Besançon departs at 20:38.
Trains from Basel to Besançon run approximately 18 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Basel to Besançon.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Besançon.
To get from Basel to Besançon, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Basel to Besançon.
The train station in Basel that goes to Besançon is Basel SBB, and it arrives at Besançon Viotte.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Besançon is by coach, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Basel to Besançon in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Basel to Besançon is indeed scenic, offering picturesque views of the Jura Mountains, charming villages, and lush countryside landscapes along the route.
A day trip from Basel to Besançon is not feasible as the journey duration is 1h 42m. However, with 18 trains per day covering the 122 km distance, frequent travel options are available.
To thoroughly explore Besançon, including its historical sites and natural scenery, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Besançon.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basel and Besançon
Most Basel to Besançon trains use the Basel SBB to Besançon Viotte station pair, with some services arriving at Besançon - Mouillère. Use this guide to compare Basel and Besançon train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Basel
Arrival train stations in Besançon
Which Basel station do trains to Besançon leave from?
Trains from Basel to Besançon leave from Basel SBB. The station is 2 km from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
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 · £0.90 · 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.
Which Besançon station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Besançon most often arrive at Besançon Viotte. Some services arrive at Besançon - Mouillère, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Besançon arrival station.
Besançon Viotte2 Avenue de la Paix, 25000 Besançon, France+33 892353535
City-centre transport
Getting to Besançon Viotte from Besançon city centre
BusL5 · 3m · every ~6 min
Besançon Viotte train station facilities and services
Besançon Viotte has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pain Soleil, Selecta
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi when you create a free account. ATMs are located in the front of the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 17:10, Sat - Sun: 10:00 - 17:10. Information desks are located at the south entrance to the underground level. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Besançon Viotte: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Besançon Viotte: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Besançon Viotte: The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include ibis budget Besançon Centre Gare, Victor Hugo Hotel and Spa, Le Viotte King Size.
Besançon - Mouillère25000 Besançon, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Besançon - Mouillère from Besançon city centre
Besançon - Mouillère is 1 km from Besançon city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 4m · £0.90 · every ~1 min
BusL5 · 8m · every ~6 min
Besançon - Mouillère train station facilities and services
Besançon - Mouillère has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Besançon - Mouillère.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Besançon - Mouillère.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Besançon - Mouillère: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Besançon - Mouillère: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Besançon - Mouillère.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Besançon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Besançon and Basel
Most popular train connections to Besançon
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