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Basel, Basel-City (Area) to Zurich, Zurich (Canton) from $6: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Basel, Switzerland
to
Zurich, Switzerland

How to Get from Basel to Zurich: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$6 RideshareBest price
86.6 kmDistance
58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Basel to Zurich with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$8-11
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  18m
Estimated price
$6-6
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 86.6 km
Duration: 58m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$17-25
Company
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Train
Average Duration
1h  13m
Estimated price
$35-65

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Train $23 $22 $21 $23 $23 $23 $23
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Traveling From Basel to Zurich

The journey from Basel to Zurich showcases the vibrant cultural landscape of Switzerland, where Basel’s artistic flair contrasts with Zurich’s bustling financial scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Zurich

Zurich features diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience for visitors.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Cobblestone streets filled with history and charm.
• Renowned for boutiques, cafes, and cultural landmarks.
Zurich West
• Trendy area known for its vibrant nightlife.
• Home to modern art galleries and innovative restaurants.
Enge
• Scenic lakeside area perfect for leisurely walks.
• Offers a mix of upscale living and green parks.

Best Times To Visit Zurich's Attractions

Discover how timing your visit can elevate your Zurich experience.

Lake Zurich
Early morning or late afternoon offers serene views and fewer visitors.
Uetliberg Mountain
Weekdays during early spring provide clear skies and quiet trails.
Bahnhofstrasse
Visit during weekday mornings to enjoy shopping without the crowds.

Zurich Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Zurich experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Visiting in spring or early fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your exploration of the city.

Dining Recommendation in Zurich

For a taste of Zurich, try Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a creamy veal dish often served with rösti, which showcases the region's hearty flavors. The cozy ambiance of a traditional Swiss restaurant elevates the dining experience, offering a charming contrast to Basel's vibrant culinary scene.

Basel - Zurich operators

Explore transport companies operating between Basel and Zurich, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Basel SBB to Zurich Bus Station

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$9-14
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk

Bus from Basel to Zürich

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$12-17
Contact phone
+39 0825-26416
Website
http://bartolinipullman.it

Bus from Basilea Badisher to Zurich

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$55-55
Contact phone
+39 0827 34 117
Website
http://gruppodimaio.it

Bus from Basel to Zürich

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$7-11
Contact phone
+393293958604
Website
http://pistoia-viaggi.it

Bus from Basel to Zurich

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+41 584483500
Website
https://www.postauto.ch

Bus from Basel, Bahnhof Sbb to Zürich, Bahnhofplatz/Hb

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$8-11
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+41 848 44 66 88
Website
https://www.sbb.ch/en

Train from Basel Sbb to Zürich Hb

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$35-65
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Other from Basel to Zurich

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$6-6

Basel to Zurich: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Basel and Zurich offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience a scenic drive from Basel to Zürich spanning 54 miles, taking around 58 minutes on the road. Enjoy the picturesque Swiss landscapes along the way. 💰 Save on transportation costs with car travel ranging from €16 to €23 for the journey from Basel to Zürich. Choose the cost-effective option of driving for a budget-friendly trip.
Average price
€16 - €23
🚆 Traveling from Basel to Zurich by train is a quick and convenient journey. The direct train service operated by Swiss Railways departs every 15 minutes, with the trip taking approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. 🌆 The route covers a distance of 88.5 km, with the high-speed train heading towards Chur, providing a comfortable and efficient way to reach Zurich. The total duration of the trip is only 54 minutes, making it an ideal option for travelers. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Basel to Zurich train vary from €32 to €60, offering flexibility for different budgets. Both the DB Fernverkehr AG and Schweizerische Bundesbahnen agencies provide reliable services for this popular route, ensuring a pleasant journey for passengers.
Departure Point
Basel Sbb station
Arrival Point
Zürich Hb station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard services vary by operator, but both the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) and the EuroCity trains offer catering services. Expect to find a light snack bar with beverages, sandwiches, and pastries. You can also purchase hot meals on some longer trains, so be sure to check the menu available in your carriage.
For seating options, Swiss trains typically have First Class, Second Class, and Business Class. First Class offers wider seats, quieter carriages, and more spacious areas. Business Class tends to cater to professionals looking for comfortable workspaces, while Economy (Second Class) provides good value for money with comfortable seating and power outlets. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as First Class can be limited, especially during peak hours.
The main operators for the Basel to Zurich route are SBB and EuroCity. You can visit their websites for more information on schedules and pricing: SBB - sbb.ch; EuroCity - eurocity.com Additionally, consider checking local transport schedules at the Zurich public transport site: zvv.ch
🛣️ The bus journey between Basel and Zurich typically takes around 1 hour, offering a quick and efficient way to travel between these two Swiss cities. FlixBus operates the bus services, ensuring a comfortable and reliable trip for passengers. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus ride from Basel to Zurich range from €7 to €10, providing an affordable transportation option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful Swiss landscapes along the 88.5 km route.
Departure Point
Basel SBB station
Arrival Point
Zurich Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your FlixBus tickets in advance online at flixbus.com to secure the best rates, as prices vary from €7.2 to €9.8 depending on the time of booking.
• Familiarize yourself with the Zurich Bus Station layout in advance by checking the official map at zvv.ch at the Zurich public transport site, as it can get busy and identifying key exits and transfer points can save you time.
• If you plan to explore Zurich post-arrival, consider downloading the ZVV app (zvv.ch) for convenient access to local transport schedules and maps, as buses and trams frequently connect from the Zurich Bus Station to various city destinations.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Basel to Zurich.

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The distance between Basel and Zurich in Switzerland is 48 miles or 53.7 miles by road. The typical travel time by train is 1 hour and 12 minutes, while it takes around 1 hour to reach Zurich from Basel by bus. There is no information provided about the travel time by car.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Basel to Zurich is to rideshare, which costs €5 and takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes. This option allows you to share the costs of the journey with other passengers. However, if time is of the essence, driving is the fastest option, taking around 58 minutes. Please note that driving may also incur additional costs such as fuel and tolls, ranging between €15 and €23.
The prices of a train ticket between Basel and Zurich can range from €8 to €50, depending on factors such as the class of service and the type of ticket. On the other hand, bus tickets between Zurich and Basel typically range from €5 to €12, again depending on factors such as the bus company and the time of travel. These prices are approximate and can vary depending on the specific time and date of the journey. It is recommended to check with the respective train or bus company for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Basel to Zurich without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options. This is a great option especially if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Basel and Zurich is approximately 54 miles, and it takes around 58 minutes to drive from Basel to Zurich. The prices for carpooling from Basel to Zurich vary from €15 to €23, depending on the specific service and arrangements made.
To travel from Basel to Zurich without a car, the best option is to take a bus. Buses run between the two cities frequently, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. The ticket prices for this route range from €5 to €12. Alternatively, there is also a train connection available which takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes, but the bus tends to be a more budget-friendly option.
Yes, there is a direct link between Basel and Zurich. You can take a direct train from Basel SBB station to Zürich HB station, with departures every 15 minutes. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service from Basel SBB to Zurich Bus Station, with four daily departures. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Zurich. With over 647 hotels available, travelers can choose from a wide range of choices based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Zurich start at €71 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. From luxury hotels in the city center to budget-friendly options on the outskirts, there is a variety of accommodation available to suit different needs.