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Travelling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel by train

Looking to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel by train? You've come to the right place!

On average, it takes around 3 hours 5 minutes to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel by train, the fastest services can get you there in as little as 2 hours 49 minutes though. You'll usually find 29 trains per day running along the 182 miles (293 km) route between these two destinations. Once you're onboard, you can sit back and relax, as you won’t need to make any changes on your way to Basel. You'll be travelling with ICE, DB or ÖBB on your way to Basel, as these are the main rail operators on this route.

Plan your trip ahead of time and book early if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel start from £26.84 when you book in advance, so use our Journey Planner to view the latest prices.

If you’re feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Basel by train, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times.

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel by train

It takes an average of 3h 5m to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel by train, over a distance of around 182 miles (293 km). There are normally 29 trains per day travelling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel and tickets for this journey start from £26.84 when you book in advance.

First train

02:45

Last train

22:06

Departure station

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

Arrival station

Basel

Journey time

From 2h 49m

Distance

182 miles (293 km)

Frequency

29 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Price

From £26.84

Train and bus operators

Deutsche Bahn, Flixbus, ÖBB

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel train times

Check out the next trains departing from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel for Tuesday 2nd April 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
08:49 11:47 2h 58m, 1 change
09:06 12:10 3h 4m, direct
09:50 12:47 2h 57m, direct
10:49 13:47 2h 58m, 1 change
11:06 13:55 2h 49m, direct
11:18 14:36 3h 18m, 1 change
11:49 14:47 2h 58m, direct
12:49 15:47 2h 58m, 1 change
13:06 15:55 2h 49m, direct
13:49 16:47 2h 58m, direct

Deutsche Bahn, ICE (Intercity Express), FlixTrain and IC (Intercity) trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel

You can travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel on Deutsche Bahn, ICE (Intercity Express), FlixTrain and IC (Intercity) trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

PhotoJoachimKohlerBremen, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.

PhotoNelso Silva, under licence CC BY-SA 2.0

The high-speed train of Deutsche Bahn, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), the ICE connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the ICE trip.

Operating alongside its sister coach company FlixBus since 2018, FlixTrain provides cheap intercity connections using 100% green energy. The main routes served by FlixTrain are Cologne-Hamburg, Aachen-Cologne-Berlin, and Berlin-Stuttgart. The network will expand in future to include more routes to Munich and Leipzig. FlixTrain carriages are fitted with free WiFi and power outlets or USB charge points. Plus, every ticket comes with a seat reservation, guaranteeing you a seat for the journey.

PhotoFalk2, under licence CC4.0

An express train running on German domestic routes, the Intercity is a little slower than the ICE and is also used for long distance trips. The integrated circuit covers long distances with a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). In recent years, trains of the new generation "Intercity 2" run on some lines at 100 mph (160 km/h) only – these trains, however, offer extra legroom and extra space for toddlers. They are also equipped with air conditioning, a food carriage and wheelchair parking spaces.

Intercity (IC), ICE, FlixTrain and Eurocity classes from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel

Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity (IC), ICE, FlixTrain and Eurocity when travelling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel.

Onboard services on Intercity (IC), ICE, FlixTrain and Eurocity

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.

Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.

Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

You will find an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you opt for the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.

If you upgrade to First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.

Although the menu changes every three months, you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

On IC trains, children under 5 years old travel free of charge and don’t need a ticket. Kids up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.

On board, you will find family and children areas which are bookable.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle on a IC train. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.

Bike storage spaces are usually located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.

PetPetPets

With IC, you can travel with your pet. If you have a small dog or pet, you do not need an extra ticket and they can travel for free in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

Deutsche Bahn offer the Mobility Service, where staff will help you board, disembark or change trains. Staff will also answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.

Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.

Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

When travelling with ICE, you can enjoy an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you choose the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.

Upgrade to First Class and you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.

DB change their menu every three months, but you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

If you’re travelling on a ICE train, you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on some work or your favourite TV show.

You can also connect to the ICE portal, where you’ll find a wide range of entertainment, such as films, television, audiobooks, games, newspapers and magazines.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

On DB’s ICE trains, kids under 5 years old travel for free and don’t need a ticket. Children up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.

You can also book family areas and children compartments on all ICE trains.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

With ICE, you need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle onboard. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.

Generally, bike storage spaces are located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.

PetPetPets

You can travel with your pet on all ICE trains. You do not need an extra ticket If you have a small dog and they can travel in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

DB’s Mobility Service can assist you with boarding, disembarking or changing trains. Also, staff are happy to answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

When travelling with Flixtrain, you can take the following luggage for free: 1x carry-on bag (max dimensions 42 x 30 x 18 cm and 7kg) and 1x checked bag (max dimensions 80 x 50 x 30 cm and 20kg).

For safety reasons, you must stow your carry-on bag beneath your seat, or in the overhead compartment above your seat.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Currently, FlixTrain does not offer a food and drink service. However, you may bring food and drink with you to enjoy on the train.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

On FlixTrain services, you can connect to the free WiFi to surf the internet, chat with friends, check your emails and more.

If you’re worried about your battery life, you can charge your devices by connecting to the power sockets or USB outlets at your seat.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

Children up to 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Children between 6 and 14 years old can travel alone with a declaration of consent from their parent or guardian. Keep an eye out for special discounts, as FlixTrain offer cheap tickets for children less than 15 years old.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

All FlixTrains are equipped with reservable bicycle storage. Bikes must be standard size and not exceed 20kg (45 lbs). To bring your bicycle on board, you must reserve a space with FlixTrain.

PetPetPets

In Germany, passengers may take pets that are up to the size of a house cat carried in a secure container at no cost. If you want to take a dog with you on the train which is larger than a house cat, provided it is on a leash and wearing a muzzle, you can purchase an extra ticket at the child's price. Guide and assistance dogs travel for free.

In Sweden, pets may not be transported on trains. The only exception is for guide and assistance dogs.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

Passengers with limited mobility who require assistance with boarding and embarking should contact FlixTrain to book one of the designated seats provided. FlixTrain transport foldable wheelchairs, walking aids and other mobility devices for free.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take your luggage free of charge onboard all ÖBB Eurocity trains, provided that it is stowed in the luggage racks above or below your seat or in the areas provided for hand luggage.

The pieces of luggage must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 90 x 60 x 40cm. These dimensions can only be exceeded if you’re travelling with skis and snowboards, ski and hiking poles, wind, string or plucked instruments, wheelchairs, or strollers.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

A restaurant carriage is available on most ÖBB Eurocity trains and offers a wide range of snacks and drinks. Vegan and vegetarian options are available too. If you upgrade to First Class, your meal of choice will be served straight to your seat.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Unfortunately, ÖBB Eurocity trains do not offer an entertainment portal on board. Also, WiFi is not always available.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

If you’re travelling with your child, you’ll get a discounted ticket. Children aged 0-5 travel for free on ÖBB Eurocity trains, while those aged 6-14 get a half-price ticket. Kids aged 15 or over need a full-price ticket.

Many ÖBB Eurocity trains offer special compartments for children in Economy Class – they come with 6 seats and can be booked for any route. Breastfeeding compartments are available too – they have curtains that block the view for more privacy. These seats can’t be booked.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You can travel with your bike for free on all ÖBB Eurocity trains, provided that it can be folded and is not larger than 90 cm x 60 cm x 40 cm. You won’t need to book a space for your bike.

If you can’t fold your bike, you’ll need to buy a bike ticket to reserve your space. You can book your ticket up to 6 months in advance from ÖBB Ticketshop online. If possible, we recommend you print out your bike reservation and attach it to your bike where it is clearly visible for the ticket inspector.

PetPetPets

Small pets can travel for free on ÖBB Eurocity trains if they’re placed in a carrier or cage. If you can’t carry them in a carrier or cage, you’ll need to buy a ticket for them. They must also be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle.

Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost and don’t need to wear a muzzle.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

ÖBB Eurocity trains come with accessible toilets. Depending on the type of coach, several wheelchair bays including one seat for an accompanying person can be booked free of charge.

On many trains, the wheelchair bays are in First Class. However, passengers with wheelchairs and the person accompanying them can travel in First Class with their Second Class tickets and can also make use of the at-seat meal service on offer there.

Cheap train tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel

The price of train tickets from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel starts at £26.84 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.

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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel by booking early.§

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.

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!

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.

Journey details

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

How long does the train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel take?

The average journey time by train between Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and Basel is 3 hours and 5 minutes, with around 29 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and Basel by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel is 2 hours and 49 minutes.

How much does the train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel cost?

Train ticket prices from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel can start from as little as £26.84 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

Is there a direct train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel without having to change trains. There are 17 direct trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

What time does the first train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel leave?

The first train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel leaves at 02:45. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel leave?

The last train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel leaves at 22:06. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and Basel by train?

Trains travelling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel cover a distance of around 182 miles (293 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Basel to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. If you’re looking for other options, you can also catch the bus from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Basel.

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