Things To Do
in Basel
Basel is a charming city located in northwest Switzerland, on the Rhine River. Known for its rich history, Basel boasts a beautiful Old Town with well-preserved medieval buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. The city is also a hub for culture and art, hosting numerous museums and galleries, including the renowned Art Basel fair.
Basel is a vibrant and lively city, offering a mix of traditional Swiss culture and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $60 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Basel's Old Town. Admire the beautiful architecture and visit the Basel Minster.
Have lunch at a local café and then explore the Tinguely Fountain. Enjoy the whimsical art and take plenty of photos.
Dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant. Try local specialties like fondue or rösti.
Visit the Kunstmuseum Basel, known for its impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces. Spend your morning soaking in creativity.
Next, head to the Fondation Beyeler to see modern classics set in a beautiful park. Enjoy a light lunch in the museum café afterward.
End your day at the Vitra Design Museum in nearby Weil am Rhein. Explore the innovative design exhibits and have dinner at their onsite restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High quality of life and excellent public services
- Rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and events
- Strategic location at the meeting point of Switzerland, France, and Germany
- Strong economy with a focus on pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and finance
- Excellent public transportation system
- Environmental sustainability initiatives and green spaces
- High cost of living, especially in housing and everyday expenses
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Language barrier, as Swiss German is prevalent and not everyone speaks English
- Weather can be quite variable and sometimes rainy
- Some areas can be perceived as quite conservative and less cosmopolitan
Best Activities in Basel
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the picturesque Rhein River, which offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Explore the natural beauty of this park, which features walking trails, a wildlife reserve, and picnic areas perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flora and fauna of the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis ideal for nature enthusiasts and leisurely walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Basel with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Basel
Visit one of these nice places.
The Gothic-style cathedral offers panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River from its towers.
The square surrounding Basel Minster provides a picturesque setting for capturing the cathedral and the old town.
This historic bridge offers stunning views of the Rhine river and the cityscape.
A quirky and artistic fountain designed by Jean Tinguely, offering unique photo opportunities near the Rhine River.
Food in Basel
Basel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Swiss gingerbread cookie made with honey, almonds, Kirsch, and candied peel. It is often found in local bakeries and confectionery shops such as Confiserie Bachmann and Läckerli Huus.
Must-Try!
A Swiss dish consisting of grated potatoes, formed into a flat cake and fried until crisp. It is served as a side dish or as a main course with toppings like cheese, bacon, or fried eggs. Can be savored at traditional Swiss restaurants like Restaurant Kunsthalle or Consum.
A popular Swiss dish where various types of cheese are melted and served in a communal pot over a portable stove. It is usually accompanied by bread cubes for dipping. La Fondue and Walliser Kanne are great places to indulge in this classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Basel better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing a wide array of fresh produce, international delicacies, and local specialties. The market also features food stalls offering delicious street food options like falafel, crepes, and traditional Swiss sausages.
A recurring event where food trucks gather to offer a diverse selection of street food ranging from gourmet burgers and tacos to Asian fusion and vegan delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Basel, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. However, friends and family may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek or a hug.
Punctuality is highly valued in Basel. It is considered respectful to arrive on time for social and business appointments.
Basel residents value their personal space, so it's important to maintain a comfortable distance when conversing. Touching or standing too close may be considered intrusive.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Basel with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Basel
Ensure a smooth experience
In Basel, Switzerland, tipping is generally included in the service charge. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated to leave a small tip as a gesture of gratitude. For restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% of the total amount is customary. Tipping in other service industries such as hotels and taxis is also appreciated but not obligatory.
The most widely accepted form of payment in Basel, Switzerland, is cash, particularly Swiss Francs. However, credit and debit cards are also widely used and accepted. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and transactions. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and many establishments also accept mobile payment options.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Basel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Basel, with flowers blooming and the weather warming up. The city comes alive with outdoor events and festivals, and you can enjoy pleasant temperatures for exploring the city.
Summer is peak tourist season in Basel, with plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities. You can experience the renowned Basel Art Fair and enjoy the lively atmosphere along the Rhine River.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and milder temperatures, making it a great time to visit Basel. You can also experience the city's cultural events and take part in the traditional harvest festivals.
Winter in Basel is festive, with Christmas markets and holiday activities throughout the city. While it can get cold, the charming atmosphere and indoor cultural events make it a magical time to visit.
Basel at Night
Hiking in Basel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination that offers stunning views of Zurich and the surrounding lakes and mountains. The trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for all levels.
Located just a short distance from Basel, Birstal offers several well-marked trails through beautiful countryside and woods. It's a perfect spot for a day hike.
A scenic hiking trail that runs through the beautiful region between Augst and Liestal, featuring picturesque views and diverse landscapes.
A scenic trail that connects the Vitra Campus in Germany to Basel, offering striking paths through nature and an opportunity to explore outdoor art installations.
Crossing the border into Germany, the Forest of Black offers numerous hiking trails that lead through beautiful dense woodlands and provide stunning vistas.
Just outside of Basel, Kaiseraugst features walking paths along the Rhine River, perfect for leisurely hikes with plenty of scenic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Basel through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Basel by plane.
The closest international airport to Basel, located about 6 km north of the city, serving multiple international destinations.
Located approximately 87 km east of Basel, Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland, with extensive global connections.
About 200 km north of Basel, Stuttgart Airport serves international flights and is a key hub in southern Germany.
Part of the EuroAirport facility, serving as a major connecting point for passengers traveling to and from the region.
Located around 300 km northwest of Basel, Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest international airports in Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising individuals who are citizens of Switzerland.
A significant minority group, reflecting historical migration patterns and cultural ties.
Another prominent demographic group, due to proximity and cross-border commuting.
Representing the neighboring region of France, contributing to the multicultural atmosphere.
A notable immigrant group, with a presence in various sectors.
Includes both immigrants and expatriates, contributing to the diversity.
Includes individuals from various other European countries.
Comprising various nationalities, including families and expatriates from countries such as India and China.
A smaller demographic group, including both immigrants and residents.
Includes Arab communities and expatriates from the region.
The Soul of Basel
Discover the essence of Basel through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Basel, with FC Basel being the city's prominent team and a key player in Swiss football.
Ice hockey enjoys a significant following in Basel, with the local team, SC Basel, competing in the Swiss National League.
Handball is a widely played sport in Basel, with several clubs competing at various levels in Switzerland.
Basketball has been growing in popularity in Basel, with several junior leagues and clubs promoting the sport.
Cycling, both recreational and competitive, is popular in Basel due to the city's bike-friendly infrastructure and scenic routes.
Athletics features various track and field events and is practiced by many local clubs and schools in Basel.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Basel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Basel has a blossoming vegetarian and vegan food scene, with many restaurants and cafes offering creative plant-based dishes. Notable venues include Tibits, Haus zum Ruden, and Marktküche.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a range of gluten-free options at various eateries across Basel. Notable mentions are Zum Kuss, Tibits, and Kaffeeroesterei Schnabel.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Basel with these cultural adventures.
