- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
A major art museum with works from old masters to modern art. It is essential for understanding Basel’s strong cultural scene.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mainz to Basel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct
Cheapest price on 14 Oct
£24
Average ticket price on 14 Oct
£30
Fastest journey on 14 Oct
3 h 8 m
Average journey duration on 14 Oct
4 h 21 m
Trains on 14 Oct
4
Distance
275 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mainz to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mainz to Basel will cost around £30 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.
Fast trains
On Wed 14 Oct, we found 4 trains from Mainz to Basel, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 275 km distance in an average of 4 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 19 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.
IC 604031:434h38Mainz Hbf6:21Basel SBB£241One-way0 changes- ICE 991 · ICE 2735:403h08Mainz Hbf8:48Basel SBB£291One-way1 change
- S8 · 15301 · IC 604713:025h19Mainz Hbf8:21Basel SBB£321One-way2 changes
- S8 · ICE 699 · IC 604032:024h19Mainz Hbf6:21Basel SBB£351One-way2 changes
- ICE 991 · ICE 2735:403h08Mainz Hbf8:48Basel SBB£291One-way1 change
- S8 · ICE 699 · IC 604032:024h19Mainz Hbf6:21Basel SBB£351One-way2 changes
- IC 604031:434h38Mainz Hbf6:21Basel SBB£241One-way0 changes
- S8 · 15301 · IC 604713:025h19Mainz Hbf8:21Basel SBB£321One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mainz to Basel
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Mainz to Basel run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £34 but you can travel from only £18 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 01:42, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 275 km distance in 2h 50m.
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 £18
Distance 275 km |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price £34 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 1:42 |
Last train 23:23 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 49 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 £18
Live departures
Mainz to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Basel trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 14 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 60403 | 1:43 Mainz Hbf | 4h38 | 6:21 Basel SBB | 0 changesdirect | |
| S8 · ICE 699 · IC 60403 | Delayed 2:02 Mainz Hbf | 4h19 | 5:02 5:02Basel SBB | 2 changes | |
| S8 · 15301 · IC 60471 | Delayed 3:02 Mainz Hbf | 5h19 | 6:21 6:21Basel SBB | 2 changes | |
| ICE 991 · ICE 273 | On time 5:40 Mainz Hbf | 3h08 | 8:48 Basel SBB | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Mainz to Basel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Mainz to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mainz to Basel.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Mainz to Basel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Mainz to Basel.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Mainz to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Mainz and Basel from £18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£34
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
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.
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.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
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.
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.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
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.
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.
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
Fondation Beyeler
A leading museum for contemporary art and design. The building and collection make it a highlight for modern architecture fans.
- Recommended
Museum der Kulturen Basel
This museum presents fine art from the 15th to 19th centuries in a grand setting near the cathedral and old town lanes.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s main square hosts the town hall and daily market. It is a lively place to start exploring the old town on foot.
- Recommended
Pfalz
This broad terrace beside the cathedral offers one of Basel’s best Rhine views and a peaceful pause above the old town.
- Recommended
Spalenberg
A charming old town street lined with medieval houses, small shops and quiet corners. It captures Basel’s historic atmosphere well.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s spiced honey biscuit, traditionally baked for autumn fairs and Christmas. Its long shelf life and ornate shapes make it a local classic.
Basler Mehlsuppe
A baked flour soup slowly browned for a deep flavour, traditionally served during Basel Carnival and often finished with cheese.
Basler Zwiebelwähe
A rich onion tart from the Basel region, usually made with onions, cream, eggs and often bacon. Popular in autumn during market season.
Brasserie Les Trois Rois
Elegant dining room in central Basel known for refined French-influenced cuisine and polished service.
Tibits Basel
Long-established vegetarian restaurant offering creative seasonal dishes in a relaxed, modern setting.
Volkshaus Basel
Well-known riverside beer hall and restaurant with hearty Swiss fare, local beers and a lively, classic atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Basel is costly versus most European cities, with high hotel, dining and daily transport prices for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a 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 a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in restaurants and cafés or add 5-10% for great service; round up taxi fares.
TNW Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 3.80
- Day pass
- CHF 10.70
To the city centre
Basel SBB -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Use the TNW Tickets app or station ticket machines. Tickets bought in advance may need validation before the first journey.
- Basel trams and buses generally use ticket machines rather than onboard card tapping. Buy your ticket before boarding where possible.
Best day trips from Basel by train
The most popular day trips by train from Basel are Zurich, Strasbourg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Bern and Lucerne. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Basel on Omio.
Day trip from Basel to Zurich by train
Why visit Zurich for the day?
Zurich combines a global financial role with a calm lakeside setting and a well-kept Altstadt. It is known for banking and shopping, but also for art, river bathing and a distinctly orderly Swiss feel.
How to get from Basel to Zurich by train?
There are 12 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.
Day trip from Basel to Strasbourg by train
Why visit Strasbourg for the day?
Strasbourg is known for its mix of French and German heritage, canal-lined streets and European institutions. The Grande Île, La Petite France and its striking cathedral give the city a distinct Alsatian character.
How to get from Basel to Strasbourg by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:16. The fastest train covers the 115 km distance in 1h 5m.
Day trip from Basel to Freiburg im Breisgau by train
Why visit Freiburg im Breisgau for the day?
Freiburg im Breisgau is a university city at the edge of the Black Forest, known for its medieval centre and Bächle. Its sunny climate, lively squares and green outlook give it an easy-going character.
How to get from Basel to Freiburg im Breisgau by train?
There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 53 km distance in 31m.
Day trip from Basel to Bern by train
Why visit Bern for the day?
Bern is Switzerland’s capital, known for its sandstone Old City, arcades and the Aare around its centre. It combines medieval character with a calm, everyday feel and a strong link to Albert Einstein.
How to get from Basel to Bern by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 69 km distance in 51m.
Day trip from Basel to Lucerne by train
Why visit Lucerne for the day?
Lucerne is known for its medieval old town, the Chapel Bridge and its setting on Lake Lucerne beneath the mountains. Historic streets and a calm waterfront give the city a distinctly Swiss character.
How to get from Basel to Lucerne by train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 79 km distance in 1h 1m.
FAQs: Mainz to Basel train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Mainz to Basel can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £34, while the average price tends to be around £70.
The train journey from Mainz to Basel covers a distance of 275 km and takes approximately 2h 50m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Mainz to Basel is 275 km.
The first train from Mainz to Basel leaves at 1:42.
The last train from Mainz to Basel departs at 23:23.
Trains from Mainz to Basel run approximately 8 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Mainz to Basel.
There is no night train service from Mainz to Basel.
The train station in Mainz that goes to Basel is Mainz Hbf, and it arrives at Basel SBB.
Booking trains from Mainz to Basel in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Mainz to Basel is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine River, charming towns, and lush vineyards, particularly between Mainz and Koblenz.
Yes, you can take the train from Mainz to Basel.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Mainz and Basel
Most Mainz to Basel trains use the Mainz Hbf to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel Bad Bhf. Use this guide to compare Mainz and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mainz
Arrival train stations in Basel
Which Mainz station do trains to Basel leave from?
Trains from Mainz to Basel leave from Mainz Hbf. The station is 2 km from Mainz city centre at Mainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz.
Mainz HbfMainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz
City-centre transport
Getting to Mainz Hbf from Mainz city centre
Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus92, 76, 62 · 9m · every ~13 min
93, 76, 65, 64 · 12m · every ~6 min
Tram52, 50 · 12m · every ~11 min
Mainz Hbf train station facilities and services
Mainz Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.
Which Basel station do trains from Mainz arrive at?
Trains from Mainz to Basel most often arrive at Basel SBB. Some services arrive at Basel Bad Bhf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Basel arrival station.
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 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 Mainz
More options for your journey from Mainz to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Mainz
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