Basel to Calais train with SNCF | TGV Lyria

Thu 03 Sept
+ Add return
SNCF | TGV Lyria
SNCF | TGV INOUI
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
SNCF | TGV Lyria
SNCF | TGV INOUI
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Calais

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 03 Sept

Cheapest price on 03 Sept

£176

Average ticket price on 03 Sept

£216

Fastest journey on 03 Sept

7 h 12 m

Average journey duration on 03 Sept

11 h 12 m

Trains on 03 Sept

5

Distance

561 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Calais is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Calais will cost around £216 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £176.

Fast trains

To travel from Basel to Calais you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
    19:2415h07
    Basel
    10:31Calais
    £1761One-way
    2 changes
  • Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
    14:547h28
    Basel
    22:22Calais
    £1941One-way
    2 changes
  • Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
    10:547h12
    Basel
    18:06Calais
    £2361One-way
    4 changes
  • Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
    10:548h39
    Basel
    19:33Calais
    £2391One-way
    2 changes
  • Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
    16:5417h32
    Basel
    10:26Calais
    £2391One-way
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Basel to Calais

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Calais among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £64 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 37m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £64, while a train costs an average of £135.

Distance: 561 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Driving

£135

Average Price

£64

Average Price

Cheapest

£108

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

20h 47m

Average total duration

20h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 32m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Calais is a coach with an average price of £64.

This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Calais:

A coach is £71 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Calais costing on average £135.

The fastest way to travel from Basel to Calais is by train with an average journey time of 5h 7m.

Other travel options to Calais take longer:

Coach takes on average 20h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Calais including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 1h 25m sooner (5h 7m by train vs 6h 32m by car). Tickets start at around £135 compared to roughly £108 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Basel to Calais train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Calais trains for today, Wednesday 2 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
TER96117+SNCF | TGV Lyria9218+SNCF | TGV INOUI757711:45 Basel St. Johann
7h03
18:48 Calais - Fréthun2 changes
SNCF | TGV Lyria9218+SNCF | TGV INOUI757712:34 Basel SBB
6h14
18:48 Calais - Fréthun1 change
TER96282+SNCF | TGV INOUI2358 · 758113:24 Basel SBB
6h22
19:46 Calais - Fréthun2 changes
TER96121+SNCF | TGV Lyria9222+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187K16 (16372)13:45 Basel St. Johann
8h37
22:22 Calais Ville2 changes
SNCF | TGV Lyria9222+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187K16 (16372)14:34 Basel SBB
7h48
22:22 Calais Ville1 change
TER96228+SNCF | TGV INOUI9894+TER84440915:11 Basel SBB
5h57
21:08 Calais - Fréthun2 changes
TER96127+SNCF | TGV Lyria9226+SNCF | TGV INOUI759116:15 Basel St. Johann
6h17
22:32 Calais - Fréthun2 changes
SNCF | TGV Lyria9226+SNCF | TGV INOUI759116:34 Basel SBB
5h58
22:32 Calais - Fréthun1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Basel to Calais 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.

Thu
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept
Sat
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
Tue
08 Sept
Wed
09 Sept

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Calais

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
FranceFrance
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Calais run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £90 but you can travel from only £61 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 17:17. The fastest train covers the 561 km distance in 5h 39m.

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 £61
Distance
561 km
Average train duration
5h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
£90
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
5h 39m
First train
5:29
Last train
17:17
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
3 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 £61

Train companies: SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Basel to Calais trainsSNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Basel and Calais from £61. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
5h 39m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
£90
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

What's included in each class

Compare SNCF | TGV Lyria classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • In seat restaurant service
  • Quiet zone
  • Luggage
  • Entertainment portal
2nd Class
  • Power plugs
  • Luggage
  • Entertainment portal
Première
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Food available
  • In seat restaurant service
  • Quiet zone
  • Lounge Access
  • Luggage
  • Entertainment portal
Première Signature
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Food available
  • Extra legroom
  • In seat restaurant service
  • Quiet zone
  • Lounge Access
  • Luggage
  • Entertainment portal
Standard
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • In seat restaurant service
  • Luggage
  • Entertainment portal

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
6h 59m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
£105
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

Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) Duration
6h 24m
Cheapest Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) Price
£176
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
4 a day

Complete guide to Calais

Things to do in Calais

Discover the best of Calais — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Calais trip today.

  • Must visit

Cité de la dentelle et de la mode de Calais

Major lace and fashion museum in a converted factory, explaining Calais's textile heritage through machinery, dress and design displays.

  • Recommended

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Calais

Fine arts museum with works on Rodin, local history and temporary exhibitions, set near the town hall in central Calais.

  • Recommended

Musée Mémoire 39-45

Second World War museum inside a former German naval bunker, presenting occupied Calais through objects, documents and immersive spaces.

Euro (€)

Calais is moderate by French standards, with fairly priced meals and local transport, while hotels can rise in peak ferry and summer periods.

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 usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for very good restaurant service. Taxis may be rounded up; cafés often just keep the small change.

FAQs: Basel to Calais train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Calais 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 Calais, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Basel to Calais can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £90, while the average price tends to be around £135.
The train journey from Basel to Calais covers a distance of 561 km and takes approximately 5h 39m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Basel to Calais is 561 km.
The first train from Basel to Calais leaves at 5:29.
The last train from Basel to Calais departs at 17:17.
Trains from Basel to Calais run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Basel to Calais.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Calais.
To get from Basel to Calais, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Basel to Calais.
The train station in Basel that goes to Calais is Basel SBB, and it arrives at Calais - Fréthun.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Calais is by coach, costing approximately £61.
Booking trains from Basel to Calais 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 Calais offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside and the Jura Mountains, providing a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Basel to Calais is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 39m each way. Trains run 8 times per day over a distance of 561 km.
In Calais, you can explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts to admire fine arts, stroll through Parc Richelieu, and visit Les Baraques Military Cemetery. Experience the impressive Calais Dragon and explore the local market for regional delicacies. Don't miss the historical Calais Lighthouse for panoramic views, the famous Burghers of Calais sculpture, the Flemish Renaissance-style Calais Town Hall, the relaxing Calais Beach, and the Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode for a glimpse into the history of lace-making and fashion.
Two to three days in Calais should be sufficient to explore its key attractions, including the Calais Lighthouse, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the historic Calais Town Hall.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Calais.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Basel and Calais

Most Basel to Calais trains use the Basel SBB to Calais - Fréthun station pair, with some services arriving at Calais Ville. Use this guide to compare Basel and Calais 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 Calais

Which Basel station do trains to Calais leave from?

Trains from Basel to Calais 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 22WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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, SwitzerlandParkingDiningATMTaxisWCBike Parking
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.

More options for your journey from Basel to Calais

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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