Basel to Locarno by Train

Q: What's the distance between Basel and Locarno by train?

Trains traveling from Basel to Locarno cover a distance of around 112 miles (181 km) during the journey. You can get there in 3 hours and 12 minutes on the fastest services.

Q: Who runs the trains from Basel to Locarno?

Trains running from Basel to Locarno are operated by SBB. Find out more about the onboard services and classes available during the journey.

Q: Can you travel from Basel to Locarno without taking a flight?

Yes, you can travel flight-free from Basel to Locarno. Take the train - with around 36 trains per day on this route, you can get there comfortably without leaving the ground! The fastest train takes just 3 hours and 12 minutes.

Q: What is the best way to get to Locarno from Basel?

To get from Basel to Locarno, we believe that it's best to take the train! Trains are convenient and comfortable, offering a great way to get to Locarno. Plus, the fastest trains can take just 3 hours and 12 minutes, leaving you with more time to explore.

Q: What time is the first train from Basel to Locarno?

The first train from Basel to Locarno departs around 05:01, but the time may vary by day and train operator. For exact times, check the schedule on your travel day using our Journey Planner .

Q: What time is the last train from Basel to Locarno?

The last train from Basel to Locarno departs around 19:03, but the time may vary by day and train operator. For exact times, check the schedule on your travel day using our Journey Planner .

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Travel from Basel to Locarno by train in 3 hours 12 minutes

If you want to know more about the journey from Basel to Locarno by train, look no further!

The average journey time from Basel to Locarno by train is 3 hours 24 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 3 hours 12 minutes. You'll usually find 36 trains per day traveling the 181 km between these two destinations. Direct trains are usually available every day on the route to Locarno. As the main train operator on this route, you're likely to be traveling on a service operated by SBB for all or at least part of your journey to Locarno.

Book train tickets from Basel to Locarno in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. You can check prices from Basel to Locarno in our Journey Planner.

Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information, including our train schedule where you can view first and last train times, as well as tips on how to find cheap train tickets.

First train	5:01 am
Last train	7:03 pm
Departure station	Basel
Arrival station	Locarno
Journey time	From 3h 12m
Distance	112 miles (181 km)
Frequency	36 trains per day
Changes	Direct trains available
Train and bus operators	SBB CFF FFS

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Basel to Locarno?

Want to know more about your journey from Basel to Locarno? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you get to Locarno from Basel?

To travel to Locarno from Basel, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 3 hours and 12 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information on routes and timetables.

How long is the train ride from Basel to Locarno?

Trains from Basel to Locarno take an average of 3 hours and 24 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 3 hours and 12 minutes. You'll usually find 36 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Basel and Locarno by train?

The quickest journey time between Basel and Locarno by train is 3 hours and 12 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Basel to Locarno?

Yes there are direct trains running from Basel to Locarno, you’ll usually find around 6 per day traveling on this route.

What's the distance between Basel and Locarno by train?

Who runs the trains from Basel to Locarno?

Can you travel from Basel to Locarno without taking a flight?

What is the best way to get to Locarno from Basel?

What time is the first train from Basel to Locarno?

What time is the last train from Basel to Locarno?

How often do trains go from Basel to Locarno?

Do you need to prebook train tickets from Basel to Locarno?

Departs	Arrives	Duration
9:03 am	1:27 pm	4h 24m, direct
9:33 am	12:45 pm	3h 12m, 2 changes
10:03 am	1:15 pm	3h 12m, 1 change
10:06 am	1:45 pm	3h 39m, 1 change
10:33 am	1:45 pm	3h 12m, 2 changes
11:03 am	2:15 pm	3h 12m, 2 changes
11:03 am	3:27 pm	4h 24m, direct
11:33 am	2:45 pm	3h 12m, 2 changes
12:03 pm	3:15 pm	3h 12m, 1 change
12:33 pm	3:45 pm	3h 12m, 2 changes

Search all times and prices for today

The Swiss rail network is operated by SBB. SBB train ticket prices are based on travel and not on the type of trains. You will find available return tickets (standard price, one way or round trip), Multiple journey tickets (for six individual trips on a pre-determined itinerary) and the City-Ticket (including a one-day transportation pass from the city of departure or arrival).

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How do I find cheap train tickets from Basel to Locarno?

The price of train tickets from Basel to Locarno starts at one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

1. Book in advance

Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Basel to Locarno by booking early.^§

2. Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

3. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

4. Look out for special deals

Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

^§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

Trains from Basel to Locarno

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Travel from Basel to Locarno by train in 3 hours 12 minutes