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How to take the stunning rail journey from Basel to Locarno, where a simple connection is available with the Centovali Railway
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Basel / Bâle to Locarno by train
There is a choice of two travel options when taking the train across Switzerland from Basel to Locarno.
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The service of direct trains has been restored, though they are also the slowest option as they take, the older, but much more beautiful route.
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The quicker option is to take an express train to Bellinzona and make a simple connection there into a local train on to Locarno.
Routes you can take to go from Basel / Bâle to Locarno
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:
Looking for connections?
Route Information
Option 1: taking the direct trains
Travel Time (approx)
4hr 21min
Frequency
Daily
Travel Info
1 x train every other hour
Is this journey option from Basel to Locarno direct?
Yes
Is the journey scenic?
It's in the Top 5 of SMTJ's most scenic Swiss rail journeys (Zug to Bellinzona, though the scenic section of this route is Luzern to Bellinzona) - See the images and videos, plus tips for making the most of the views in the Journey Information.
When is the usual approximate earliest arrival in Locarno by these direct trains?
Before 10:30 daily, though it's possible to arrive before 09:30 by making a connection in Arth-Goldau
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to travel on from the station in Locarno?
Locarno station has a very convenient location in the heart of the town and by the shore of Lake Maggiore
When is the usual approximate latest departure from Basel-SBB to Locarno by direct train?
After 18:00 daily, though it's possible to depart after 19:00 and connect in Arth-Goldau.
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 this Basel to Locarno journey
Yes
How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for this Basel to Locarno journey?
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 this Basel to Locarno journey?
- 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 Locarno journey include assigned seats?
No, reservations are not available on the type of train used on this journey option.
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 this Zurich to Locarno journey?
No
Is catering available on this Basel to Locarno journey?
These trains have vending machines which sell drinks and snacks.
What else is good to know about Swiss rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Switzerland.
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