What to Do, Where to Stay, and What to Eat in Basel, Switzerland

What to Do in Basel

Basel is a city that rewards exploration. From its impressive art museums to its picturesque waterways, there's something for everyone.

Kunstmuseum Basel: Art lovers, rejoice! The Kunstmuseum Basel is home to one of the oldest and most important public art collections in Europe. Its highlights include works by Holbein, Picasso, and other masters. Allocate at least a few hours to truly appreciate its vast collection.

Fondation Beyeler: Situated just outside the city center in Riehen, the Fondation Beyeler is a stunning modern and contemporary art museum. The building itself is a work of art, and the collection features pieces by Monet, Cézanne, and Warhol. The beautiful park surrounding the museum provides a tranquil setting to contemplate the art.

Basel Minster (Basler Münster): This iconic landmark, with its distinctive red sandstone and colorful roof tiles, dominates the Basel skyline. Climb the towers for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River. The Minster's history dates back over a thousand years, making it a fascinating historical site.

Tinguely Fountain (Tinguely-Brunnen): Located near the Kunstmuseum, the Tinguely Fountain is a whimsical and interactive sculpture that's sure to delight visitors of all ages. Created by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, the fountain's mechanical sculptures constantly move and spray water, providing a playful and engaging experience.

Rhine River Cruise: No trip to Basel is complete without a cruise on the Rhine River. Enjoy the scenic views of the city, the bridges, and the surrounding countryside. Several companies offer various types of cruises, from short sightseeing tours to longer dinner cruises. You can even swim in the Rhine! Just be aware of the strong currents.

Explore the Old Town (Altstadt): Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of Basel's Old Town, admire the colorful buildings, and discover hidden squares and courtyards. Don't miss the Marktplatz, home to the Rathaus (City Hall), a stunning example of Renaissance architecture.

Where to Stay in Basel

Basel offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

Luxury: For a luxurious stay, consider Les Trois Rois, one of Europe's oldest city hotels, or Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois. These hotels offer impeccable service, elegant rooms, and stunning views of the Rhine.

Mid-Range: The Hotel Krafft Basel and Hotel Spalentor are excellent mid-range options, offering comfortable accommodations and convenient locations.

Budget-Friendly: For budget-conscious travelers, the Basel Backpack hostel and various guesthouses provide affordable and comfortable lodging. Consider looking for accommodations slightly outside the city center for better deals.

Unique Stays: For a memorable experience, consider staying in a boutique hotel in the Old Town or an apartment rental offering a more local feel.

What to Eat in Basel

Basel's culinary scene is a delightful mix of Swiss traditions and international influences.

Basler Läckerli: These traditional gingerbread cookies are a must-try when visiting Basel. They are made with honey, almonds, and candied fruits. You can find them in most bakeries and confectioneries throughout the city.

Basler Mehlsuppe: A hearty flour soup, typically served during the Basel Carnival (Fasnacht). It's made with roasted flour, beef broth, and grated cheese.

Zwiebelwähe: A savory onion tart, often served as a snack or light lunch.

Mässmogge: Colorful candies filled with hazelnut cream, traditionally sold during the Basel Autumn Fair.

Restaurant Walliserkanne: Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Restaurant Schlüsselzunft: A historic restaurant serving regional dishes with a modern twist.

Markthalle: A vibrant indoor market offering a variety of food stalls, from traditional Swiss fare to international cuisine.

Below is a table summarizing the key aspects of visiting Basel:

Enjoy your trip to beautiful Basel! Remember to check opening hours and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.