Basel Travel guide
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 quick guide to the best things to do in Basel, including where to stay and day trips from the city!
Recommended stay: 1-2 full days
Population: 171,017 (2017)
Brief History
Located along the River Rhine, Basel is currently home to around 172,000 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, filled with numerous beautiful museums and galleries.
Best time to visit
For those who want to see all of the sights and museums without getting wet 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 (September/ October) 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, less crowds, and generally cheaper prices!
Getting around Basel
In Basel, all transport is free during your stay, and the transport in Basel is really good! When you check-in to your Hotel, Hostel or Airbnb you will be given a ‘Basel Card’.
The Basel Card offers free public transport around Basel, access to free wi-fi in the city and discount to lots of attractions!
catch the number 50 bus outside of the airport terminal to take you into the centre of Basel SBB train station which is the last stop.
How to Get to Basel
Find cheap flights to Basel on Skyscanner! Many times when we have entered ‘Manchester’ to ‘Everywhere’, Basel has come up as one of the cheapest. Go for it!
Basel’s Airport is the EuroAirport which is also for Mulhouse in France and Freiburg in Germany so remember to exit into the Swiss side when you leave.
Don’t let cheap flights make you think that no one else is going to Basel, grab those cheap flights while they are still cheap!
Things to see and do
Visit the Basel Altstadt (Oldtown)
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.
Admire the Rathaus (Town Hall) and Marktplatz
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.
You can enter the town hall (red building below)
Baseler Münster/ Basel Minster (Cathedral)
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.
Head inside, its FREE
Vitra Design Museum
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.
Tickets can be bought here
Spalentor Medieval Gate
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 at Spalentor.
St Paul’s Church
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.
Papiermühle (Basel Paper Mill Museum)
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!
Price: CHF 15 / £12 / $16
For more information click here
Take a day trip from Basel
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.
Free Walking Tour in Basel
Take a walking tour around the Old Town of Basel! Basel offer’s a free walking tour so we would recommend checking this out on your Basel city break!
Walk along the Rhine River
Take a walk along the breathtaking River Rhine!
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Where to stay
Here are some accommodation recommendations to make the most of your stay in this pretty Swiss city:
Hyperion Hotel Basel: Well-reviewed online, this four-star establishment is located a little walk from the historic city centre. The hotel features amenities such as a restaurant, 2 bars, and a sauna, rooms and modern and comfortable. Check prices and availability here.
Hotel Basel: 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.
Hotel Brasserie au Violon: 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.
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Final thoughts
Basel, nestled on the Rhine river, is a cultural hub, foodie haven and river-swimming paradise. Simply, everyone should visit the city at least once.
Other Switzerland Related Guides
Be sure to check out our other exciting guides related to Switzerland:
More photos
We love Basel!! Make sure it’s on your list.
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