Basel: 10 Most Asked Questions Answered

Basel, Switzerland is a beautiful city situated on the Rhine River. It is the third-largest city in Switzerland and is known for its art, culture, and history. With its many attractions, Basel is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the city and its surroundings.

In this blog post, we will answer the 10 most asked questions by tourists traveling to Basel. We will also provide some tips on how to plan your trip to Basel. So, let’s get started!

1. What is the best time to visit Basel?

The best time to visit Basel is between May and September. During this time, the weather is mild and the days are longer, making it ideal for sightseeing.

2. What are the top attractions in Basel?

The top attractions in Basel include:

• Basel Cathedral – a Gothic-style cathedral built in the 13th century

• Basel Zoo – one of the oldest zoos in Europe, home to over 600 species of animals

• Basel Munster – a Romanesque-style church built in the 11th century

• Basel Old Town – a charming area with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and historic buildings

• Basel Museum of Art – a world-renowned museum with a large collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day

• Basel Rhine River Cruise – a relaxing cruise along the Rhine River, offering stunning views of the city and its surroundings

3. What is the best way to get around Basel?

The best way to get around Basel is by public transportation. Basel has an extensive network of buses, trams, and trains that make it easy to get around the city. You can purchase tickets at any of the public transportation stops or at the Basel Tourist Office.

4. What is the local currency in Basel?

The local currency in Basel is the Swiss Franc (CHF). It is important to note that some shops and restaurants may also accept Euros.

5. What are the best places to eat in Basel?

Basel is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from traditional Swiss cuisine to international dishes. Some of the best places to eat in Basel include:

• Restaurant Markthalle – a traditional Swiss restaurant serving classic dishes such as fondue and rösti

• Restaurant Stadtkeller – a cozy restaurant serving Swiss and German dishes

• Restaurant Schmiedstube – a popular restaurant serving traditional Swiss dishes

• Restaurant La Table – a modern restaurant serving French cuisine

• Restaurant La Grotte – a popular restaurant serving Italian dishes

• Restaurant La Maison – a traditional Swiss restaurant serving classic dishes

6. What are the best shopping areas in Basel?

Basel has a wide variety of shopping areas, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas in Basel include:

• Basel Marktplatz – a traditional market with stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, and other local products

• Basel Shopping Center – a modern shopping mall with a wide variety of stores

• Basel Old Town – a charming area with cobblestone streets and quaint shops

• Basel Freie Strasse – a pedestrian-friendly shopping street with a variety of stores

• Basel Bahnhofstrasse – a shopping street with designer stores and luxury boutiques

7. What are the best activities to do in Basel?

Basel has a wide variety of activities to enjoy, from sightseeing to exploring the city’s many attractions. Some of the best activities to do in Basel include:

• Take a Rhine River Cruise – Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Rhine River, offering stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

• Visit Basel Zoo – Explore one of the oldest zoos in Europe, home to over 600 species of animals.

• Explore Basel Old Town – Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and historic buildings.

• Visit Basel Cathedral – Admire the Gothic-style cathedral built in the 13th century.

• Visit Basel Museum of Art – Explore the world-renowned museum with a large collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

• Take a Day Trip – Explore the surrounding area with a day trip to nearby towns and cities such as Lucerne, Bern, and Zurich.

8. What are the best hotels in Basel?

Basel has a wide variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from

Insider’s Guide to Basel: A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

Basel, Switzerland, is often overshadowed by its more prominent Swiss siblings, Geneva and Zurich. However, this historic city located where the Swiss, German, and French borders meet, has a lot to offer. From exceptional museums and world-class restaurants to scenic riverside promenades and more, Basel has something for every visitor. But, to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in this city, we’ve compiled a guide to some of the best hidden gems only locals know about.

Local attractions

While Basel has several popular tourist attractions like Basler Münster, a historic cathedral, and the Basel Zoo, we recommend exploring some of its hidden gems that provide a more authentic experience. One such place is the blaublau gallery, which has contemporary art exhibitions by local artists. We also recommend visiting Hirscheneck, an unassuming bar that serves locally brewed beer and has an outdoor terrace with a great view of Basel.

Another unique attraction is the Tinguely Fountain, which features eight kinetic water sculptures that move with changing water pressure. It’s a delightful spot to sit down and relax for a while. Finally, be adventurous and take a stroll in St. Johann, one of Basel’s oldest neighborhoods. The winding streets offer a picturesque view of painted buildings and murals.

Dining spots

Basel’s culinary culture is a blend of Swiss, French, and German influences. The city is known for its gourmet chocolate and cheese, and no trip is complete without trying the iconic Basler Läckerli, a type of gingerbread that has been made in Basel since the Middle Ages.

Le Rhin Bleu is a fantastic option for a chic night out and an upscale dining experience. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, we recommend grabbing a bite at Zum Alten Bahnhof, a restaurant housed in a defunct train station. The menu here includes locally sourced and organic meat and produce.

Cultural experiences

A trip to Basel isn’t complete until you’ve experienced the local customs and traditions. If you’re visiting during the winter season, you have to witness the Basler Fasnacht Carnival, known to be Switzerland’s biggest street party. During summer, tourists can plan their visit to coincide with the Open-Air Cinema Festival, where you can watch movies under the stars.

The city is home to several museums, including the Museum Tinguely, which is dedicated to the works of the kinetic sculptor, Jean Tinguely. The Kunstmuseum Basel houses a vast and renowned collection of modern art. Lastly, if you’re looking for an immersive experience, we highly recommend the Puppet museum, Musee Jean Lefebvre, which features puppet shows and exhibitions.

Local history

Basel has a rich and complex history that spans several hundred years. During the Middle Ages, the city emerged as an important trading hub, and in the 16th century, it became a center of the Protestant Reformation. Basel is also home to several architectural marvels that showcase its distinct Gothic style. Take a stroll in Old Town and visit the Basel Historical Museum to learn more about the city’s past.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend a day trip to the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, which is just an hour away from Basel. Alternatively, visit the Kaserne cultural complex, which has several concerts, exhibitions, and events.

Another option is taking a bicycle ride to the stunning Merian gardens, a 140-year-old botanical garden that houses over 12,000 plant species. Here, you can soak in the peaceful environment and breathtaking views of the city.

In conclusion, Basel is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. From its rich history and culturally diverse food to scenic riverside walks and hidden gems, the city is a must-visit destination. Follow this guide to discover the best-kept secrets and hidden gems of the city for an unforgettable experience.