The Perfect Weekend in Basel: [Top Things to Do in 2025 (Eurovision Visitors Welcome!)]
Basel
Basel, Switzerland, though often overshadowed by the country's iconic destinations like the Swiss Alps, Zurich, Bern, and Geneva, is a hidden cultural gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled at the unique crossroads of France, Germany, and Switzerland along the Rhine River, this city offers the perfect Basel itinerary for those looking to explore beyond typical Swiss tourism.
As the home of Art Basel and a sanctuary of artistic innovation, the city provides a distinctive weekend in Basel experience, combining historical charm with contemporary vibrancy. Basel travel promises an urban experience where medieval architecture stands alongside cutting-edge design, creating a dynamic and timeless atmosphere.
With its sophisticated culinary scene, world-class museums, and multicultural heritage, Basel is much more than a mere stopover. It’s a destination offering rich, immersive experiences for the discerning traveller planning their Basel itinerary or looking for a unique weekend in Basel.
This Basel, Switzerland travel guide invites you to explore Basel at a slower pace, wandering through its historic streets, uncovering hidden gems off the beaten path, and savouring the city's modern charm with plenty of opportunities to enjoy its best food and drink.
When to Visit Basel
Basel transforms with the seasons, offering distinctly different yet equally captivating experiences throughout the year. Whether you're drawn to the crisp charm of winter or the vibrant energy of summer, the city's unique atmosphere adapts while maintaining its intrinsic character, ensuring a memorable visit regardless of when you choose to explore.
SUMMER/SPRING
Summer in Basel was incredible. The city was buzzing with energy, hosting incredible events like Art Basel, FLOSS Festival, and the Basel Jazz Festival. While definitely lively, it never felt overcrowded. The weather was perfect, hot but not scorching, and locals were making the most of those long summer days. Our highlight? Floating down the crystal clear Rhine, just like the locals do. Trust me, it's an experience you won't want to miss!
FALL/WINTER
Winter in Basel offers a completely different charm. The city transforms into a festive wonderland, with Christmas markets that sparkle with festive lights and traditional Swiss holiday charm. While less bustling than summer, winter brings its own unique attractions: intimate museum visits, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to experience Basel's more tranquil side. The nearby ski resorts are easily accessible for winter sports enthusiasts, and the city's world-class cultural scene continues, with opera performances, art exhibitions, and intimate concerts. Temperatures are crisp but not unbearable, and the city's cafés and restaurants become warm havens perfect for enjoying rich Swiss hot chocolate and hearty local cuisine.
How to Get to Basel
Basel's accessibility is a major travel perk, with convenient air and train connections making it a remarkably easy weekend destination from across Europe.
BY PLANE
EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg serves Basel but is actually located in France, with two separate exits into Switzerland or France. Most major airlines offer direct services to Basel year round, and a short 15-minute bus ride into the city from the airport further adds to the cities impressive accessibility.
BY TRAIN
Basel's central train station (Basel SBB) offers swift connections from major European cities: Paris is just 3 hours away, Frankfurt 3.5 hours, and Zurich a mere 45-minute journey, placing you directly in the heart of the city.
BY CAR
Situated in the triborder triangle or “Dreiländereck” of France, Switzerland and Germany and at the crossroads of Europe's primary motorway networks, Basel is easy to reach by car. There are also plenty of parking garages and spaces throughout the city.
For reliable car rentals across Europe, we consistently turn to Discover Cars. Over the past four years, it's been our go-to platform for finding the best deals and most competitive rates when exploring European destinations.
How to Get Around Basel
You’re likely wondering, is Basel a walkable city? Luckily, getting around Basel is seamless. The majority of the city is wonderfully walkable, and for longer distances, the tram and bus network is frequent and efficient. An added bonus: every booking at a Basel hotel, hostel, bed and breakfast, or flat comes with a Basel Card, providing complimentary public transportation for the duration of your stay.
Where to Stay in Basel
Hotel Spalentor (Cost: €) Nestled near the historic Spalentor gate, this charming hotel offers spacious, comfortable rooms and exceptionally friendly staff. You’ll appreciate its convenient location, just a short stroll from the Old Town, making it a perfect base for exploring Basel.
Nomad Design & Lifestyle Hotel (Cost: €€) The Nomad Design & Lifestyle Hotel in Basel offers a modern and vibrant stay with 65 uniquely designed rooms. You'll find amenities like a sauna, fitness center, and the on-site Eatery serving diverse cuisine. Its central location near attractions like the Kunstmuseum Basel makes it a perfect choice if you’re able to spend a little more money.
SET Hotel. Residence (Cost: €€€) In the heart of Basel, SET Hotel. Residence is a hidden gem for those looking to splurge on a luxurious stay. With a modern ambiance inspired by Basel’s vibrant art scene, it blends hotel-quality service with the comfort of apartment-style living. The lobby offers an ideal workspace, while sleek design elements are woven throughout the entire property.
The Perfect Weekend in Basel
BASEL MUSTS
DISCOVER - Uncover Basel’s historical charm by visiting the Tinguely Museum, where the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely are displayed alongside interactive, kinetic art that brings the past to life.
SAVOUR – Indulge in the flavours of Basel with a serving of Basel-style Rösti, crispy grated potatoes pan-fried to perfection, often paired with local sausages for a savory treat.
WANDER - Visit the Dreiländereck in Basel, where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet, and stand in three countries at once, a unique spot offering a fascinating glimpse of the region’s cultural blend.
TAKE HOME - Shop for distinctive souvenirs like Basel’s renowned handmade paper or a bottle of local Riesling from the nearby vineyards, perfect for a piece of Basel to bring home.
Day 1 - Basel’s Old Town
Your first day in Basel offers a rich glimpse into the city’s past, weaving together its complex history with its charming, timeless surroundings.
Old Town
Overflowing with charm, Basel's Old Town was everything I imagined a quintessential Swiss city to be, hidden courtyards adorned with Baroque fountains, narrow cobblestone streets that twist and turn, and pastel-coloured town houses that look like they belong in a storybook.
From our experience in Basel, the best way to spend your first day in the city is getting lost in the old town, discovering hidden corners and off-the-beaten-path spots like the quiet courtyards around Spalenberg or the scenic views from the Pfalz Terrace.
Keep an eye out for: The picturesque streets of Rheinsprung and Augustinergasse, and be sure to swing by Milo’s Cookies in Andreasplatz for some of the most delicious cookies I’ve ever had.
Basel Munster
Basel’s Münster, or cathedral, dating back to 1091, is the city’s most iconic landmark. Overlooking the Rhine river, its commanding twin towers, warm terra-cotta hues, and intricate Gothic and romantic details make it an unforgettable sight.
Visitors can climb both the St. George Tower and the St. Martin Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine.
The cathedral is open daily, with typical visiting hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check locally for seasonal changes). Guided tours are available throughout the day to provide deeper insight into its history and architecture. Tower access usually costs CHF 5–6 per person, with discounts for children and groups. Climbing the towers involves a steep spiral staircase, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Rathaus (City Hall)
Basel’s Rathaus (City Hall) is a standout landmark in the Old Town, with its bold red exterior and detailed architecture. Built in the 14th century, it’s been the city’s political centre for centuries. Visitors can explore the building’s beautiful courtyard and admire the murals that decorate the walls. It’s a great spot to get a feel for Basel’s history while walking through the square, where the City Hall still plays a key role in the city today.
Where to Eat & Drink
KLARA
KLARA in Basel is a vibrant dining space bringing together flavours from around the world under one roof. Known for its eclectic atmosphere, the restaurant features a rotating lineup of food stalls offering diverse cuisines with high quality local ingredients, from Asian street food to Mediterranean delicacies. Its casual setup, paired with communal seating, creates a lively environment perfect for socialising. Beer and soft drinks are all Swiss, while spirits and wines are sourced from France and Germany
Volta Bräu
In the heart of Basel at Voltaplatz, Volta Bräu is not just a craft brewery, but also a culinary destination. Alongside its unique selection of house-brewed beers, the brewery serves a carefully curated menu that pairs perfectly with its brews. From hearty bites to innovative dishes, the food emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with a creative flair. The cosy taproom invites you to relax and savour seasonal specials that change alongside the evolving beer offerings. Keep an eye out for unique food pairings that bring out the best in both the dishes and the brews.
Coffee Break
Daniska
Danishka Coffee and Matcha in Basel offers expertly crafted drinks, from rich coffee to vibrant matcha lattes. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, the menu also includes delicious pastries and light bites. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy seasonal specials.
Day 2 - Biscuits, Art & Flora
Jakob’s Basler Leckerly
Located in the St. Johanns-Vorstadt area, Jakob’s Basler Leckerly is a Basel classic, known for its iconic honey-sweetened Basler Läckerli biscuits. Established in 1753, the bakery was revived by Charlotte and Andreas Kuster, who’ve kept the tradition alive while adding their own touch. If you’re in Basel, a visit to the shop is a treat, taking a tour of the bakery gives you a glimpse into the history and craftsmanship behind these famous biscuits. You can also enjoy a tasting, sampling fresh Läckerli straight from the oven. It’s a great way to experience a local favourite up close.
Kunst Museum (or Foundation Beyeler)
With Basel being an important city in the art world, it’s almost compulsory to visit a museum during your time in the city, taking your time to wander through and devour the art.
I’ve carefully selected two incredible options for you to explore. One is home to the oldest public art collection in the world, offering a deep dive into centuries of artistic history. The other is the most visited art museum in all of Switzerland, a true must see for any art enthusiast. Both are exceptional in their own right, showcasing remarkable collections and offering unique insights into art and culture. Each destination presents a chance to experience not only awe-inspiring works of art, but also the rich historical context that shaped them.
Kunstmuseum Basel
Nestled in Basel’s historic old town, Kunstmuseum Basel, founded in 1661, houses one of Europe’s largest and oldest public collections. Spanning over 300,000 works from the 15th century to the present, it features masterpieces by Paul Cézanne, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso. We could’ve easily spent the entire day at the Kunstmuseum, so if you’re an art aficionado, maybe add another day to your itinerary to fully soak in the museum’s collection.
For admission costs and opening hours, visit here.
Fondation Beyeler
Just outside of Basel’s city centre, the internationally renowned Fondation Beyeler is Switzerland’s most visited art museum. In a modern building surrounded with lush gardens with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, Fondation Beyeler is the perfect art escape for visitors to Basel. Founded in 1997, it showcases an impressive collection of modern classics, including over 400 works by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, and Henri Matisse.
For admission costs and opening hours, visit here.
Botanical Garden of the University of Basel
One of the world’s oldest botanical gardens in the world, the Botanical Garden of the University of Basel, dates back to 1589 and was founded by Swiss botanist Caspar Bauhin.
Nestled beside Spalentor, the Botanical Garden of the University of Basel spans an impressive 8,000 square meters. It is home to more than 7,500 plant species, carefully curated from nearly every biosphere on Earth. This diverse collection offers a unique opportunity to explore a vast array of plants, from tropical specimens to those native to the region, creating a vibrant and educational oasis in the heart of the city.
Wandering the garden is an absolute delight and both an invigorating and peaceful retreat from the centre of the city, even though you’re right at the heart of it.
The garden is free to visit, along with free guided tours. For more information, visit here.
Where to Eat & Drink
Markthalle Basel
Originally constructed in 1929, Basel’s Markthalle has transformed into a vibrant indoor food market since its revival in 2013. Here, you’ll find a diverse array of global cuisines, from Indian and Italian to Afghan delights, all under one historic roof just a short walk away from Basel’s central train station and transport hub.
Consum
Tucked away in Basel’s Old Town, Consum is a laid-back wine bar that feels like a hidden gem. With a fantastic selection of wines and charcuterie, it’s the kind of spot where you can relax, sip something great, and enjoy good company in a cosy atmosphere.
Coffee Break
Smilla Café
Tucked away in the Neubad neighborhood, Smilla Café is an unpretentious gem, serving delicious brunch and top-notch coffee. Its cosy vibe and picturesque setting make it the perfect spot to unwind away from the city’s hustle.
Basel might not top your list for a trip to Switzerland, but spend a few days here, and you’ll quickly realise it’s a destination like no other. With its rich culture, vibrant food scene, world-class art, and deep historical roots, Basel offers an unforgettable experience that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
For further travel information on what to do, where to stay, and eat, visit This is Basel
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