What To Do In Basel – Your Guide To This Swiss City

Gorgeous cobblestone pedestrian streets, a thriving theater district, a wide variety of interesting sights – there’s a lot to do and see when you visit Basel, Switzerland. But, what should you see if you don’t know where to start? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with a guide to what to do in Basel.

Basel Old City Tour

When it comes to getting a flavor for what Basel has to offer its visitors, there’s no better way to do it than with a meandering walk through the old city. Spanning three country lines – France, Germany, and Switzerland – this city can best be explored on foot through its cobblestone streets and alleyways. As you meander, you’ll see the stunning architecture of buildings along the river (some of which date back to 1500!) and learn about Basel’s history. Better yet, you won’t even have to worry about getting lost – many guides offer self-guided tours through the old city.

Basel Theater & Arts Scene

No trip to Basel would be complete without exploring its vibrant theater scene. From the State theater, where you can catch operas, plays and other events, to smaller theater productions played out around the city year-round, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out the theaters to see what’s playing during your trip – and make sure to book tickets early to get a good seat!

Beyond theater, you can also find plenty of music events ranging from classical performances in bars and churches around the city to open-air concerts in public parks. There are also several galleries throughout Basel exhibiting modern artworks and European masters alike. For those looking for something slightly different, Basel is also home to Winterthur’s musuem entitled www.collection.muba.ch which focuses on an interesting collection of popular culture artifacts.

Basel Sightseeing & City Tours

If you’re looking for something a bit more structured than exploring Basel on your own, there are plenty of ways to see the city without having to worry about navigation or getting lost. Bus tours are offered in both English and German on both sides of the river, giving guided tours of many of the city’s most famous attractions. But, if you’d prefer more active sightseeing, consider taking a tour on two wheels! Several cycling tours are available in both guided and GPS-assisted self-guided formats, giving you the freedom to enjoy the experience completely alone or accompanied by a local expert guide. Plus, with so many beautiful sights within easy walking or cycling distance, there’s something for everyone no matter what your preferred speed!

Basel Shopping & Markets

From high fashion to souvenirs, most visitors find something to love when shopping in Basel’s bustling shopping districts. Stretching down both sides of the Rhine River, shoppers can find anything from famous brands to small shops selling handmade wares. Many stores open their doors early during weekdays, so if you’re an early bird – or just looking to have a leisurely afternoon browsing – this is definitely the place for you!

For something a bit more traditional, consider spending a day at one of Basel’s many flea or farmers markets. Centrally located markets like Markthalle Fasnachtplatz showcase the city’s diverse offerings, with stalls selling everything from antiques to fresh produce. If you’re short on time, visit the old city’s Boutique du Cœur for original Swiss souvenirs, like hand-blown glass figures or wooden cuckoo clocks.

Daytrips From Basel

Basel may be known for its great attractions, but there are also plenty of chances to escape from the city during your trip as well! One of the best day trips from Basel is to Zurich. It won’t take you too long to get there (just 45 minutes on the scenic train ride) and you can explore its bustling neighborhoods while enjoying views of the lake. Alternatively, visitors may enjoy a day in Colmar (just an hour away by train). Known as the French city close to the Swiss border, Colmar boasts colorful streets and several attractions like La Petite Venise or the Unterlinden Museum should you be looking for something more cultural.

No matter what brings you to Basel or how long you stay there – there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this beautiful Swiss city. If you plan on visiting, make sure you give yourself enough time to explore – this place is full of wonders!

An Insider’s Guide to Basel, Switzerland

When planning a trip to Switzerland, Basel may not be the first city that comes to mind. However, this hidden gem situated on the Rhine River offers an authentic Swiss experience filled with rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant arts scene.

Local Attractions

While Basel is known for its museums and galleries, there are also several hidden gems that only locals know about. For instance, if you are looking for a quiet and picturesque spot, check out the Botanical Garden. You can marvel at the vast collection of exotic plants, stroll around the pond, and even have a picnic with a view of the mountains. For a unique shopping experience, take a stroll through the Markthalle, an indoor market with over 40 vendors selling everything from organic produce to artisanal cheese, beer, and wine.

For a bit of adventure, take a boat ride down the Rhine River. This is a popular activity for the locals during summertime, and it offers beautiful views of the city’s skyline, historic bridges, and breathtaking nature.

Dining Spots

Swiss cuisine is more than just delicious fondue and chocolate. Basel has a unique culinary scene featuring locally sourced ingredients and dishes steeped in tradition. One must-try dish is the Basler Leckerli, a hard gingerbread biscuit that originated in Basel in the 15th century.

If you want to experience Basel’s food culture like a local, visit one of the many street food markets. Rhy Market offers a variety of international street food, including falafels, dumplings, and tacos. In the evenings, you can enjoy live music, drinks, and the beautiful view of the Rhine River.

Cultural Experiences

As a city with more than 2,000 years of history, Basel has many cultural experiences to offer. In February, Basel hosts the largest carnival in Switzerland, known as Fasnacht. During this time, the streets are filled with colorful costumes, music, and parades that last for three days and three nights.

Another cultural experience not to be missed is the Basel Tattoo, a military music festival that has been taking place since 2006. From the impressive parade of drums and bagpipes to the marching bands and dance performances from all over the world, this festival is a celebration of music and pageantry.

Local History

As one of the oldest cities in Switzerland, Basel has a rich history that has been preserved over the centuries. For instance, you can visit the Basel Minster, a Romanesque and Gothic-style cathedral that stands tall in the heart of the city. The construction of this breathtaking cathedral started in the 12th century and took over 500 years to complete.

Another historical gem of the city is the Basel Historical Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that provide a glimpse into Basel’s past. From ancient Roman artifacts to medieval weaponry, this museum is a great place to learn about Basel’s history.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you are looking for a unique experience in Basel, visit the Tinguely Museum. This museum showcases the works of Jean Tinguely, a Swiss artist famous for his kinetic sculptures. The museum is located in an old factory building, and the exhibits range from playful clowns to massive, noisy machinery.

If you are looking for a quieter and more scenic experience, take a hike up to the St. Chrischona lookout tower. This tower offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the city, the Rhine River, and even the Black Forest Mountains in Germany.

In conclusion, Basel is a city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its hidden gems and unique culinary scene, this city is a true Swiss gem. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience Basel like a local!