How to plan your Basel City Tour 4 Hours With Private Tour Guide

Are you planning a trip to Switzerland and looking for things to do in Basel? Why not take a private tour with a local guide and explore the city’s hidden gems in just four hours? With this tour, you can skip the hassle of navigating the city streets and trust a local guide to take you to all the best places. Here’s how to plan your Basel city tour with a private tour guide.

Overview of the Basel City Tour

The Basel City Tour is a private tour with a local guide that takes you through the most iconic landmarks and historical locations of the Swiss cultural capital. During this four-hour tour, you will explore both the Kleinbasel district along the Rhine River and the old buildings and narrow alleyways of Grossbasel. Your private guide will show you the Tinguely Fountain and Elisabethenkirche church, and also take you on a ferry crossing of the Rhine, and a bus transfer between points.

What’s Included

The tour provided by Swiss Travel Guide includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, a local guide operated for your party only, and all transportation fees for tram, bus, and ferry. However, it does not include food and drinks or personal expenses during the tour.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour guide will pick you up from your hotel or any other central location in Basel that suits you. The tour starts at 10 am, or you can arrange a different starting time with the guide.

Booking the Tour

To book the tour, simply visit the Viator website and follow the straightforward booking procedure. You can find the tour by clicking on this booking link. Once you have selected the date and time of the tour, you will receive a confirmation email with all the relevant information you need to know about the tour.

Benefits of a Private Tour

One of the main advantages of taking a private tour in Basel is that you can explore the city on your terms as the guide is working solely for your party. Your guide will be fluent in English and take the time to show you all the hidden gems and answer all of your questions. By booking a private tour, you will avoid the difficulty of navigating the city independently and skip the tourist traps to see the city highlights the locals love. Plus, with this tour, you can get inspiration from your guide where to dine and what to do with your remaining time in Basel.

Conclusion

A Basel City Tour with a private guide is an excellent way to explore the city in just four hours. You will see the most iconic landmarks and historical locations of the Swiss cultural capital, and also get inspiration on where to eat and what to do in your remaining time in Basel. Book the tour today and start planning your visit!

Basel: The Frequently Asked Questions

Basel, the cultural capital of Switzerland, exudes charm, elegance, and an unparalleled joie de vivre. From its picturesque old town to its breathtaking museums and galleries, this city has everything to offer to its visitors. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Basel to help you get the most out of your trip.

What is Basel famous for?

Basel is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, which includes world-renowned museums, galleries, and fairs. The city is home to over 40 museums, including the famous Fondation Beyeler and the Kunstmuseum Basel. Basel is also known for its Carnival celebrations, which are one of the biggest and most colorful in Switzerland. The city is also home to some of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, including Novartis and Roche.

How do I get to Basel?

Basel is easily accessible by air, train, or car. EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg is the closest airport and is served by major airlines from all over Europe. The airport is located just 4 km from the city center and is easily accessible by public transport. Basel is also well-connected by train, with regular international services from major cities such as Paris, Munich, and Milan. If you prefer driving, the city is located at the intersection of major highways in Switzerland, Germany, and France.

What is the best time to visit Basel?

The best time to visit Basel depends on what you want to see and do. If you are interested in art and culture, the summer months are the best as many museums and galleries have special exhibitions and events. Winter is the best time to visit if you are interested in the Christmas markets and Carnival celebrations. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are also great for exploring the city without the crowds.

What are the must-see attractions in Basel?

Basel has plenty of attractions to keep you busy, but some of the must-sees include the following:

Old Town:

The historic Old Town of Basel is a charming pedestrian district with cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and market squares. There are many historical buildings, including the Basel Minster and the town hall.

Rheinpromenade:

The Rheinpromenade is a beautiful riverfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Rhine River and the historic bridges that cross it.

Fondation Beyeler:

The Fondation Beyeler is one of the world’s top art museums, housing a vast collection of modern and contemporary art.

Kunstmuseum Basel:

The Kunstmuseum Basel is one of the oldest and most renowned art museums in Europe, housing an impressive collection of art from the 15th century to contemporary times.

Tinguely Fountain:

The Tinguely Fountain is a playful fountain designed by world-famous artist Jean Tinguely, located in the Theaterplatz.

What are the best day trips from Basel?

Basel is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Here are some great day trips from Basel:

Lucerne:

Lucerne is a picturesque city located just an hour and a half from Basel, known for its charming old town and stunning Lake Lucerne.

Bern:

Bern, the Swiss capital, is located about an hour and a half from Basel and is famous for its UNESCO-listed old town, the Bern Bear Pit, and the Swiss Parliament Building.

Freiburg:

Freiburg is a charming university town located just over the German border and is famous for its Gothic cathedral, the Freiburger Münster, and its vibrant student scene.

What is the local cuisine in Basel?

Basel has a rich culinary heritage, influenced by German, French, and Swiss cuisine. Some must-try local dishes include:

Mässmogge:

A sweet and spicy candy made from gingerbread and honey, traditionally eaten at the Basel Autumn Fair, which takes place in October.

Basler Läckerli:

A type of gingerbread made with honey, nuts, and candied peel, and flavored with cinnamon and clove.

Zibelemarini:

A traditional onion soup that is typically eaten during the Basel Carnival, served with sliced cheese and bread.

Rösti:

A Swiss potato dish that is served with various toppings, such as cheese, bacon, or vegetables.

What are the best places to shop in Basel?

Basel is a great place to indulge in some shopping, with options ranging from high-end boutiques to flea markets. Here are some of the best places to shop in Basel:

Marktplatz:

The Marktplatz is a bustling square in the heart of the Old Town, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.

Flohmarkt Petersplatz:

The Flea Market Petersplatz is held every Saturday and is the perfect place to browse for vintage clothing, antiques, and trinkets.

St. Jakob-Park Shopping Centre:

Located near the St. Jakob-Park stadium, this shopping center has over 50 stores, including fashion, homeware, and electronics.

Final Thoughts

Basel is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Whether you’re interested in art and architecture or outdoor activities and local cuisine, Basel has something to offer for everyone. We hope that this post has answered some of your questions about Basel and inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Basel

Basel is an enchanting city in Switzerland that offers you a great mix of cultural wonders, art, and history. With so many attractions and things to do, it can be hard to know where to start. Here is your ultimate guide to getting the most out of your visit to Basel:

1. Take a stroll in the Altstadt (Old Town)

Exploring the Altstadt (Old Town) is a must for anyone visiting Basel. This charming district is a feast for the eyes, featuring romantic narrow alleys, picturesque squares, and many historic buildings. In particular, the Marktplatz square with its daily market and impressive Rathaus (city hall) is a great place to start. Walk along the Rheingasse and Spalenberg streets to explore the numerous small shops, boutiques, and cafes.

2. Visit the Basel Minster (Basler Münster)

The Basel Minster is an impressive Romanesque and Gothic church located on the Münsterplatz. The church dates back to the 9th century and boasts a beautiful panoramic view of Basel from its towers. Visitors can enjoy the intricate architecture of the building and take a guided tour to learn about the church’s fascinating history.

3. Wander through the Museum der Kulturen (Museum of Cultures)

The Museum der Kulturen is an excellent place to learn about the world’s diverse cultures through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. The museum has comprehensive displays of ethnographic objects and art from all over the world, including Africa, Asia, and America. The museum also offers guided tours, workshops, and events for visitors.

4. Explore the Kunstmuseum Basel (Basel Art Museum)

For art lovers, the Kunstmuseum Basel is a must-visit destination. The museum features a vast collection of artwork from the 15th century to the present day. The museum has more than 4,000 paintings, sculptures, and photographs on display, with artwork from various renowned artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet.

5. Take a Rhine River Boat tour

Taking a Rhine River boat tour is a great way to experience Basel from a different perspective. The tour offers beautiful views of the city’s old town, museums, and beautiful parks. Visitors can take a daytime tour or a romantic evening cruise while enjoying a drink or some tasty snacks.

6. Admire the Tinguely Fountain

The Jean Tinguely Fountain is an impressive kinetic sculpture located in the center of Theaterplatz in Basel. The fountain features a complex system of mechanical moving parts that use water and sound to create an artistic spectacle. Visitors can enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the surrounding cafes while watching the fountain show.

7. Visit the Basel Zoo

The Basel Zoo is a great place to visit with the family. The zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from 600 different species, including elephants, tigers, monkeys, and birds. The zoo also features several areas for children to play and learn, making it a fun and educational experience.

8. Go Shopping in Freie Strasse

Freie Strasse is one of the main shopping streets in Basel, featuring a wide range of shops, boutiques, and department stores. Visitors can find everything from stylish clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories to high-end Swiss watches and chocolates. The street is also home to many cafes and restaurants where visitors can stop for a bite to eat or a drink.

9. Watch a Performance at the Theater Basel

The Theater Basel is one of Switzerland’s leading theaters, featuring a wide range of drama, music, and dance performances. The theater offers something for every taste, from classical to contemporary productions. Visitors can check the theater’s schedule and book tickets in advance.

10. Sample Swiss Cuisine

Switzerland is famous for its delicious cuisine, and Basel offers many opportunities to try it out. Some must-try dishes include cheese fondue, raclette, and rösti. For those with a sweet tooth, Swiss chocolates are a real treat. Visitors can sample these delights at many restaurants and cafes throughout Basel.

In Conclusion

Basel is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Basel has it all. Follow these ten activities, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring this fascinating city.