Basel to Bern Train

Traveling from Basel to Bern by Train

The average train journey duration from Basel to Bern is 1 hr 23 min. The distance between the main stations of these two cities is about 42.63 mi. Travelers have approximately 81 daily train connections to choose from. This route's least expensive train ticket starts at $24.12. Departures from Basel typically leave from the city's primary station and arrive at Bern's central railway hub. While many direct connections are available, Virail offers direct and transfer route details, ensuring travelers find the best option. Arriving at the station 30 minutes before your train departs is advised for a relaxed boarding process.

Trains on this route are predominantly managed by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). They offer various travel classes, with the first-class section providing spacious seating, charging stations, and complimentary internet access. Second-class, though more basic, ensures a comfortable journey with essential facilities.

Basel and Bern: Switzerland's Urban Jewels

Basel is often hailed as an art and culture nexus due to events like Art Basel, a major transport hub abutting France and Germany. The central train station, Basel SBB, is well-equipped, featuring multiple amenities such as shopping outlets, dining options, and currency exchange facilities. On the other side, Bern, Switzerland's capital, offers travelers a mix of modern urban life and medieval charm, evident in landmarks like the Zytglogge clock tower. Bern's central station is strategically placed, granting passengers easy access to the UNESCO-designated Old City and attractions like the Federal Palace. Both cities ensure efficient intra-city transport with frequent buses and trams linking key areas.

What to Eat in Bern:

1. Bernese Platter (Berner Platte): A hearty dish consisting of meats like pork belly, sausages, and bacon, usually served with green beans, potatoes, and sauerkraut.
2. Rösti: A Swiss potato dish often described as a cross between hash browns and a potato pancake.
3. Zibelechueche (Onion Pie): A savory pie filled with onions, cream, and cheese.
4. Cheese Fondue: A classic Swiss dish with long forks dipping bread cubes into melted cheese.
5. Raclette: Melted cheese served with small, firm potatoes, pickles, onions, etc.
6. Bundner Nusstorte: A nut-filled pastry originating from the Graubünden canton but popular throughout Switzerland.
7. Berner Honiglebkuchen: A Bernese gingerbread typically decorated with almonds and candied peel.
8. Meringues with double cream: Especially famous in the Gruyère region, these are a must-try dessert.
9. Bernese Chocolate: Switzerland is famed for its chocolates, and Bern offers a variety of artisanal chocolate shops.
10. Swiss Wine and Cheese: Try local wines, especially the white wines from the Lake Geneva region, paired with various Swiss cheeses.

What to Do in Bern:

1. Zytglogge: Visit and tour the iconic clock tower from the early 13th century.
2. Bear Park: Meet the city mascots in a park dedicated to them right in the city center.
3. Bern Historical Museum: Dive into Bern's rich history and collection of artifacts, the second largest in Switzerland.
4. Rose Garden: This beautifully maintained garden gives a panoramic view of the city.
5. Federal Palace: Take a guided tour of the Swiss Federal Assembly.
6. Albert Einstein House: Visit the residence where the famous physicist lived while working in Bern.
7. Bern Cathedral (Bern Münster): Climb to the top of the highest cathedral in Switzerland for a breathtaking view.
8. Swiss Alpine Museum: Explore the history and culture of the Alpine region of Switzerland.
9. Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts): Enjoy artworks from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces.
10. Shop in the Old Town: Wander through Bern's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town with its medieval architecture, fountains, and boutique shops.

Day Excursions from Bern

Bern is a launchpad for numerous day trips thanks to its central location. Locations like Thun and Interlaken, enveloped by lakes and the majesty of the Alps, are reachable in under an hour by train. For a taste of alpine wonder, the Jungfrau region beckons with its soaring peaks and hiking trails. Meanwhile, the town of Murten delights with its medieval aura and serene lake views. History enthusiasts should consider Avenches, a city steeped in Roman history, boasting preserved ruins and a historic amphitheater.

When planning your train journey from Basel to Bern, turn to Virail for assistance. Our platform compares diverse routes and transport modes to present optimal deals. Browse the price calendar below to pinpoint the most economical options for your Basel-Bern expedition.