How to take the rail journey from Basel to Bern

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Basel / Bâle to Bern by train

Taking the journey by train between these two cities is very straightforward with up to four departures per hour available.
What makes it unusual is the variety of different trains used on this route.
You could find yourself on German ICE train, on a double-deck Swiss train, or one of the four other types of train used on this route.

Routes you can take to go from Basel / Bâle to Bern

When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.

Choose one of the following options:

Route Information

Travel Time (approx)

53min - 57min

Frequency

Daily

Travel Info

2 x trains per hour


Is this journey from Basel to Bern direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.


Is the journey scenic?
Not particularly, the best of the views occur as the train arrives into Bern


What other tourist locations are along the route from Basel to Bern?
These trains all call in Olten.


When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Basel from Zurich on this journey option?
Before 06:30 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to travel on from the station in Bern?
Bern station has a very convenient location within a 10 min walk of the old town area.


When is the usual approximate latest departure from Basel-SBB to Bern on this journey option
Before 22:30 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable


How easy is it to get to the station in Basel?
Basel SBB station is located to the south of the city centre, but is connected from it by tram lines / routes 8, 10 or 11.
See the Station Guide for more info, plus easy access to booking accommodation in its neighbourhood..


Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for these Basel to Bern trains?
Yes


How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for these Basel to Bern trains?
Typically up to 6 months ahead of the travel date; though this period of time can be shorter, particularly when searching for journeys more than three months ahead during October and March.


What are the child ticket terms for these Basel to Bern trains?

  • Children aged 5 or younger travel free of charge
  • Children aged 6-15 and travelling with a person aged 16 and over, pay 50% of the adult rate per journey - see the Ticket Guide for more info.

Does the ticket for these Basel to Bern trains include assigned seats?
No, reservations are available, but are not mandatory.
See the Train Guide in the Journey Information for insights on how to board the train


Do rail pass users need to book reservations for these Basel to Bern trains?
No


Is catering available on the Basel to Bern trains?
Yes, there is a bar/bistro car and a restaurant
See the Train Guide in the Journey Information.


What else is good to know about Swiss rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Switzerland.

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