Wake up in Basel. An overnight Corail train from Paris arrives in Basel just in time for breakfast. Book a sleeper car for added comfort while you travel. Women traveling alone can request an all-female car.
Book the Rapide. The Rapide TVG train connects Paris directly to Basel from Gare de l'Est.
Transfer in Mulhouse. Then take a EuroCity train from Milhouse to Basel. This is perhaps the slowest option, but also the cheapest. Your total train ride from Brussels will take upwards of ten hours.
Compare prices when booking through Eurostar versus the TGV site. While Eurostar does not offer direct service to Switzerland, they do have connecting fares available. To book train travel from Brussels to Basel, you can also call Rail Europe at (888) 382-RAIL or visit the link below.
Print tickets at home for EuroCity and TVG trains. Not all trains from Brussels allow you to print your own tickets, so check before finishing the transaction.
Reserve in advance. Thalys and TGV trains require you book your seats before getting on board. Rail pass holders will be required to pay about $20 for booking the Thalys between Brussels and Paris.
Have your passport ready. When you arrive in Basel from Paris, you will be in Bale SNCF, which is in French territory. From there, you will have to go through a passport check station to enter the Switzerland portion of the station.
Purchase a Basler Museumspass or the Basel Card. Available at the tourist center at the train station, the cards offer entry and discounts to tourist attractions.
Get mobile. When you stay overnight at any hotel in Basel, you get a free mobility card, which allows you to ride on public transportation for free.
