Things To Do
in Allschwil
Allschwil is a quiet town just northwest of Basel, Switzerland, known for its leafy streets and historic houses. Its tree-lined avenues and parks create a relaxed atmosphere while remaining a quick tram ride from Basel’s museums and the Rhine promenade. The town serves as a convenient base for exploring the Basel region, cross-border highlights in France and Germany, and the nearby Jura foothills.
With excellent public transport and welcoming local cafés, Allschwil is a comfortable starting point for both short breaks and longer stays.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Allschwil and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to explore the picturesque village, walking through the quaint streets and admiring the charming Swiss architecture. Stop by a local café for a traditional Swiss breakfast to kickstart your adventure.
Visit the nearby Fondation Fernet-Branca, which showcases contemporary art in a repurposed distillery. Wander through the exhibitions and reflect on the artistic expressions. The surrounding area offers a lovely park where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Dine at a cozy restaurant, sampling regional delicacies such as fondue or raclette. As night falls, take a leisurely stroll through the village, appreciating the illuminated buildings and the enchanting ambiance. End your day with a glass of Swiss wine while enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Take a short tram ride to Basel, a vibrant city just a stone's throw from Allschwil. Start your day by visiting the renowned Kunstmuseum, which houses a rich collection of artworks from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery before your artistic exploration.
Stroll along the Rhine River, soaking in the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the historic Old Town with its stunning landmarks, including the Basel Minster and the Tinguely Fountain. Grab lunch at a local bistro, enjoying authentic Swiss or international cuisine.
Choose to unwind at one of Basel’s lively brasseries or waterfront terraces. Sample traditional dishes while enjoying live local music performances. As the sun sets, the charm of Basel transforms, inviting you to take a twilight walk along the riverbanks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,600-2,400 per month |
| 🛒Groceries per month | $260-520 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $70-100 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent public transport in the Basel region
- Close to cross-border day trips to France and Germany
- High quality of life, safety, and clean surroundings
- Parks, riverside walks, and easy access to nature
- Accommodation can be expensive, especially near Basel
- Allschwil itself is quieter; nightlife and major sights are in Basel city center
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Allschwil
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm river views with reflections and Basel’s skyline, especially during golden hour.
Iconic architecture by Gehry, Libeskind and others; striking modernist photography opportunities.
Classic Basel skyline including the Basel Münster and Town Hall; great for dusk shots over the Rhine.
Food in Allschwil
Allschwil Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Basler gingerbread biscuit spiked with citrus and almonds; best sourced from local bakeries in Basel and Allschwil.
Must-Try!
A warming flour-based soup typically enjoyed in the winter; widely available in Basel’s restaurants during the season.
Crispy Swiss potato pancake served with eggs, onions, or smoked salmon; a common staple in local cafés.
Classic Swiss sausage paired with rösti; a simple, satisfying option in many eateries.
Winter favorites that are also enjoyed year-round in many Basel-area restaurants; great for sharing with friends.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant weekly markets offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, breads, and regional snacks in Basel’s historic squares.
A small local Saturday market with seasonal produce, breads, and regional specialties close to Allschwil.
Cafés and street stalls around Basel offering pretzels, pastries, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Grüezi' in German-speaking areas; use formal 'Sie' with strangers unless invited to use 'du'.
Punctuality is valued; arrive on time for appointments and trains.
Keep voices moderate in public; show consideration in public spaces and on public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Allschwil
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller shops. Contactless payments are common; carry some CHF, and euros may be accepted in border areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; pack a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes for strolls through parks and riverside paths.
Warm days with some rain; enjoy outdoor cafés, riverfront walks, and longer daylight hours.
Pleasant days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic walks and city photography at softer light.
Cold with occasional snow; Christmas markets in Basel and local cafés are highlights; dress in layers.
Allschwil at Night
Hiking in Allschwil
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside route with forested sections and gentle inclines, suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Gentle hills and woodland paths offering views over Basel and the surrounding countryside.
Cross-border options into the Vosges mountains, accessible via day trips from Basel for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Allschwil by plane.
International airport located near Basel; quick connections to Allschwil and Basel via regional trains and trams.
Switzerland’s largest airport; about 1 hour by train to Basel with frequent direct services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Allschwil with good schools, parks, and a safe environment.
Basel attracts international professionals and students; services in multiple languages and international schools are accessible nearby.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone of the region’s sports culture; attending a home match is a popular activity for locals and visitors.
Local and regional leagues are active; indoor arenas host games and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Allschwil.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Swiss menus often include vegetarian options; look for cheese plates, vegetable dishes, rösti, and salads. When in doubt, ask for dishes prepared without meat-based broths or gelatin.