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Trains from Basel to Locarno

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Basel to Locarno

How to travel from Basel to Locarno by train

Want to find out more about taking the train from Basel to Locarno? Look no further.

There are around 36 trains per day running between Basel and Locarno, which usually take 3 hours 24 minutes to complete the 112 miles (181 km) journey. It can take as little as 3 hours 12 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. As soon as you board the train, you'll be able to make yourself comfortable and enjoy the journey as there are direct services available. All or part of your journey will be on board a SBB train, as they are the main operator of trains on this route.

You can save money on train tickets from Basel to Locarno if you book in advance. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.

Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for timetables (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.

Trains to Locarno from Basel

First train

05:01

Last train

19:03

Departure stationBasel
Arrival stationLocarno
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.

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 travelling on this route.

What are the train times from Basel to Locarno?

Check out the next trains departing from Basel to Locarno for Tuesday 14th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
09:0313:274h 24m, direct
09:3312:453h 12m, 2 changes
10:0313:153h 12m, 1 change
10:0613:453h 39m, 1 change
10:3313:453h 12m, 2 changes
11:0314:153h 12m, 2 changes
11:0315:274h 24m, direct
11:3314:453h 12m, 2 changes
12:0315:153h 12m, 1 change
12:3315:453h 12m, 2 changes

SBB trains from Basel to Locarno

You can travel from Basel to Locarno on SBB 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.

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).

More information

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

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Basel to Locarno starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

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.

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