Basel to Milan by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €43
Route Overview: Basel to Milan
SBB EuroCity trains connect Basel SBB and Milano Centrale in approximately 4 hours, crossing the Swiss Alps via either the Gotthard or Lotschberg route. Services run every 1-2 hours throughout the day.
The journey is one of Europe's most scenic rail crossings. The Lotschberg route passes through Bern, the dramatic Lotschberg pass, and the Simplon Tunnel into Italy. The Gotthard route goes via Lucerne and the 57 km Gotthard Base Tunnel — the world's longest railway tunnel, opened in 2016.
Supersaver advance fares start from €29 in 2nd class and €49 in 1st class. Modern Astoro (Pendolino) and Giruno trains feature a restaurant car, WiFi, and power outlets at every seat.
How Long Is the Basel to Milan Train?
The direct SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) / Trenitalia from Basel to Milan takes approximately 4h 00m – 4h 20m, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Basel to Milan Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €43 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Basel to Milan?
Up to 1/day trains operate daily on the Basel to Milan route.
Train Operator
SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) / Trenitalia
Direct high-speed service · 4h 00m max
Which Stations Serve the Basel to Milan Route?
Basel SBB
- Location: Central Basel, near the Old Town
- Tram, bus connections throughout the city
- RER Three-country corner: France and Germany within walking distance. Basel also has Basel Bad Bf (German side).
Milano Centrale
- Location: North-central Milan
- Metro M2 (green) and M3 (yellow) connections
- RER Monumental Fascist-era station. Hub for Trenitalia and Italo high-speed trains to all Italian cities.
What Classes Are Available on Basel to Milan Trains?
2nd Class
- Comfortable 2+2 seating
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets at all seats
- Restaurant car access
- Panoramic windows
1st Class
- 2+1 wider seating with extra legroom
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Restaurant car access
- Quieter environment
- Priority boarding at some stations
How to Book the Basel to Milan Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class class. Prices shown are indicative advance Supersaver fares in 2nd class. Standard flexible tickets cost around €76. Timetables subject to change.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Basel to Milan Trains?
Two Scenic Alpine Routes
Basel-Milan trains use two different routes: the Lotschberg route (via Bern, Brig, and the Simplon Tunnel) or the Gotthard route (via Lucerne, the Gotthard Base Tunnel, and Bellinzona). Both offer stunning Alpine scenery — the Lotschberg route is particularly dramatic.
Modern Rolling Stock
Services use either Astoro tilting trains (RABe 503, Alstom Pendolino) or newer Giruno trains (RABe 501, Stadler). Both feature a restaurant car, WiFi, power outlets, and comfortable seating.
Supersaver Fares from €29
SBB Supersaver advance-purchase fares start from €29 in 2nd class and €49 in 1st class. Book early at sbb.ch — these fares are limited and non-refundable. Standard flexible tickets cost around €76.
Seat Reservation Recommended
Seat reservation is recommended on EuroCity trains between Switzerland and Italy, especially in summer and on weekends. It may be compulsory on certain services.
Schengen Zone — No Border Checks
Switzerland and Italy are both in the Schengen Area. No passport controls, though random checks by Italian police may occur near the border. Carry valid photo ID.
Frequently Asked Questions: Basel to Milan
EuroCity trains take approximately 4 hours to 4 hours 20 minutes, depending on whether the train uses the Gotthard or Lotschberg route.
Supersaver advance fares start from €29 in 2nd class and €49 in 1st class. Standard flexible tickets cost around €76. Book early at sbb.ch for the best prices.
Both routes offer beautiful Alpine scenery. The Lotschberg route (via Bern and Brig) passes through dramatic mountain landscapes. The Gotthard route (via Lucerne) uses the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the world's longest railway tunnel at 57 km.
EuroCity trains run every 1-2 hours throughout the day, combining services on both the Gotthard and Lotschberg routes. First departure around 06:00, last around 19:00.
No formal border checks — both Switzerland and Italy are in the Schengen Area. Carry valid photo ID as random checks may occur.
Yes, all EuroCity trains on this route have a restaurant car serving hot meals, sandwiches, drinks, and snacks. Both Astoro and Giruno trains include this facility.