How to Plan Your Basel Tour: Stories of Basel’s Old Town

Are you planning to visit Basel, Switzerland, and want to experience the city’s rich history and vibrant culture? Then, you need to book the “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” tour, where you will explore the charming historic Old Town and learn about its 15th-century past from a knowledgeable guide.In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Basel tour and make the most of your time in the city while experiencing a fascinating walking tour through its old streets.

Basel Overview

Basel is a delightful Swiss city located on the banks of the Rhine River. It is known for its architectural wonders, art collections, and cultural heritage that draws visitors from all over the world. Basel Old Town is one of the most attractive historic centres in Switzerland where medieval buildings, modern architecture, and urban design fuse masterfully.The “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” walking tour will take you through the city’s heart, showcasing the city’s baroque fountains, historic buildings, and avant-garde art installations.

What’s included in the “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” Tour?

The “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” is a two-hour guided walking tour where you will have the opportunity to appreciate the Old Town’s beauty while learning about its fascinating history and traditions.The following are the things included in the tour:

• A professional guide who speaks English and German fluently.
• Commentary in English and German languages that will keep you engaged throughout the tour.
• Gratuities for the guide.
• Food and drinks are not included, so you may bring your water bottle and a light snack if you like.

Highlights of the Tour

The “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” tour is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture. Here are the top highlights of the tour:

1. Basel Minster

Our first stop will be Basel’s iconic landmark, the Basel Minster. It is a beautiful medieval cathedral that stands tall above the city’s skyline, known for its striking red sandstone walls, multi-colored roof tiles, and towering spires.

2. Barfüsserkirche

Next, the tour will take you to the gorgeous Barfüsserkirche (Barefoot Church). It is a former Franciscan church famous for its beautiful Gothic architecture and impressive frescoes.

3. City Hall

The tour will also take you to the magnificent City Hall, a stunning Renaissance-style building that dominates Marktplatz, the city’s bustling central square.

4. Museum der Kulturen

The Museum der Kulturen (Museum of Cultures) is another exciting stop on the tour. It houses more than 300,000 artifacts from around the world, including objects from Africa, Asia, and South America.

5. Tinguely Fountain

Last but not least, the tour will conclude at the Tinguely Fountain. The fountain is a playful and interactive modern sculpture created by the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely.

Meeting Point and Pickup Information

The tour meeting point is at the Tinguely Fountain at Klostergasse 7, 4051 Basel, Switzerland. Please arrive at the meeting point at least ten minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Booking the Tour

If you want to experience the captivating “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” tour, you can easily book it online at Viator.com. To book, click on this link book the tour here and select your preferred date and time.

Conclusion

Basel is unquestionably one of the best cities to visit in Switzerland, offering visitors numerous attractions and unforgettable experiences. By taking the “Stories of Basel’s Old Town” walking tour, you will immerse yourself in the city’s history, culture, and art. Book the tour today and make memories that you will cherish for years to come.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Basel

Basel is a city located in the northwestern part of Switzerland. It sits on the Swiss border with France and Germany and is known for its culture, museums, and art galleries. Thousands of tourists visit Basel every year, and they often have many questions. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Basel to help you plan a memorable trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Basel?

The best time to visit Basel is from March to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. If you’re a fan of art, you may want to schedule your visit around June, when the city hosts the Art Basel festival. However, keep in mind that the city can be quite crowded during this time.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Basel?

Basel is home to many museums and landmarks that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few must-sees:

Museum Tinguely

Museum Tinguely is a unique museum dedicated to the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. Here you can see many of his bizarre kinetic sculptures and other works of art.

Basler Münster

Basler Münster is a beautiful cathedral located in the heart of Basel. The church dates back to the 12th century and is known for its intricate architecture and stunning stained glass windows.

The Rhine River

The Rhine River flows through the heart of Basel and is a beautiful spot to take a stroll or a boat ride. There are also several bridges spanning the river, some of which offer amazing views of the city.

3. Is it easy to get around Basel?

Basel has an efficient public transportation system that includes trams and buses. If you’re staying for a few days, it’s worth getting a BaselCard. The card gives you unlimited access to public transportation, plus discounts on many of the city’s top attractions.

4. What is the local cuisine like in Basel?

Basel is known for its traditional Swiss cuisine, which includes dishes like raclette, fondue, and rösti. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants serving international cuisine, from Italian to Thai.

5. What are the best shopping spots in Basel?

Basel is a great place to shop, with everything from luxury boutiques to bargain markets. Some of the best shopping spots include:

Freie Strasse

Freie Strasse is the main shopping street in Basel and is home to many high-end shops and boutiques.

Markthalle Basel

Markthalle Basel is a covered market that offers an amazing selection of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. You’ll also find many food stalls selling delicious snacks and treats.

6. What are some fun things to do in Basel?

There are plenty of fun things to do in Basel, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or with family. Here are some of our top picks:

Explore the Old Town

Basel’s Old Town is one of the best-preserved in Europe and offers many beautiful buildings, narrow streets, and hidden courtyards. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sights and sounds of this charming city.

Ride the Riesenrad

Riesenrad is a giant Ferris wheel located on the banks of the Rhine River. The ride takes you high above the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Visit the Basel Zoo

Basel Zoo is home to over 600 species of animals from around the world. It’s a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about the natural world.

7. What is the nightlife like in Basel?

Basel has a thriving nightlife scene, with many bars, nightclubs, and music venues. Some of the best areas to check out include:

Steinenvorstadt

Steinenvorstadt is a trendy neighborhood in the heart of Basel with many bars and restaurants.

Vintage Bar

Vintage Bar is a cozy spot with a wide selection of craft beers, cocktails, and wine. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to hang out with friends.

Bierrevier

Bierrevier is a popular bar with a wide selection of beers from Switzerland and around the world. The bar also serves delicious food, including traditional Swiss dishes.

Conclusion

Basel is a charming city with many amazing attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in culture, food, or nightlife, there’s something here for everyone. Hopefully, this guide has answered some of your questions and helped you plan a memorable trip to Basel.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Basel

Basel is a beautiful city located in northwestern Switzerland, bordering both France and Germany. It is known as a cultural hub with endless attractions, museums, and events. If you are planning to visit Basel, this guide will provide you with proper steps and details on how to make the best of your time as a tourist in this lovely city.

Step 1: Visit the “Old Town”

The “Old Town” (Altstadt in German) is a picturesque old city that has been fully preserved for over a century. It’s the perfect place for strolling around, taking pictures, and admiring the architecture. There is a wide range of shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can find traditional Swiss treats and souvenirs. Boat tours along the river Rhine are also available from here.

Step 2: Explore the Museums

Basel is known for its love for museums, and it’s not hard to see why. The city has over 40 museums, from fine arts to natural history. Among the most recommended ones are the Fondation Beyeler, the Kunstmuseum Basel, and the Basel Historical Museum. Take a look at their websites to learn more about the exhibitions and schedules.

Step 3: Enjoy the Outdoors

Basel is a city that loves the outdoors. In the summer, you can find plenty of festivals, parks, and open-air cinemas. Basel is also home to the Botanical Garden and the Zoo Basel, which is one of the oldest and largest in Switzerland. You can spend an entire day wandering through their beautiful gardens and watching many animals like monkeys, lions, and penguins.

Step 4: Visit the Basel Cathedral

The Basel Cathedral is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. It was built between the 12th and 16th centuries and is a mix of Gothic and Romanesque styles. The cathedral is located in the heart of the city, and it’s the perfect place for a quick break from exploring.

Step 5: Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Basel is on foot. Several tour operators in the city offer walking tours that cover most of the city’s major attractions. Some tours are specialized like food tasting tours or street art tours, will let you see the city in a new light.

Step 6: Indulge in Swiss Chocolate and Cheese

Switzerland is known worldwide for its chocolate and cheese, and Basel is no exception. You can visit any chocolate shop to satisfy your sweet cravings, but the Xocolatl Shop is one of the best in the city. Regarding cheese, you should head to the Zibelemärit market, where you can find a vast range of traditional Swiss cheese.

Step 7: Enjoy the Nightlife

Basel has a vibrant nightlife that ranges from cozy bars to bustling nightclubs. You can hop from one bar to another in the Kleinbasel district, or dance the night away in one of the clubs in the Grossbasel area. Whether you prefer a laid-back atmosphere or a lively party, Basel has something for you.

Step 8: Attend a Special Event

Finally, Basel is famous for its annual events that attract thousands of tourists from all over the world. The Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) is a colorful and intense celebration that lasts for three days, while Art Basel is a leading contemporary art fair that takes place in June. Other notable events include the Baselworld Watch and Jewelry Show, the Basel Rhine Swim, and the Basel Tattoo and Body Art Expo.

Conclusion

Basel is a fantastic destination for tourists looking for both cultural and outdoor experiences. With a wide range of attractions, museums, and events to choose from, one could easily spend weeks exploring the city. Follow these steps, and I guarantee that you will have an unforgettable experience in Basel.