basel half day tour

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Basel Itinerary

Published on May 31, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

In northwest Switzerland close to the border of France and Germany, is the wonderful town of Basel; with its incredible old town, mass of museums and location close to some of the world’s most beautiful mountains, you can’t go wrong over 1, 2 or 3 days in Basel. Our Basel itinerary will show you how to reach the city, as well as how to move around from hotspot to hotspot.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Basel?

As Switzerland is a rather small country, you might think there are fewer things to see and do than other countries in Europe, but despite its size, Switzerland offers a great deal for all kinds of visitors – not just skiers!

As a lesser-known city compared to its neighbours Bern and Geneva , it’s natural to wonder how many days to spend in Basel, so let us fill you in.

Basel is perfect for a weekend break or a day trip from western France, eastern Germany or other Swiss towns, with plenty of museums, parks and the wonderful Rhine River to enjoy.

In 1 day in Basel, you can enjoy the charming small streets of the old town, surrounded by glorious historical buildings, but if you can spend 2 days or a weekend in Basel, you’ll also get the chance to relax in the parks or around the river or, if you’re visiting in December, head to the city’s iconic Christmas market.

For a bank holiday weekend or 3 days in Basel, you can either take a leisurely break around the city and visit more museums or spend more time eating Cervelat (Swiss sausage) and people-watching.

Getting To & Around Basel

If you want to arrive in Basel by plane, the city’s nearest airport, EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, is actually in France. However, as France and Switzerland are both part of the Schengen area, you can cross the border with no difficulty.

If you rent a car from the airport, you should be aware that you have to pay road tax upon entering Switzerland.

You can fly to the airport directly from a few European destinations, however, there are cheaper and more eco-friendly routes by train from Frankfurt to Basel SBB; when you factor in airport security and passport control, the journeys take roughly the same length of time. You can view train schedules here.

Basel Airport is just a 15-minute drive from the centre, or 18 minutes via bus line 50, which is scheduled every ten minutes. You can find bureaux de change in the airport and outside the bus station to change your currency to Swiss Francs if needed.

You can also arrive very easily from most French cities, including Dijon , Strasbourg and Paris by bus. When you arrive, there is an excellent bus and tram system covering the whole city, so although you can walk for most of our Basel itinerary if you want to speed it up or save your legs, then take the trams for an enjoyable and quick journey across the city.

The great thing about Basel transport is that it’s all free with the BaselCard ! When you book a hotel or apartment in Basel, you get a free transport card which you can use across the city’s bus and tram system, as well as having half-price access to the museums, zoo, sightseeing bus and guided tours of the old town.

Switzerland has a few official languages, with Italian and French being spoken in some areas, however, the main language used in Basel is German, with its own Basel dialect.

If you’re a German speaker, you’ll get by swimmingly, but even if you just speak English, people are friendly and helpful, and unsurprisingly, polylingual.

1, 2 or 3-Day Basel Itinerary

Day 1 – old town.

The old town of Basel is full of wonderful hidden gems, with small squares and fountains appearing around every corner and some of the historic city’s most iconic buildings. If you want to explore with a guide, there are a number of walking tours such as this 2-hour tour or this walking tour.

Our itinerary begins in the most logical place to start a tour, the incredible fortified Gate of Spalen, otherwise known as the Spalentor.

Previously part of a large fortification to protect the city in the 14th century, now only the Sankt-Johanns-Tor in the North, the Spalentor in the old town centre and the Sankt-Alban-Tor in the East of the city remain, with the Spalentor being by far the most impressive structure.

With its pointed, angular tower at 40 metres high and two round towers on either side, stretching up 20 metres, this mediaeval gate is one of the most amazing landmarks in Basel and hard to miss as you spend 1 day in Basel wandering around the old city streets.

Having welcomed arrivals from Alsace for almost half a century, this great gate welcomes you into the city of Basel to explore and enjoy a taste of the local culture. You can visit the tower 24 hours a day for free, as well as the university’s 16th-century botanical garden just next door from 10 am to 5 pm.

Basler Rathaus (Town Hall)

Walking for 10 minutes towards the Rhine, or taking a bus or tram to Marktplatz, you arrive in the old town square. This large square is surrounded by wonderful colourful architecture, the most prominent of which being the Basel town hall.

This large red sandstone building and tower from the 16th century is very striking as you enter the square, and as you approach you can see the colourful tiled roof, similar to those found in Beaune, France, as well as the ornate and intricate designs painted on the façade by Hans Bock in the 1900s.

Previously the seat of the parliament of Basel before the city joined the Swiss Confederation, the building now shows the coat of arms of each of the 12 Confederate members on its outer walls and invites visitors into the courtyard to see the beautifully painted walls and archways.

The town hall is open for visitors for free from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

Back in the Marktplatz, you can find a wonderful fresh produce market on weekdays as well as fantastic street food, including the simple and unforgettable Cervelat sausage served with bread and mustard. In Autumn, you can also find Mässmogge, a delicious hazelnut praline-filled sweet treat. If you want to learn more about the Basel food scene, you can take a self-guided food tour.

Basler Munster (Cathedral)

Another 10-minute walk parallel to the Rhine will bring you to another iconic red Basel building – Basel Cathedral. With construction work going on from the 11th to the 16th century, the design spans a few architectural styles, with the classic simplicity of its overall structure demonstrating a Romantic design, and the ornate spires and stained-glass windows showing its Gothic influences.

Within the cathedral, which you can enter for free from 10 am to 5 pm from Monday to Friday (hours differ slightly at weekends), you can discover the crypt and cloisters, as well as the tomb of famous Dutch theologian, Erasmus, who sought refuge in the Swiss city before his death there in 1536. You can find some of his works in Basel University.

Just behind the cathedral, and one of its favoured attractions, is the Basler Pfalz, a large terraced viewing platform on the edge of the Rhine with fantastic views over the northern part of the city and its two famous bridges, the Mittlere Brücke and the Wettsteinbrücke. Seeing this view is definitely one of the best things to do in Basel.

Spielzeug Welten Museum (Toy Worlds Museum)

You may have never expected to read the phrase “the world’s largest collection of teddy bears”, least of all in a Basel itinerary, however, Basel’s Toy Worlds Museum houses just that.

Over four floors in a grand building just 5 minutes away from Basel Cathedral, is Basel’s Toy Museum, which has a collection of over 6,000 childhood toys, from teddy bears and dolls to miniature figurines and carousels. If you’re looking for that childhood teddy you haven’t seen in years or want to see what kind of toys your great-grandparents played with, this is definitely the place for you.

On the ground floor, the museum also has an excellent restaurant serving local dishes, Ristorante La Sosta. Although it has the same opening hours as the museum, you don’t have to pay to enter the restaurant or visit the museum as well.

Kunstmuseum (Fine Arts Museum)

Walking briefly towards the Wettsteinbrücke, you’ll come across an intriguing building belonging to the Kunstmuseum.

The Basel Fine Arts Museum has an enormous collection spread over two buildings, the main and new (Hauptbau & Neubau), which sit opposite each other on the corner of Dufourstrasse.

With works from such revered artists as Rembrandt, Rubens, Cézanne, Van Gogh, Andy Warhol and Roy Liechtenstein, as well as ever-changing temporary collections, this is one of the most enviable museums in Europe.

The Kunstmuseum is the perfect place for a last stopover before you head off to find a delicious fondue to tuck into. 

Day 2 – Galleries and Gardens

Spend your second day exploring a different part of the city, from the Modern Art Museum, through the wonderful Merian Garden, to another artistic centre.

Kunsthaus Baselland

Either starting from the Birsköpfli (where the Rhine meets the Birs) and walking for 30 minutes along the delightful Birs River to the Kunsthaus Baselland, or taking a tram or bus to St. Jakob, the city’s football ground, your second day begins at the city’s Modern Art Museum.

Having started in the 1940s, the Modern Art Museum has only been housed in its current location since 1997 but has made a big impression on the city and the international artistic community.

In a converted factory, the museum houses many temporary exhibitions and encourages artists to develop large-scale works specifically for the space, which leaves visitors in awe of the modern art surrounding them.

While the exhibitions are the main attraction, the museum does have a modest collection of paintings by local artists which you can also see.

Schänzli Graffiti Gallery

Taking a very short walk from the Modern Art Museum and being careful to use a designated crossing to navigate the busy road and tramway, you’ll come across some pretty winding paths under the road and rail bridges, where you’ll come across an unofficial urban art gallery.

A popular meeting spot for football fans and artists alike, there are usually many people passing through this area, some of whom stop to create their own works of art, many of the FC Basel related. Since so many people use these big canvases, the graffiti changes quickly, giving the area an entirely new appearance every few weeks.

It’s a great area to wander through on your way over the river and around the sports fields to the Merian Gardens.

Merian Gärten

Open from 8 am until sunset every day and with free entry (although sadly no dogs allowed) the Merian Gardens are a must-see stop over 2 days in Basel.

This great park covering 18 hectares brings more colour to the city every month as the groundskeepers carefully plant and care for all kinds of flowers, shrubs and trees to ensure a beautiful bloom all year long.

The Merian Gardens are a wonderful place to wander through at any time of year to discover the natural beauty and smell the sweet floral scents – what’s more, the beautiful Iris restaurant in the grounds serves scrumptious teas, coffees and cakes to replenish your energy before you discover the neighbouring Park im Grünen.

The Park im Grünen, or Green Park, covers 13 hectares below the Merian Gärten and sports fields, and while you may think you’ve had enough of walking through beautiful gardens and around bodies of water, it contains a few large and curious sculptures that you don’t want to miss.

As well as the red squirrels, fish and beavers you can see around the park’s lakes, you can also discover the park’s most famous sculpture, a huge diplodocus.

Once you’ve wandered around, you can enjoy a game of minigolf or a ride on the carousel, or, if you’re in Basel from the end of June to the beginning of July, you can look forward to a big music festival taking place in the park for around 90 Swiss Francs per day.

Performers have included Sinead O’Connor, Joe Bonamassa and Deep Purple, to name a few.

Laurenz-Stiftung Schaulager

If you’re yet to quench your thirst for art, you might want to head over the road from the park to the Laurenz-Stiftung Schaulager. This converted warehouse hosts many temporary exhibitions of contemporary works alongside its two permanent pieces.

Or, if you’re ready to start a culinary adventure, take a tram back into the old town, to Musik Akademie or Schifflände, and find a cosy local restaurant for the evening. Try a speciality Cordon Bleu in Gifthüttli, or sample the curious and diverse menus of Löwenzorn or Schnabel.

If you’re in Basel for the carnival in February, try the local flour soup Mehlsuppe – it’s similar to French Onion Soup but less rich.

Day 3 – Basel Day Trips

Basel still has plenty of highlights in the centre, from the Anatomy Museum to the Tinguely Museum, however, for 3 days in Basel, it’s nice to mix it up a bit and take a break from walking the city streets.

​​Dreiländereck

If you’ve got time during your trip to Basel, you should definitely take a trip out to the ​​Dreiländereck, although we haven’t included it because it’s not very close to the city centre. This is a point in the Rhine, the northernmost part of Basel, marked by a large monument, where the borders of France, Switzerland and Germany all meet.

You can reach it from the centre by taking a tram to ​​Weil am Rhein Grenze, but the best way to arrive by far is by boat along the Rhine.

Rhine Boat Trips

On Fridays and Sundays from April to October, you can take a 50-minute round-trip along the Rhine to the tri-border meeting point and enjoy views of France to one side and Switzerland to the other.

Or, you can go in the opposite direction to take in the wonderful old town buildings overhanging the Rhine, as well as Basel Cathedral and the various other landmarks you can spot along the riverside. With your BaselCard, you can enjoy these trips offered by Basler Personenschifffahrt with a 50% discount!

You can also take evening river cruises and enjoy an aperitif before a magnificent dinner onboard.

Amphitheater Augusta Raurica

Just outside Basel, 15 minutes driving or 12 minutes on the S1 train to Kaiseraugst followed by a 10-minute walk, you can find one of Switzerland’s most outstanding Roman remains.

This huge Roman amphitheatre built around 170 CE may seem delightful now, but was once a place of death, hosting gladiatorial battles, animal fights and executions in front of a 13,000-strong audience.

You can enter the amphitheatre for free and enjoy a picnic there before learning more about the place in the nearby museum and Roman house. A couple of hours is ideal to discover the whole site, before spending the final afternoon in Basel taking a ferry on the Rhine from Kaiseraugst back to Basel.

Where to Stay in Basel

Motel One Basel – This hip 3-star hotel is an excellent option for those who are looking for a mid-range option during their trip to Basel. Located in the centre of the city, they have a range of lovely rooms available and an extensive breakfast available in the mornings.

Hotel Spalentor – Those looking for a luxury option are going to love this swish hotel in the centre of Basel. They have chic rooms on offer, a fabulous breakfast each morning and plenty of other amenities for guests to take advantage of.

VISIONAPARTMENTS Basel Nauenstrasse – If you’re looking for your own flat while visiting Basel then these apartments are a great choice. They have fully-furnished apartments on offer and there is also breakfast available each morning.

Hyve Hostel – Budget and solo visitors to Basel will love this highly-rated hostel. Located close to all of the city’s top attractions, they have both private rooms and dorm beds available, good common areas and self-catering facilities for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Basel hotels!

Sandwiched between France and Germany, Basel is a fantastic city in Switzerland for a day trip from any European country; there’s plenty to see and do on a trip to Basel, whatever your interests.

Are you planning to visit Basel? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Geneva vs Zurich: Which Swiss City to Visit?

Is Switzerland Expensive? A Trip Cost Guide for 2024

The Perfect Chamonix Day Trip from Geneva

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

Thank you. The itineraries and ideas are wonderful’. They are also very useful

Thanks for this very informative article. It is just what I’ve been looking for since we are going for 1-2 days to Basel after a river cruise. Do you have any recommendations for a good place to get the fondue?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

1-Day Basel Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Basel in 1 day
• 2-Day Basel Itinerary
• 3-Day Basel Itinerary
• 4-Day Basel Itinerary
• 5-Day Basel Itinerary

Table of contents

1-day itinerary.

Schützenmattpark

Tinguely Brunnen

Where to eat, papa joe's basel, bahnhof imbiss (sbb), steinegrill, top searches in basel, popular road trips from basel, what's the weather like in basel.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Basel for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Basel in January
• Weather in Basel in February
• Weather in Basel in March
• Weather in Basel in April
• Weather in Basel in May
• Weather in Basel in June
• Weather in Basel in July
• Weather in Basel in August
• Weather in Basel in September
• Weather in Basel in October
• Weather in Basel in November
• Weather in Basel in December

All road trips from Basel

• Basel to Paris drive
• Basel to London drive
• Basel to Rome drive
• Basel to Milan drive
• Basel to Barcelona drive
• Basel to Amsterdam drive
• Basel to Prague drive
• Basel to Florence drive
• Basel to Berlin drive
• Basel to Venice drive
• Basel to Munich drive
• Basel to Vienna drive
• Basel to Turin drive
• Basel to Budapest drive
• Basel to Brussels drive
• Basel to Madrid drive
• Basel to Strasbourg drive
• Basel to Edinburgh drive
• Basel to Dublin drive
• Basel to Lisbon drive
• Basel to Lyon drive
• Basel to Copenhagen drive
• Basel to Geneva drive
• Basel to Naples drive
• Basel to Genoa drive
• Basel to Verona drive
• Basel to Istanbul drive
• Basel to Frankfurt drive
• Basel to Bruges drive

Explore nearby places

• Village-Neuf
• Saint Louis
• Weil am Rhein
• Grenzach-Wyhlen
• Muenchenstein
• Efringen-Kirchen
• Metzerlen-Mariastein

All related maps of Basel

• Map of Basel
• Map of Huningue
• Map of Village-Neuf
• Map of Birsfelden
• Map of Saint Louis
• Map of Binningen
• Map of Allschwil
• Map of Weil am Rhein
• Map of Hegenheim
• Map of Riehen
• Map of Hesingue
• Map of Bottmingen
• Map of Haltingen
• Map of Bettingen
• Map of Grenzach-Wyhlen
• Map of Muttenz
• Map of Muenchenstein
• Map of Binzen
• Map of Lorrach
• Map of Blotzheim
• Map of Therwil
• Map of Reinach
• Map of Arlesheim
• Map of Efringen-Kirchen
• Map of Pratteln
• Map of Dornach
• Map of Aesch
• Map of Leymen
• Map of Gempen
• Map of Metzerlen-Mariastein
• Map of Hochwald

Basel throughout the year

• Basel in January
• Basel in February
• Basel in March
• Basel in April
• Basel in May
• Basel in June
• Basel in July
• Basel in August
• Basel in September
• Basel in October
• Basel in November
• Basel in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Basel?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 1-Day Weil am Rhein Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

The Best 1 to 3 Days in Basel Itinerary

Love it? Share it!

Cool, compact, and colorful – that’s the City of Culture on the Rhine for you – BASEL!  Located in northwest Switzerland, and close to Germany and France, there is no shortage of things to do in Basel, making it the perfect city break destination in Europe. We had an incredible time, and here are the perfect 1 to 3 days in Basel itinerary to make the most of your visit! 

Perfect 1 to 3 days in Basel Itinerary: Travel Tips (+ Map)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We are grateful to Basel Tourismus for inviting us to visit the City of Culture on the Rhine. All opinions are our own .

Basel is rightly known as the Cultural Capital of Switzerland . It is home to one of the world’s oldest art museums – the Kunstmuseum, and many other cultural centres and museums such as the Fondation Beyeler, Jean Tinguely Museum, and the Vitra Design Museum & Vitra Schaudepot.

Truly the list doesn’t stop here. Basel is steeped in everything ‘old town charm’ from cobblestoned lanes, an iconic Cathedral, picturesque Rhine river views, and a buzzing food scene!

At a glance, your 3 days in Basel will look like this

Top things to do in Basel in one to three days: Basel Itinerary

• Day 1 of Basel itinerary : Basel Old Town Walking Tour , Basel Minster and Cloisters, Rhine Promenade, Kunstmuseum, St Alban Tal
• Day 2 of Basel itinerary : Marktplatz, Self-guided food tour, Shopping in Spalenberg district, or Natural History Museum or Basel Historical Museum 
• Day 3 of Basel itinerary : Fondation Beyeler, Vitra Design Campus, Three Countries Bridge 

Depending on your time in the city, you can pick each day as a separate itinerary and get out there and explore!

Planning your trip to Basel Switzerland

Basel is the third largest city in Switzerland , right after Zurich and Geneva. And as compared to most Swiss destinations, Basel still remains untouched, and in a good way.

The city is perfect for a visit all year round. We visited during fall, and the weather was amazing for strolls along the Rhine embankments and the old town. 

In the winter, Basel lights up with various Christmas markets, and in the summer months, the river becomes like a cool hang-out of sorts with colorful floaties and swimmers!

Swiss Travel Resources: Using public transportation

To save money in Switzerland, remember to get your Swiss Travel Pass, and get unlimited rides on public transport and free access to over 500 museums. 

Getting to Basel: 

The best way to get to Basel is by train. Once you arrive in Zurich, you can hop on a train and arrive at Basel Main Station (Basel SBB) in about an hour (to an hour and a half, max). 

You can surely use the Swiss Travel Pass for that. The station is located super close to the Old Town, where all the city’s prime attractions lie. 

If you wish to fly to Basel directly, you can get to the EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg , which is an international airport in the French Alsace region. This airport is shared by both Switzerland and France. (We will share some awesome day trip options below, which makes Basel a perfect base to call home in this region).

Read : Switzerland itinerary 10 days with Basel

Getting around Basel:

When in Basel, you can take the tram, bike, or walk to get to various sightseeing spots.

Basel Tourism has a cool initiative where you can access a BaselCard when you stay overnight in the city. This Card allows you unlimited usage of public transport, wifi, and up to 50% discount in various museums and centres!

You can even rent an e-bike for 20 Swiss Francs (CHF) a day, with this card!

And the best part is it’s free! 

Where to stay in Basel Switzerland?

If this is your first time in the city, you must consider staying in the most central neighborhood which is the Old Town of Basel. This area is divided into two sections separated by the River Rhine. 

There is the Altstadt Grossbasel (typical old town vibes) and Altstadt Kleinbasel (across the river, known for its nightlife and urban nuances). 

For a short visit of 3 days in Basel, Grossbasel is perfect as you will have all the prime attractions within walking distance, along with the main train station and a plethora of restaurants at your fingertips. 

During our visit, we stayed at Motel One Basel. This is a 3 star property located at the heart of everything that Basel is known for. A short walk and the Basel Minster (Cathedral and cloisters) will greet you. 

Lots of restaurants in and around the hotel (including a Coop for groceries) and tram lines right at your doorstep! 

You can’t go wrong with its location at the Barfüsserplatz, one of the popular squares in Basel. 

Motel One offers free breakfast and wifi, and some of the rooms have a balcony where you can soak in the old town views whilst enjoying your morning coffee!

We stayed in a spacious room with a balcony. The room was clean, and the bathroom amenities were plentiful. The lobby at Motel One has its own vibe – you can order drinks, hang out with your travel partner, or just sit down to get some work done – it is just perfect!

The staff at Motel One was very friendly and we would love to stay there again. You can book your stay here

Day 1 of 3 day Basel Itinerary: Explore the old town Basel highlights and the Rhine River views

This 3 day Basel itinerary can be done at any time of year. You can also choose any of the day’s activities and explore/customize them based on your personal liking. 

Assuming that you are in the city the night before (or at least by morning), let’s kick-start this itinerary! 

We arrived in Basel from Zurich by train and started our sightseeing with a guided walking tour of the Old Town. Organized by Basel Tourismus, this tour gave us the perfect introduction and orientation to the city. 

Basel Old Town Walking Tour (morning)

This is a two-hour walking tour where you can visit the iconic Basel Minster, Tinguely Fountain, Cathedral Hill, and more whilst walking down the winding streets of the well-preserved old town.

You will hear stories of the city’s origins and its present day. There are tons of stops and visual aids presented throughout the tour to keep it engaging and fun! Book your 2 hour tour here

• Hours : Varied
• Address : Tinguely Fountain near Theater Basel
• Tickets : Book here

Basel Minster and Cloisters (morning)

After the walking tour, pop over to the Basel Minster, one of the city landmarks. The original building was a Catholic cathedral, built between 1019 and 1500. It was designed in Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles.

Today, it is a Reformed Protestant church and is in active service. You can visit the church interiors for free. The church is magnificently designed with stained glass windows, 3 naves, and a transept. 

The crypt contains graves dating back to 1000 AD, and the tomb of Erasmus of Rotterdam can be found on the left side on the main floor. 

Other than the interiors you can also visit the Church Towers for a fee. From up there you can admire its red sandstone walls, colorful roof tiles, and views of the cloisters and the surrounding piazza all the way to the waters of the River Rhine. 

The Gallus gate and the two cloisters located at the Church complex shouldn’t be missed. The cloisters in particular are very beautiful, and they depict the work of several centuries. 

The piazza itself is a crowd puller, and there are cafes nearby as well as fountains in the vicinity! 

• Hours : Weekdays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sundays from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Address : Münsterpl. 9, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets : Free to enter the church. Access the church towers for a 6 CHF entry fee per person

The Pfalz – viewpoint

The Pfalz is located by the Church. This is a terrace that offers panoramic city views of the Rhine. It is one of the popular viewpoints in Basel, and is free to access! 

Truly from this viewpoint, you can embrace the BEST of BASEL – the old town where you are standing, the view of River Rhine, and the urban cityscape across the waters – showcasing the marriage of the old and the new in the City of Culture!

Rhine Promenade (afternoon)

From the Old Town head over to the Central Bridge to view the banks of the River Rhine up close and personal! 

Lovingly called the Mittlere Brucke or the Middle Bridge, it is one of the iconic symbols of Basel, and so is the Rhine. 

Take the time to soak in the ambiance of the city, and relax or walk the promenade!

Pro tip: If you wish to get from Kleinbasel to Grossbasel, you can also get on the ferry (Münster ferry). These operate all year round. 

And you get the best views of the Basel Cathedral (Münster) from here. There are four Rhine river ferries “Wild Maa”, “Leu”, “Vogel Gryff” and “Ueli” that link Grossbasel to Kleinbasel. 

Lunch at Restaurant Krafft

You must be hungry after the walk. Now head to Restaurant Krafft , located in the vicinity, and enjoy local delicacies.

Restaurant Krafft is known for its hand-picked ingredients and meals on the table. We dined at their restaurant with river views, but when the weather is nice – you can also hang out on their terrace! 

We ordered bread dumplings and pork and it was amazing! 

• Hours: Every day from 12:00 am to 02:00 pm, and 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm
• Address : Rheingassee 12, 4058 Basel Switzerland

Kunstmuseum (afternoon, after 2:30 pm)

Kunstmuseum is one of the premier fine arts museums in the world. It is also one of the oldest institutions, dating back to the year 1661. 

The museum is spread across three buildings and it showcases paintings, drawings, and artworks from the 1400s to the 21st century.

Most of the permanent work is set up at the Hauptbau, and Neubau, and temporary collections including contemporary art are showcased at the Gegenwart. 

The main building of the Kunstmuseum Basel was designed by Rudolf Christ and Paul Bonatz in the 1930s. This is where you can enter the museum complex (get tickets, etc.). 

Here you will find over 4,000 paintings, sculptures, and installations, along with over 300,000 drawings and prints – with many dating back to the Middle Ages. 

Medieval artworks are represented by masterpieces of Lucas Cranach the Elder, Matthias Grünewald, Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Brueghel the Elder, and Caspar Wolff.

There is also an impressive collection of works by Symbolist, Impressionist, and post-Impressionist artists. Admire the creations of Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Paul Cézanne, Paul Gauguin, and Vincent van Gogh.

You have to set aside at least 2-3 hours at the main complex to take it all in. Our afternoon was busy as we navigated from one exhibition room to the next – and it was well worth it! 

• Hours : Mondays closed. Other days are open from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm (Wednesdays and Fridays are open till 08:00 pm)
• Address : St. Alban-Graben 16, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets : 16 CHF for adults. With the BaselCard it is 8 CHF
• The collection can be visited for free on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 05:00 to 06:00 p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 05:00 to 08:00 p.m., and the first Sunday of each month.

St Albans Tal (evening)

From the arcades of Kunstmusem, make your way to the leafy and quaint quarters of St. Alban. This neighborhood is known as the ‘Venice of Basel’ with its canals and charming alleys. 

It is also home to one of the three historic gates of Basel  – the Sankt-Alban-Tor (or the Gate of Saint Alban)

There are 3 main (city gates) in Basel, one of them being the Sankt-Alban-Tor, and the other two are – Spalentor (or Gate of Spalen, most recognized and beautiful) and the Sankt-Johanns-Tor. 

In St. Alban, enjoy a lovely stroll in the quiet neighborhood, admire the old church at the gate, and check out the medieval paper mill and the Museum of Contemporary Arts, if you have time. 

When done, you can also hop on a ferry and cruise on the Rhine (St. Alban ferry “Wild Maa”, between the bridges Schwarzwaldbrücke and Wettsteinbrücke).

You can also walk back to the Old Town/Minster square or take the tram to Barfüsserplatz (near Motel One ).

Dinner at Gifthüttli Basel

Located in Old Town, Gifthüttli Basel oozes all the Swiss ambiance and meals that you can imagine. You will find traditional Swiss meals, particularly their popular Cordon Bleu in different variations. 

And you guessed it! We ordered Cordon Bleu and beer to go with it! (And I had to have some coffee afterward – it was so good).

The restaurant was super warm and cozy inside with its wooden finish and rustic-style interiors.

• Hours : Every day from 09:30 am to 11:00 pm
• Address : Schneidergasse 11, 4051 Basel Switzerland

Day 2 of 3 day Basel Itinerary: Hang out at the Marktplatz, go on a self-guided food tour, shop at Spalenberg, seasonal fair/Local’s Know It Best Game

Kickstart your second day in Basel at the Marktplatz (in Old Town). You can visit by walking down from your accommodation – Motel One, or even take a short tram ride. 

Marktplatz – Town Hall/Rathaus and Weekday Market (morning)

Marktplatz is unmissable. The grand and colorful Town Hall or Rathaus towers the square and the fiery red color is all inviting! 

The Town Hall played a key role in shaping the history of Basel. The building is over 500 years old, and this is where the meetings of the Cantonal Parliament, as well as the Cantonal Government of the canton of Basel-Stadt, take place. 

Along with the red facade, you will also find the coats of arms of Basel adorning the crenellations. Many of the additions came into existence after Basel joined the Swiss Confederation. 

Basel joined the Swiss Confederation as its eleventh canton on 9th June 1501. 

Later the city hall was extended, and the artist Hans Bock decorated the facade with painted trompe l’oeil. 

Further extensions were made in the 1900s to include the left-hand wing and the tower on the right. You can visit the interiors of the Hall and admire its architectural work. 

Right in front of the Town Hall, you will find a market where locals sell fresh produce and other delicacies. The market is only open during the weekdays in the daytime and closes by evening, so make sure you are there when the stalls open!  

• Hours : Weekdays from 08:00 am to 05:00 pm. Closed on weekends
• Address : Marktpl. 9, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets : Free

Self Guided Food Tour

Basel Tourismus has this cool food tour that you can take at your own pace. You get to discover a different side of Basel, away from the Old Town, but still close. 

This tour takes you to 4 spots where you can try baked goodies, and speak to local food experts. We did this food tour from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, but feel free to customize it to your schedule (and within the store/cafe operating hours). 

Kick off the food tour with coffee and Basel Gold (baked item) at Elsässerstrasse’s Bäckerei KULT . This is one of the oldest bakeries in the city!

From here, make your way to Basel Unverpackt. This store is all about waste-free food items. 

Everything that you see in the store showcases zero waste, recycling, and sustainable preservation of food items – perfect for anyone looking to take a more conscious approach to life!

On this tour, you will be provided with a container to try out and sample organic goodies. Plus have all your questions answered by the local shop owner.

Afterward, head over to your third stop – KLARA. You will be crossing the River Rhine and arriving at Claraplatz to enjoy your meal. They open at around noon and lunchtime meals are served till 2:00 pm, so make sure you are here around this time!

You get to try 3 delicacies from around the world with a drink of your choice. Remember to redeem the tour at the drinks/bar counter and collect your vouchers!

The last stop of the tour brings you back to the Old Town at a traditional bakery – Jakob’s Leckerly at Spalenberg. You will be provided with one bag of sample goodies including the famous Basler Läckerli. 

At the bake store, you can also buy souvenirs to take back home!

• Hours : Flexible, within operating hours 
• Address : Starts at Bäckerei KULT in  Elsässerstrasse 43, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets : Book your tickets here

Shopping at Spalenberg (late afternoon)

Speaking of souvenirs and shopping, the Spalenberg district should not be missed. This area in the Old Town is filled with cute alleyways and historic shops that look all inviting and lovely!

There are cafes, souvenir shops, boutiques, and attractive galleries. Shops sell locally-made decor and food items that you can take back home. 

Our fall visit was great for early Christmas presents. But don’t be disheartened, these shops are open all year round, and you will surely find Swiss souvenirs to buy!

Here are some of the top places to go shopping in the Spalenberg District,

• Edel Shirt (locally made)
• Erfolg (Swiss-made)

(If you are not into shopping, you can visit the Natural History Museum or Basel Historical Museum instead – both located in Old Town).

Basel Historical Museum – Barfüsserkirche

We were able to squeeze in a short visit to the Basel Historical Museum as it was located close to the hotel we were staying in. So this museum dates back to 1892, and you can learn a lot about the history of Basel here. 

The museum itself has three complexes – the Barfüsserkirche (which we visited), Haus zum Kirschgarten, and Musikmuseum.

Barfüsserkirche means Barefeet Church. And the square where the church and museum stands is the Barfüsserplatz. The church was established for Franciscan monks, who were also called Barfüßer (or “the Barefoot”).

The museum has an entry fee of 15 CHF (or 50% off with the BaselCard, and free with the Swiss Museum Pass). 

• Hours : Mondays closed. Rest of the days open from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
• Address : Barfüsserpl. 7, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets : 15 CHF (with 50% off with the BaselCard, and free with the Swiss Museum Pass)

Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum Basel is a natural history museum and it houses over 7 million items ranging from various fields such as zoology, mineralogy, anthropology, and paleontology. 

The museum dates back to 1821 when it was established as such, and at their main entrance, it just says ‘Museum’ denoting its earliest existence in the city as a museum/exhibition of sorts. 

• Address : Augustinergasse 2, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets: 7 CHF for adults (50% off with BaselCard. Free with Swiss Museum Pass). Free entry on the first Sunday of the month

Locals Know It Best (evening)

Depending on how much time you have left on day 2 of the Basel itinerary, you can either plan to visit a seasonal fair ( Christmas market tour, Autumn fair, etc.) or play this cool game in and around Basel. 

Locals Know It Best, as the card game is called, can be bought at the Tourist Information Centre in the Stadtcasino on Barfüsserplatz (for CHF 5). Using this game, you can navigate and check out some of the favorite spots of the locals. 

The word clues are in English, and it includes a variety of topics from photo spots and viewpoints to food and more. Pick a few cards or all of them, and have FUN!

Tip: Use the card and ask a local what their favorite bar/restaurant is to hang out for the night!

Day 3 of 3 days in Basel Itinerary: Visit Fondation Beyeler, Vitra Design Museum (Weil am Rhein, Germany), discover Three Countries Bridges – Dreiländerbrücke (Huningue, France)  

On day 3 of your Basel itinerary head outside the Old Town quarters and explore unique museums and bike all the way to Germany and France (or take the tram!)

Grab breakfast at your hotel, and if the weather is nice rent an e-bike from Basel SBB. 

With your BaselCard, you pay 20 CHF for the day to bike in the city and around (return at the same pickup location by 07:00 pm). 

Fondation Beyeler (morning)

The first stop is the Fondation Beyeler . This is the most visited museum in all of Switzerland. It is located in Riehen, a little outside of Basel. You can also reach there by tram (no 6 from Barfüsserplatz or outside Motel One ).

The museum features both traditional and modern art exhibits. It also showcases temporary and seasonal collections. 

Plan to spend at least an hour or so at the Fondation Beyeler, and admire over 200 works of modern classics, including 23 Picassos on display. 

You will also find works of Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh. There is cool tribal art from Africa, Oceania, and Alaska as well. 

The complex is lovely with lots of green spaces and cafes. 

• Hours : Every day from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm (Wednesdays open till 08:00 pm, and Fridays open till 10:00 pm)
• Address : Baselstrasse 101, 4125 Basel, Switzerland
• Tickets : 25 CHF for adults. With the Basel Card, it is 12.50 CHF

Vitra Design Campus (Germany) (afternoon)

From the Foundation Beyeler make your way to Weil am Rhein in Germany to visit the fabulous Vitra Design Campus. 

You can take your e-bike there, or use the tram (stop at Weil am Rhein, Bahnhof/Zentrum and walk 15 minutes to the campus). Buses are also available to take you there – take bus number 55 from Badischer Bahnhof to Vitra (stop) in about 20 minutes. 

There are 2 campuses at Vitra (south and north), with multiple exhibition rooms and centres for you to check out. 

You will also find unique structures such as the Dome, Vitra Slide Tower, Piet Oudolf Garden, and Vitra Haus Cafe (with a wide variety of Swiss and international meals to choose from). 

Vitra Design Museum is a privately owned museum that opened its doors in 1989. It was established as an independent foundation dedicated to the research and popularization of design and architecture. This building was designed by Frank Gehry. 

Today, it is known for deconstructivism, towers, ramps, and cubes – all super unique and different from the usual art and cultural exhibits that you see. 

The museum has a showroom on the evolution of technology and robots which is kinda cool!

The Vitra Schaudepot was designed by Herzog & de Meuron and there are over 400 exhibits that showcase one of the largest permanent collections and research sites on modern furniture design (including chairs) globally! 

The 30.7-metre-high Vitra Slide Tower was designed by the German artist Carsten Höller. It is very popular with kids. It is not only a viewing tower but also an active slide. The viewing platform offers views of the Vitra Campus and the surrounding landscape. 

The entire site with its structures is spread over an expansive area, so set aside 3-4 hours as you navigate the museums and various exhibitions at ease. 

• Hours : Every day from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm 
• Address : Charles-Eames-Straße 2, 79576 Weil am Rhein, Germany
• Tickets : Vitra Design Museum + Schaudepot starts at 19,00 € / 17,00 €. There is also a 2 hours Architecture tour for 16,00 € / 12,00 €. Or an hour’s guided tour for 9,00 € / 7,00 € (note the prices are in Euros, and the BaselCard discounts do not apply)

Dreiländerbrücke/ Three Countries Bridge (evening, on your way back to Basel)

After sightseeing at the Vitra Campus, make your way back to Switzerland with a stop at the Three Countries Bridge. 

This bridge is located in the 3 countries of France, Germany, and Switzerland and you can get there by biking or taking the tram. 

How cool is visiting 3 countries in a matter of 10 minutes! 

Dreiländerbrücke is the tram and the attraction stop. So from Weil am Rhein (Germany) you have to arrive at the bridge site and then walk over to Huningue in France. 

This is an arch bridge and it crosses over the Rhine River, within the Basel metropolitan area. And it is exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists (yay). 

Once in France, you can enjoy a walk down the Rhine promenade, and if you have additional time you can check out the Military museum (just a short walk away). 

Note that there are no border checks at the bridge. If you are in Switzerland on a Schengen visa, the same applies to entering the European Union member nations – Germany and France, and you can travel/cross over and return to Switzerland. 

• Hours : Open 24 hours
• Address : Dreiländerbrücke Weil am Rhein, 68330 Huningue, France
• Tickets: Free

Dinner at Papa Joe’s

Back in Basel, go for casual dining at the oldest Tex-Mex restaurant in town – Papa Joe’s! They have a lovely balcony for dinners with views of Barfüsserplatz and nearby areas.

Try their signature fajitas and mojito to ring on the last night in Basel, and celebrate your amazing weekend in the city!

Additional things to do in Basel for the weekend

Although we covered a ton on our trip to Basel, the city has more attractions to fill up your calendar. Here are a few of the additional things that you can do or swap with any of the suggested spots above,

Explore the Museum Tinguely  

The Museum Tinguely in Basel is dedicated to the work of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. The museum houses a large collection of his works, as well as those of other artists. 

The museum is located in Solitudepark by the Rhine and features a number of interactive exhibits. Visitors to the museum can learn about Tinguely’s life and work, and see how he created his unique sculptures. 

The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for both children and adults. There is an entry fee of 12 CHF for adults. 

Visit the Basel Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world

Officially known as the Zoologischer Garten Basel or Basel Zoological Garden, this is the oldest zoo in all of Switzerland. There are over 600 species of animals at the Basel Zoo, and their Aquarium has been breeding successfully over the years. 

There is an entry fee of 21 CHF per adult to visit. (10 CHF with the BaselCard)

Basel Itinerary One Day to Three Days Sightseeing Map

Day Trips from Basel Switzerland

Basel’s location is ideal for visiting a variety of Swiss, French, and German destinations. As mentioned, Zurich is only an hour’s train away – and you can explore it on a day trip if you like.

Here are some more options for day trips from Basel,

Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus (1 hour by car or train. 7 hour tour)

The charming city of Lucerne is located just an hour away from Basel. Known for its picturesque old town, the iconic Chapel bridge, and stunning mountain scenery, Lucerne has a long history and is a popular tourist destination! 

When you book a day tour, you will also check off Mount Titlis, and visit an illuminated glacier cave in the Swiss Alps! Here is the day tour from Basel to book

Zermatt and Matterhorn (12 hour guided tour)

It is possible to visit Zermatt from Basel by embarking on a scenic train ride . You can do this on your own or join a guided tour. 

Tours include sightseeing in the alpine village of Zermatt and the Gornergrat mountain. 

More information about the day tour from Basel to Zermatt here

Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (45 minutes to an hour by car or train)

Freiburg im Breisgau, also known as Freiburg, is a city in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It is on the edge of the Black Forest and is surrounded by vineyards. The city has a medieval old town, with Gothic architecture.

Freiburg is also a university town, with a lively student population. There are many bars and clubs in the city, as well as cultural attractions such as museums and theaters. It is a great place to visit for its food, wine, and scenery. 

Colmar, France (45 minutes by car or train – one way)

Colmar is a charming town in northeastern France, located in the Alsace region. The town is known for its well-preserved old town, full of half-timbered houses and cobbled streets.

Colmar is also home to several museums, including the Unterlinden Museum which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. 

On a day trip from Basel, you can enjoy a lovely stroll through the picturesque town, admire its architecture and soak up the atmosphere. 

There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy, as well as a lively market that sells local produce. 

For those interested in exploring further afield, the nearby wine region of Alsace is well worth a visit.

Switzerland Basel Travel Tips

Here are some additional travel tips for Basel. 

Visa Requirements

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

If you require a Schengen visa to visit EU countries the same applies to Switzerland (although Switzerland is not a European Union member, it follows the Schengen agreement). 

Using this visa, you can visit the Vitra Design Campus in Germany and also take day trips to France!

Don’t forget to add travel insurance to your list as well. You can get free quotes from World Nomads here

Budget and currency

The official currency of Switzerland is CHF or Swiss Francs. We used credit cards for all of our purchases in Basel. 

For a mid-budget hotel stay, plan to spend about 150 CHF per night. Luxury hotels will be 500+ CHF. 

Properties like the 5-star Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois , which is one of the oldest city hotels, start at 430 CHF for a single room, and 615 CHF for a double, per night.

There are hostels as well in Basel such as the Youth Hostel or Hyve Hostel Basel , where rates are around 100 CHF or less.

For food, a typical Swiss meal will cost 30 CHF (plus any drinks ranging from 5 to 20 CHF – latte macchiato, beer, or wines). 

Transportation in Basel won’t account for much, as long as you stay overnight and grab the BaselCard. Or just enjoy walking in this charming city! 

Don’t forget to get the Swiss Travel Pass for traveling across the country within a budget. 

Safety in Basel

Throughout our trip, we felt very safe in Basel. We stayed in Old Town and used trams at night and walked a lot. 

Salil and I traveled together, but I am sure if I were traveling solo I would have felt safe and comfortable as well. The locals we met along the way were nice and welcoming. 

Basel is mostly crowd-free, which makes visiting the city very intimate and lovely for first-timers and solo travelers without the overwhelm! 

What is the main language spoken in Basel Switzerland?

The most common language in Basel is Swiss German. However, English and French are widely spoken. 

What foods are a must on any visit to Basel? 

Basler Läckerli is a must-try on your trip to Basel. You can buy them in most grocery stores or in places like Jakob’s Basler Leckerly, and Confiserie Bachmann. 

Is Basel in France or Switzerland?

Basel is located in Switzerland. It is the third-largest Swiss city. Geographically, it is very close to the German and French borders. 

Basel is Known as Basle in German and Bâle in French. 

How many days in Basel is enough? Was 3 days in Basel enough to visit?

With so many things to do in the city, you will definitely need 3 full days in Basel. This way you will not only enjoy the charming Old Town but also relax and soak in the cultural gems/museums and life on the Rhine River. 

And not to forget, with the German and the French border at the doorstep, you have plenty of natural and cultural delights to add to your fun-filled Basel weekend itinerary! 

Is Basel worth visiting?

Absolutely yes! In Basel, you will find the perfect European city break destination – there is the Old Town with quintessential cobblestone lanes, cathedrals, and charming buildings and fountains. 

Then there is an eclectic art and cultural scene with world-class museums. 

Culinary and shopping is a delight for every urban globe trotter. And to top it off the Rhine River views never disappoint! 

So that’s a wrap! We hope you found our post on visiting Basel helpful and are ready to book that trip!

Read more posts from our Switzerland Travel Blog

• Swiss Itineraries : 2 days in Switzerland | 5 days in Switzerland | 7 days in Switzerland
• Zurich : 2 days in Zurich itinerary | Where to stay in Zurich | Things to do in Zurich in winter
• Winter guides : Switzerland in winter | Switzerland for nonskiers

Pin: Things to do in Basel: Basel Itinerary 3 days

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Similar Posts

Salzburg Itinerary 2 days – Visit Salzburg in 2 days

The beautiful city of Salzburg is located in Austria. Salzburg shares a border with Germany and is located at an elevation of 1391 metres, providing access to amazing views. We stayed in Salzburg for 2 beautiful nights and were able to explore much of the old town and its unique experiences. Here is our 2…

Perfect 1 to 3 days in Waterton Itinerary

Waterton Lakes National Park is located in southern Alberta, a Canadian province. This beautiful park spans over 505 square kilometers and is home to some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in North America. From soaking in views of crystal clear lakes to soaring peaks and lush forests, here are the perfect 1 to 3…

Europe Itinerary 2 weeks: Planning a trip to Europe for 2 weeks

Planning a trip to Europe for 2 weeks? You are at the right spot. Salil and I have been exploring Europe from Canada with full-time jobs and checked off close to 25 countries in 3 years. We traveled on Schengen visa and visa-free (on Canadian passports), so we have all the hands-on experience and tips…

10 of the Most Scenic Train Rides in Switzerland

One of the amazing ways to soak in mountain views is not to get distracted with driving and focus on the road. These 10 handpicked most scenic train rides in Switzerland will show you how easy it is to travel, and share (or reduce) your carbon footprint. European countries boast of a reliable train network…

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Road Trip | Train & Tours

Looking for the perfect 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary? Well, you are at the right spot. Portugal is one of our favorite European destinations. And in this post, you will find informative tips and insights on exploring Portugal in 14 days with or without a car! From the timeless capital of Lisbon to the incredible…

Ultimate 3 days in Dubrovnik Itinerary

Get excited, as you are heading to the beautiful city of Dubrovnik! Known as the “Pearl of Adriatic”, many travelers visit Croatia for Dubrovnik alone! And when you visit this coastal city, you will know why – we ended up staying here for a week, here’s what you must do in 3 days in Dubrovnik…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

One day in Basel Itinerary – Top things to do in Basel, Switzerland

Basel, in the very northwest of Switzerland, at the borders with France and Germany, is a charming city, ideal for discovering by walking thanks to its relaxed and laid back atmosphere. Despite its small size of only 37 km2, with around 40 museums, Basel is Switzerland’s cultural capital with a lot to offer. Once a year, it hosts the world’s oldest and most important fair for contemporary art and turns the pocket-size cosmopolitan city into a bustling place for one week. Urban and green at the same time, Basel is ranked among the most liveable cities in the world. Therefore, spending one day in this place certainly seems like a great idea.

What’s the best time to visit Basel?

Located in the valley of the Rhine at the Belfort Gap, Basel has an exceedingly mild climate during the whole year compared to the rest of the alpine state. Whether you like to spend chilly days exploring the many museums or if you want to enjoy the summer vibes, Basel is always worth a visit. There is one reason in particular why you should visit Basel during the summer, though, and that’s Art Basel , but more on that below.

A Few Facts About Basel

Basel is Switzerland‘s third most populous city after Zurich and Geneva with about 180,000 inhabitants and the second-largest economic centre. Situated in the German-speaking part of Switzerland in the tri-national metropolitan area where the Swiss, French and German borders meet, it has suburbs in both these countries, as well.

While Basel was first documented in the 8th century, its origin leads all the way back to the Celts and was later conquered by the Romans on Ceasar’s campaign to Gaul. Hosting Switzerland’s oldest university , founded in 1460, it has been an intellectual centre ever since, with famous figures such as humanist Erasmus of Rotterdam buried in the Minster.

Basel was hit hard by an earthquake in 1356. This unusually strong quake for Central Europe of nearly magnitude 7 caused not only damage to important buildings like the old Minster but also the loss of Basel’s oldest documents about the famous Carnival, Fasnacht.

The city is not only the host of the Art Basel every June but also of Switzerland’s biggest carnival, the Basel Fasnacht . It takes place every March and enlivens the city for three days with traditional costumes and parades through town, beginning on the Monday following Ash Wednesday. The protestant carnival is included by UNESCO on its Intangible Heritage List since 2017 because of its meaning for the city’s identity.

One Day in Basel Itinerary

The Rhine is undoubtedly the heart and lifeblood of Basel. It divides the town into Grossbasel, greater Basel, to its left, and Kleinbasel, the newer part of the city, to its right. In Grossbasel, you will find the main attractions. Visit the viewpoint or sit next to the Rhine for the best possible experience of the city.

Head from Spalentor to…

The Spalentor is one of three remaining town gates from the 15th century and an impressive entrance to the old town. Have a closer look at its figurative sculptures and you will find next to a Madonna and two prophets the city’s coat of arms held by two lions.

Strolling further through the old town, you will get a good feeling of this almost Mediterranean city where people love to enjoy being outside as soon as the sun comes out. Walk down the hilly cobbled alleys to the Marktplatz where five times a week local merchants sell everything from fresh fruits to handicrafts. Have a look at the historical red-stoned Rathaus , the town hall, with its imposing tower and murals. Further down to the famous Tinguely Fontaine , pass the Läckerli Huus and get yourself the city’s famous gingerbread.

…Kunstmuseum Basel

From the Tinguely Fontaine it is only a stone’s throw to Kunstmuseum Basel , actually the biggest art collection in Switzerland and the oldest public art museum worldwide opened in 1661. It shows a magnificent collection from the Renaissance to 19th- and 20th-century artworks. After your visit, head back to Rittergasse and reach Basel‘s most noticeable landmark, Basel Minster .

Visit the Basel Minster

The former Catholic bishop’s church is not only a remarkable point in Basel’s skyline, with its red sandstone architecture, slim towers, and coloured roof tiles but also a beautiful example of architecture in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. The Galluspforte , a portal on the north facade, is the oldest Romanesque figurative portal outside of France. Historically, the Basel Minster is significant because in 1440 the last Catholic antipope Felix V. was elected at the Minster.

Go around the Basel Minster to the viewing platform above the river Rhine. Basler Pfalz offers you a wonderful view over Basel onto the valley of the Rhine. Take the steps down and get on a ferry to cross the river. On the other side, now in Kleinbasel , walk straight up and have a well-deserved lunch at Hirscheneck that provides, even for a small pocket, delicious food. If you can afford more, though, go a bit further to Volkshaus Basel , a traditional Bar, and Brasserie that comes in a new design from Herzog & de Meuron.

After that, to aid digestion, take a walk alongside the river to the Museum Tinguely and enjoy the beautiful view of the cityscape with the Mittlere Brücke , Basel’s oldest bridge, and the Pflaz platform on the other side.

Go in the Museum Tinguely

The hometown of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely has been a host, since 1996, to a rich collection of works of the pioneer of kinetic art. His widow and a popular artist herself Niki de Saint Phalle donated to Basel sculptures, drawings, letters and documents from all periods of Jean Tinguely’s long artistic life.

Swim in the Rhine

After your visit, it‘s time to start the more relaxing part of the day. And the most fun that Basel has to offer! Tired of walking? No problem! On your way to your well-deserved lunch break, you pass by a lot of little stores that sell the bags called Fisch (German for fish). Get one straight away because you need it now.

Especially on one of Basel’s hot summer days, the best way to refresh yourself is to take a swim in the clean and fresh Rhine! Put your clothes in your drybag and float down the river among others. Get out at the Mittlere Brücke or even further down the river close to the German border. Buy yourself a sausage at one of the points next to the riverside and make yourself dinner at one of the public bbq’s and drink a fresh Panache, a beer mixed with lemonade. After that, cross the Johanniterbrücke and have a drink right underneath at Cargobar . What a day, right?!

Where to stay in Basel

Les Trois Rois

Blumenrain 8, Old Town Grossbasel, 4001 Basel

If you are a fan of luxury and history, then Les Trois Rois located right on the riverside is your best option as it is Basel’s (and Europe’s) oldest luxury hotel.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

East-West Riverside Hotel

Rheingasse 8, Old Town Kleinbasel, 4058 Basel

Less expensive but still in need of a full pocket is the East-West Riverside Hotel . Sit next to the river when the day passes by and watch the brave Rheinschwimmer.

Backpacking

Hyve Hostel Basel

Gempenstrasse 64, 4053 Basel

If you’re on a budget, you will have fewer options, but Hyve Hostel Basel offers everything you need in a chic ambiance.

Day Trips From Basel

It is worth to stay longer in Basel for a while, not only for the many things to do in this beautiful city but also to get the chance to explore its surroundings. When coming in summer you can take a day trip to Lake Bienne . The strawberries you can get along the way on the streets are amazing and cheaper than in the city.

Augusta Raurica

The Roman city has one of the most stunning Roman theaters north of the alps. Take a guided tour and learn more about the daily living and see the biggest silver treasure of late antiquity.

Fondation Beyeler

One of the most beautiful museums designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano opened 1997 in the suburb of Riehen. Just a 15-minute drive by tram, Fondation Beyeler hosts the collection of Basel’s patrons Hildy and Ernst Beyeler containing classic modern art, ethnic art from Africa, Oceania, and Alaska. Their program also contains contemporary art for special exhibitions.

Extra tips for visiting Basel

During the busy art week, Basel’s hotel rates are twice the usual price or even bigger. However, many inhabitants of Basel use the time and rent their flat on Airbnb for a short getaway. Check that if you plan to come during Art Basel!

Day tickets for Art Basel are around CHF 58, around € 55. Public opening hours are from Thursday to Sunday, but the event opens for VIPs on Monday.

Due to the proximity of Basel to France and Germany, you can pay with euros here. However, you will get the change in Swiss franc.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Basel Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Nicole Guether

Nicole Guether is a full time nomadic freelance writer and art historian. After years of working in galleries on contemporary art, guiding through exhibitions and much more, she decided to follow her two passions: travelling and writing. She writes about art, exhibitions and travel expieriences for different kinds of media.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

24 hours in Basel: One Day in Switzerland’s 3rd Largest City

Basel, Switzerland’s 3rd largest city deserves at least one day of your time. Read my inspirational ideas on what to do with 24 hours in Basel.

We started our 2-week Switzerland train adventure in the city of Basel. Situated at the border with Germany, it was my first experience with Switzerland and I loved Basel. We only had 24 hours in Basel and I tried to make the most of our time.

If you’re visiting Switzerland and not sure if you should include Basel in your travel plans, then here are some great inspirational ideas on things to do in Basel in one day. Or if you’re heading to Basel but have little time, (like I did), then this itinerary will help you make the most of your 1 day in Basel.

We were invited by the Basel tourist office for a short walking tour of the city but as always all opinions are my own. I paid for everything in full myself.

Probe around the Globe uses affiliate links. If you book something, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra costs for you.

Basel Switzerland

Basel is the 3rd biggest city in Switzerland. After Zürich and Geneva, the city of Basel is one of the best places to live in the world! Wow.

Edged on the border with Germany and France, the city of Basel is cut into 2 sides by the Rhine River.

The earliest settlements started in the 5th century BCE but nowadays, the city is known for its outstanding university (the oldest in Switzerland) and the big pharmaceutical companies that adorn the faraway skyline of the city.

As a tourist, the main city center is the most interesting, and that part of Basel feels like a cute communal courtyard. It doesn’t feel like a big city and the main sights are within walking distance.

Because of its small historic center, you can see a lot of Basel in a day. If you only have one day in Basel, I’d recommend focussing on exploring the city’s center.

24 hours in Basel

We arrived in Basel around 4-ish in the afternoon. We’d traveled all day on the train from the Netherlands and finally arrived in Switzerland.

We walked to our hotel and after dumping our bags, we immediately set out to explore the town. As we arrived in the late afternoon, some sights were already closed but the city was vibrant with smells, sounds and new sights to explore.

The historic center of Basel

We met with a tour guide from the Basel Tourist office who took us on the tram to the Old Town. If you stay at a registered hotel in Basel, you get free transport in Basel for the duration of your stay. Perfect!

Any Basel itinerary should include the old town and we admired the ruby red town hall. Our guide told us about the underground rivers in Basel and the layout of the medieval city. Did you know that the ancient suburbs of Basel, are actually right in the center today?

You can visit the interior of the town hall . But by the time we got there, it was already closed.

After the town hall, we crossed some hidden courtyards, navigated through the narrow streets, walked some stairs, and visited the smallest museum of Basel. Super cute and tiny Hoosesagg museum is nothing like you’ve ever seen before! Go and discover it.

Book your Basel walking tour here.

Gothic church of Basel (Basel Münster)

After crossing all those super cute streets, our guide pointed out that actually, the whole of Europe could look like Basel, if it wasn’t for the World Wars that took place. This really struck a chord with me.

Of course, I knew Switzerland was neutral in the World Wars but I never realized what that actually meant for life in Switzerland at the time. It was crazy to see a town like Basel, seemingly untouched, just miles from the border with Germany. It was one of the things that surprised me the most about my visit to Switzerland .

After all the tiny streets, space opened up to us and we reached the wide-open space of the Münsterplatz (the square of the church) with the beautiful church standing fiercely at the head of it.

The tiles reminded me a little of the main cathedral in Vienna and the Mattheus Church in Budapes t, which made for a colorful surprise.

We didn’t go in the church, but it must be really beautiful and I learned that the famous Dutch university master, Erasmus was buried there. What an odd little factoid!

We didn’t go in, but we did walk around the church.

Of course, we had to take in the amazing views of the city and the Rhine River, as the church is the highest part of Basel. This incredible view is one of the things to do in Basel, that you cannot miss!

After we took enough pictures, we found an almost hidden passageway, that led into the old and charming cloister hall. After Rome and Portugal , I’m a real sucker for monastery gardens and cloister halls. I loved this rare find.

Love photography? Find the most photogenic spots in Basel with a Tour here.

Eat fondue in Basel

Of course, when you visit Switzerland, you have to try their fondue. Ok, I have to admit, Basel is not the fondue capital of Switzerland but as it was our first night in Switzerland, I wanted to try it.

We searched for a typical Swiss “stuebli’ to eat. A Swiss restaurant with local specialties. We picked Elsbethen Stübli and of course, they had fondue (and raclette) on the menu. We ordered a portion for 2 and before we knew it, a smoldering hot pan of gooey cheese was in front of us.

Surprisingly, we managed to snatch a picture before we both dipped our bread in with our fondue forks. The next hour, all we did was go “nommmnommmnommm” with cries of “owhmygoshhhhh how delicious is this!” in between. A fondue is a must try in Switzerland and Basel is no exception.

Sample the best food from Basel on this self-guided food tour.

Drink the night away

After all that walking and eating cheese, we got a bit thirsty. What is better than to try some (Swiss) wine where the locals go?

We got a tip to try the Consum Bar and loved it. They serve delicious food and wine by the glass. With over 100 wines on their list, I’m sure you can find something to your liking.

Whether or not you go to a bar or just stroll along the Rhine and enjoy a store-bought drink, this area is the place to be when the sun dips behind the city and the buzzing nightlife is washing up on the banks of the Rhine.

Enjoy the Rhine River in Basel

As we had so little time in Basel, we didn’t have enough time to experience all the cool and hip things that are going on in Basel. What a shame! Everything looked so amazing.

From open-air art exhibitions to a former church turned cafe. Basel is also home to like a million museums and modern art exhibitions.

One of the most exciting things I’ve learned about Basel is that you can actually swim in the river! How cool is that? Even in September, there were some people still swimming in the river. The trick is to get in the water and let the river drift you away!

But wait? What about your stuff? Where do you leave your phone when you go swimming in the Rhine river? Well, actually, the Basel tourism office came up with an ingenious way to transport your precious stuff waterproof!

They invented a waterproof, floating balloon in the shape of a colorful little fish that can carry all your valuables while you dip your toes in the river!

Rather stay dry and cross the river, instead of just cruising along with the stream? Their ferry boat is both ingenious and super sustainable.

No heavy diesel fumes to take you across the Rhine. No, their boats use a simple line and the current of the river. Old school but it still works!

Roman Ruins of Augusta Raurica outside Basel

The main reason for including one day in Basel in our itinerary was that I wanted to visit the Roman ruins of Augusta Raurica, just outside of Basel. Known for the biggest Roman theater north of the Alps, I just had to see it.

And Augusta Raurica didn’t disappoint. It really is one of the great (half) day trips to do in Basel.

We took the train from Basel main station and got off at Kaiseraugst train station. Then we followed the signs and before we knew it, we arrived at the visitor center and museum.

As it turns out, Augusta Raurica is a collection of Roman ruins, situated right in the village. There is no gate and surprise, surprise: no entry fee.

We visited the Roman Theater and the amphitheater and then returned to visit the main forum and underground wells. It was really nice to walk in a village and discover some ruins here and there.

Because it was free, it’s a popular day trip and one of the things to do in Basel, especially with kids!

They host all kinds of events, like the Roman festival in August . This is your chance to see the Roman era come to life. Dotted across the site, you’ll find little viewing boxes on sticks that show you the surrounding area and the modern-day ruins, in ancient times. I thought this was a real treat.

I’d say, you can see the main sights in 2-3 hours if you take your time. Add an extra hour for the museum.

Where to stay in Basel?

When you only have one day in a city like Basel, you have to base yourself super conveniently to not lose time in transit. We stayed at the Rheinfelderhof in Klein Basel.

This hotel and restaurant are located right on the main shopping street and tram lines. Close to the exhibition and trade center and the Rhine river, we felt we could go everywhere. The room was spacious and the breakfast was outstanding. I’d definitely recommend it as a value-for-money hotel in Basel.

If you’re looking for a more budget option, and don’t mind sharing, check out the Basel Youth Hostel , Basel Backpack or the Basel YMCA Hostel .

If you have a bit more cash to burn and you’re looking for unique, swanky, and luxurious rooms with Rhine River views, then try the East-West Riverside Hotel Basel . Looking for a bit more style and design elements, then the Hotel D – Design Hotel might be perfect for you.

More than one day in Basel

If you have more than 24 hours in Basel, well done! There are so many museums to explore, you can walk along the Rhine river or take a day trip to explore nearby German Freiburg or Colmar and Strasbourg in France.

Swiss capital Bern and the biggest city Zürich are not far away either.

One day in Basel Switzerland

As it turned out, one day in Basel was absolutely not enough. I got a small glimpse of the city and fell head over heels in love with it. I think the #loveBasel is very appropriate.

Although we only had 24 hours in Basel, it gave me a taste of the city and I can’t wait to go back and explore more.

Hidden things to do in Basel

The people of Basel are very proud of their city and are more than happy to share their hidden things to do in Basel and secret selfie spots with you.

If you have little time in Basel, what better way than to have a local show you around? But if you don’t have any friends in the area, you can book a tour with a local and find the best-hidden spots in Basel.

• Walking tour of Old Basel with a local
• Discover Art in Basel with a local
• Architectural Tour of Basel with a local
• Sweet treats of Basel
• Shop for the best souvenirs in Basel with a local
• Basel Sightseeing Tour Bus
• Fodor’s Essential Switzerland Guidebook is a good guide for information and practical travel tips. Purchase your copy here .
• Book your hotels in Switzerland via Booking.com or Hotels.com
• Find your direct flights to Zurich, Switzerland here
• Book your tours and activities direct with GetYourGuide or Viator
• Travel in style and hang this super cool Swiss Flag luggage tag on your bag. Check out these cool designs!
• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel in Switzerland. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Do you only have one day in Basel? I hope I was able to show you what I loved so much about the city and convince you to visit. Have you been to Basel? Or planning to go? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below or share this with your friends.

Author: Naomi

One comment.

Thanks for informative sharing,

Comments are closed.

Swiss Escape: One Day in Basel

• June 21, 2019
• 24 Hours In... , Art & Culture , City Escapes , Luxury Travel , Switzerland
• Comments Off on Swiss Escape: One Day in Basel

Getting an art & culture fix in Switzerland

Our week in Alsace afforded us ample time to explore the charming towns, tasting rooms and sights in the region. With Germany and Switzerland within short driving distance we opted to zip to Switzerland by train to spend one day in Basel. None of us had ever spent time in Switzerland prior and while Basel isn’t necessarily representative of Switzerland as a whole, it’s a city that has its own culture and feel, with a substantial focus on the arts and history.

For those crafting an itinerary like ours, which focuses on Alsace with a day trip to Basel, trains easily connect the two regions and you’ll rather seamlessly travel from France to Switzerland in about 45 minutes (trains depart from Colmar to Basel a number of times throughout the day). Fares are around €15 each way and can be purchased day of at the train station.

9:30AM 〰️ Arrival in Basel

If you’re taking a train in as we did, you’ll have the ability to arrive in Basel in the morning around 9:30AM. There are earlier trains available but arriving any earlier in the morning isn’t necessary for the city exploration that you’re likely looking to embark on. To be honest, weather plays a major role in how much time you’ll end up spending in the city. We visited on a drizzly spring day so mid-day options like cruising down the Danube weren’t as appealing. On a summer day, that could easily be an add-on for your day. The train station sits about a 20 – 25 minute walk from the Marktplatz, where the 500-year-old brick-red building is the anchor of the main square in Old Town Basel.

10:30AM 〰️ Walking Tour of Basel

During the summer months when the tourist + river cruise season is in full swing, you’ll have plenty of options for touring Basel with a local guide. It’s no secret that I love doing a guided tour to get my bearings and while we sometimes use private guides, I’ve also continually been impressed with free walking tours we’ve done in cities worldwide (for example, the one we did during our time in  Strasbourg and during our one day in Stockholm .) When you only have day in a city, I think the importance of seeing the highlights and hearing a local narrative can’t be overstated.

Walking tours in Basel can take a variety of forms depending on whether your focus is on the downtown area or in Old Basel. My interest was in seeing the Old Town but as fate would have it, we arrived in the city about a week before the regularly scheduled tours were underway. The Basel Tourism Board was kind enough to set us up with one of their guides native to Basel, George Luder, who skillfully helped us navigate the city and get a feel for what makes Basel special.

So what  does  make Basel special? When your mind drifts to a postcard-worthy Swiss escape, it often includes chalets, fondue and the Alps. Basel has none of that. It feels more like a modern city (with a bit of Old Town charm), set on the Rhine River, with a major focus on the arts and history. However, just like you’d imagine for Switzerland, it’s efficient and forward-thinking. It’s history is founded largely in education, when a university was founded there in the 15th century and Basel was a key center for enlightenment. The University of Basel is the oldest institution for learning in Switzerland and was shaped in part by its history in book printing and its prestigious scholars, like Erasmus, who called Basel home (and was buried in Basel Minster).

We started our day by walking through the Old Town. It’s picturesque though not the fairytale image that you think of in neighboring France or Germany where the towns in Alsace and the Black Forest bring next-level charm. The Spalenberg District in Basel’s Old Town is the heart of the area, with a blend of residential housing, boutiques, restaurants and cafés lining the main thoroughfare.

After discovering the heart of Old Town’s tourism, we headed along the riverfront en route to Basel Minster, the city’s most famous cathedral.

En route to the cathedral we stopped at a square with a couple of fountains in plain sight. Basel is a city dominated by fountains — over 300 of them actually — nearly all of which deliver drinkable water. How very Swiss of them, am I right? Four cups materialized from George’s backpack as he handed us our vessels for the day. We dutifully filled each one up and sipped away as we continued to walk through the city. Basel Minster was just shortly ahead as we continued our tour.

Founded in 1091, the cathedral has a rich history which has helped propel it to its status as one of Basel’s top visitor sites. We made it inside before a mass and were able to take in the interiors (no charge for entry when we were there). It was there that our guide shared the history of Erasmus (who’s buried here), the importance of education, book printing, and literacy and how that shaped Basel’s role in the Swiss landscape.

From there, we parted ways but George kindly escorted us to our next stop, an absolute  must  for every single visitor to Basel.

12:30PM 〰️ Kunstmuseum Basel

Even those who know little about Basel as a city, know of its connection to the arts and how it inspired Art Basel art shows that now take place in Basel, Hong Kong and Miami. If Basel is anything, it’s a city for art lovers, whether you’re an aficionado or not. Basel has many –  many! –  museums and art galleries to choose from but if you were to choose just one, it should be  Kunstmuseum Basel.  If you have an option for a second museum, Fondation Beyeler was recommended by the Tourism Board and many others as a top destination, especially with their Picasso exhibition during our visit. Kunstmuseum simply means ‘Fine Art’ so you’ll see a range of cities that have a ‘kunstmuseum’ in their repertoire.

I’m going to be totally honest here:  I like art.  I don’t  love  art, but I like it. I’m not so high on modern art but I love classic paintings and I knew that going to the museum was a must with our one day in Basel purely because it’s what the city is known for. My expectations were tempered after coming from the Louvre days earlier. Here’s the thing though: the Louvre can be overwhelming! There’s  so  much to see spread out over so many floors and there are so many people creating a sea you have to navigate. Not that it’s not impressive but it can feel hard to focus with people snapping selfies at every turn.

Kunstmuseum Basel was an experience entirely different from that. It was an absolute wow, even for the four of us who are far from art connoisseurs but do appreciate some fine art. I was worried that my mom, who has never fancied herself much of a culture vulture, would be bored to tears.  She loved it.  You guys, she loved it.  We’re talking Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso (in all phases), and so many other renowned artists showcased here without any crowds. We had the museum virtually to ourselves so were able to linger where we wanted and get as close as we’d like without having to force our way through.

We walked through the entire museum – something that would be really unfathomable at the Louvre – though we didn’t do the additional exhibition available in the annex. We spent a couple of hours wandering though you could easily spend more.

2:30PM  〰️ Lunch in Basel

Basel has a range of dining establishments including many fine dining options available for those wanting something gastronomic. Being in Switzerland we wanted something local though and opted for  Gifthüttli ,  which was recommended by our guide for something with a more tradtiional feel. Specialties tend to be meat heavy but vegetarians can opt for the cheese-laden spaetzle. (Vegans, it’s tough out there!)

Side note: If you need a mid-morning or afternoon snack, pretzels dominate the scene. While we missed out on this, a friend shared a photo of her Basel specialty pretzel: a pretzel with egg and white asparagus for a hearty local take!

3:30PM 〰️ Wander the Old Town

We spent another hour or so meandering the Old Town before heading back to the train station to make our way back to our home base in Alsace. You know how I mentioned weather impacting your experience? While we enjoyed our day in Basel, a sunny day would have definitely made exploring – and maybe boating down the Rhine! – more feasible. We had packed umbrellas for the trip knowing that spring can be very temperamental and were thankful we did! If you happen to have a day in Basel that brings sunshine, you can hop on a Rhine river cruise or jump on one of their four ferries that crosses the river regularly.

All in all, I enjoyed Basel but I do think it’s a city best wrapped into a larger itinerary, whether that’s part of a broad Swiss itinerary, incorporating France (like we did) or Germany, or hopping on a river cruise to see the surrounding area. For outdoors lovers , check out the gardens, parks, ruins, and trails available nearby.

Have you been to Basel before? If so, what did you think and how would you spend a day in Basel?

This post was created in collaboration with the Basel Tourism Board . A huge thanks to our guide, George Lüder, for insight into Basel’s Old Town.

More about Shannon Kircher

Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust Effect. Founded in 2009, she has continued to document her international escapes as an expat in Europe and the Caribbean. Additionally, Shannon is the founder of Compass & Vine, a luxury boutique travel design firm, and is the Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort. Shannon holds an MSc in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and is a current candidate for WSET Level 3 in Wines & Spirits.

Related Posts

Exploring Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay with Indochina Junk

November 22, 2019

Exploring Saigon’s Food Scene by Motorbike with XO Tours

December 20, 2019

ITINERARY INSPIRATION: One Week in the Exumas

August 8, 2019

10 Magical Day Trips from Basel, Switzerland

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 3rd March 2023

Categories Switzerland

Last Updated on 3rd March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

An art city on the Swiss-German-French border, Basel is a pretty settlement filled with traditional Swiss architecture, plenty of historical museums, and lots of local food. And, if you’re looking to explore central Europe for a couple of days, then it’s the perfect place to base yourself for trips into central Switzerland, across to France, and over to Germany. Here are 10 magical day trips from Basel , northern Switzerland!

If you’re looking for even more information and inspiration, then be sure to check out our guide to the best-kept secrets of Switzerland .

For an idea on where to go and how long to spend there, be sure to check out our guide on ‘ how to spend three days in Switzerland ‘ and ‘ how to spend one week in Switzerland’ .

#1 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

#2 geneva, switzerland, #3 strasbourg, france, #4 lucerne, switzerland, #5 château du haut-koenigsbourg, france, #6 zurich, switzerland, #7 neu-falkenstein & alt-falkenstein, switzerland, #8 lausanne, switzerland, #9 bern, switzerland, #10 colmar, france, enjoyed reading about the best day trips from basel pin it now, read it again later:, best day trips from basel.

The vibrant city of Freiburg im Breisgau, often shortened to just ‘Freiburg’ has a population of around 220,000 residents, meaning that it’s pretty substantial in size and has plenty going on.

Located just south of the Black Forest, the university city is around two hours away from Basel via public transport. Once there, you’ll find that there are plenty of museums to visit as well as plenty of historical buildings to wander around.

Other highlights of Freiburg im Breisagu include admiring the Romanesque Cathedral which took three hundred years to build, and visiting the Münsterplatz, which holds a regular local farmers’ market.

Located lakeside, Geneva is one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland and is best known for its connections with chocolate, luxury goods, as well as its number of 5-star hotels. However, given Geneva’s location around two and a half hours from Basel by car, there are certainly closer day trips to the city to be taken!

But then again, if you want to see the birthplace of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, or experience the iconic fountain of the Jet d’Eau for yourself, then you simply must head to Geneva!

Other highlights of Geneva include a historic old town (complete with cobbled lanes) and the 12th-century St Pierre Cathedral (which offers fantastic views over the rest of the city) . As Switzerland can be pretty expensive, I’ve put together a  useful guide to visiting Geneva on a budget.

For Francophiles, the fairytale French town of Strasbourg probably needs no introduction! Small riverways wend their way alongside timber-framed houses and candy coloured façades pop at every corner; all of which makes for great photo opportunities.

Often referred to as ‘Petite France,’ highlights of Strasbourg include medieval architecture and lots of local cuisine (think plenty of cheeses and wines).

Located under an hour and a half from Basel via either public transport or your own car, Strasbourg makes for the perfect day trip from Basel! For more wanderlust inspiration from this French city, be sure to check out this  free and self-guided Strasbourg walking tour

If you’re looking for a magical day trip from Basel that’s within Switzerland itself, then you need to look no further than Lucerne (also known as Luzern in German) . Lying alongside a body of water of the same name, Lake Lucerne, this pretty city is full of fairytale architecture and quaint eateries serving local produce.

Nestled under snow-topped Mount Pilatus, in the summer months, there are plenty of water activities on offer, while the winter months offer the opportunity to visit one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

Luzerne is easily one of the best day trips from Basel if you’re looking for a taste of fairytale Switzerland, and the city can be reached in just over an hour should you opt for a fast train. One particular highlight of the city which really stands out is the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower Lucerne, which is the oldest wooden bridge of its kind in Europe.

The fortified château du Haut-Koenigsbourg is a medieval castle in the entire Upper Rhine Valley area, a region well known for its stunning castles, including the ones at Alt-Eberstein, Dahn, and Badenweiler, among others.

Humans have inhabited the rock for centuries, as proven by a document issued by Charlemagne in the 8th-century. The Bundsandstein Rock was then home to a monastery before a later castle was constructed (though no one is completely clear on the dates.)

The day trip from Basel to the medieval Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg only takes around an hour each way by car, and is well worth the time spent driving! After all, a visit to the castle can easily be combined with a trip to the fairytale town of Colmar, which is en route!

Often mistaken as the Capital of Switzerland (the Swiss Confederation doesn’t actually have an ‘official capital’ at all), with a metropolitan population of over 1.8 million people, Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, and as a result, is packed with things to see and do.

Zurich can be found around an hour from Basel by either car or public transport (both take exactly the same time), making it an easy day trip from Basel.

Highlights of Zurich include various water activities on Lake Zurich, as well as visiting all of the various medieval churches and cathedrals dotted around the city. For those seeking a quirkier side to the city, there are plenty of trendy bars and unique stores to discover.

The twin Swiss castles of Neu-Falkenstein & Alt-Falkenstein are located around three-quarters of an hour from Basel by car. The impressive ruins of Neu-Falkenstein were constructed by a wealthy family in the 12th-century and are now open to the public.

Nearby, a seasonal heritage museum operates in the restored medieval fortifications of the Schloss Alt-Falkenstein. Elsewhere in the surrounding area, stunning hiking trails showcase the beauty of this mountainous country.

On the same lake as Geneva, just across the water from the well-known town of Evian-Les-Bains (where Evian water comes from!) , Lausanne is a typically Swiss city that’s best known for its impressive cathedral (said to be the most beautiful example of Gothic architecture in Switzerland)

Other notable attractions include Lausanne’s punctual clock in the heart of the old town, and the city’s stunning views onto the Alps. The city is also well worth a trip if you’re interested in sports; Lausanne is home to a Winter Olympics Museum and the city has strong ties to the games.

Bern is often cited as one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland , and it’s easy to see why! Often referred to as the stand-in ‘capital of Switzerland’ as this is where all of the Cantons convene, Bern is a pretty city with plenty to see and do.

Highlights of Bern include a visit to the world-famous rose garden and a stroll around the Bern Münster (cathedral) , which has the highest spire in Switzerland. Elsewhere in the city, the Bern Historical Museum is said to be one of the best cultural offerings in all of Switzerland.

With its pretty timber-framed façades and gently flowing river, a visit to Colmar is easily one of the best day trips from Basel. Best seen around Christmas time, when the mulled wine is flowing and the French stalls are at their best, Colmar is a magical town that’s well worth the two hours or so train ride from Basel.

After all, some of the best things to do in Colmar include visiting its toy museum, exploring one of the city’s many art museums, or simply strolling alongside the pretty riverside.

Other highlights of this fairytale town include a local museum housed with a former convent and strolling around ‘La Petite Venise,’ a pretty as a postcard Venice lookalike neighbourhood.

What’s more is that there are plenty of  hidden gems in Colmar you’ll love to visit! For more inspiration, check out our suggestions for o ne day in Colmar .

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Vivek Mehrotra

Saturday 14th of May 2022

Thanks a lot Sophie. I m visiting Basel and there are lots of beautiful places that you had suggested which are worth a visit.

Philipp Pley

Friday 22nd of February 2019

Awesome recommendations Sophie! Moving to Basel soon and will take your advice for sure :)

Saturday 20th of October 2018

Thank you Sophie!

Basel, Elvetia – 5 nopti la 189 euro/persoana zbor + cazare – Angy's Planet

Wednesday 15th of August 2018

[…] ca e o perioada mai lunga decat pentru un city break, recomand si excursii de o zi in orase precum Berna sau […]

History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Basel: Itinerary for 48 Hours in Basel + Weekend Tips!

Last Updated on: 17th February 2022, 10:44 pm

Looking for a Basel itinerary? You’ve landed in the right place!

This 2 days in the Basel itinerary can be followed at any time of the year, whether you’re spending a weekend in Basel in the summer, winter, spring, or autumn!

So make sure to bookmark this travel guide for what to do, where to stay, and where to eat in Basel in 48 hours!

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2024

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Good to Know: This Basel itinerary comes to use from Trijit Mallick from the  Budget Travel Buff .

He is a software engineer by profession and a travel blogger by heart. Besides being a writer, he also has a passion for motorcycles!

Trijit is based out in the city of the joy of India – Kolkata. In his free time, he spends his time exploring beautiful places in Europe and the USA.

Planning a Trip to Basel for the Weekend?

If you have finally persuaded your boss for two days off then Basel is a perfect place for a peaceful vacation.

Basel is a metropolitan city seat at the northwest of Switzerland where the Swiss, French, and German borders meet. 

If regular life is driving you batty, then escape to this small city with rich history, art, and culture, and a charming atmosphere.

Pro Tip: If you’re coming during the winter, make sure to enjoy Basel’s Christmas Market, one of the great Swiss Christmas Markets . 

How to Get to Basel, Switzerland

Basel is a unique and less crowded place compared to Zurich and Geneva.

It is a dog-friendly place, and it’s worth spending 48 hours in Basel to enjoy the city’s beauty and unexplored gems.  

One common route to get to Basel is to go from Zurich to Basel. From the Zurich railway station, you can book tickets to Badischer Bahnhof railway station in Kleinbasel. 

Of course, there are many other ways to get to Basel. Here are a few others:

By car: Yes, you can get into your car, load up Google Maps, and you are all set to drive to Basel.

Make sure you have what you need to cross the borders in Europe if you’re coming from outside of the country.

If you want to road trip to Basel and don’t have your own car, rent a car through Discover Cars .

By air: Euro Airport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg is Basel’s airport which is 10 minutes away from the city center.

Wear your headphones and enjoy the flight to Basel.

Once you arrive, you’re just a few minutes from one of the most fascinating parts of Basel with lots of restaurants, bars, and cute cafes. 

Arrange a private transfer from the Basel Airport to your Basel Accommodations

When is the Best Time to Visit Basel?

Visit Basel in December or January if you want to experience chill weather and visit the beautiful Christmas market. If you want to escape the heat then visit in May and June. 

I love Basel in September: the weather is pleasant and the city is not crowded.

I stroll the streets and enjoyed autumn colors and very little snow on mountain tops. 

July is the warmest month in Basel and during this time of the year, the city’s famous art exhibition takes place. It’s time for all the art and craft lovers.

The best time for tourists is to visit between Mid May and End of June or Mid August to End of October .

While I have preferences for when to visit Basel, this two-day Basel itinerary will sort all your stress so you can enjoy Basel at any time of the year!

How to Get Around Basel

Basel is not a large city, so you can see a lot of Basel in two days. And you’ll see a lot of it on foot, since it has a very walkable historic center.

I stayed near Old Town and I was amazed to see how well connected and reliable Basel public transport was.

It was always on time, facilitated pre-booking tickets, and was even free. 

My first recommendation is to get a free Basel Card once you check in to a hotel. If you are staying at Airbnb then they will provide you this card.

This card is referred to as a “Mobility Ticket” by Basel locals, and it offers discounts on museums, local tourist attractions, and allows you to use unlimited public transportation. 

What to See in Basel in Two Days

If you are wondering what to do in Basel in two days then steal this 2-days-in-Basel Itinerary to explore and experience the best of Basel in a weekend!

Basel Itinerary Day 1: Swiss Cuisine, an Old Town Walking Tour, + Rhine River Views

Here we go!

8:30 AM: Breakfast on Your Own

If your accommodations provide breakfast, eat at your leisure. Otherwise, grab a croissant or pastry and make sure to fuel up for a big day of sightseeing in Basel!

9:30 AM Explore Old Town on a Walking Tour

I like to get acquainted with a new city with a walking tour or a city bus tour.

For Basel, start with a walking tour through the Old Town of Basel to get to know the history and geography of the city and some of the city’s most important landmarks.

This one-hour tour will cover the winding streets, old museums, and pretty Tinguely Fountain, Cathedral Hill, and Town Hall – a perfect way to get introduced to Basel!

Book Your Basel: 1-Hour Must-See Express Tour

Important Basel Landmarks to see on the tour or on your own:

Basel Minster

This cathedral was built in 1019 but it was destroyed in 1356. Luckily for us, it was reconstructed!

It is a beautiful church which is located in Munsterplatz. It is built up of red sandstones and a tile-patterned roof.

The church is magnificently designed with stained glass windows enhancing its beauty. 

There is a great landmark at this church: Desiderius Erasmus, a famous Dutch university master, is buried here.

It is located across the Rhine River with incredible views.

If you have some time during your weekend in Basel, you might want to come back and see it in greater detail when your tour is over.

Basel Town Hall

A red huge building standing at the center of the Old Town. City Hall has its rich historical culture and significance on display.

On the front, a few frescoes remind you of the history. If you find yourself with extra time, you can purchase an entry ticket and learn about the city’s political history.

Town Hall is a can’t-miss during your Basel weekend!

11:30 AM: Enjoy Local Cuisine at a Local Basel Restaurant

Pick whichever cafe or restaurant piques your interest or use one of the restaurant recommendations that I have posted below.

Note that great dishes to eat in Basel include local favorites like Basler läckerli, Basler mehlsuppe, and Lummelbraten.

Or you can go for traditional Swiss cuisine like the national dish, Rosti.

1:45 PM: Enjoy Rhine River Views

The main attraction of Basel is the blue river Rhine flowing gorgeously, calling you loudly to dip in and float on the water to drift you away.

Yes, you can swim in the river!

There is a Middle Bridge that allows people to cross the river easily making it navigable on the other side. This was built in 1225 but redesigned in 1905. 

This is one of the most popular places to take pictures in Basel!

Stand on the bridge and snap some Instagram pics with the right amount of light and enjoy the breathtaking view!

2:30 PM: Visit the Gorgeous Spalentor

You’ve already gotten a peak, but now it’s time to go back and take in this magnificent Basel attraction!

On the west of the Old Town, Spalentor stands protecting the incredibly beautiful Basel. It has a tiled roof and sculptures on its outer façade which is Instagram perfect.

This place makes me nostalgic and reminds me of the Bygone era of Basel.

3:00 PM: Learn Local History at Basler Papiermuhle

Even those who don’t traditionally love museums will love a trip to the Basler Papiermuhle!

The name translates to English as the Swiss Museum for Paper, Writing, and Printing.

Here you can learn about the history of printing and experience some of the old-school technology for yourself. Prepare to get your hands dirty!

For example, I learned how to make paper and also made one for myself with my own hands. How cool is that?

Good to Know: The museum is closed on Mondays and closes every day at 5 PM, so try to arrive by 3 PM so you have enough time to experience the museum!

5:30 PM: Walk around Old Town or Go to Your Hotel to Rest and Freshen Up for Dinner

If you felt like Old Town called you and you want to see more, now is the perfect time to circle back and take it in at a slower pace.

However, if you are tired and want to take a break before dinner, head back to your hotel to rest and refresh.

7:30 PM: Dinner in Old Town at 1777 Kaffee Restaurant Bar

There are several restaurant recommendations for Basel later in this post. One of these recommendations, the 1777 Kaffee Restaurant Bar, is a perfect way to end your first day in Basel!

9:00 PM: If you are a German-speaker and looking for something interesting to do in Basel at night, go on this Basel: Nighttime Walking Tour in German .

The tour highlights the history of the city with romantic tales and dark history – a great way to get to know the city deeper!

Otherwise, enjoy the city at your leisure or retire to your hotel to prepare for day 2!

Basel Itinerary Day 2: Hiking + History

Get up relaxed and ready to go! There’s a lot more Basel to see!

Use one of the recommendations below or eat breakfast at your hotel.

9:30 AM: Hike to Another Country on the Rehberger-Weg

Basel is a great place to hike, and you can even traverse international borders here on foot. How fun is that!

You can start from Fondation Beyeler and hike to Germany. The Rehberger-Weg is a beautiful sculpture trail that starts in Basel and crosses into Germany, ending in Weil am Rhein.

It was named after the German artist Tobias Rehberger. This walk takes between one and a half and two hours.

When you’re done, you can head back to your hotel to change into city clothes or you can go straight to our next stop!

11:30 AM: Lunch at Schlüsselzunft

This beautiful and ornate tavern is located on Freie Strasse and is one of the most famous restaurants in Basel.

If you are looking to enjoy Basel on a budget, you can opt instead for street food or eating on your own in your hotel.

1:00 PM: Start Your Afternoon at the Natural History Museum

This museum covers paleontology, zoology, entomology, and anthropology.

You can find information about dinosaurs, mammoths, narrow-toothed tigers, and many other extinct species.

It has a different section exhibiting fossil and geographical activities like earthquakes and volcanoes. 

Spend an hour here if you are curious, or you can spend longer if you love natural history (especially dinosaurs)!

Good to Know: The museum is open from Tuesdays through Sundays until 5 PM.

3 PM: Learn Basel History at the Basel History Museum Barfüsserkirche

Do you want to know more about the rich culture of Basel?

Then set aside some time to visit the local history museum!

The main building is inside Barfüsserkirche , which was built in the 13th century and displays artifacts and medieval tapestries. 

5 PM: Finish Your Museum Trilogy at the Tinguely Museum & Sculpture Garden

In the name of artist Jean Tinguely, this art and sculpture museum is dedicated.

The sculptures are fun, beautiful, and kinetic. It’s a great way to enjoy Basel culture and have a bit of fun as well!

Good to Know: The museum is open from Tuesdays through Sundays until 6 PM.

6:00 PM: Enjoy Your Last Dinner in Basel!

Enjoy your last evening in Basel by enjoying a nice dinner out on the town. You can use the recommendations below or step into a place near the Tinguely Museum.

Afterward, you can get drinks in town or go back to your hotel to pack and prepare for the voyage home.

Where to Stay in Basel

Basel is a place of history and culture, and you’ll want to be able to access this quickly during your time here.

This means choosing a place near the Old Town is a great idea and will make getting around Basel during your time a breeze!

If you want a peaceful place then you can look at the places in Gundeldingen which are located directly across the river from the city center, or you can choose a hotel across the Rhine River.

These places are well connected with the train station. 

Option 1: The Krafft Hotel

The Krafft Hotel is on the bank of River Rhine and has been one of the historic hotels since 1850.

It is a 3–star boutique hotel with magnificent interior decoration and a huge winding staircase.

The rooms are large with contemporary furnishings that remind me of gothic movies from the 1990s – perfect for your time in a city as historic as Basel!

I stayed on the 3rd floor and found it so beautifully decorated with a Japanese teakettle and stocked with L’Occitane toiletries.

It felt like I was in the 1880s!

The most exciting and beautiful part of this hotel is the perfect view of the Rhine flowing across Old Basel.

Book Your Stay at the Krafft Hotel

Option 2: The Hyve Hostel Basel

Switzerland is NOT a budget travel destination, but you can save some money if you try!

If you are on a tight budget then it’s better to look for hostels rather than hotels.

This will not only help you to save money but you might just make a friend or two during your Basel getaway.

In my opinion, the Hyve Hostel in Basel is the best choice for someone looking for budget accommodations in Basel.

The hostel is in a good location. It is only three hundred meters from the SBB Basel railway, a 10-minute walk to Margarethen Hill, a 3-minute bus ride to Zoological Garden, and a 15-minute walking distance from City Centre.

Book Your Stay at the Hyve Hostel in Basel

Where to Eat in Basel

Since you will have two days in Basel, you will be eating anywhere from four to eight meals in the city depending on when you arrive and depart the city and how many meals you typically eat during the day.

I have a few recommendations here, but feel free to enjoy any Basel restaurant that piques your interest!

Just remember that prices in Switzerland can get out of hand rather quickly, so if you are visiting Basel on a budget, look at the menus before you sit down so you know what you will be spending.

In my own travels, I love getting street food and visiting markets. This is a great way to have a budget-friendly trip to Basel.

The restaurants in Basel that I ventured to had great food and memorable settings!

For a lovely and cozy breakfast, you can have breakfast in the hotel where you are staying (if this is an option).

The Krafft Hotel , where I was staying, provided a generous amount of food including fruits, cherries, old charcuterie, boiled eggs, brown bread, warm buttery croissants, and boiled mushrooms. 

For lunch and dinner here are two of the best restaurants in Basel. 

Kaffee Restaurant Bar

This restaurant at the center of Old Town provides great salad options, sandwiches, burgers, fried fish, lovely pannacotta with a cherry compote, and a lot more.

Sip a cup of coffee or craft beer and enjoy your lunch! 

Elsbethen Stubli

When you are in Basel, you have to try Swiss food!

The best “stuebli” in the town is offered by Elsbethen Stubli. They serve the best fondue, smoldering hot pan of gooey cheese, Basel-style salmon with caper sauce, and Swiss red wine. 

Pro Tip: Stay hydrated without spending a ton on bottled water!

Basel has beautiful fountains on the streets so drink water as much as you want and stay hydrated. Ahh! And don’t forget to take a few Instagram photos beside the fountains!

Basel Travel Tips

It’s so important to have peace of mind while traveling. You can see so much on a weekend trip to Basel, but you need to be prepared!

It is most likely for you to spend most of your 48 hours in Basel split between the two main areas: Global (Big Basel) and Kleinbasel (Small Basel).

These two places are connected via several bridges over the Rhine River. 

If you are planning a two-day Basel trip in June during the art week then make sure your pocket is loaded with cash.

During this month of the year, the prices of hotels are much higher compared to the other months.

If you are coming from France and Germany to Basel for the weekend then you can do all the financial transactions via Euros. But you will receive your change in Swiss Franc.

The people of Basel are very friendly and welcome tourists to explore their hometown.

If you have spare time or end up extending your stay to three days in Basel (or more) then I recommend enjoying some local shows or visiting Basel theaters. 

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Switzerland

The   Lonely Planet Switzerland   guidebook for your trip. (Or the Rick Steves Switzerland …or both!).

It can be hard to find big, international guidebooks once you land (or they’ll be way overpriced). Get yours ahead of time, either a hard copy or on a Kindle.

An Unlocked Cell Phone   so that you can use a Swiss sim card while here to help navigate public transportation and when you’re on the road.

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS system, and general travel genie.

A Camera  since Switzerland is beautiful! I use a mix of my   Sony ZV-1  and my  iPhone 12 Pro  smartphone these days.

A  Waterproof Passport Holder   so that if something happens when you are near the water, your passport and important IDs don’t get wet.

I’ve seen people denied boarding on flights due to wet passports, and you can technically not be allowed to go over the border. 

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc).

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe ,  which is especially great for Nashville because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets.

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day.

More Switzerland Travel Resources

Here are more Switzerland travel guides to help you plan your complete Switzerland trip!

Switzerland Country Guides

Love chocolate? Check out the best Switzerland Chocolate Factory Tours.

Enjoy these Switzerland quotes and puns and jokes about Switzerland for Instagram captions and fun travel inspiration!

Swiss City Itineraries

Use these itineraries to plan your time in Switzerland:

Bern Itinerary for One or Two Days

Two Days in Basel

Lucerne in One or Two Days

Zurich in One or Two Days

Included in These Round-Ups

Best Places to Visit in Europe

The Most Beautiful Castles in the World

The Most Beautiful Catholic Monasteries in the World

Don’t Forget about Travel Insurance Before Visiting Switzerland!

Whenever I go on a trip, I always make sure to get travel insurance!

The company  World Nomads   is the travel insurance company I always look to first, and I happily recommend them!

I always make sure to get travel insurance whenever I’m going to be in a foreign country.

While I feel safe traveling through Europe, I know that being in foreign cities can make you an easy target of pickpockets, and outdoor activities can end in injury.

I don’t want either of these scenarios to ruin my trip or come for my wallet!

It makes my life easier knowing if something should happen, I’ll be able to take care of it!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

In this Article:

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

14 of the Best Day Trips From Basel by Train

When you have the opportunity to see some of the natural scenery and quaint towns of Switzerland, France, and Germany without renting a car, you know you have to take at least one or two day trips from Basel by Train (you can also book guided day tours from Basel).

Switzerland’s cultural hotspot may have a lot to offer, but its surroundings are also well worth exploring, so don’t hesitate to extend your weekend trip to Basel and travel by train to the beautiful places on this list.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Basel

The best area to stay in Basel is the Old Town (Altstadt), not only because of its location but also because it’s home to many of the city’s points of interest.

I stayed at  The Passage Hotel , situated only a minute from Steinenvorstadt, a lovely street in the old town packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Also, the train station Basel SBB is just one bus stop away.

The hotel’s staff made me feel very welcome, and my room was bright, spacious, and comfortable, so I would definitely go back for another stay. You can  read more reviews on The Passage Hotel here .

Fun fact:  If you book a hotel in Basel, you get the  Basel Card  when you check in. With the card, you can use public transportation for free and get a 50% discount at the city’s museums. Even the journey from the airport or train station is free with your hotel booking confirmation email.

Basel Day Trips by Train: Direct Routes

Good to know: All the mentioned countries are a part of the Schengen Area , so there is no passport control when you cross the border from one to the other. Simply hop on your train from the station of Basel SBB, and you’re good to go.

Strasbourg, France

The largest city in the Grand Est region (formed by Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne, and Lorraine), Strasbourg is an ideal day trip for those who love history, culture, architecture, and good food accompanied by welcoming locals and a vibrant atmosphere.

Its historic center, the Grande Île, along with the Neustadt district, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by the Ill River, it is packed with beautiful squares, charming streets, and impressive landmarks like the jaw-dropping Strasbourg Cathedral and the Rohan Palace.

Also notable is Petite France – the picturesque canal quarter with its lovely half-timbered houses, the Vauban Dam, and the Parc de l’Orangerie.

If you’re a foodie, the local culinary scene is diverse, ranging from traditional Alsatian restaurants and cozy French cafes to international cuisine restaurants and trendy brunch places.

You’ll also find plenty of museums in the city, including the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg, and the Strasbourg Museum of Fine Arts.

Strasbourg can be visited throughout the year, yet it is especially known for its enchanting Christmas markets, making it one of the best cities in Europe for a winter break .

Travel time: 1 hour and 20 minutes. Top tour in Strasbourg: A free walking tour of the city . Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Strasbourg in advance.

Zurich, Switzerland

By Josh from A Backpacker’s World

One of the best day trips from Basel by train is to the Swiss city of Zürich. Many mistakenly believe it is the capital city of Switzerland, but it isn’t. Though it definitely feels like a capital city when you visit.

The train takes just over 1 hour and leaves from Basel SBB straight to Zürich HB. There are only 5-6 stops between, and it’s an extremely scenic train journey through the countryside, passing through some small towns.

There are lots of reasons to visit Zürich. It’s a place with a lot of history and culture, and you only need to look as far as the  language in Zürich  to catch a glimpse.

Another reason to visit Zürich is because it has a perfect mix of natural beauty and architectural beauty. 

Zürich Lake offers the perfect place to relax and watch the swans swim past with a view of the Alps in the background on clear days. And then you have the beauty of the Fraumünster and Grossmünster just a few minutes walk away.

It’s also very walkable, and you can see everything in half a day, making it the perfect day trip destination.

Travel time: 1 hour. Top tour in Zurich: A walking tour of the Old Town . Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Zurich in advance.

Interlaken, Switzerland

By Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

Another fantastic place to visit if you’re in Basel is the picturesque city of Interlaken! Perfect for a day trip, this city is located between two stunning lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and offers a variety of activities.

For starters, you can participate in an  adrenaline-inducing activity, such as paragliding ,  which allows you to take in views of the city from above! 

Or, you can hike to the top of Harder Kulm and admire the incredible panoramic views. This hike takes about 2.5 hours to complete and is moderate in difficulty.

Alternatively, if you prefer something more relaxed, take a stroll along the river Aare! This river has a bright turquoise color and makes the perfect backdrop for beautiful pictures!

Just be sure to wear lots of sunscreen as the altitude means the sun is more intense!

Travel time: 2 hours. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Interlaken in advance.

Bern, Switzerland

By Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker

Just a one-hour domestic train ride away from Basel is Switzerland’s  de facto capital city Bern . It’s Switzerland’s fifth biggest city and the perfect size for a day trip or one overnight hotel stay to get free public transit with the Bern Ticket. 

Upon leaving the train station, it’s a short walk to the stately Swiss government building. From the Bundeshaus, there are wonderful views of the Aare River, which wraps around the Old City or Altstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

One legend of the city name tells that Bern was named after the first animal a duke shot in 1191: a bear. You’ll notice a lot of bear-themed things in the city, such as the flag, the bear statue at the famous astronomical clock Zytglogge and the bear pit Bärengraben. There you can see the city’s small bear population forage and wander.

For the best vistas of the entire city, take the tram away from the center to the Gurtenbahn funicular and walk up the observation tower. If you’re visiting on a particularly hot summer day, make sure to pack a bathing suit to go for a swim in the Aare River as the locals do.

Travel time: 1 hour. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Bern in advance.

Bellinzona, Switzerland

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

For a wonderful day trip south of Basel, consider taking the train to Bellinzona in Switzerland. The quickest and most direct route takes 2 hours and 39 minutes, so a long but enjoyable day trip is possible!

Bellinzona is quite a highlight to visit, located in the sunniest canton of Switzerland.

You can practice your Italian here as it’s the main language, compared to the rest of Switzerland with German or French. Bellinzona is the capital of the Ticino canton, where  there are many things to see  and do while visiting. 

To start with, Bellinzona is beautifully known for its 3 UNESCO World Heritage castles that are dotted in and around the city.

Given this title in 2000, you can visit all in one day (by walking or local transport), with all castle grounds and walls being free to wander. They all have something unique, with a museum or exhibit you can attend to learn more. 

If you can, visit on a Saturday for the local market, where they sell local treats like honey, wine, and Swiss cheeses! You could also grab some snacks and choose a local walking tour around the city and river.

For a sit-down restaurant, consider a table at  il Piazza Ristorante  at the Piazza della Foca. They have some great local options as well as many Italian cuisine dishes.

Travel time: 2 hours and 40 minutes. Top tour in Bellinzona: A combo ticket of the three castles of Bellinzona . Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Bern in advance.

Colmar, France

To get a taste of what France’s oldest wine route, the Alsace Wine Route , has to offer, take a day trip from Basel to Colmar, a fairytale town surrounded by dreamy villages and countless vineyards.

The medieval town boasts stunning architecture with half-timbered houses, quirky decorations, and Gothic and Renaissance landmarks like St Martin’s Church and Maison Pfister.

It is also known for its tiny yet photogenic canal district, La Petite Venise, as well as for museums such as the Unterlinden Museum and the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the Colmar-born sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty.

You can also stay the night in Colmar and spend a day exploring postcard-perfect Alsatian villages like Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg (using the Kutzig hop-on hop-off bus, which has a circular route starting in Colmar).

Travel time: 45 minutes. Top tour in Colmar: Walking tour with wine tasting . Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Colmar in advance.

Read more: Is Colmar worth visiting?

Lucerne, Switzerland

By Lavina from Continent Hop

Lucerne is an ideal location for a train trip from Basel, located just 100 kilometers away. It is a typical Swiss city and a popular tourist spot.

It is the most populated city in the country and a hub for transport and telecommunication. It has a scenic view of Lake Lucerne with the Swiss Alps in the background, making it perfect for a day trip.

Lucerne is home to wonderfully built churches, and you can start your day trip by visiting the 17th-century Jesuit Church. It is built on the beautiful Reuss River and has white and gold interiors. 

A short walk from the church will take you to the chapel bridge, also known as Kapellbrücke, one of the most iconic sites in Lucerne. It is one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe, adorned with artworks from the 17th century.

There are many cafes surrounding the chapel bridge where you can have lunch or a hot cup of coffee.

You can also take a boat tour to explore Lake Lucerne or head up to Mount Pilatus by taking a gondola ride to enjoy a scenic view of the lake and the mountains.

Next, you can explore the Old Town to get a taste of the traditional alpine houses and colorful artwork. You should also visit the Musegg Wall, which is one of the most well-preserved medieval walls in the country.

Also, explore the famous Lion Monument, known as Löwendenkmal, a famous tourist attraction and a must-see in Lucerne.

Extra tip: You must try to visit  Lucerne in winter , as it has a lot to offer, and the Christmas markets are enchanting.

Travel time: 1 hour. Top tour in Lucerne: A walking tour of the Old Town . Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Lucerne in advance.

Freiburg Im Breisgau, Germany

By Sharon from Germany Footsteps

Freiburg im Breisgau (or just Freiburg) is the perfect place for a day trip from Basel.

In just 40 minutes by train, you can be exploring a slice of Germany. Located in the famous Black Forest, it’s a pretty city with plenty to do in the city itself and its surroundings.

Freiburg started life in 1091 when a castle was built on Schlossberg (Castle Hill) to control the nearby trade routes. This resulted in a settlement growing at the foot of the hill in what is today the Old Town area of Freiburg. Freiburg was then founded in 1120.

The castle itself no longer exists, but you walk up and around Schlossberg with some great trails, and you can find old ruins of the forts and the castle that used to exist here.

Another must-visit is the Old Town. It’s a great mix of old and new, as much was destroyed in World War II. It’s a fantastic place to wander with the Dreisam River on one side and Schlossberg on the other.

Make sure you visit Freiburger Münster (Cathedral), which dates back to the 13th century. There are also amazing museums, old city gates, and more to visit as  you walk about Freiburg’s Old Town.

If you want to experience the Black Forest, there are also some great hiking trails starting from Freiburg.

Travel time: 40 minutes. Top tour in Freiburg: Freiburg city tour . Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Freiburg in advance.

Karlsruhe, Germany

By Elle from Only in Germany

On an exciting Basel day trip, you can discover  the best things to do in Karlsruhe , a captivating blend of German charm and Mediterranean flair, also perfect for a weekend break in Germany .

The history of Karlsruhe dates back to June 17th, 1715, when Margrave Charles III William of Baden-Durlach dreamt of founding a new city under a tree.

And so, Karlsruhe, meaning ‘Charles’ peace,’ was born, with the Karlsruhe Palace at its heart. The palace’s unique fan-shaped layout, resembling a bicycle wheel, earned it the nickname ‘Fan City.’

Your journey begins at the Karlsruhe Palace and the Badisches Landes Museum inside, immersing yourself in the city’s past. Don’t miss the stunning views of the ‘Fan City’ from the palace’s roof tower.

Venture into the lush Palace Gardens and the majestic Botanical Garden, offering a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Take a train ride around the gardens for a leisurely tour.

Delve into Karlsruhe’s vibrant cultural scene at the Center for Art and Media (ZKM) and the unique Majolica Porcelain Manufactory Museum. Admire the artistic spirit that defines the city.

Savor the city’s delightful Schwarzwald cake at one of the charming pastry shops, and soak in the lively atmosphere at Karlsruhe Market Square. Visit the Federal Constitutional Court of Germany, a symbol of Karlsruhe’s commitment to democracy and human rights.

Explore the enchanting Durlach neighborhood, and don’t miss the Turmbergbahn for stunning panoramic views.

Located close to the Schwarzwald Forest, the Rhine River, and the French border, Karlsruhe offers the perfect blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Travel time: 1 hour and 45 minutes. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Karlsruhe in advance.

One-Day Trips From Basel by Train With an Interchange/Transfer

Good to know: All the mentioned countries are a part of the Schengen Area , so there is no passport control when you cross the border from one to the other.

Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, France

The medieval Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle is a must-see historical landmark in Alsace, offering gorgeous panoramic views of the Vosges Mountains, the Plain of Alsace, and even the Black Forest.

Throughout the centuries, it was owned by the Hohenstaufen dynasty, the Counts of Thierstein, and the Swedish Empire, until it was reconstructed by the German emperor Wilhelm II at the beginning of the 20th century.

During your visit, you can tour the chateau’s rooms at your own pace and learn about its history while also taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes and the enchanting architecture.

To get to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, you need to take the train from Basel to the town of Selestat, where a shuttle bus (number 500) can take you from the train station to the castle.

Using the shuttle bus also gives you a discount of 2 euros at the castle ( browse its latest prices and timetables here ).

Total travel time: 1.5 hours. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Selestat in advance.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque village in a steep-sided U-shaped valley at the foot of the Bernese Alps.

One day in Lauterbrunnen  will be filled with classic Swiss beauty: stunning views of waterfalls, impossibly steep mountains, and quaint wooden chalets.

The village itself is so pretty: there’s a church with a steeple next to a gushing river; you could walk up to Staubbach Falls, the highest free-falling waterfall in Switzerland.

There are also some scenic hiking and cycling routes in the surrounding countryside. And there are several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy classic Swiss fare like raclette and rosti.

You could also take advantage of the mountain trains and cable cars to explore some of the mountainside attractions, such as the car-free hamlets of Mürren, Wengen, and Kleine Scheidegg.

And if you set off from Basel early enough, you might even be able to fit in a visit to Jungfraujoch, a high-altitude observation station offering panoramic views across mountains and the Aletsch Glacier.

The journey here from Lauterbrunnen is about an hour and 40 minutes, so it does take some time to visit Jungfraujoch, but the journey itself has stunning scenery all the way.

To get to Lauterbrunnen from Basel by train, you’ll travel first to Interlaken and then change for a short train ride to Lauterbrunnen.

Total travel time: 2.5 hours. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Lauterbrunnen in advance.

Liechtenstein

By Paul from Paulmarina

The principality of Liechtenstein is a micronation in Europe. In fact, it’s the 6th smallest nation in the world and one that you can easily visit on a day trip from Basel.

Its capital, Vaduz, is known for its contemporary and modern art scene and, as a fan, you will appreciate the street art and the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein.

With that, you will also immerse yourself in the history of the nation, with its proud postal stamp traditions and medieval castles and ruins.

I highly recommend taking part in a wine-tasting session. The prince’s own winery will introduce you to the top Rhine Valley wine domain, and perhaps you might even encounter Princess Marie on your visit.

To get to Liechtenstein, take the direct SBB train IC3 from Basel and get out at Sargans, a Swiss border town. From there, grab a short bus ride to Vaduz.

The complete trip doesn’t take longer than 2 1/2 hours, giving you plenty of time for the top  things to do in Liechtenstein .

Total travel time: 2.5 hours. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Sargans in advance.

Triberg, Germany

By Angie from We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

Triberg, located in the Black Forest Region of Germany, is an easy train ride from Basel. There’s enough to do in this small town to fill an enjoyable day trip itinerary.

Triberg is the quintessential “Black Forest” with dense forests and all the wonderful things associated with this popular region of Germany.

Colorful shops line the main street in town, where you can shop for quality handcrafted cuckoo clocks. You won’t want to miss the world’s largest (and smallest) working cuckoo clock.

Try some savory Black Forest ham and finish off your meal with a piece of delicious Black Forest cake, which was invented right here!

No visit to Triberg  is complete without a trip to the famous Triberg Waterfall, one of Germany’s highest.

Take a short, dreamy trail through the forest, where you’ll experience babbling brooks, moss-covered rocks, and wooden bridges and walkways. Your reward at the end is the stunning Triberg Waterfalls!

Total travel time: 2.5 hours. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Triberg in advance.

Grindelwald, Switzerland

By Daniel from  North Carolina Travel Guides

Situated about 3 hours from Basel by train is the village of Grindelwald. To get to the village, you have to transfer trains in Interlaken and travel by the scenic Bernese Oberland Railway from that city.

Grindelwald is a picturesque village in the Jungfrau Region, located 1034 meters or 3392 feet above sea level, and it is known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning nature, and impressive surrounding mountains.

The history of the village dates back to the year 1146, but there were earlier settlements in the area.

You can visit the village all year round, and there is a lot to do and see. One of the best things to do in Grindelwald is hiking. The village boasts numerous hiking paths with beautiful viewpoints. It is also a popular skiing destination in winter.

Besides that, it is possible to do all sorts of other outdoor activities in Grindelwald, and attending the Grindelwald Market, an annual outdoor market in the center of the village, can be a fun activity as well.

Total travel time: 2 hours and 50 minutes. Save time and book your train ticket from Basel to Grindelwald in advance.

Train Trips From Basel, Switzerland – Map

Access the map here to see the best day trips from Basel, Switzerland.

Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).

Related posts:

• Day trips from Bari, Italy
• Day trips from Madrid
• Winter day trips from Milan

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

*Your emil address will not be published. By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

Lucerne Half-Day Tour with Transport from Basel

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional guide
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Personal driver
• Bottled water
• Use of Wi-Fi
• Basel, Basel
• Location Name: Your Basel hotel Return Location: Returns to original departure point
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Minimum of 2 people per booking
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

More to explore in Basel

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Lucerne Half-Day Tour with Transport from Basel - with unbiased reviews