basel tour guide

THE 10 BEST Basel Private Tours

Private tours in basel.

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1. Basel's Cheese, Chocolate, and Local Pastry Tasting Private Tour

2. Pilatus Panorama: Exclusive Private Golden Round Trip from Basel

3. Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!

4. Luzern Elegance: Private City Walk and Lake Cruise from Basel

5. Basel pick up and Zurich Luzern or Bern or Mountain experience

6. Basel Private tour - Mt. Pilatus and Cruise on Lake of Lucerne

7. The Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

8. Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel

9. Private Day Trip From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver

10. Private City Walking Tour in Basel-Customizable

11. Basel: Self Guided FoodTour

12. Alpine Majesty:Exclusive Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Basel

13. Engelberg, Cheese, and Mt. Titlis Private Tour from Basel

14. The natural wonders of Switzerland: private tour from Basel (1 day)

15. Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg

16. Private Full-Day Tour to Grindelwald Lauterbrunnen Interlaken Mürren from Basel

17. Best of Bernese Oberland from Basel

18. Jungfraujoch Top of Europe and Region Private Tour from Basel

19. Basel Through the Ages: A Journey into History

20. Alpine Majesty: From Basel to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour

21. Basel Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide

22. Basel's Portrait Self Guided Audio City Tour

23. The Vine Tour (Private Tour)

24. Basel’s Historical Old Town Tour

25. Basel : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide

26. Glacier Express Panoramic Train Round Trip in one Day Private Tour from Basel

27. Discover Basel's Charm: Exclusive 3-4 Hour Private Walking Tour

28. Basel Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

29. Historic Basel: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert

30. Private Transfer From Zurich to Strasbourg, 2 Hour Stop in Basel

What travelers are saying.

• Basel's Cheese, Chocolate, and Local Pastry Tasting Private Tour
• The Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
• Basel : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide
• Basel’s Historical Old Town Tour
• Private City Walking Tour in Basel-Customizable
• World City Trail - Basel
• WineWeinVinoVin
• Tours of Switzerland - Basel
• Jakob's Basler Leckerly (Manufaktur)
• Xocotour Suisse

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Basel bounces between German, French and homegrown Swiss influences, while its veritable wealth of museums, excellent tourHQ guides and gorgeous baroque-come-gothic look make for one fine destination amidst the mountains.

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Basel Tour Guides

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One of Europe’s loveliest cities, Basel, famously located in the Dreiländereck (three countries' corner) rubs shoulders with Germany and France next door. The Rhine flows gently through, where once can enjoy a ferry ride or walk along one of the five bridges that connect one side of the city to the other. The Old Town of Basel is probably one of the best preserved, its cobbled alleys around the Marketplatz and the magnificent Münster next door beckoning for a peek through history. And yet Basel is not immune to modernity, pushing the boundaries of architectural design and filling the skyline with magnificent structures. Clearly a city of museums covering a wide range of subjects, delve into a novel experience at the Cartoon Museum, the only museum in the world devoted to satirical art. And there’s some fun to be had at the medieval Basler Papiermühle, the Basel Paper Mill, where hand-made paper and books come to life. Basel has an air of gastronomic sophistication with many upmarket restaurants; bars and side walk cafes offering a cosmopolitan array of dishes and drinks. Your Basel tour Guide will carry listings of many strongholds of music and theatre in this culture centric city; however the real crowd spinner that doubles the city’s population in a jiffy is the world famous Art Basel, held every June to showcase modern and contemporary art.

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Tour Duration: 2 Hours (approx.)

Basel’s Historical Old Town Tour

Known as the cultural capital of Switzerland, our Basel Heritage tour will take you on a journey through the jewel of Northern Switzerland. With your guide, you will discover the historic city centre, and have the chance to stroll through some of the oldest and best-loved buildings in Europe. Climb to the top of the iconic Basel Münster cathedral, where you will enjoy stunning views over the city skyline. Visit the site of the original Opera House, and take in the fantastic art on display throughout the city. Sample authentic Swiss sweets and hear about how the small city rose from rags to riches to become one of Europe’s favorite historic destinations.

Private Tours departing from different locations:

What’s Included in your Basel Historical Old Town Tour:

• Private local guide
• Meet and Greet at your Hotel or Residence

Key points of your Basel Historical Old Town Tour Info:

• Discover Basel’s old town architecture
• Walk through the secrets and heritage of Basel Münster, Roothus (Town Hall), and old town.
• Explore the religious battles that formed Basel

Local Tour Guide:

Needing more information:

Email: [email protected] Phone (Toll-Free): +1 888 719 5557

Basel’s Historical Old Town Tour Info

Our discovery will take us to the heart of Swiss heritage, as we explore the historic city of Basel. Internationally acknowledged as the cultural capital of Switzerland, our tour will take in the art, architecture, and rich array of historic sights that pepper the city. Your guide will reveal the multi-cultural stories behind some of the city’s best-loved buildings, including the 500-year-old Roothus (Town Hall), where you will have the chance to see some of Europe’s most distinguished artworks. Wander the cobbled streets of the stunning Old town Grossbasel, where you will discover the birthplace of pharmaceuticals and 360-degree views from the iconic Basel Minster cathedral. Journey back in time as you explore the lofty Romanesque passageways, and hear how the building grew alongside the city into modern times. Immerse yourself in rich Swiss culture with a visit to the original Basel opera house sight, where you will discover the whimsical Tinguely fountain.

Places To See On Our Basel Historical Old Town Tour

What do travellers say about our Basel Historical Old Town Tour

Booking & Cancellation Policy

RATES AND PRICES

All rates and prices quoted are subject to availability. Prices  will not  change even if the full payment is not received and voucher(s) are not issued. Prices that are quoted include all local taxes unless we advise otherwise.

Private Day Trips or Small Group Day Trips

• At the time of booking, a deposit amount will be processed
• 30 days before the departure, 50% of the total amount is to be settled
• 7 days before the departure, the remaining amount is to be settled
• Cancellation & Refunds are based on the Cancellation Policy below
• If you wish to settle the total price differently, please get in touch with us at [email protected]

  Packaged Multi-Day Trips

• At the time of booking, a deposit of 10% will be processed
• 180 days before the departure, 30% of the total amount is to be settled
• 120 days before the departure, 30% of the total amount is to be settled
• 60 days before the departure the remaining 30% of the total amount is to be settled
• Cancellation and refunds are based on the Cancellation Policy below

YOUR VOUCHER AND DEPARTURE POINT

Please present your voucher 10 minutes before departure to the driver or guide at the departure point of your tour. The location of the departure point can be found in the tour description and is stated on your booking confirmation. We can not be held responsible for clients being late for their tours.

Packaged Multi-Day Trips

Your Trip Manager will always have your details; please present your Passport when identifying yourself at the hotel. The location of the departure point can be found in the tour description and is stated on your booking confirmation. We can not be held responsible for clients being late for their tours.

Transportation Services

Please present your voucher 10 minutes before departure to the driver at the departure point. The location of the departure point has to be advised at the time of booking. We can not be held responsible for clients late for their transfer.

Availability

The travel products and services sold through this site are subject to availability and can be withdrawn without notice.

Confirmation

Private Day Trip, Small Group Day Trip, or Packed Multi-Day Trip is confirmed and reserved once both parties agree in writing or over the telephone and is subject to the booking and cancellation policy. When full payment is received the final confirmation document will be sent.

We request that you carefully check your voucher’s dates and contact information and contact us immediately if these are incorrect.

CANCELLATION POLICY

• Cancellation, more than 2 days in advance, is fully refundable
• Cancellation up to 1 day before departure date: 50% of the total amount plus administration fees that might be imposed  (Except if unforeseen circumstances arise)
• Cancellation up to and less than 1 day before the departure date and time or no-show: 100% of the total amount  (Except if unforeseen circumstances arise)
• Cancellation, up to 30 days in advance, is fully refundable
• Cancellation up to 14 days before departure date: 50% of the total amount plus administration fees that might be imposed  (Except if unforeseen circumstances arise)
• Cancellation up to and less than 7 days before the departure date and time or no-show: 100% of the total amount  (Except if unforeseen circumstances arise)

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Basel Switzerland Travel Guide (2022 update)

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Situated on the Rhine where Switzerland , Germany and France touch noses, Basel’s voters are the most pro-European of Switzerland’s German-speakers, and their enthusiasm for neighbourly relations has energized the city. Plan your trip to Basel with our guide to Basel, based on The Rough Guide to Switzerland , your travel guide for Switzerland.

What to expect when visiting Basel — your Basel travel guide

Top attractions and things to do in basel, 1. fasnacht experience, 2. the münster, 3. basler papiermühle, 4. museum tinguely, 5. fondation beyeler, which areas should you visit in basel, best places to stay in basel, eating and drinking in basel: best restaurants, cafés and bars, entertainment in basel, how to get around basel, excursions and day trips from basel, tailor-made travel itineraries for switzerland, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 2675 USD

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Stay active on Switzerland's mountains with hikes and cable cars before indulging in delicious Swiss cheese and wines around Lausanne and Geneva. Is there a better way to get a taste of Switzerland than to actually taste it? Pricing is based on a small group tour, enquire for a private tour!

11 days  / from 3531 USD

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Spend your first 3 nights at Lake Como in Italy, discovering the area by boat or foot, before heading to Zermatt in Switzerland. Zermatt with its peaceful nature is the ideal backdrop for strolls, hikes and other activities with the whole family.

Tailor-made trips for   Switzerland

The success of Basel’s international airport and high-speed rail links to Strasbourg , Paris , Frankfurt and Milan have helped to blow the cobwebs away. Basel really is a city rejuvenated.

Its historic centre, dominated by the soaring Münster, is definitely worth seeing. But, with a long history of banking excellence, a major port on the Rhine, and the research headquarters of several pharmaceutical multinationals, Basel still cherishes its reputation as one of Switzerland’s wealthiest cities.

Yet, oddly, what’s made the biggest difference has been the city’s resolutely high taxes: recent years have seen an exodus of the rich to the lower-tax haven of the Fricktal in nearby Canton Aargau.

In their place have come artists, young professionals and, most notably, international expats. The Swiss pharmaceutical giants Novartis and Roche have both invested in major constructions on their existing sites, helping to draw new lifeblood into the city.

Day break in Basel © Swiss Tourism

In short, business is booming. Big-name architects are revitalizing the cityscape. New restaurants with fresh ideas are springing up all over town, and the city’s long-standing patronage of the arts has resulted in dozens of first-rate museums and public art installations.

Three annual events above all define the city for different markets. Every June the art fair Art Basel is one of contemporary art’s highest-profile gatherings, with world-famous artists, dealers and wannabes packing the city amid glitzy shows and events.

Held in March, Baselworld is the most prestigious jamboree in the more traditionally Swiss world of watchmaking and jewellery.

But Basel's most accessible event is the extraordinary annual carnival, Fasnacht .

Basel is famous for its unique, ancient masked carnival, or Fasnacht . This three-day affair starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday — think exultant music, parades and much merry-making. Festivals in Switzerland are plentiful, and this is one of the best.

Basel's Fasnacht Carnival is a top feature of any Basel travel guide © Swiss Toursim/Christof Sonderegger

The highlight of a visit to Basel’s red sandstone Münster cathedral is a peaceful stroll through the cloisters before stepping out onto the panoramic viewing platform. Built in the thirteenth century, its tower of St George has stonework dating from the original church (consecrated in 1019), plus a statue of the saint impaling a dragon.

This medieval watermill is now a delightful little museum with fascinating demonstrations of printing and papermaking. Alongside exhibits of paper and typography, the museum stages demonstrations of typecasting, typesetting, bookbinding and papermaking. You can also work through the whole process yourself.

Set on the north bank of the Rhine in Solitude Park, the building occupied by the Museum Tinguely was designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta and is a work of art in its own right. Tinguely is perhaps Switzerland’s best-loved artist, a maverick who broadened the confines of static sculpture to incorporate mechanical motion.

If you had to pick just one of Basel’s many top-rated museums, go for the gallery run by Fondation Beyeler . This masterfully elegant building houses an exceptionally high-quality art collection of works by some of the twentieth century’s best artists – Picasso, Giacometti, Warhol, Rothko, Rodin, Klee, Kandinsky, Bacon, Miró and more.

Münster Cathedral in Basel © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

The River Rhine creates an elegant curve through the centre of Basel, flowing from east to north and dividing the city in two.

On the south/west bank is Grossbasel (Greater Basel), focused on the historic Old Town. Shopping streets connect Barfüsserplatz and Marktplatz, the two main Old Town squares.

Medieval charm is retained in the steep lanes leading off to either side, where you’ll find leafy courtyards surrounded by sixteenth-century townhouses, medieval churches and the majestic Münster dominating the skyline.

Taking a walking tour with a professional guide is a great way to see Basel's Old Town attractions, and sure to be a memorable Basel travel experience.

Colourful blooms abound in Basel © Hungry_herbivore/Shutterstock

Barfüsserplatz and around

The focus of the Old Town is Barfüsserplatz, crisscrossed by trams and surrounded by terrace cafés. Rubbing shoulders with the fast-food joints and raucous pubs, on the corner with Steinenvorstadt, is the Yellow House, designed by Roger Diener, a yellowish concrete building adored by architects but ignored by the general public.

Walk up Steinenberg on the south side of Barfüsserplatz to Theaterplatz, to admire Tinguely’s Carnival Fountain, where the spluttering sculptures were created from parts of the city’s old theatre. Just behind, Intersection is a fine example of American artist Richard Serra’s rusting walk-in sculptures.

Marktplatz and around

Shop-lined Gerbergasse and Freiestrasse, as well as a dense network of narrow, sloping medieval alleys such as Schneidergasse (Tailor Street), Sattelgasse (Saddle Street) and Imbergässlein (Ginger Alley), run north from Barfüsserplatz to Marktplatz, the Old Town’s other main square, crowded every morning with fruit-and-veg stalls.

Lighting up the broad rectangular space with a splash of eye-catching colour is the elaborate scarlet facade of the Rathaus (Town Hall), its central arcaded section sixteenth-century, the tower and side annexe both late nineteenth-century. Feel free to wander into the frescoed interior courtyard.

On the north/east bank of the Rhine is down-to-earth Kleinbasel (Lesser Basel), more residential and less historical than its neighbour, with some laidback nightlife around Claraplatz diluting the weighty presence of the giant Messe conference centre nearby. 

Basel's modern Messe building © Ververidis Vasilis/Shutterstock

Basel thrives on the conference and convention trade: the Messe in Kleinbasel is Switzerland’s largest exhibition centre, and attendees of major events often fill all accommodation in the city (and most in neighbouring cities too).

As a result, reserving ahead is strongly advised. Basel’s hoteliers tend to focus more on providing comforting extras, such as minibars and big-screen cable TV, than on character. You’ll also find prices hiked during the week and/or while a big trade fair is on.

All hotels, hostels and guesthouses offer overnight guests a free BaselCard with an integrated Mobility Ticket, covering city transport .

Best hotels in Basel

• Best for weekend-break luxury: Teufelhof . An outstanding boutique hotel in the heart of the city centre. The prestigious “Kunsthotel” section has eight rooms, redecorated every two or three years by a different artist.
• Best for big occasions: Trois Rois . Founded in 1681, this is one of the oldest and grandest hotels in Europe. Its roll call of guests includes most of the crowned heads of Europe, plus figures like Napoleon, Dickens, Wagner and Picasso.
• Best for couples: Au Violon . Once a convent, then a police station and a women’s prison, this is now beautifully renovated to offer cosy rooms above a quiet courtyard. It’s set on a small hill above Barfűsserplatz.

Medieval majesty in Barfüsserplatz, downtown Basel © Urban Napflin/Shutterstock

Best hostel in Basel

• Best for budget travellers: Jugendherberge Basel . A 15min walk some 200m south of the wooden bridge, this relaxed hostel is housed in converted stables with a leafy riverside setting. .

Discover more of the best places to stay in Basel .

Drawing influences from the cuisines of France and Germany into its native Swiss culinary tradition, Basel deftly manages to sit on the fence as far as eating and drinking go.

Beer and sausages is the snack of choice, but it’s equally possible to find venues in which to savour classic French cuisine.

If the city could be said to have a local speciality, it’s salmon (originally plucked from the Rhine but these days more likely to be imported) marinated in the fruity local white wine and topped with fried onions.

If food and drink is your thing, book a self-guided, food-themed tour of Basel , or a craft beer tour .

Spice up your life with a traditional Basler Läckerli biscuit from Läckerli Huus, Basel © sidefin/Shutterstock

Best restaurants in Basel

• Gifthüttli : a great place for traditional local cooking (even the menu is in Basel dialect), whether in the pub-style Beiz, or the more formal restaurant upstairs. They specialize in cordon bleus – slabs of cheese-slathered meat.
• Stucki : one of Switzerland’s best-known restaurants, awarded two Michelin stars for its classic style and chef Tanja Grandits’ inventive “aroma kitchen”, which consists of blending multiple tastes and textures.
• Teufelhof : this gourmet restaurant attached to a trendy design hotel serves food of impeccable quality, though the cuisine is like the art: avant-garde. A constantly changing menu marries diverse flavours and styles.

Best cafés in Basel

• Unternehmen Mitte : housed in a former bank, this atmospheric café-bar is dominated by its high-ceilinged central hall. The terrace is perfect for people-watching.
• Zum Isaak : one of the few cafés near the Münster, this is a great place to sit down for a coffee or beer and admire the view of the cathedral or seek some shade on the leafy courtyard terrace.
• Café Frühling : hip local hangout that's big on coffee. Mishmash furniture and a relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to kick back and enjoy a latte on the terrace or indoors.

Best bars in Basel

• Bird’s Eye : this former prison gym in the heart of the Old Town has been successfully converted into a great venue for live jazz and/or jazz DJ-ing.
• Voltabräu : trendy brewpub in a converted electrical substation with a spacious interior and urban beer garden. The excellent homebrew comes in three varieties, and snack offerings include a first-rate pulled pork sandwich.
• Bar Rouge : an after-work bar and nighttime club on the 31st floor of Switzerland’s tallest inhabited building, the Messeturm. It has its own street entrance and lifts, round the side of the Ramada Plaza hotel.

Basel's Messeturm is home to one of the best bars in Basel © lichtmaster/Shutterstock

Basel’s main draw is its burgeoning theatre scene — universally in German — while classical music is also a strong point.

Best entertainment venues in Basel

• Baseldytschi Bihni : this legendary Basel theatre provides an entertaining evening of drama in the local dialect. Productions are usually directed by professionals with amateur actors.
• Musik-Akademie : a famous music school with an international reputation, this venue covers everything from traditional classical to modern jazz.
• Stadtcasino : a regular venue for both the Basel Symphony and Chamber orchestras, this central concert hall also attracts big-name classical performers.

Basel's Stadtcasino concert hall is one of Basel's best entertainment venues © Urban Napflin/Shutterstock

Getting around Basel by tram

Basel’s public transport, run by BVB , focuses on trams, virtually all of which pass through Barfüsserplatz. Swiss Pass holders travel free; otherwise, choose between a short-journey ticket, a multi-use ticket or a day ticket. Ticket machines take Swiss coins and euros, but rarely notes.

Getting around Basel by ferry

There are three city-centre bridges, but a more fun way to cross the Rhine is on one of the traditional cable-ferries . The most useful, from north to south, are the Vogel Gryff, or Klingentalfähre; the Leu, or Münsterfähre; and the Wild Maa, or St Alban-Fähre. All three run continuously during the day, with restricted hours in winter.

Getting around Basel by taxi

Basel’s taxis are ferociously expensive. The 33er Taxi is as good a choice as any.

Basel's port area © Swiss Tourism

Vitra Design Museum and Schaudepot

Across the border in Germany, 10km north of Basel, is the small town of Weil-am-Rhein, location of Vitra, a famous design company that collaborates with top international designers to produce office and home furniture, and whose premises – on an out-of-town greenfield site – are the work of some of the world’s leading contemporary architects.

Augusta Raurica

In its heyday, Augusta Raurica , a Roman Rhineside provincial capital 20km east of Basel near the modern village of Kaiseraugst, was home to twenty thousand people. These days it comprises the largest set of Roman ruins in Switzerland. Two or three slow boats run each day (May–Oct) from Basel to Kaiseraugst, then it's a 15-min walk.

Visiting the Augusta Raurica Roman amphitheatre is one of the best excursions from Basel © Stefano Ember/Shutterstock

A pleasant, relaxing spa town on the River Limmat, 24km downstream from Zürich in Canton Aargau, Baden makes for a good stopover on a journey across the north of the country. People have been coming to Baden for centuries to sit around doing very little, and there are few more congenial towns in the country in which to follow suit.

Walk the Jura Höhenweg

The Jura Höhenweg (or High Route) makes for a multiday hiking tour through a region unlike any other in Switzerland, stretching 299km along the length of the Swiss Jura from Dielsdorf, 12km east of Baden, to Borex near Geneva. End to end it takes about fourteen days — you can often find yourself walking for long distances without seeing signs of habitation.

The Jura mountains in Switzerland's Basel canton © Psimus/Shutterstock

Into the idea of exploring further afield? Read up on the  best outdoor experiences in Switzerland .

If you feel inspired by this Basel travel guide, The Rough Guide to Switzerland and our tips on  things not to miss in Switzerland  will help you plan your Basel vacation — think of them as your personal travel guide to Switzerland.

Not a fan of planning? Consider booking a hassle-free tailor-made trip to Switzerland, with customisable itineraries covering everything from  unforgettable highlights of Switzerland , to touring the Grand Circle .

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Historically, Basel's position astride the mighty Rhine has contributed to its growth as a key trade and transport hub. Today, it's a global centre for the pharmaceutical industry – titans Roche and Novartis are both headquartered here. But that's of little interest to the many thousands of art and architecture lovers who visit each year for the world-famous ART Basel festival and the city's wealth of galleries, museums and iconic buildings.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Basel. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Vitra Campus

Showcasing the works of the adjoining, eponymous high-end furniture manufacturer, Vitra Campus comprises the dazzling Vitra Design Museum (of Guggenheim…

Augusta Raurica

About 17km east of Basel, on the Rhine's south bank, Switzerland’s largest Roman ruins are the last remnants of a colony founded in 43 BC, the population…

Fondation Beyeler

This astounding private-turned-public collection, assembled by former art dealers Hildy and Ernst Beyeler, is housed in a long, low, light-filled, open…

Kunstmuseum Basel

Housing the most comprehensive collection of public art in Switzerland, this superb fine arts museum reopened in mid-2016 after updates to the existing…

Museum Jean Tinguely

Designed by leading Ticino architect Mario Botta, this museum showcases the playful, mischievous and downright wacky artistic concoctions of sculptor…

Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel

Adults and kids alike love this fascinating and lovingly curated fantasy land claiming the world’s biggest collection of teddy bears and a slew of…

Begin exploring Basel's delightful medieval Old Town in the Marktplatz, dominated by the astonishingly vivid red facade of the 16th-century Rathaus. From…

One of Basel's most entrancing landmarks, the 16th-century Rathaus takes pride of place on Marktplatz. Its ornate red sandstone facade is smothered in…

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A Guide to the Best Things to do in Basel (2024 Attractions)

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 30th January 2024

Categories Switzerland

Last Updated on 30th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

A traditional Swiss city on the border of France and Germany, Basel (also known as Basle or Bâle in French) , is a beautiful place to visit, filled with plenty of interesting activities. Best known for its art scene, Swiss architecture, and mouth-watering chocolate creations, here’s a guide to the best things to do in Basel , including where to stay and things to know before visiting!

A brief history of Basel, the art capital of Switzerland

#1 visit the basel altstadt (oldtown), #2 admire the rathaus (town hall) and marktplatz, #3 see baseler münster/ basel minster (cathedral), #4 visit the vitra design museum, #5 enjoy art at the kunstmuseum, #6 explore spalentor medieval gate, #7 explore another side of basel at the dollhouse museum, #8 visit st paul’s church.

• #9 Learn something new at the Papiermühle (Basel Paper Mill Museum)

#10 Take a day trip from Basel

#11 visit the basel christmas markets, hyperion hotel basel, hotel basel, hotel brasserie au violon.

• When is the best time to visit Basel?

How to visit Basel

Tips for visiting basel switzerland, what is the population of basel, what are the best free things to do in basel, is basel safe to visit, enjoyed reading about the best things to do in basel pin it now, read it again later:.

Located along the River Rhine, Basel is currently home to around 180,000 residents and is the third most populous city in Switzerland. The two largest cities being the University city of Geneva and the vibrant city of Zurich.

While the city of Basel itself was first attested as late as the 4th-century (as the Roman fort of Basilia) , traces of Romano-Gaul forts in the surrounding area date back much earlier.

Truth be told, the Swiss city didn’t rise to true prominence until the 5th-century when the bishop of Augusta Raurica moved his See to the city. By the mid-15th-century, Pope Pius II had founded the first university in Switzerland in Basel.

So prestigious was this institute of learning, that during the 16th-century, famous Dutch scholar Desiderius Erasmus even taught at the university.

Now, thanks to its location at the beginning of the Swiss Rhineland and close to the border with France and Germany, Basel has since become an important city for foreign trade and banking.

As well as being one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland , those with an interest in culture will be pleased to know that the city has also become an art city of sorts, filled with numerous beautiful museums and galleries.

Best Things to do in Basel Switzerland

One of the very best things to do in Basel is to simply to wander around the city and allow the settlement to reveal itself to you. After all, parts of Basel’s old town date all the way back to the 15th-century and the Altstadt is often said to be one of the prettiest and best-preserved old towns in all of Europe. Best explored on foot, old and new blend beautifully.

Much of the old town is centred around the Rathaus (town hall) and the building itself takes pride of place in Basel’s central square (Marktplatz) .

The Rathaus dates back some five hundred years and it is now where the meetings of the Cantonal Parliament (Switzerland is divided into Cantons and Basel is in the Canton of Basel-Stadt) now take place.

In the heart of the city, Basel’s impressive cathedral is a must-see on any trip. Gothic and imposing, the ecclesiastical building dates back to the 11th-century. Originally a Catholic Church, the Münster is built in a beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Now, the cathedral is the final resting place of several notable figures, including Erasmus. It’s also worth noting that it’s free to enter inside the red sandstone building, making a trip to Basel’s Cathedral one of the best free things to do in Basel.

As quirky on the outside as the designs its holds on the inside, the Vitra Design Museum is located around forty-five minutes from the city centre via public transport.

Dedicated to the research and presentation of design, the building itself was designed by Frank Gehry and hosts two temporary exhibitions annually. You can discover more about how to visit the Basel cultural hub on the Vitra museum website.

As a city well-known for art, it should come as no surprise that one of the very best things to do in Basel is to head to its gigantic art museum. Home to the largest and most significant collection of artworks in Switzerland, the first roots of the museum date back to the Amerbach Cabinet.

This was when the city of Basel purchased numerous works by Hans Holbein for the benefit of the public. And thus, Kunstmuseum is not only one of the most significant collections in Switzerland, but one of the oldest art museums in Europe.

If you’re interested in medieval history, then you simply must head to the Spalentor Medieval Gate, which was once part of the fortified walls that surrounded the city. Today, the tower can be found close to Basel’s old town and can be found if you take the Tram 3, stop Spalentor.

For those who are fascinated with teeny-tiny things, then a trip to the Dollhouse Museum is simply a must on any visit to Basel! A hidden gem of Basel, the Toy Worlds Museum is the largest of its kind in Europe. Home to a collection containing some 6000 exhibits, the Dollhouse is open on a daily basis from Tuesday through to Sunday.

Known as the  Pauluskirche in German, St Paul’s was constructed at the turn of the 20th-century. Featuring several beautiful stained glass windows and Art-Nouveau architecture, the ecclesiastical building also happens to be Basel’s only round church. Nearby, you’ll find some of the best spots to view fall foliage come autumn time.

#9 Learn something new at the Papiermühle ( Basel Paper Mill Museum)

If you want to visit a museum but aren’t particularly interested in dolls or art, then maybe you should consider a trip to the Paper Mill Museum.

Open from Tuesday through to Sunday and also known as the Swiss Museum for Paper, Writing and Printing, this cultural space is dedicated to the art of bookmaking and all things writing-related!

Basel’s prime position on the border of Switzerland, Germany, and France means that a venture into any of the three countries is an easy trip. From the city, it’s possible to see the fairytale towns of Colmar and Lausanne, visit the glittering Lake Geneva, or marvel at one of the many German fortifications and castles which characterise the country.  Read more: Best day trips from Basel.

Those visiting Basel during the winter will be delighted to discover that Basel is home to an annual set of Christmas Markets and festive illuminations. 2024 Christmas Market dates for Basel have not yet been announced. The main Christmas markets will be held at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.

Where to stay in Basel

Thanks to its proximity to the rest of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel makes for the perfect base for exploring the wider region over the course of several days. Here are some accommodation recommendations to make the most of your stay in this pretty Swiss city:

Well-reviewed online, this four-star establishment is located a little walk from the historic city centre. Home to amenities such as a restaurant, 2 bars, and a sauna, rooms and modern and comfortable. Check prices and availability here.

Situated on the fringes of the historic city centre, this four-star hotel boasts amenities such as a brasserie, bar with regular live music, and modern rooms complete with free WiFi and a seasonal restaurant with outdoor seating. Check prices and availability here.

If you like your accommodation to be served with a side of history, then this popular hotel is housed within a former prison. Today, amenities include Free Wi-Fi and laid back rooms. Check prices and availability here.

When is the best time to visit Basel ?

For those who wish to see all of the galleries and enjoy some good weather, Summer is the best time to see the city. However, if you’re looking to enjoy spring blossom or autumn tones, then the European shoulder seasons should be when you go.

Finally, while many miss out on the offseason on account of the bad weather (which is often wet and rainy) , winter in Basel will guarantee lower hotel rates and generally cheaper prices!

Basel is home to an international airport (just be sure to exit into the right country when leaving the terminal and don’t make the mistake I did!) and plenty of train connections to the rest of Switzerland and beyond.

A trip to Basel can easily be combined with a visit to Strasbourg or Colmar. Should you visit in the winter, you’ll be pleased to know that one of the best Christmas markets in Switzerland can be found in Basel.

If you’re planning to visit a number of attractions and museums while in Basel, you might consider purchasing a Basel Card in advance (check prices and further information here) . Like many European cities, Basel is best explored on foot and has plenty of cobbled streets, meaning that comfortable walking shoes are a must.

If you’re looking for a guided tour of the city, then this walking tour through Basel provides the perfect introduction to the art city. Available in English or German, highlights of the guided route include Tinguely Fountain, Cathedral Hill, and an introduction to the history of the city.

While Swiss German is the official language of the city, English is fairly widely spoken, as is French. However, if you do need to know some simple phrases while visiting this art city, then I recommend bringing along a simple German phrase book like this one .

It’s also worth noting that while Switzerland is in Europe, some phone plans will charge extra for using your mobile phone there as Switzerland is not in the EU.

If you’re looking for even more information and inspiration, then be sure to check out our guide to the best-kept secrets of Switzerland . For an idea on where to go and how long to spend there, be sure to check out our guide on ‘ how to spend three days in Switzerland ‘ and ‘ how to spend one week in Switzerland’ .

Frequently asked questions about Basel

As of 2017, the population of Basel was 171,017.

Those visiting Basel on a budget will be pleased to know that there are a number of low cost activities and attractions on offer.

Unfortunately, thanks to Basel’s status as a Swiss city, Basel can be a pretty pricey destination so it’s good to be able to cut costs where you can! Some of the best free things to do in Basel include wandering around the old town (Alstadt) and wandering alongside the River Rhine.

Basel is generally as safe as most other destinations in Europe, though petty crime can still occur. Visitors should be especially wary of pickpockets (which are present all over Europe, particularly in large crowds) . Never leave your valuables lying around or attended. I personally recommend always wearing a crossbody bag like these ones.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Sunday 27th of March 2022

Found this site as I'm planning my upcoming trip to Switzerland. Thanks for the amazing contents and recommendations.

Read in this article that I could travel to France or German from Basel but not too sure how it is like with covid.

I was wondering if there are any restrictions (covid related) to enter France or Germany or even Italy for a short trip from Switzerland. I'm from Singapore and is fully vaccinated. Was hoping you could help or point me at the right websites.

Sophie Nadeau

Tuesday 26th of April 2022

Thank you for your comment. Restrictions are constantly changing so I recommend checking a government source just before your trip like this one: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coming-to-france-your-covid-19-questions-answered/

Best Walking Tours In Basel (Culture, Art & Cobblestones)

Planning a trip to Basel? Switzerland’s third-largest city is nestled on the Rhine River in close proximity to France and Germany. This gives the city a unique identity and makes it a good place to brush up on both your French and German. It’s a lively city with residents who love art, colorful festivals, and food markets.

You’ll see the story of Basel etched into its architecture with buildings like Basel Cathedral, the bright red Rathaus (town hall), and St. Johann’s-Tor, one of three surviving gates to the old walled city built in 1356 shortly after the Great Earthquake.

One of the best ways to experience Basel is on a tour led by a local guide. Find one tailored to you from this list of the best walking tours in Basel.

Table of Contents

Basel Old Town Walking Tour

Get acquainted with Basel on this walking tour of the Old Town. This traditional 2-hour tour is perfect for first-time visitors or for returning ones who want to delve deeper into the history and culture of this city situated in the border triangle of three countries. The tour will take you on a journey through Basel’s past as you stroll the winding streets of the Old Town .

Admire the beauty and meaning of precious landmarks like the Tinguely Fountain, Cathedral Hill, and the Basel town hall. Stories from the past will give you a deeper understanding of Basel — Switzerland’s cultural capital and university city.

Meet your group at Tinguely Fountain near Theater Basel.

Private Walking Tour in Basel with a Local

You’ll almost feel like a resident after this private walking tour with a local guide. Learn the best places to go, where to eat, where to shop, how to get around, and more from a friendly local passionate about their city. The tour will make your stay much more enjoyable as Basel becomes more of a friend and less of a stranger.

Your private tour guide will meet you in the lobby of your accommodation and acquaint you with the neighborhood. Or you can opt to meet at a certain landmark or intersection and go from there. Either way, you’ll feel more comfortable navigating the city on your own as you get insider tips on how best to enjoy your stay.

Express Walk of Basel with a Local

This 1-hour express walking tour is designed to provide visitors with an intense experience in a short amount of time. It’s excellent as an introductory tour or for rediscovering the city. It pulls double duty with an interesting and amusing history and culture narration while discovering the main sights and secret spots in Basel.

You’ll meet your group at St. Albans Tor (St. Alban’s Gate) to begin a sightseeing tour that includes monuments, parks, and historic buildings. You’ll hear the story behind them all and get insider tips for all the best places to eat, drink, and shop while you’re in town.

Basel: Most Photogenic Spots Tour with a Local

See Basel through your camera lens on this 1.5-hour excursion that showcases the city’s most photogenic spots. An informed local will share tips about lighting, angles, and more so you’ll have great photos to share about your trip across all social media sites. At the same time, you’ll hear stories about Basel’s rich history and culture.

Stroll along admiring the city from the Art Museum to the Tinguely Brunner in a small group of 6 or fewer. Keep your eyes open for hidden gems to capture with your camera. Your guide will also share local tips on the best places to eat, drink, and visit in Basel.

Basel: 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour

If you’re a history buff, this is definitely the tour for you. The walk begins at the Marktplatz and takes you on a journey through time past archaeological styles from different time periods. After learning about the city’s most important buildings, you’ll get off the beaten path and discover churches, the historic city hall, and other places with stories to tell.

The highlight of this tour is a walk across the city’s oldest bridge while listening to fascinating stories from your guide.

By keeping groups small, this tour can be customized to your interests. Have your questions ready.

Basel’s Most Insta-Worthy Spots with a Local

This popular Basel walking tour focuses on the picturesque side of the city. Your guide will be a local who will take you to the most impressive places in town to capture Instagram-worthy photos. You’ll get tips on how to get the best shots using your phone or camera while at the same time learning a little history behind the places you will visit.

You’ll take your Instagram account to another level with stunning photos of Basel’s monuments, architecture, the oldest bridge, and the famous Rhine River.

Basel’s Art and Culture revealed by a Local

This 90-minute walking tour led by a local will impress the staunchest art aficionados and culture vultures. The secret is that the city has become an art and culture hot spot known around the world. Returning tourists as well as first-time visitors will discover the city from a unique perspective.

You’ll soak up the culture of the city through its artsy side as you wander the streets admiring street art and stopping by galleries and museums.

The group meets in front of the Tinguely Fountain .

Basel History Tour for Groups

This comprehensive guided history tour takes you from ancient to modern times as you explore the historical buildings and contemporary architecture of this unique city. The 1.5-hour stroll begins at the Tinguely Fountain and follows the winding streets and alleyways of Basel’s Old Town.

You’ll listen to interesting anecdotes from your guide as you stop to admire the Minster, the Red Town Hall, and a former church that now houses the Basel Historical Museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is basel walkable.

Yes, Basel is a pedestrian-friendly city and easily walkable.

What is Basel’s main street called?

Basel’s main street is called Freie Strasse (Free Street.) It’s the street where merchants transported goods duty-free during the Middle Ages.

Are there many things to do in Basel Old Town?

Basel has lots of interesting museums and landmarks to explore, a variety of themed tours to take, and water activities along the Rhine.

Is a walking tour in Basel worth it?

Yes, a walking tour is an inexpensive way to experience all Basel has to offer.

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Art & Culture Travel Blog

Basel travel guide – cultural capital of switzerland.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar
• Switzerland

Creating the Basel Travel Guide is a great challenge. How to present the city with more than two thousand years long history in the same number of words? How to give an overview of museums and art institutions in the Cultural Capital of Switzerland when there is a museum per square kilometre in Basel?

If I needed to describe the Swiss city of Basel in three words, they would be humanist, relaxed and eclectic. That’s Basel. The city has a long history, massive affection for arts and culture, but it’s also a modern architecture and business hub. Probably that great mix of old and new in its appearance, and north and south in its attitude gives the city a great relaxed and laid back vibe.

Basel Travel Guide

Being known as the Cultural Capital of Switzerland, Basel is a beautiful place to visit for anyone interested in art and culture. Wandering around its streets provides a beautiful trip back to history. It’s a walk among the Celtic walls, Roman heritage and some lovely medieval buildings. During a walk around Basel, you’ll stumble on several cultural institutions hosting some world-known art.

However, Basel didn’t get stuck in its history. The city is young and alive. Not only with its fantastic modern buildings that were designed by some of the most famous contemporary international architects. But also by its residents living a Mediterranean lifestyle north of the Alps.

Short Basel History

Basel is an old town with more than two thousand years long history. It was first inhabited by Celts. During the archaeological excavations done a few decades ago, the researchers have found an old Celtic wall. It can still be seen close to the Basel Cathedral today.

When Romans came to that area, they built their military camp on the hill where the Basel Cathedral is located. They established a larger town called Augusta Raurica in its vicinity. By the 7th century, Basel became more important and began the development into a modern city.

⤷ TIP : Augusta Raurica is an archaeological site today located some 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Basel. It could be an excellent day trip location to visit from Basel. Here is a walking tour around it during which you can learn more about that interesting archaeological site.

During the 5th and 6th centuries, the Alemannic and Frankish tribes made their settlements on a site of today’s Basel. At the beginning of the new Millennium, Basel started looking more and more like a typical European medieval town. Around 1100 it got its first city walls.

During the same time, the marketplace in Basel was first mentioned, too. The city has become more important as a trade centre. Mainly because the only bridge over the Rhine River between Constance Lake and the North Sea was located in Basel. It was situated on a location of today’s Middle Bridge and first mentioned in a loan document from 1223.

Basel was ruled by the prince-bishops from the 11th century until 1501, when it joined the Swiss Confederacy as its eleventh canton. Interestingly, it was the only canton that was invited to join and not the other way around. The Confederacy required Basel to stay neutral in case of conflicts between other cantons and serve as a mediator between them.

Basel’s coat of arms is linked to the bishop’s rule of the city. The image of the bishops’ crozier, also known as the ‘Baselstab’, first appeared in the 12th century. It also possibly represented a relic attributed to Saint Germanus of Granfelden. Since 1385, the black version of it represented the city, and the red one the bishop.

In 1356 Basel was hit by a devastating earthquake that destroyed a majority of the city. The cathedral and some other significant buildings were rebuilt after it.

Basel also had an essential role as one of European’s centres of Humanism. It all started with the Council of Basel that was organised in the city between 1431 and 1449. During it, a counter pope Felix V was elected in the Basel Cathedral. A few years later, in 1459, the University of Basel was founded. It’s the oldest university in Switzerland. Erasmus of Rotterdam , Paracelsus, Friedrich Nietzsche and Carl Gustav Jung are just some famous scholars lecturing on it.

Around the same time, apprentices of Johann Gutenberg introduced printing to Basel. The oldest publishing house in the world still in business, the Schwabe Publishing House,  was founded in Basel in 1488.

It soon became one of the European printing centres. Work of Erasmus of Rotterdam, the first edition of John Calvin’s doctrine ( Christianae Religionis Institutio ) from 1536 and the first book on human anatomy from 1543 ( De Humani Corporis Fabrica ) were all printed in Basel.

In 1529 the city became Protestant, following the Iconoclasm during which many churches and their interiors were vandalised. It also became a safe place for religious refugees. This was when many wealthy Protestant families moved to Basel. Many of them got involved in a ribbon colouring business. It later led to the chemical industry appearing in the city, which was a base for today’s huge pharma industry Basel is well-known for.

Those wealthy families became art patrons, commissioning works from artists around the world. Many of them became the bases for the collections at some of the forty museums Basel is home to. It comes with no surprise, the Kunstmuseum Basel, founded in 1661, is the oldest public art collection in Europe.

Throughout centuries Basel continued developing and became the modern, vibrant city it is today. Modern buildings stand next to the old houses, witnessing the long cultural history of the town.

⤷ Read more : History of Travelling

Things to do in Basel

Basel is one of the cities that are best explored by just wandering around them. Most of the city centre is a pedestrian zone, so it’s easy to get around. The true beauty of Basel is not only in the revolutionary contemporary architecture and historic mansions it’s home to, but instead, in details, you can spot on its streets.

Its old town looks as there is a competition for the most gorgeous front doors going on. Not to miss any of these beautiful details, one of the best ways to explore Basel is by just getting lost in its narrow cobbled streets.

However, there are some must-see things in Basel you shouldn’t miss while there. That’s why here is a Basel travel guide with some of the things you shouldn’t miss while in Basel.

1 – Stroll along the Rhine River

Basel lives in a close co-existence with the Rhine River. It connects the city but also offers refreshments during the hot summer days. It’s one of the reasons for the city’s prosperity because the first bridge over the Rhine between today’s Austria and the North Sea was located in Basel. The only cargo port in Switzerland is also found in Basel.

However, Basel is the city that lives next to its river. There are lovely walking promenades on both of its sides. During my time in Basel, I was fascinated with numerous locals sitting on benches along the river, reading books, enjoying the sight or having a drink with their friends.

If you’d like to immerse in that part of the local culture, I’d suggest you sit on one of the benches on the opposite side of the Basel Cathedral and enjoy a wonderful view of the old town in the evening.

⤷ TIP : The most Basely thing you can do while in that Swiss town is to swim in the Rhine River. It’s especially popular to do that on warm summer days. During my stay, we saw many people doing that. A group of designers from Basel invented fun and a handy thing called Wickelfisch . You can put all of your stuff like a towel, wallet and clothes inside it and then use it as an air pillow. You can find Wickelfisch at museums and souvenir shops around the city.

2 – Visit the Tinguely Fountain

*Address : Klostergasse 7, 4051 Basel

Numerous fountains around the city of Basel gives it almost a Meditearranean feel. Besides offering drinkable water to its citizens, they are also beautiful examples of public art located all over the city. A thing that was so amusing to me, and is probably showing a lot of that laid back lifestyle of its residents, is that the people of Basel loves to cool down in them.

One of the days I was there, it was very warm, and I saw so many people just chilling in fountains, almost using them as sort of the public jacuzzies.

Tinguely Fountain is absolutely the most fascinating among them. Built in 1977, the fountain consists of ten machine statues made of iron. Since it is located in front of the city theatre and on a location where the old theatre’s stage once was, they are inspired by that form of art. The statues are in constant movement, almost looking like the actors performing and interacting with each other.

⤷ TIP : Water in the majority of these fountains is drinkable and of exellent quality. So, when in Basel, bring your reusable bottle with you and fill it in with water from these fountains.

3 – Enjoy some of the kinetic art at Tinguely Museum

*Address : Paul Sacher-Anlage 2, 4002 Basel

If you enjoyed the moving statues at this fountain, then a visit to the Tinguely Museum is definitely a must for you. Jean Tinguely (1925 – 1991) was a Swiss artist who was mainly interested in kinetic art. During his career, he was interested in machines, moving art, their sound and the way they move.

Tinguely Museum in Basel is home to the most extensive collection of his work. It’s a great place to see his artwork and learn more about this unique artist, his life and his work. The museum is also quite interactive. Visitors could operate many of these machines themselves, making a museum visit even more fun and entertaining. We spent more than two hours there but could have stayed there much longer.

4 – Visit Basel Cathedral and climb its towers

*Address : Münsterpl. 9, 4051 Basel

Basel Cathedral, also known as Basel Münster, is one of the must-see places in Basel and should find its place in any Basel Travel Guide. It’s located on the site of an old Roman castle, on a little hill above the Rhine River. The earliest sacral building was replaced by the Romanesque church in 1019. The construction began under the Holy Roman Emperor Henry II. To pay him a tribute, statues of him and his wife Kunigunde were placed at the cathedral’s facade.

The Romanesque building was destroyed by the 1356 earthquake and rebuilt in a combination of Romanesque and Gothic style. It’s pretty unique in Switzerland because it was built of red stones and has a roof made of colourful tiles.

The church lost most of its artworks during the Iconoclasm in 1528 and 1529. Numerous important historical people were buried inside it. Visiting some of their graves offers an interesting walk through Basel’s history. The most important is definitely the grave of Erasmus of Rotterdam. During the 16th century, the church was transformed into a Protestant cathedral.

Two cathedral’s towers are called Georgsturm and Martinsturm and are named after the saints of the knights, Saint George and Saint Martin. They are 64.2 and 62.7 metres high. You can climb them and enjoy a fantastic view of Basel, together with its suburbs located in Switzerland, France and Germany.

5 – Visit Fondation Beyeler

*Address : Baselstrasse 101, 4125 Basel

Basel area is home to around forty museums. However, if you’d like to visit only one during your trip to Basel, I’d definitely suggest you a Fondation Beyeler . It started as a private collection of Hildy and Ernst Beyeler and was first exhibited in its entirety in 1989.

That triggered the idea of building the museum and displaying the collection permanently there. Its owners commissioned one of the best architects of that time, Renzo Piano, to design a museum, connecting its architecture with the beautiful nature surrounding it. The museum Fondation Beyeler was opened in 1997.

Highlights of the collection are works of Van Gogh , Picasso, Monet, Paul Klee and many other modern and contemporary artists. The compact collection offers an excellent overview of modern art, and you can see everything in around two hours.

⤷ TIP : A tram stop is located in front of the museum, so you can easily visit it by public transport from Basel.

6 – Taste Basel: Leckerli cookies

*Address : Jakob’s Basler Leckerly, St. Johanns-Vorstadt 47, 4056 Basel

A perfect way to enjoy a new city is by exploring it with all of your senses. Basel is home to numerous excellent restaurants, and wherever we ate, the food was delicious. Some of the restaurants I’d definitely recommend are Nomad Eatery , Restaurant Kunsthalle and Gifthüttli , for some traditional Swiss cuisine.

However, a really nice Swiss product that could also be taken home as a souvenir from Basel is Basler Leckerli. It’s a spiced cookie made of honey, almonds, lemon and orange. It was first made by Basel spice merchants during the 15th century. Its name in German means small delicious cookies.

⤷ TIP : You’ll find a few specialised stores in Basel selling Leckerli cookies. I bought mine at Jakob’s Basler Leckerly that has had a long tradition of producing these cookies since 1753. They make different varieties of these sweets, so I’m definitely recommending a visit to their shop in Basel.

7 – Cross the river on one of the ferries

*Address : Rhine River, city centre

A very unique means of transport in Basel are its ferries. They won’t be that special if they haven’t been using the natural power of the river’s current to move. There is no mechanical engine giving them power. That also means if the current is strong, you’ll quickly get to the other side. And the other way around.

There are four locations of the ferry in Basel, connecting the two banks of Kleinbasel and Grossbasel. They even have the names ‘Wilde Maa’, ‘Leu’, ‘Vogel Gryff’ and ‘Ueli’.

8 – Explore the Kunstmuseum Basel

*Address : St. Alban-Graben 16, 4051 Basel

Kunstmuseum Basel is an art museum that’s home to a massive collection of art (primarily paintings, drawings, graphics and statues). With its fantastic collection of Renaissance paintings, Dutch Golden Age art, Picasso’s, Van Gogh’s and Impressionists’ paintings, it’s definitely one of the top European museums.

It’s also quite interesting because it’s the first public collection not only in Switzerland but in the whole of Europe (and probably in the world). Founded all the way back in 1661, it witnesses the long tradition of art patrons, collectors and overall the love towards the art in Basel.

Its collection is vast and displayed in three different locations in the city, so be sure to choose the art pieces you’d like to see and plan your visit in advance.

⤷ TIP : The museum is home to a lovely restaurant that could be a nice place for a lunch break. I especially loved their desserts (mango cheesecake was just fantastic).

9 – Wander around the Basel Old Town

*Address : Basel Old Town

Basel is known around the world for its fantastic modern architecture. However, it’s also home to a beautiful Old Town with houses dating back to Middle Ages, Renaissance and Baroque times.

Many of them have characteristic wooden beams, unusual gables and wall paintings on them. The whole area of Basel Old Town is urbanistically attractive because it consists of numerous winding cobbled streets.

The combination of those old houses with street art is something I especially enjoyed during my trip to Basel. It shows how the city lived for centuries and was developing and growing throughout that time.

⤷ TIP : Basel Old Town is also a nice place for shopping. Many local stores selling some good quality souvenirs, Leckerli cookies, local art, design and clothes are located there.

10 – Join some of the walking tours in Basel

It’s something I always vouch for when travelling. Exploring the city on a guided tour makes such a difference. You get to learn a bit about its history, interesting local facts and get a glimpse into local culture. You can also hear a bit of a local language and an accent.

I went on a tour around the Basel Old Town and really enjoyed learning so much about that fantastic city. But, there are more lovely tours during which you can get better acquainted with that city. A self-guided food tour , private architectural walking tour or this Basel tour lead by professional actors could be a great choice, too.

Some extra tips for visiting Basel

⤷ Where to stay in Basel – I stayed at Hotel Au Violon and loved it. It’s centrally located, so we went everywhere on foot. The hotel is located in a former prison, and it has a great historical vibe. But, it also has a fantastic restaurant, and our breakfast was delicious. However, with public transport being really great in Basel, I believe anywhere within its reach would be a great area to stay in.

⤷ How to get around – Basel has an extensive tram net that’s easy to use. All the hotels in Basel are providing their guests with Basel Cards. With it, you have free public transport and a discount on many sights in Basel.

Basel is a wonderful city to visit for any art and culture enthusiast. If you enjoy exploring museums, learning about local history, visiting great restaurants and immersing in a laid back lifestyle, then Basel is a city for you. I hope this Basel Travel Guide will make your visit to the Cultural Capital of Switzerland even more enjoyable.

If you’d like to see more Basel photos and videos, check out my Instagram highlight Basel on a link here . Watch my video about museums in Basel below:

*Many thanks to Basel Tourismus for organising a fantastic press trip for me. I had a great time and enjoyed exploring that beautiful city and preparing this Basel Travel Guide for you. However, as always, all opinions are my own.

*This post contains some affiliate links

Basel , Basel Travel Guide , Switzerland

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• Switzerland

Basel blog — The fullest Basel travel guide for first-timers

Switzerland’s Basel is a city of gentle and peaceful beauty, however, if you take a closer look, you will discover that Basel is also a very multicultural and creative place. And it is the blend of gentle beauty mixed with a bit of personality that makes Basel an interesting place for visitors to explore and admire. Join us to find out what’s special about Basel tourism! So, is Basel worth visiting, what to do in Basel and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Basel for the first-time? Let’s check out our Basel blog (Basel travel blog) with the fullest Basel travel guide (Basel guide, guide to Basel, Basel city guide) from how to get to Basel, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Basel to find out the answer!

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Basel is also sometimes called the flower by the poetic Rhine, this is the second longest river in Europe rooting in the Alps. The Rhine River divides the city into two parts, one side is the old town – a long-standing commercial center, quaint architectures, museums, and the other side focuses on modern architecture, restaurants, bars, exhibition areas, galleries. Along the city, there are 4 bridges spanning the Rhine, the most famous of which is the oldest Mittlere Brucke bridge in Basel (dating over 800 years old), which plays the role of connecting the two parts of the city.

During your journey to Switzerland, if you have the opportunity to visit a few places including Basel, take a day or two to go and fully experience the beauty of natural scenery, architecture, culture of this city, you will find a lot of worth things to do while in Basel.

Basel blog: Overview of Basel

Basel is a beautiful city located in the northwest of Switzerland by the poetic Rhine river. With a population of more than 560,000 people, Basel is ranked as the third largest city in Switzerland and plays an extremely important role in Switzerland’s industry and chemicals. Not only that, but Basel is also a great tourist destination of Switzerland. Coming to the city of Basel, visitors will discover a quaint but modern city as well with many big museums, zoo, beautiful churches and especially will enjoy a lot of delectable food.

Basel is the Switzerland’s second largest economic center, after Zurich. Basel has two key economic sectors: Banking and pharmaceuticals. Almost all of the world’s major pharmaceutical giants have their headquarters in Basel.

It is located where the borders of Switzerland, France and Germany meet. The city also has suburbs in France and Germany.

The city of Basel also has a very special location when it is located right at the junction of the Swiss – French – German border. From Basel, you can walk to Germany, or take a train to cross the river to reach France, or vice versa. So during a trip to Europe, some tourists often arrange an itinerary to be able to visit these three beautiful countries together.

In Basel, the common language is German, in addition, English is also used here to communicate with tourists.

Although it has a small population, it is a city of knowledge when it comes to Switzerland’s oldest university, many exhibition areas, six major museums, and many great theatres. In addition, the city of Basel also plays an important role in the Swiss economy as it develops a strong industrial and chemical industry. Indeed, Basel is an extremely developed city, both in terms of economy, culture and knowledge, art, promising this is the “Switzerland destination” attracting a large number of tourists to visit.

For peace-loving sportsmen, Basel is the birthplace of Roger Federer, Federer is Switzerland’s greatest pride in talent, will and morality.

For collectors and traders of high-end fashion items (jewelry and watches), the annual watch fair in Basel is a highlight that few people do not know. The watch enthusiast flock to Basel to see latest models, place orders, and brainstorm high-end watch collections here. Because of the class, to attend to this fair, you hardly have to spend money to buy tickets, but you also need an invitation card and background to participate in. This is also the meeting place of people with millions of money.

For a tourist who likes to explore culture, Basel brings the traditional beauty of architecture and culture between Switzerland and Germany – a cross between traditional and modern beauty.

When to visit?

Thanks to the protection of the River Rhine, the climate of the city of Basel is quite mild, sunny and less foggy in the summer. The average annual temperature in Basel is only up to 10.5ºC, in which the coldest month is January with a temperature of 1.6ºC and the month with the highest temperature of 19.7ºC falls in July.

The average annual rainfall here is only about 842 mm, this climate feature has created favorable conditions for exotic plants and trees to thrive.

And the best time to visit here is in the summer. In the summer, the weather in Basel is not too hot, little rain, dry, very suitable for journeys to discover famous tourist attractions in Basel. Not only that, summer in Basel is also the season of exciting festivals.

For the Swiss, Basel is characterized by the traditional Carnival. The special thing about this city’s festival is not in aristocratic costumes or mysterious masks like in Venice but the parade time. From 4 a.m., when the sun has not yet risen, the whole people of Basel have woken up, all the lights in the street are turned off and the impressive parade drums begin to resound throughout the city (if you want to participate in this event). To participate in this unique festival, you should come to Basel around the end of February or the beginning of March every year).

Basel travel guide: How to get to Basel?

Whether by air, rail or road, traveling to Basel is also easy.

EuroAirport is the closest airport to Basel, only about 3.5 km (15 minutes by car) from the city center. One thing that you may not know, EuroAirport is an airport located entirely on French territory but operated by both France and Switzerland because it is located right near the border of France, Switzerland and Germany. The full name of this airport is EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (combined from the names of 3 border cities of Switzerland, France and Germany).

High-speed trains: Train stations connect Basel with other cities across Switzerland and Europe. There are quite a few trains to Basel such as: TGV Paris Gare de Lyon – Zurich stops in Basel, TGV from Gare d’Est or from Charles De Gaulle airport also runs to Basel but has to change trains in Strasbourg.

Flixbus or Euroline also running to Switzerland and will stop at Basel as a mandatory stop after crossing the border.

By self-driving car

It doesn’t matter when the roads here are very open and flat, almost all hotels have their own parking lots. Traveling by private car is easy as long as you have the necessary documents, you can completely drive yourself to travel around Europe easily.

On foot (Basel travel guide)

It can be an economical option depending on your destination, no matter when you are already close to the French-German-Swiss border.

Basel guide: Transportation in Basel

Basel is a city that is not too big if not too small, enough that you can walk around the city just by walking. In case you need to travel by public transport, you can use tram, train or bus, some vehicles operating up to 20/24 hours.

In particular, at each station there is always a countdown timer so you can keep track of how long it takes for the next ride to appear, these clocks are accurate to every second so you can you can rest assured to use them.

Note: There are ticket vending machines at bus stations, you need to buy this ticket before each time you get on the bus. Although, there is no need to present the ticket for the driver or the ticket validator to check, but if you do not buy it and are detected, you will be fined with a fine of up to 60 CHF (around $62.30) instead of buy tickets only 2.2 CHF (about 2.28).

The cost of traveling in Basel is also among the most expensive cities in Europe. Therefore, you should book train tickets in advance to get a cheaper price.

The perfect way to get around Basel in particular of in Switzerland in general is buy Swiss Travel Pass. With this pass you can traveling with any vehicle through Switzerland, you can see more and buy it here.

Trains in Basel: InterCity (IC) / InterCity Neigezug (ICN) / InterRegio (IR) / EuroCity (EC) / Bernina Express (BEX) / Glacier Express (GEX) / RegioExpress (RE) / RegioExpress (RE) / InterRegio (IR).

Night trains: CNL 478 Zürich – Hamburg / EN 415 Zürich – Belgrade / EN 40467 Zürich – Budapest / NJ 467 Zürich – Vienna.

Basel travel blog: Where to stay in Basel?

There are countless lovely hotels in Basel, both in the city center and in the suburbs, and here are your top picks:

Luxury: SET Hotel.Residence by Teufelhof Basel, 4-star hotel (€150-180/night) is located right in the city center. This bright, airy hotel is a great place to rest and unwind after a day of exploring the city. See reviews on Agoda or Booking .

Mid-range: East-West Riverside Hotel (3-star hotel) (€105-125/night) is located on the waterfront with a view of Middle Bridge. This hotel is a great place to stay as it is quite close to most of the main attractions in the city with only a few minutes walk. See reviews on Agoda or Booking .

Budget: Ibis Budget Hotel Basel (1-star hotel) (€50-80/night), cheap, clean and cheerful, 1.5km from the city center and a great place to stay if you want to save your budget Books are spent on sightseeing, enjoying food rather than spending on accommodation. See reviews on Agoda or Booking .

Basel blog: Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• GAIA Hotel Basel ( Agoda or Booking )
• Hotel Basel ( Agoda or Booking )
• Hyve ( Agoda or Booking )
• Hyperion Hotel Basel  ( Agoda or Booking )
• The Passage ( Agoda or Booking )
• Steinenschanze Stadthotel ( Agoda or Booking )
• Der Teufelhof Basel ( Agoda or Booking )

Check out more top & best hotels in Basel on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Basel blog: Where to go, what to do in Basel?

Explore the poetic rhine river.

The first thing to do that you should visit when coming to Basel is the poetic Rhine river. The Rhine River plays a particularly important role in the lives of the people of Basel. Walking on the riverbank, looking at this peaceful river, you will see boats running slowly on the river, on both sides of the river, you will see houses lying close to each other. It is a very peaceful and romantic scene indeed. Watching the sunset on the banks of the Rhine is an extremely romantic and worth thing to try if you have time.

Watching the sunset on the banks of the Rhine is an extremely romantic and sweet thing that you should try once in your life.

The Old Town of Basel is located on the West side of the Rhine where there are so many beautiful street corners with poetic cobbled streets that you will want to spend hours wandering on them. Here you will find houses with distinctive Gothic and Renaissance architecture, completely different from the architecture of other cities in Switzerland. In the old town, there are two places that you must visit: the Rathaus town hall and the Basel cathedral.

The Rathaus town hall was built in 1501 to celebrate Basel’s accession to the Swiss confederation. This building stands out in the middle of the old town square with its striking and distinctive red paint. The inside of the building is decorated with many symbolic drawings of law and politics, and intricately carved statues.

If the old town is the soul of Basel, then the old church of Basel, the ancient cathedral located near the banks of the Rhine River is the soul of the old town.

The thing to know is not be too surprised by what you will see here. Take an around walk or join a guided tour to learn about the history of this old town.

Visit the Rathaus town hall right in the central square, built to symbolize the event Basel joined the Swiss Confederation in 1501.

Dreilaendereck Border Triangle

Those who have a lot of time, want to learn and admire the European border can take tram number 6 or number 8, to the terminus in Kleinhuningen, then walk to the a tri-country point landmark called Dreiländereck to take pictures. Standing here, you will see that this side is the Swiss port area, the other side is the French countryside and far away from the tall German buildings, very open and interesting.

Basel Cathedral (Basel Minster)

Address: Münsterpl. 9, 4051 Basel, Switzerland Hours: 10AM–5PM

Basel Cathedral was built between 1019 and 1500 in Romanesque and Gothic styles. The church stands out with the extremely elaborately sculpted and built gate. The church is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm on weekdays, so please arrange your time and come as early as possible.

Address: Binningerstrasse 40, 4054 Basel, Switzerland Hours: 8AM–6PM

It is the oldest and largest zoo (by number of animals) in Switzerland. If you are a nature lover, love animals, then visit Basel Zoo. To enter this zoo, you will have to pay a fee of around 21 CHF. The zoo is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to welcome visitors.

Attend Basler Herbstmesse (Autumn Fair)

This fair takes place in October and features rides, walks, alley shots and plenty of food at several locations in the city. Places include Messeplatz (the largest with the most attractions, with rollercoasters and alike), Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz (where you get nice views from the Ferris wheel).

Visit the Tinguely Museum

Address: Paul Sacher-Anlage 2, 4002 Basel, Switzerland Hours: 11AM–6PM/Monday: Closed

This museum features sculptures by Jean Tinguely, a Swiss artist. There are a lot of strange sculptures here so if you are into exotic art, this is the place for you. The museum is open daily (except Mondays) from 11am to 6pm. Admission is 18 CHF.

Located on the banks of the Rhine, with one side of the highway connecting Basel to Geneva and the other side of the Solitute park, Jean Tinguely has maximum compatibility with its surroundings. Although the museum’s architecture is a square block, there is very little iron in this work and especially the museum is very harmonious with the poetic old trees of the park next door. The people of Basel often joke that the Tinguely museum is the work of a friendship between an architect and a painter.

Walk through Tierpark Lange Erlen

Address: Erlenparkweg 110, 4058 Basel, Switzerland Hours: 8AM–6PM

Walk through Tierpark Lange Erlen, a large park that contains the inside of a zoo that is completely free to visit.

Fine Arts Museum Basel (Kunstmuseum Basel)

Address: St. Alban-Graben 16, 4051 Basel, Switzerland Hours: 10AM–6PM/Monday: Closed

One of Basel’s most famous museums, it is home to art collections of 19th and 20th century, including a Picasso gallery. Admission is CHF 16 and admission is free for select collections from 5pm to 6pm every day except Thursdays and Sundays. The museum is closed on Mondays.

In addition, you can also visit some other museums when traveling to Basel such as: Swiss Architecture Museum, Museum of Cultures, Basel Paper Mill Museum…

The Basel Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday. It’s a good idea to buy some fresh local vegetables early on (to save money on meals), flowers, and specialty items. The market is always something to see and this is no exception.

University of Basel

In addition, Basel is also known as a university city, home to the oldest University of Basel in Switzerland, founded in 1460. This school has a long history of academic achievement, teaching and research, among the best universities in the world. The University of Basel has produced nine Nobel laureates and two Swiss presidents.

Attend the Basler Fasnacht

Summer in Basel is the season of festivals. One of the most famous festivals in Basel is the Baslar Fasnacht carnival. This is a very special street carnival lasting for about 3 days and nights. Attending this event, you will enjoy countless delicious food, dance along with music…

This is one of the most unique Swiss event. The carnival is held annually in February – March in Basel, the parade team can be up to 10,000 people, they wear colorful costumes, wear funny masks and parade around the streets the vibrant sound of drums and trumpets.

What to eat in Basel?

You will never be short of great food and drink options in Basel! There are many fancy restaurants and cafes along the river near the Mittlere Brücke bridge.

However, the prices at restaurants are very expensive, especially drinks such as wine, even more expensive. You can save money by eating street food, which is quite delicious but also more affordable.

Some Basel specialties, Swiss cuisine that you should try are:

Baseler Läckerli: A mouthwatering biscuit made with ingredients such as cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, honey, nutmeg, almonds, and Kirsch cherries. You can find Baseler Läckerli in any bakery and supermarket in Basel.

Basler Mehlsuppe: A flour soup made from beef, brown flour, onions, topped with grated cheese, often appearing during the Basel carnival of Fasnacht.

Breads like Schlumbergerli, Brot, Fastenwähe, Hefegugelhopf, Schoggiweggli, Brunsli… will also make you fall in love.

Notes when eating in Basel

• You should eat street food: The street food in Basel is quite delectable and attractive along with the price is also very cheap, only about 3 to 5 CHF for a snack.
• Absolutely should not eat beef: In Basel, beef is very expensive, so you should eat a lot of vegetables or chicken, don’t eat beef if your budget is limit.
• Lunch at a cafe: A lunch at a cafe only costs you 10-19 CHF but if you have lunch at a Chinese, Indian, Thai restaurants… the price is much more expensive.
• Remember to bring a reusable water bottle: Drinking water in Basel is also quite expensive, so remember to bring a water bottle with a reusable water bottle because the water here is so clean you can drink from the tap.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Basel you can refer to

• Walking Tour through Basel Old Town
• Swiss Travel Pass: Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat
• Basel History Tour for Groups
• Basel: Self-Guided Food Tour
• Basel: Nighttime Walking Tour in German
• Welcome to Basel: Private Tour with a Local

Read more Switzerland guide here .

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