Things to do around Basel: 5 day trips by train

Written by Sophie Renassia

Published on November 22, 2025

Want to get away without going far? From Basel, nothing could be easier: the city is located at the crossroads of three countries, and its rail network makes it easy to explore Switzerland, France, and Germany. In less than 1.5 hours by train, you can experience a change of culture, language, atmosphere, and even cuisine! Here are five day trips from Basel that you can take by train, stress-free and without a car.

Lucerne (Switzerland)

Why go to Lucerne?

About 1 hour and 15 minutes by train separates Basel from Lucerne, a Swiss jewel nestled between a lake and mountains. It's the ideal day trip, combining heritage, nature, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Must-See Sights

Cross the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the city's emblem, then wander through the medieval streets lined with painted facades. The panorama of Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee) and the surrounding peaks is worth the detour, as is the walk along the waterfront.

Zurich (Switzerland)

Why go to Zurich?

About 1 hour by train from Basel, Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, renowned for its quality of life and cultural dynamism. Between the lake, museums, and trendy cafés, the getaway plunges you into a Switzerland that is both elegant and creative.

Must-See Sights

Stroll through the Old Town (Altstadt), admire the Chagall stained glass windows at the Fraumünster Church, and end your day by the lake or in a "badi," those natural pools typical of Zurich. Easily accessible, varied, and full of energy, Zurich is a classic that you never tire of rediscovering.

Freiburg im Breisgau (Germany)

Why go to Freiburg?

Head for Germany! A 45-minute train ride from Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau is a charming university city, nestled at the foot of the Black Forest (Forêt-Noire). A nature-focused and eco-friendly escape, in a city that is a pioneer in sustainable development.

Must-See Sights

Discover the pedestrian Old Town, its Bächle (typical gutters/streams), the majestic Gothic Cathedral (Münster), and the market in the main square. And if time allows, climb on foot or by cable car up the Schlossberg for a breathtaking view of the rooftops and the Black Forest.

Colmar (France)

Why go to Colmar?

Just 45 minutes by train from Basel, Colmar offers an Alsatian fairy-tale setting. Half-timbered houses, flowered streets, and picturesque canals: the "Little Venice" is one of the most beautiful towns in Alsace. A real change of scenery just across the border.

Must-See Sights

Wander through the Old Town, admire the pastel facades, visit the Unterlinden Museum if you want to extend the cultural discovery, or settle down on a terrace to enjoy a tarte flambée (flammekueche). A romantic and accessible day trip, perfect for the day.

Mulhouse (France)

Why go to Mulhouse?

Located just 25 minutes away by train, Mulhouse is the perfect destination for an express excursion. A city of art and industry, it is full of fascinating museums and surprising heritage, at the crossroads of Alsatian and Germanic influences.

Must-See Sights

Visit the Cité du Train (City of the Train), the largest railway museum in Europe (a must if you love trains!), or the National Automobile Museum (Musée National de l’Automobile). And for a more relaxed walk, wander through the historic centre and discover the Place de la Réunion with its pink City Hall adorned with frescoes.

In short, from Basel, you can hop from one country to another in the blink of an eye: France, Switzerland, and Germany are all within easy reach by train. Between Alsatian charm in Colmar, Swiss culture in Lucerne, or a green atmosphere in Freiburg, these five excursions promise a real change of scenery—without a car, without stress, and 100% slow travel.

And for more ideas for getaways, check out our guide to Switzerland, our guide to Basel, and the "A day trip into the mountains, Basel region" page on myswitzerland.com.

Written by Sophie Renassia

Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).

Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.

Linkedin