Basel Airport to Zurich: All Transport Options

Located 92 kilometers from the Zurich city center, passengers arriving at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL), also known as Basel Airport, have three main transport options to choose from to reach their final destination.

Getting from Basel Airport to Zurich with a local Basel Airport taxi is a highly convenient option, taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Other than a private Basel Airport transfer, this is the only direct option, although it’s also the most expensive.

Another direct option, but at half the cost and with double the benefits, you can opt for a private transfer. You’ll be met on arrival by an English-speaking driver and can pay a fixed fare price.

Lastly, you can use public transport. A combined bus and train journey is by far the cheapest way to travel, although you’ll need to switch transport modes in the city center, and the journey will take at least 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your route.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Basel at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€469	70min	24/7
Bus + Train	€52.40	90min	04:32–00:11
Welcome Airport Transfer	€180	70min	24/7

How to get from Basel Airport to Zurich by taxi

One of the only direct methods of travel between Basel Airport and Zurich is a local taxi. The trip in a Basel Airport taxi should take around 1 hour and 10 minutes in normal traffic conditions; however, travel time fluctuates drastically during rush hour.

A handful of taxi companies are permitted to operate from the airport, offering rides for up to four passengers for a fixed rate fee.

How much is a taxi from Basel Airport to Zurich?

A flat rate tariff is now in place at Basel Airport for certain destinations, which means from Basel Airport to Zurich, a taxi will cost €469 (CHF 440) for up to four passengers.

Given the hefty price for a 95-kilometer trip, you may prefer to book a ride in advance with Welcome Pickups, since they offer competitive fixed-rate fares for considerably less.

Cost

€469 (CHF 440)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 10 Min.

The journey can take up to 1 hour and 40 minutes during heavy traffic.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Taxis are available 24/7 from EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (MLH).

Where do I get the taxi from?

Luckily, taxis are abundant at Basel Airport. You can find them lined up just outside the doors of the main terminal building in the Swiss Sector.

Convenience

Taxis are the fastest and most convenient way of travelling from Basel Airport to Zurich. Your journey is around 20 minutes quicker than public transport. Plus, you won’t have to drag your luggage onto buses and trains.

Note: A local taxi driver may be hesitant to take you all the way to Zurich without booking in advance. That’s why we recommend you book a private Basel Airport taxi to guarantee you and your loved ones have transport waiting when you land.

Editor’s Note

A local taxi driver may be hesitant to take you all the way to Zurich without booking in advance. That’s why we recommend you book a private transfer to guarantee you and your loved ones have transport waiting when you land.

Useful Tips

You’ll be crossing a land border on the way to Zurich, so keep your travel documents close for inspection. That includes your passport and any relevant visa documentation.

All Basel taxis carry card machines.

You can pay for your taxi in euros or Swiss Francs (CHF).

Most airport taxis are standard 3-4 seater sedans. If you require a larger vehicle for your group, we recommend booking a private transfer.

How to get from Basel Airport to Zurich by public transport

If you need to watch your wallet, using public transport is an excellent alternative to a taxi. Not only will you save money, but under certain circumstances, it can even save you time.

However, since there isn’t a direct bus or train from Basel Airport to Zurich, you’ll need to combine these two modes of transport to reach your destination. First up, you’ll need to make your way from Basel Airport to Basel SBB Station using the Line 50 bus, which takes 20 minutes.

Once you arrive at the train station, you can catch a train towards Zurich for a further 1 hour and 10 minutes, bringing the total journey time to 1 hour and 30 minutes, not including any time spent waiting or transferring between services.

What is the Basel Airport to Zurich train price?

The Basel Airport to Zurich journey by bus and train will cost around €26.20 (CHF 24.60) per person. This includes a one-way ticket on the bus (valid across 3 Zones) for €7 (CHF 6.60), and a second-class ticket on the train for €19.20 (CHF 18) per person.

Tickets for the bus can be purchased at a TNW ticket machine or the ticket counter, and while we recommend purchasing train tickets online in advance in order to nab the best possible price, you can also purchase one from the station on the day of travel.

Cost

€26.20 (CHF 24.60)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 30 Min.

The bus departs several times an hour throughout most of the day and there is a 10 to 30-minute wait between train services.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

The No. 50 bus operates daily between 04:32 to 00:38 and direct trains run from 04:37 to 00:11.

Where do I get public transport from?

Airport buses depart from outside the terminal building on the Swiss side. Once you arrive at Basel Central Station, refer to the departures board to find your train platform. Your train will take you all the way to Zurich Central Station (Zurich HB).

Convenience

Because there isn’t a direct Basel Airport to Zurich bus or train, using public transport may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with bulky or heavy luggage or young children. Unlike a taxi service, you won’t be dropped directly at your hotel or accommodation, which means you’ll need to make your way on foot or make onward travel arrangements once you arrive in Zurich.

On the plus side, the train journey is quite scenic and food and WiFi are often available on board, not to mention the affordable price tag.

Timetables

Number 50 Bus Schedule

Basel Airport –> Basel Train Station

SBB Train Timetables and Journey Planner

Basel Train Station –> Zurich HB Station

Editor’s Note

During peak hour traffic of a morning and early evening, this option can be quicker than taking a taxi or private transfer, so be sure to take that into consideration when planning your journey.

Useful Tips

Pay up to 50% less for train tickets when you book them in advance (aim for at least one week in advance).

Space for luggage is limited on the airport bus. We recommend packing light or taking a taxi for your convenience.

You can purchase a train ticket online or from the counter at Basel train station.

If your plane is arriving in the early hours of the morning between midnight and 06:00, taking a taxi or private transfer will be more convenient and safer.

You can pay for your bus and train tickets in Swiss Francs or euros.

How to get from Basel Airport to Zurich by private transfer

The most popular way to get from Basel Airport to Zurich is to arrange a private transfer. Basel Airport transfers like those offered by Welcome Pickups provide a top-notch travel experience tailored to suit your needs and schedule. Some of the benefits include:

Competitive fixed-rate fares
Guaranteed on-time pickups
Flight monitoring
Airport meet-and-greet
Trained English-speaking driver

Your driver will also recommend some must-see and do attractions during your visit to Zurich, as well as point out the city’s most famous sites and landmarks on the way to your hotel or accommodation.

How much does a private Basel Airport to Zurich transfer cost?

The fare for a private transfer is fixed, so you don’t need to worry about metered rates, road tolls, or surcharges. After filling in all the necessary details during the booking process, you’ll receive a bespoke quote for the most suitable vehicle for you and your travel party. This price will include all charges, so there are no surprises on the day.

For instance, the cost of a Basel Airport to Zurich transfer for 3 people in a sedan is €180 (CHF 169). For larger groups of up to 9 people, you can book a minivan for €240 (CHF 225) or a minibus for €420 (CHF 394).

Cost

€180 (CHF 169)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 10 Min.

*A vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Basel Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

You won’t need to walk far or wait around on arrival at Basel Airport. To make your journey as smooth as possible, your driver will be waiting for you at the entrance to the Arrivals Hall, right after you’ve collected any luggage. After introducing themselves, they’ll help with your bags and show you to your pre-selected vehicle so that your transfer to Zurich can begin.

Convenience

A private transfer service is perfect for travelers looking to save time and avoid navigating the crowded train station downtown. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about luggage space or splitting up your group, since your journey can be tailored to your needs.

Editor’s Note

Allow at least 30 minutes between your flight's scheduled arrival time and your transfer pick-up time.

Useful Tips

Your transfer will be paid for at the time of booking so you can simply rock up and be on your way.

If you need a child booster or baby seat, you can request one during the booking process online or later using the Welcome App.

Your driver will monitor your flight and adjust the pickup time in case of a delay.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Basel. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€180.0

NIGHTTIME

€216.0

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Zurich from Basel Airport?

A local taxi, public transport, or a private transfer service are the primary ways you can travel from Basel Airport to Zurich.

We recommend either taking a taxi or a private transfer because it’s faster and more comfortable. The journey is typically 1 hour and 10 minutes long.

If you opt for a professional private transfer, you’ll enjoy a relaxing ride to Zurich for a fixed fare price with an English-speaking driver. Welcome Pickups can also provide transport to Basel city center, Interlaken, and Lucerne.

A cheaper alternative is to take a combination of buses and trains. There is no direct train or bus from Basel Airport to Zurich, so you’ll need to make a connection through the city center. You can expect the trip to take 1 hour and 30 minutes, excluding wait and transfer times.

Does Basel Airport have a train station?

No, Basel Airport doesn’t have a train station. The main station, Basel SBB Station, is located in the city center, which you can reach by car or bus. There are plans to open a train station at the airport in the near future.

How long is the train ride from Basel to Zurich?

Since there isn’t a Basel Airport to Zurich train, you’ll first need to take a 20-minute bus to Basel SBB Station. From there, the train journey takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.

How long does it take to from Basel Airport to Zurich?

The journey time between Basel Airport and Zurich depends on which form of transportation you choose, and also your exact destination.

For instance, a private transfer or taxi can take just 1 hour and 10 minutes in normal traffic, while a combined bus and train journey can take 1 hour and 30 minutes, provided there is minimal waiting time in between services.

What is the distance from Basel Airport to Zurich?

From Basel Airport to Zurich, the distance is 92 km. By taxi or private transfer, the trip shouldn’t take longer than 1 hour and 10 minutes. There is no direct Basel Airport to Zurich train or bus, but you can complete the journey with a combination of the two; expect the journey to take at least 1 hour and 30 minutes.

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How to get from Basel Airport to Zurich by taxi

How much is a taxi from Basel Airport to Zurich?

€469 (CHF 440)

1 Hr. 10 Min.

Taxis are available 24/7 from EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (MLH).

Where do I get the taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Basel Airport to Zurich by public transport

What is the Basel Airport to Zurich train price?

€26.20 (CHF 24.60)

1 Hr. 30 Min.

The No. 50 bus operates daily between 04:32 to 00:38 and direct trains run from 04:37 to 00:11.

Where do I get public transport from?

Convenience

Timetables

Number 50 Bus Schedule

Basel Airport –> Basel Train Station

SBB Train Timetables and Journey Planner

Basel Train Station –> Zurich HB Station

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Basel Airport to Zurich by private transfer

How much does a private Basel Airport to Zurich transfer cost?

€180 (CHF 169)

1 Hr. 10 Min.

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Basel Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Zurich from Basel Airport?

Does Basel Airport have a train station?

How long is the train ride from Basel to Zurich?

How long does it take to from Basel Airport to Zurich?

What is the distance from Basel Airport to Zurich?

The best way to arrive in Basel

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