10 Top Sights and Activities to See and Do in Basel, Switzerland

Basel is a beautiful city in northwest Switzerland, situated on the Rhine river. It is known for its distinct culture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning architecture. From historic city tours to museum visits, there are plenty of activities to see and do in Basel. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, here are the ten best sights and activities to experience in Basel.

1. Take a City Tour

Exploring Basel’s old town is the perfect way to get acquainted with the city. Start your tour in the old town and head towards the Basel Minster, where you’ll be able to admire the stunning 15th century architecture. From there, wander through the streets and take in the city’s eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and cafes. You’ll also be able to visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Town Hall and the Grand Casino. To learn about the city’s fascinating history, book a guided walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Book a Basel city tour here.

2. Admire the Kunstmuseum Basel

The Kunstmuseum Basel is one of Switzerland’s premier art museums and home to one of the world’s most important collections of art. Spanning over 2,000 years of art history, the museum’s collection includes works from renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso. With its stunning architecture and impressive artworks, this museum is not to be missed. Book a visit to the Kunstmuseum Basel here.

3. Visit Basel Zoo

Basel Zoo is Switzerland’s largest zoo and home to more than 6,000 animals from over 400 species. Among its many attractions are an aquarium, a rainforest house, a petting zoo, and an African savannah. The zoo also features a number of interactive activities such as feeding giraffes or riding ponies. Whether you’re young or old, Basel Zoo is sure to delight all visitors with its fascinating animal exhibits and fun activities. Book your visit to Basel Zoo here.

4. Relax at Rhine Promenade

One of Basel’s most beloved attractions is the Rhine Promenade, a 4km stretch of parkland along the banks of the Rhine river. Here you can take a leisurely stroll or sit back and enjoy the views of the river. The promenade features several picnic spots and is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. This is the perfect spot for an afternoon of relaxation and sightseeing.

5. Take a River Cruise

Experience Basel from a different perspective by taking a leisurely cruise down the Rhine river. You’ll be able to admire the city’s stunning sights from the water and take in views of nearby villages and forests as you sail downriver. The cruise lasts around two hours and includes commentary from guides who will provide interesting facts about Basel’s history and culture. Book your Basel river cruise here.

6. Explore Marktplatz

Marktplatz is the heart of Basel’s old town and one of its most popular attractions. Here you can admire the city’s ornate architecture and browse its many shops, cafes, and restaurants. Every Saturday morning, Marktplatz plays host to a lively farmers market where you can sample local produce and find unique souvenirs to take home with you.

7. Visit The Tinguely Museum

The Tinguely Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely and houses one of the largest collections of his artworks in Europe. Here you can explore various interactive exhibits that explore Tinguely’s innovative use of technology in his artworks as well as his love of absurdity and humour. The museum also features a variety of special events throughout the year, such as live performances and workshops. Book your visit to The Tinguely Museum here.

8. Visit Basel Cathedral

Basel Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and has been standing since 1185 AD. It is renowned for its stunning Romanesque architecture, featuring intricate carvings, majestic arches, and beautiful stained glass windows that date back to the 13th century. Inside you can admire artwork by renowned artists such as Hans Holbein and Peter Vischer. Visitors can also climb up to the top of the cathedral tower for panoramic views of Basel below. Book a visit to Basel Cathedral here.

9. Take in a Performance at Theater Basel

Theater Basel is one of Switzerland’s premier performing arts venues and hosts an array of theatrical performances throughout the year. From operas and ballets to musicals and plays, there’s something for everyone at this world-class venue. For those looking for an even more unique experience, Theater Basel also offers behind-the-scenes tours where visitors can explore its stunning Baroque interior and learn about its fascinating history. Book tickets for Theater Basel here.

10. Sample Swiss Cuisine

No trip to Basel would be complete without sampling some of its delicious Swiss cuisine. From fondue and raclette to rösti and muesli, there are plenty of dishes to try while you’re in town. Make sure to visit some of Basel’s traditional restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Swiss dishes in a cozy atmosphere. There are also plenty of international restaurants where you can sample cuisine from around the world as well as craft beer bars where you can sample some local brews.

Conclusion

Basel’s unique mix of culture, history, architecture, and cuisine make it one of Switzerland’s most fascinating cities to visit. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there are plenty of sights and attractions to see and do in Basel that are sure to delight all visitors. We hope this list has given you some ideas for your next trip to this stunning Swiss city!