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About the train journey from Rotterdam to Basel
Want to travel from Rotterdam to Basel by train? Start your journey with us.
The train from Rotterdam to Basel usually takes 9 hours 24 minutes on average to travel 331 miles (533 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 6 hours 41 minutes. You can expect to find 29 trains per day running on this popular route. Good news! There are direct trains available to Basel, so you can just make yourself comfortable as soon as you board the train and just enjoy the journey. DB are the main train operator on this route and will whisk you to Basel in no time.
To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Basel in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save, as advance tickets start from £45.72.
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Basel, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.
Trains to Basel from Rotterdam
It takes an average of 9h 24m to travel from Rotterdam to Basel by train, over a distance of around 331 miles (533 km). There are normally 29 trains per day travelling from Rotterdam to Basel and tickets for this journey start from £45.72 when you book in advance.
| First train | 06:19 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:54 | |
| Departure station | Rotterdam | |
| Arrival station | Basel | |
| Journey time | From 6h 41m | |
| Distance | 331 miles (533 km) | |
| Frequency | 29 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £45.72 | |
| Train and bus operators | BlaBlaCar Bus, Deutsche Bahn, Flixbus |
What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Rotterdam to Basel?
Want to know more about your journey from Rotterdam to Basel? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Are there direct trains from Rotterdam to Basel?
What's the distance between Rotterdam and Basel by train?
Who runs the trains from Rotterdam to Basel?
Can you travel from Rotterdam to Basel without taking a flight?
What is the best way to get to Basel from Rotterdam?
What time is the first train from Rotterdam to Basel?
What time is the last train from Rotterdam to Basel?
How often do trains go from Rotterdam to Basel?
Do you need to prebook train tickets from Rotterdam to Basel?
Is there a return trip from Rotterdam to Basel?
Deutsche Bahn and IC (Intercity) trains from Rotterdam to Basel
Deutsche Bahn
IC (Intercity)
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.
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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.
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What Intercity (IC) classes are there from Rotterdam to Basel?
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity (IC) when travelling from Rotterdam to Basel.
Second Class
Enjoy comfy seats with power sockets, fold-down tables and free WiFi in Second Class. Some IC trains are double decker trains (IC2) too.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to First Class and you'll get to enjoy Fast Track in some German stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track
- Quiet area
What are the onboard services on Intercity (IC)?
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Rotterdam to Basel.
What luggage limits are there? | 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. |
|---|---|
What food and drink is available? | 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. |
What onboard entertainment is available? | Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains. |
What facilities are there for travel 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. |
Can I bring a bike on board? | 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. |
Can I bring pets on board? | 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. |
What special assistance is available? | 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. |
How do I find cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Basel?
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
2. Be flexible with your travel times
3. Buy a rail pass
4. Choose a slower or connecting train
5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts
6. Take a night train
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.