You might be surprised to learn that Basel is Switzerland’s third-largest city and a cultural hub that offers a unique blend of historic and contemporary charm. While it may not be as well-known as Geneva or Zurich, Basel is a treasure trove of art, history, and outdoor activities waiting to be explored.
Located at the intersection of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel boasts a multicultural atmosphere that is reflected in its diverse architecture, museums, and dining establishments. As you wander through the city’s medieval Old Town or take a refreshing swim in the Rhine River, you’ll discover why Basel is a must-visit destination for travelers. With plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy, this guide will help you plan your trip and experience the best things Basel has to offer.
Discovering Basel’s Rich Heritage
As you step into Basel, you’re immediately immersed in a world of rich heritage and historical significance. Basel’s history is a fascinating narrative that spans thousands of years, from its Celtic and Roman roots to its current status as a cultural hub.
A Brief History of Basel
Basel’s rich heritage is evident in its historic buildings and cultural landmarks. The city’s history dates back to the Roman times, and it became a significant cultural center in 1460 with the establishment of the University of Basel. The great Basel earthquake of 1356 destroyed much of the city, but it was rebuilt into a thriving center for trade, education, and culture over the years.
The city’s Old Town is a testament to its resilience and cultural significance, with most buildings dating from the 14th century onward. Basel’s unique position at the meeting point of three countries has influenced its development, creating a blend of Swiss, German, and French cultural elements.
Getting Around the City
Getting around Basel is remarkably easy, thanks to its efficient public transportation system of trams and buses that connect all major attractions. As a visitor, you’ll benefit from the complimentary Mobility Ticket provided by Basel hotels, giving you free access to public transport throughout your stay.
The compact nature of the city center makes it perfect for exploring on foot, allowing you to discover hidden gems between the major attractions. With plenty of options for getting around, you’ll find that exploring Basel is a breeze.
Exploring Basel’s Charming Old Town
Discover the charm of Basel’s Old Town, where cobblestone streets and medieval buildings transport you to a bygone era. As you explore this historic district, you’ll find that it’s filled with fascinating landmarks, cultural experiences, and picturesque scenery.
Basel Town Hall (Rathaus)
The Basel Town Hall, or Rathaus, is a 500-year-old beauty built in a Neo-Gothic/Neo-Renaissance style. Its distinctive red sandstone façade and colorful frescoes make it a standout landmark in the Marktplatz. The town hall continues to serve as the seat of government for the Basel canton, blending historical significance with practical purpose.
Marktplatz and Its Vibrant Market
Marktplatz comes alive every weekday with a vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods. This bustling square gives you a genuine taste of daily life in Basel, and the surrounding buildings, with their well-preserved medieval architecture, add to the charm.
The Hoosesagg Museum – World’s Smallest Museum
Don’t miss the Hoosesagg Museum, officially recognized as the world’s smallest museum. This tiny display window in a 600-year-old house regularly rotates its miniature exhibitions, featuring knick-knacks like figurines, sunglasses, and doorbells. It’s a unique and quirky attraction that adds to the character of the Old Town.
As you continue your exploration of Basel’s Old Town, be sure to wander through its charming streets, admire the well-preserved medieval buildings, and visit the remaining city walls and gates, such as the impressive Spalentor gate from the 1400s. The Old Town’s picturesque landscape, built on two hills along the Rhine River, makes it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
Basel Münster Cathedral and Surroundings
Basel’s rich history is epitomized by the stunning Basel Münster Cathedral, a treasure worth discovering. Built between 1019 and 1500, this magnificent structure combines Romanesque and Gothic styles, reflecting the changing artistic sensibilities across centuries.
Climbing the Cathedral Tower
Climbing the 250 steps to the top of the cathedral tower rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city, the winding Rhine River, and on clear days, even the Black Forest and Vosges mountains. The ascent costs CHF 5 per person and cannot be done alone, ensuring a safe experience.
The Pfalz Viewing Terrace
Behind the cathedral lies the Pfalz viewing terrace, a peaceful area offering some of the best views in Basel as you look out over Kleinbasel on the opposite side of the river. On a good day, you can even see the Black Forest and the Vosges, making it a perfect spot to appreciate the city’s strategic location.
The Basel Münster Cathedral stands as a magnificent testament to medieval architecture, taking nearly 500 years to complete. Its distinctive twin towers dominate Basel’s skyline and can be seen from both sides of the Rhine River, serving as an orientation point throughout the city.
Life on the Rhine River
The Rhine River is the lifeblood of Basel, offering a unique blend of relaxation, recreation, and traditional experiences that showcase the city’s character. As you explore Basel, you’ll find that the Rhine is more than just a waterway; it’s an integral part of the city’s identity.
Swimming in the Rhine with a Wickelfisch
One of the best experiences in Basel is joining locals for a swim in the Rhine River, a beloved summer tradition. During warm months, you’ll witness a stream of bobbing heads in the water as people float downstream using the river’s natural current. Every local owns a colorful Wickelfisch, a waterproof bag shaped like a fish that keeps belongings dry while swimming or cycling in the rain.
Traditional Ferry Crossing Experience
The Rhine isn’t just for swimming; it’s the lifeblood of the city, dividing Basel into Grossbasel (the historic side) and Kleinbasel (the right bank), each with its own distinct character. You can experience crossing the Rhine on one of the four traditional reaction ferries, which use no motor or paddles but instead harness the river’s current with a cable system—a method dating back centuries.
From either side of the river, you can enjoy the picturesque views of Basel’s waterfront buildings, including the impressive Les Trois Rois hotel along the Rhine promenade. In warmer weather, the riverbanks transform into social gathering spaces where people picnic, read, or simply watch the world go by.
- Enjoy swimming in the Rhine River, a unique summer activity in Basel.
- Use a Wickelfisch to keep your belongings dry while enjoying water activities.
- Experience the traditional reaction ferry crossing, a historic way to traverse the Rhine.
- Take in the picturesque views of Basel’s waterfront from the riverbanks.
Basel, Switzerland: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for Art Lovers
With nearly 40 museums, Basel is the cultural capital of Switzerland, and art lovers will feel right at home. The city is home to some of the world’s most renowned art institutions, showcasing an impressive array of artistic works.
Kunstmuseum Basel
The Kunstmuseum Basel is one of Switzerland’s most important art institutions, housing an impressive collection spanning from the 14th to 20th centuries. You’ll find significant works by artists such as van Gogh, Gauguin, Cézanne, Picasso, and Léger. Take advantage of free admission times: Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday between 5-6 PM, Wednesdays from 5-8 PM, and every first Sunday of the month.
Foundation Beyeler
Foundation Beyeler, located in a stunning building designed by Renzo Piano, showcases the world-class private collection of Hildy and Ernst Beyeler. The collection includes masterpieces from Monet to Picasso, alongside tribal art from Africa, Oceania, and Alaska. With over 200 pieces of art, this museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Tinguely Museum and Fountain
The Tinguely Museum celebrates Basel-born artist Jean Tinguely’s fascinating kinetic sculptures, featuring moving mechanical artworks that whir, clank, and delight visitors of all ages. Don’t miss the Tinguely Fountain near the theater, where iron sculptures “play” with water in perpetual motion, commemorating the performers who once entertained at the old theater.
Basel’s art scene is further enhanced by the annual Art Basel fair, transforming the city into a global art hub where collectors and enthusiasts gather to view cutting-edge contemporary works. Beyond these major institutions, you’ll find specialized museums covering a range of topics, from paper-making to historical toys.
Unique Experiences in Basel
From standing in three countries at once to exploring the city’s famous fountains, Basel is full of surprises. Visitors can enjoy a range of distinctive experiences that showcase the city’s rich heritage and cultural significance.
Dreiländereck – Standing in Three Countries at Once
One of the most unique things to do in Basel is to visit the Dreiländereck, the only spot in the world where you can stand in three countries simultaneously. A rocket statue marks the intersection between Switzerland, France, and Germany, with the flags of each country painted on its sides. This unique geographical curiosity is about a 20-minute walk from the nearest tram station.
Exploring Basel’s Famous Fountains
Basel is known as the “City of Fountains” with an impressive 231 fountains scattered throughout its streets. Many of these fountains feature the basilisk, the city’s heraldic creature, depicted as a cockerel with dragon wings, a lizard tail, and an eagle beak. The water in these fountains is clean and fresh, making them both practical and decorative elements of the city landscape.
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Dreiländereck | Stand in three countries at once |
| Fountains | Explore 231 fountains featuring the basilisk |
| Urban Art | Discover hidden street art with Artstübli Basel |
Cultural Events and Festivals
You’ll find plenty of cultural events and festivals in Basel, making it a great destination for visitors. The city’s cultural calendar is packed year-round, offering a wide range of opportunities to experience Basel’s vibrant traditions and contemporary arts scene.
Fasnacht – Basel’s Famous Carnival
Basel’s Fasnacht is a unique and fascinating cultural event. It begins precisely at 4 AM on the Monday following Ash Wednesday and continues for three days. The city is plunged into darkness, and approximately 20,000 participants parade through the streets, playing piccolos and drums while carrying elaborate illuminated lanterns. This UNESCO-recognized event is distinctly Protestant in tradition, reflecting Basel’s historical religious identity.
Art Basel and Other Annual Events
Art Basel, held each summer, is a premier international art fair that attracts collectors, artists, and art enthusiasts worldwide. The Basel Tattoo, another significant event, brings military bands and performers from around the globe to the city for spectacular musical performances. Throughout the year, you’ll find numerous other events, from the Roman Festival (Romerfest) in August to Christmas markets that transform the winter landscape.
Day Trips from Basel
With its strategic position, Basel offers easy access to exciting day trip destinations. You can travel to nearby cities in Switzerland, France, and Germany, exploring a variety of cultures and landscapes.
Exploring Nearby Swiss Cities
Within Switzerland, you can travel to Zurich in just one hour by train, where you’ll discover Switzerland’s largest city with its pristine Lake Zurich, historic Lindenhof district, and impressive Grossmunster church. Lucerne, also reachable in about an hour, offers the iconic Chapel Bridge, the moving Lion Monument, and opportunities to visit nearby Mount Pilatus or Rigi for spectacular Alpine views. Bern, Switzerland’s capital, is only 1.5 hours away by train and rewards visitors with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Einstein’s house, and the charming bear pit.
Venturing into France – Colmar and Alsace
Crossing into France, the fairytale town of Colmar in Alsace is less than an hour away, where cobblestone streets, half-timbered buildings, and the picturesque “Little Venice” canal district await. You can explore the region’s famous vineyards and enjoy the local Alsatian cuisine.
Day Trips to Germany – Freiburg and Black Forest
German day trips are equally accessible, with Freiburg im Breisgau offering a well-preserved historic town center and serving as a gateway to the legendary Black Forest region. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, or simply exploring the charming villages and traditional cuisine.
The excellent train connections from Basel’s main station make car-free travel to all these destinations straightforward, with frequent services and comfortable journey times. While the Schengen Agreement means border crossings are typically seamless, non-EU visitors should carry their passports when venturing into France or Germany.
Culinary Experiences in Basel
In Basel, you can experience the best of Swiss cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern twists, all within a charming historical setting. Basel’s culinary scene offers a delightful blend of traditional Swiss fare and international influences, reflecting the city’s position at the crossroads of three countries.
Traditional Swiss Dining at Walliser Kanne
Walliser Kanne stands as one of the most authentic places to experience traditional Swiss cuisine in Basel, serving classics like raclette, fondue, and perfectly prepared schnitzels in a rustic, welcoming setting. The pork schnitzel at Walliser Kanne deserves special mention—thinly pounded, lightly breaded, and served with crispy fries and a lemon wedge for that perfect touch of acidity.
Sweet Treats at Confiserie Bachmann
No culinary tour of Basel would be complete without sampling sweet treats at Confiserie Bachmann, conveniently located opposite the main train station and beloved for their Schoggimakrones (chocolate macaroons). The Basler Läckerli is the city’s signature sweet—a spiced rectangular gingerbread biscuit dating back to the 1400s that makes for both a delicious snack and a perfect edible souvenir.
For a more budget-friendly meal, you can explore the city’s bakeries and cafés like Gilgen Confectionary, where you can enjoy fresh pretzels, salami rolls, and other local specialties. One of the best things about dining in Basel is the opportunity to enjoy your meal along the Rhine—many locals consider grabbing food to eat by the river one of their favorite things to do in the city.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
Outdoor enthusiasts will find Basel to be a haven, with numerous activities that allow you to appreciate the city’s natural beauty. You can cycle along the Rehberger-Weg, a path that connects the Foundation Beyeler in Switzerland with the Vitra Design Museum in Germany, featuring 24 art installations along the way.
Cycling the Rehberger-Weg
Cycling the Rehberger-Weg is a unique experience that takes you across international borders. You can rent e-bikes from Rent a Bike at Basel’s Central Station, making the journey accessible even for casual cyclists.
Basel Zoo – Switzerland’s Oldest Zoo
Basel Zoo, also known as Zolli, is a refreshing green oasis in the middle of the city, featuring over 500 animal species from all continents. The zoo is family-friendly, offering birthday party hosting and special events throughout the year.
During the summer months, locals enjoy “fountain bathing” in Basel’s 231 fountains, using these beautiful water features to cool off. For art and nature combined, explore the grounds of Foundation Beyeler, where the museum’s impressive collection is complemented by beautifully landscaped gardens.
Shopping in Basel
You’ll discover a mix of historic charm and modern retail therapy in Basel’s shopping districts. Basel’s Old Town is home to many unique boutiques and specialty stores that offer a delightful shopping experience.
Spalenberg – Basel’s Best Shopping Street
Spalenberg stands out as Basel’s premier shopping street, where you’ll find charming boutiques and galleries housed within beautifully preserved medieval buildings along cobblestone streets. As you browse the shops on Spalenberg, take time to look up and notice the dates inscribed above many buildings, some dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
Christmas Markets (Winter Season)
During the winter season, Basel transforms with enchanting Christmas markets that rank among Switzerland’s most beautiful and atmospheric. The largest market at Barfüsserplatz features around 140 merchants in decorated wooden chalets selling everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal delicacies. You’ll also find markets at Münsterplatz and Claraplatz, each offering a unique and festive atmosphere in the heart of the old town.
Luxury Experiences in Basel
Basel’s luxury scene is characterized by its historic hotels, fine dining restaurants, and exclusive experiences along the Rhine River. You can indulge in the city’s sophisticated side by visiting some of its most prestigious venues.
Les Trois Rois – One of Europe’s Oldest City Hotels
Les Trois Rois, dating back to 1681, is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels and a prime example of Basel’s luxury hospitality. As you enter the grand lobby, you’re greeted by an impressive chandelier, and the beautiful terrace offers stunning views of the Rhine River. It’s an ideal spot to watch boats and ferries navigate the river.
Fine Dining at Cheval Blanc
For a truly unforgettable culinary experience, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl offers three-Michelin-starred dining within Les Trois Rois hotel. The restaurant masterfully blends French haute cuisine with Asian and Mediterranean flavors, creating dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The elegant dining room overlooks the Rhine River, adding to the refined ambiance.
Where to Stay in Basel
Your stay in Basel can be made memorable with the right hotel choice. When planning your trip to this vibrant city, consider your budget, preferred area, and the type of experience you’re seeking.
For a stylish, central option, consider Art House4051 Basel, a design hotel in the Steinenvorstadt area that offers contemporary rooms with modern amenities. If you’re planning day trips or arriving by train, staying near Basel SBB (station) provides convenient access to transportation.
Budget-conscious travelers can consider staying across the border in Germany, where hotel rates are around half the price of Swiss hotels, with easy tram connections into Basel. Most hotels in Basel provide a complimentary Mobility Ticket, allowing free use of public transport throughout your stay.
Conclusion: Why Basel Should Be on Your Swiss Itinerary
Basel’s distinct multicultural character makes it a fascinating place to visit in Switzerland. As the country’s cultural hub, Basel offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that is hard to find elsewhere.
When planning your Swiss trip, consider adding Basel to your itinerary for a truly authentic experience. With plenty of things to do in Basel, you’ll find that this charming city on the Rhine has something to offer for every interest.
From swimming in the Rhine during summer to experiencing the magic of Fasnacht or sipping mulled wine at Christmas markets, Basel offers plenty of seasonal delights throughout the year. Whether you visit Basel as a standalone destination or as part of a larger Swiss adventure, this city is sure to become one of your favorite places.
