The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Zurich
Cheapest price
£25
Average price
£41
Fastest journey
56 m
Average duration
1 h 6 m
Trains per day
20
Distance
76 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Zurich will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £25.
Of the 20 trains that leave Basel for Zurich every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 1 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 56 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 10 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 2063 | 20638:351h08Basel SBB9:43Zurich Altstetten£251One-way0 changes
IR 36 1963 | 1963 · S 12 19235 | 192358:071h31Basel SBB9:38Zurich Altstetten£261One-way1 change
IR 37 2263 | 22638:411h11Basel SBB9:52Zurich HB£291One-way0 changes
IR 36 1963 | 19638:071h17Basel SBB9:24Zurich HB£291One-way0 changes
IR 36 2063 | 2063 · S 5 18535 | 18535 · S 7 18734 | 187348:351h21Basel SBB9:56Zürich Oerlikon£291One-way2 changes
IC 3 763 | 7638:040h56Basel SBB9:00Zurich HB£291One-way0 changes
IC 6 963 | 963 · IR 35 2363 | 23638:561h04Basel SBB10:00Zurich Altstetten£311One-way1 change
IR 36 2063 | 20638:351h08Basel SBB9:43Zurich Altstetten£251One-way0 changes
ICE 273 | 273 · S 5 18536 | 185369:041h10Basel SBB10:14Zurich Altstetten£301One-way1 change
IC 3 763 | 763 · IR 13 3261 | 32618:041h10Basel SBB9:14Zürich Oerlikon£301One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Basel to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £5, and a train costs an average of £18.
Distance: 76 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£25 Average Price | £19 Average Price Cheapest |
1h 26m Average total duration Fastest 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 46m Average total duration 1h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Basel to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Zurich trains for today, Saturday 11 April. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
96130+ 9219 | On time 15:43 Basel St. Johann | 3h17 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
96238+ 9219 | On time 16:21 Basel SBB | 2h39 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
96134+ 9223 | On time 16:43 Basel St. Johann | 4h17 | 21:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
96244+ 9223 | On time 18:21 Basel SBB | 2h39 | 21:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
| Sunday 12 April | |||||
IC 3 763 | 763 · S 5 18532 | 18532 | 6:04 Basel SBB | 1h10 | 7:14 Zurich Altstetten | 1 change | |
IC 3 763 | 763 | 6:04 Basel SBB | 0h56 | 7:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 3 763 | 763 · IR 13 3261 | 3261 | 6:04 Basel SBB | 1h10 | 7:14 Zürich Oerlikon | 1 change | |
IR 36 1963 | 1963 · S 12 19235 | 19235 | 6:07 Basel SBB | 1h31 | 7:38 Zurich Altstetten | 1 change | |
IR 36 1963 | 1963 · S 6 18634 | 18634 | 6:07 Basel SBB | 1h31 | 7:38 Zürich Oerlikon | 1 change | |
IR 36 1963 | 1963 | 6:07 Basel SBB | 1h17 | 7:24 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
IR 27 2463 | 2463 · IR 55 1763 | 1763 | 6:12 Basel SBB | 1h18 | 7:30 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
IR 27 2463 | 2463 · IR 55 1763 | 1763 · IC 1 709 | 709 | 6:12 Basel SBB | 1h30 | 7:42 Zürich Oerlikon | 2 changes | |
IR 36 2063 | 2063 | 6:35 Basel SBB | 1h22 | 7:57 Zürich Oerlikon | 0 changesdirect | |
IR 36 2063 | 2063 | 6:35 Basel SBB | 1h14 | 7:49 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
IR 36 2063 | 2063 · S 5 18535 | 18535 · S 7 18734 | 18734 | 6:35 Basel SBB | 1h21 | 7:56 Zürich Oerlikon | 2 changes | |
IR 36 2063 | 2063 | 6:35 Basel SBB | 1h08 | 7:43 Zurich Altstetten | 0 changesdirect | |
IR 37 2263 | 2263 · IC 5 513 | 513 | 6:41 Basel SBB | 1h15 | 7:56 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
IR 37 2263 | 2263 | 6:41 Basel SBB | 1h11 | 7:52 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 6 963 | 963 · IR 35 2363 | 2363 | 6:56 Basel SBB | 1h04 | 8:00 Zurich Altstetten | 1 change | |
ICE 273 | 273 · S 5 18536 | 18536 | 7:04 Basel SBB | 1h10 | 8:14 Zurich Altstetten | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Zurich by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
12 Apr
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18 Apr
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20 Apr
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24 Apr
25 Apr
Why should you book Basel to Zurich trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs SBB?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SBB, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | TGV Lyria, Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or TGV INOUI to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Zurich.
- 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 SBB with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Zurich.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Zurich?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Basel to Zurich

Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Zurich
Trains from Basel to Zurich run on average 30 times per day, taking around 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £18 but you can travel from only £5 by coach.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 53m.
Distance 76 km |
Average train duration 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £18 |
Trains per day 30 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 53m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:57 |
Train companies: SBB, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), TGV INOUI from Basel to Zurich trainsSBB, SNCF | TGV Lyria, Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), TGV INOUI trains will get you between Basel and Zurich from £5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SBB
SNCF | TGV Lyria
Deutsche Bahn
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
TGV INOUI
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Trains from Basel to Zurich: Journey Details
There are regular direct trains from Basel to Zurich every day, with a journey time of just under 1 hour. The service is provided by SBB, owned by Switzerland, Germany and Italy. The first departure is at around 5:30 a.m., with departures then every hour or two hours, until just after 11:00 p.m.
Taking the Train from Basel
Trains from Basel to Zurich depart from Basel SBB Station, just South of the city centre. The station is on the tram and bus routes, which provide an efficient network of transport around the small city of Basel. Ferry boats also operate across the Rhine. Taxis are available at Basel Station.
Getting into Zurich by Train
Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, sitting on the shores of Lake Zurich, with a backdrop formed by the Swiss Alps. Zurich has become increasingly popular as a city-break destination and is known for its nightlife and gastronomic delights. The city has over a hundred galleries and museums, as well as a full programme of opera, theatre and concerts. Its historic attractions are in the Old Town, spread along the lakefront. Zurich is also a good base for skiing holidays. Trains from Basel to Zurich arrive at Zurich Hauptbahnhof, conveniently located in the heart of the Old Town with immediate access to Zurich's efficient network of buses, S-Bahn and regional trains. Also part of the network are trams, cable cars, boats, and buses. Zurich's transport system is fully integrated for fares and timetables, making getting around the city stress-free. Taxis are available at Zurich Hauptbahnhof and the city has weekend night bus services.
FAQs: Basel to Zurich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Zurich 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 Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basel and Zurich
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- 800 places, covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- 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
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 1
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
- Located in the main hall
- 330 places, covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
- Cost CHF 12
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Andreasstrasse and Franklinstrasse.
- Negishi Sushi Bar
- Le Muh
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Courtyard Zurich North
- Swissotel Zurich
- Hotel Sternen Oerlikon
- Located in the main hall
- 72 places, 60 places
- Avis
- Europcar
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 5-8 for regional and long-distance trains
- Tram: Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S6, S7, S8, S9, S14, S16, S19, S24
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from the main road.
- Restaurant Markthalle
- Restaurant LaSalle
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators.
- CHF 1
- Placid Hotel Zurich
- Best Western Hotel Spirgarten
- H+ Hotel Zürich
- Located in the main hall
- 240 places, covered
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for S-Bahn and regional trains
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S9, S12, S15
- Tram: Line 4
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Basel
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