Basel Attractions: Tips and Highlights for Your City Trip

Basel, the charming cultural city at the tripoint of three countries, surprises with its unique blend of medieval charm and modern cultural life. Basel is truly a gem of Switzerland with its picturesque old town featuring narrow alleys, the impressive Münster and Town Hall , as well as its world-famous museums . And then there's this special summer magic: when the people of Basel let themselves drift down the Rhine and the riverbank promenades exude Mediterranean lifestyle. Yes, in Basel you can actually swim in the river right in the middle of the city! Whether you have one day or stay longer, in this article we will show you Basel's main attractions, reveal cultural highlights, and share our insider tips – for a city trip off the beaten path but full of charm, culture, and history – Grüezi Basel!

In this article

Basel at a Glance: Numbers, Facts & Cultural Highlights

The most important at a glance

• Basel is (after Zurich and Geneva) the third-largest city in Switzerland. Approximately 176,000 people live here.
• Basel is considered the cultural capital of Switzerland. It is also internationally known as the "City of Museums," as there are nearly 40 museums within the canton. The Kunstmuseum Basel (art museum) houses the most important art collection in Switzerland.
• Basel is located at the tripoint of three countries. It is just a stone's throw from Germany and France. The city is divided into the halves of Groß Basel and Klein BaselThey are separated by the Rhine. From its mouth to the old town of Basel (Mittlere Brücke), the Rhine is considered an international waterway. In 1868, Switzerland received navigation rights.
• Rhine swimming(Rheinschwimmen)is something like popular sport No. 1 in summer. The Basel Rhine swim is on the list of living traditions in Switzerland. Swimming takes place in the Rhine throughout the summer, but once a year, the official Rhine swim organized by the Swiss Lifesaving Society (SLRG Basel section) takes place. In 2024, about 4,500 people participated.
• The University of Basel, founded in 1460, is the oldest in Switzerland and one of the oldest universities in Europe.
• With Basler Läckerli , Basel has its own gingerbread, which can be bought all year round in Basel.
• Basel has a beautiful historic old town with narrow alleys, hidden squares, and some architectural highlights such as the Town Hall or the Cathedral.

Gross Basel and Klein Basel: Two districts, one river

The Rhine divides Basel into two parts: Großbasel and Kleinbasel. Most of Basel's sights, such as the cathedral or the town hall, are located in the old town of Großbasel. If you have enough time, Kleinbasel is also very worth seeing. Besides a beautiful old town, you'll find many nice restaurants and cafes here, and you can enjoy a great view of Großbasel from the riverside promenade. The two parts of the city are connected by several bridges, with the historic Middle Bridge being the most famous. Additionally, there are legendary Rhine ferries that move you solely with the help of the current from one bank to the other.

The most important sights in Basel

Basel cathedral, cathedral square & Pfalz

Starting from Klein Basel, shortly after the "Mittlere Brücke", a narrow alley branches off to the left and ascends along the historic old buildings up to Münsterplatz. The Basel Minster is one of the city's most famous landmarks and shapes the cityscape like hardly any other building. The large sacred building made of red sandstone impresses from the outside with its imposing appearance and is well showcased on the spacious Münsterplatz.

Inside, it's worth taking a look at the cloisters. Admission is free. For a spectacular view, climbing the towers of the Minster is highly recommended. Over 250 steps lead to the top – the ascent is strenuous, but the view of Basel, the Rhine, and the surrounding landscape is breathtaking. To visit the towers, you need to be at least two people. The entrance fee is 6 CHF (as of April 2025).

The Cathedral square itself is lined with centuries-old cathedral houses. At the northern end of the Minster, there is the viewing terrace "Pfalz," which offers a beautiful view of the Rhine and Klein Basel.

Town Hall & Market Square

A second notable building in Basel's Old Town is the Town Hall, which is located directly on the Market Square. Its reddish facade stands out particularly. It was built after the great earthquake of 1356 as a replacement for the former government seat. Over the centuries, additional extensions and decorations were added. Most of the doors are open, allowing you to peek into the courtyard. This is freely accessible. If you want to learn more about its history and also see the interior rooms, you can do so as part of a 30-minute guided tour. This costs 10 CHF, and children up to 16 years old can join for free. The tour is offered in both German and English. 

Spalenberg 

Spalenberg is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Basel's Old Town. The district, with its historic alleys and decorated old town houses, is home to small boutiques, designer shops, and galleries. Here you can find handcrafted jewelry, home accessories, antiques, and irresistible delicatessen stores. The neighborhood owes its name to the distinctive Spalentor gate, which rises at the western end of Spalenberg. It is one of the three remaining gates of the city fortifications from the 14th century. Historically, the area was inhabited by craftsmen who established their workshops here due to the proximity to trade routes. Spalenberg is the perfect district to combine sightseeing with a leisurely stroll through the shops. 

Here are few tips for Spalenberg:

• Andreasplatz: This romantic square with cafes and shops is worth a coffee break. You can sit comfortably, for example, at "Ängel und Aff". When the weather is nice, outdoor seating is also available.
• Jakob’s Basler Leckerly: Here you can get the famous Basel spice cookies. According to their own statements, they are the oldest confectionery manufacturer in the city.
• Johann Wanner: One of the most curious shops in Basel is Johann Wanner's Christmas House. Spread across 500 square meters, you’ll find both antique and new Christmas decorations here all year round. Johann Wanner is considered the market leader in mouth-blown and hand-painted Christmas ornaments.

Special events and activities in Basel

Known as Switzerland’s cultural capital, Basel offers a rich cultural scene throughout the year. Are you eager to experience the city during one of its many events? Here is a list of the most famous events in Basel.

Museum Night (January):During Museum Night, around forty museums and cultural institutions open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. In addition, various shows and concerts take place throughout the night. There is also a wide range of food and drink options available. More information can be found here: Museum Night

Basler Fasnacht and Basler Morgenstraich (February or March):The Basel Carnival is the largest carnival in Switzerland and was inscribed in 2017 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The carnival lasts exactly 72 hours. It begins on the Monday after Ash Wednesday at 4:00 a.m. with the Basler Morgenstraich, which is one of the highlights of the carnival. More about it here: Basler Fasnacht

Art Basel (June): Art Basel is the most important fair for contemporary art. Over 300 exhibitors from the world's leading galleries participate. Artists, art collectors, and numerous celebrities gather in Basel during this time. More information about Art Basel can be found here: Art Basel

Basel Tattoo (July): The Basel Tattoo is thematically inspired by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and is the second-largest tattoo event in the world after it. Annually, the event features spectacular music and show performances from around the world, as well as bands from the most famous royal houses, all coming to Basel. More information about the event can be found here: Basel Tattoo

Rhine swimming (August and throughout the summer): Rhine swimming is part of Switzerland's list of living traditions. Especially since the renovation of the Rhine promenade and the establishment of infrastructure with stairs, restaurants, and the distribution of the so-called "Wickelfisch," a water bag/dry bag in fish shape, Rhine swimming has gained great popularity. Every August, the official Rhine swim organized by the Swiss Lifesaving Society takes place, but it can also be enjoyed throughout the summer. The Wickelfische, which were specifically developed for Rhine swimming, give the event a very special charm. Those who do not have their own Wickelfisch can rent one from June to September at the tourist information for 10 CHF plus a deposit of 30 CHF (as of April 2025). More information about this: Rhine Swimming Basel

Autumn Fair (October, November): At the end of October, Switzerland's oldest and largest amusement fair begins each year. Since 1471, it has been a permanent part of Basel and, with its over 550-year tradition, is considered a vibrant cultural asset of the city. Across seven fairgrounds, you will find around 500 rides, trade stalls, and food stands. More information about the Autumn Fair can be found here: Autumn Fair Basel

Weihnachtsmarkt (Dezember): At the end of November, the Christmas markets in Basel begin, filling the city with a festive atmosphere through thousands of lights and decorated Christmas trees. The Basel Christmas Market takes place every year at Barfüsslerplatz, Münsterplatz, and Claraplatz, and is considered one of the most beautiful and largest in Switzerland. More information: Basel christmasmarkets

Museums in Basel

The city of museums, as Basel is often called. And indeed, with around 40 museums, it offers a very extensive selection of museums for its size. The Kunstmuseum Basel (art museum) is considered one of the most important museums in the city and houses the largest public art collection in Switzerland. The history of the Kunstmuseum begins in 1661 when the city acquired the "Amerbach Cabinet," making it the oldest publicly accessible art museum in the world. Approximately 4,000 paintings, sculptures, and other artworks from seven centuries are exhibited here across three locations. 

In addition, the Foundation Beyeler is considered another important art collection. Those interested in modern classical and contemporary art will find a great selection in the private art collection of the couple Hildy and Ernst Beyeler. In addition, special exhibitions are held regularly. 

One of the most unusual museums is the Museum Tinguely, which showcases works by the famous Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. Tinguely is known for his sometimes very large machine sculptures. Some of these sculptures can be operated by visitors using buttons and levers within the museum. This also makes the museum interesting for children.

Not only does the Basel Art Museum trace its origins back to the Amerbach Cabinet, but so does the Natural History Museum Basel.Today, the museum houses a wide variety of exhibits and is very popular with school groups. In addition, special exhibitions such as "Wildlife Photographer of the Year" are held regularly. 

Furthermore, you can find numerous specialized museums in Basel, such as the Cartoon Museum, the Pharmaceutical Museum, the Fire Brigade Museum, the Toy Worlds Museum, and the Basel Paper Mill. There is something for everyone in Basel, whether young or old. An overview of all Basel museums can be found here: Museums in Basel

Food and Drinks: Our tips for Basel

Café Frühling: It was Swiss pioneers who founded this Third Wave café a few years ago, as Café Frühling is the first to focus on freshly brewed coffee. In addition to its emphasis on coffee, there is breakfast available at Café Frühling – all day long. 

Klara 13: Right on the busy Clarastraße, you'll find the street food concept in market hall style. Kitchens from different countries are housed within the hall. From burgers to Vietnamese cuisine, complemented by a drink from the bar.

Ängel oder Aff: The small Baiz (pub) Ängel or Aff can be found in the heart of Basel's Old Town at Andreasplatz. In addition to coffee and tea, there is local beer and some snacks to eat. On nice days, it is one of the most beautiful places to sit outside and enjoy the Old Town.

Markthalle: After standing empty for several years, the old market hall has become a gastronomic hotspot again in recent years. Thanks to its diverse offerings, you can visit it at any time of day. Here, you'll find not only numerous international street food stalls but also a café, an organic grocery store, a cocktail bar, and the Bierrevier, which serves local craft beers. Additionally, rotating special markets take place, ensuring variety with every visit.

Jakob’s Basler Leckerly: In 1753, the Jakob’s Basler Leckerly manufactory was founded, making it the oldest Läckerli manufacturer in Basel. Basel Läckerli is a type of gingerbread. You can try and buy Basel Läckerli at the small shop on Spalenberg. 

Getting there and Transportation in Basel

Getting there: How to get to Basel

Basel has two train stations: Basel Badischer Bahnhof and Basel SBB. Both stations offer good connections to Germany, Austria, France, and within Switzerland. An alternative is traveling by plane. EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is located on French territory. You can reach the city from the airport in about 20 minutes by bus.

Transportation in Basel 

Many attractions in Basel can be easily explored on foot. Basel is a very beautiful city, so short walks between the sights are truly enjoyable. If the distances are a bit longer, you can use the tram or bus.

By the way, if you stay overnight in Basel, you automatically receive the BaselCard. With this card, you can use public transportation for free. Additionally, the BaselCard grants you 50% off many Basel attractions, such as museums, the zoo, or theater tickets at the box office. More information about the BaselCard can be found here: BaselCard

Conclusion: Why Basel is always worth a trip

Basel is refreshing, versatile, and offers something to see all year round with its many attractions. The charming city on the Rhine proves that you don't always need a metropolis to experience a perfect city trip. Between medieval alleys, world-class museums, and the special summer flair when locals gather by the Rhine, Basel reveals its most beautiful side.

Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxed city trip away from the tourist crowds – Basel impresses with its great mix of tradition and modern joie de vivre. Thanks to its manageable size, the city is perfect for a weekend getaway, but beware: after your first visit, you'll definitely want to come back!

Our conclusion: Basel is a small gem with a big charm – and definitely worth a trip!

FAQ Basel Attractions: Your City Trip to Switzerland