Basel Holidays

A city where Swiss precision meets artistic charm, Basel is a cultural hub nestled on the banks of the Rhine River. With its vibrant art scene, historic architecture, and buzzing food markets, Basel offers a mix of traditional Swiss charm and contemporary cool—perfect for travellers of all types.

Highlights

• Cultural Capital of Switzerland: Home to over 40 museums, including the world-renowned Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler.

• Architectural Marvels: Discover futuristic designs by Herzog & de Meuro, alongside medieval gems like Basel Minster.

• Scenic Rhine River Views: Enjoy boat rides, river swims, or simply relax along the vibrant Rheinpromenade.

• Events Galore: Experience Basel’s iconic events like Art Basel, Basel Fasnacht (Carnival), and the magical Christmas Markets.

Getting around - Basel

Getting around Basel is easy, thanks to its efficient and well-connected public transportation system. The Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe (BVB) operates trams and buses across the city and surrounding regions. The city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it perfect for exploring on foot. For cross-border trips, Basel’s location at the junction of Switzerland, Germany, and France allows seamless connections by train or tram into neighbouring countries. Visitors staying in Basel hotels receive a Basel Card, which offers free public transport and discounts on local attractions. Cycling is also a popular way to explore, with numerous bike lanes and rental options available throughout the city.

Things to do for families in Basel

Basel offers plenty of fun for families, blending educational attractions with outdoor adventures. Start with a visit to Zoo Basel, Switzerland’s oldest and most famous zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and beautiful enclosures. For interactive fun, the Swiss Museum of Transport in nearby Lucerne (just an hour’s train ride away) will thrill kids with its hands-on exhibits.

The Tinguely Museum brings art to life with mechanical sculptures and interactive installations, perfect for engaging younger visitors. Don’t miss the Toy Worlds Museum Basel, which houses Europe’s largest collection of dolls and miniature scenes. For outdoor fun, the Rheinbad Breite offers a unique river-swimming experience for older kids and adults, while parks like Kannenfeldpark are perfect for picnics and playtime. Family-friendly cafes and plenty of green spaces ensure that both parents and little ones have an unforgettable time exploring the city.

Things to do for couples in Basel

Basel is the perfect city for a romantic getaway, with picturesque river views and cosy cafes creating the ideal atmosphere for couples. Start your adventure with a romantic boat ride on the Rhine River, offering scenic views of Basel’s charming skyline and historic bridges. For an even more memorable moment, take a sunset stroll along the Rheinpromenade, where riverside bars and cafes offer the perfect setting for evening drinks.

Art-loving couples should explore the Kunstmuseum, which houses one of Switzerland’s most important art collections, or visit Fondation Beyeler for contemporary exhibitions in a stunning natural setting. Enjoy a cosy dinner at a riverside restaurant, such as Les Trois Rois, offering gourmet Swiss cuisine with scenic views. Finally, cap off your evening with a drink at a rooftop bar like Les Gareçons, where you’ll have sweeping views of Basel’s twinkling skyline.

Things to do for groups in Basel

Groups travelling to Basel will find plenty of opportunities for adventure, bonding, and cultural experiences. Begin with a walking tour of the Altstadt (Old Town), where cobbled streets and medieval architecture set the stage for group exploration. For a more personalized experience, book a guided food tour and sample local Swiss delicacies while learning about the city’s culinary history.

Groups can enjoy team-building activities like an escape room challenge at AdventureRooms Basel, offering fun for friends and coworkers alike. The city’s vibrant nightlife is perfect for groups, with lively bars, nightclubs, and breweries like Volta Bräu offering a great place to unwind together. If your group enjoys the outdoors, a Rhine River swim is an unforgettable bonding experience during the summer, or head out on a group hiking trip to the nearby Jura Mountains for scenic views and fresh air.

Things to do for foodies in Basel

For food lovers, Basel offers a delicious fusion of traditional Swiss flavours and modern international cuisine. Start your foodie adventure at the Markthalle Basel, where you’ll find food stalls offering everything from freshly baked pastries to global street food. A visit to the Basel Wochenmarkt (weekly market) is a must, with seasonal produce, cheeses, and gourmet chocolates from local artisans.

Indulge in a classic Swiss fondue experience at Walliser Kanne, or sample the city’s signature dish, Basler Läckerli, a spiced honey biscuit that dates back to the Middle Ages. For fine dining, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl offers a Michelin-starred experience featuring creative interpretations of French and Mediterranean cuisine. Don’t forget to visit a local wine bar and sample Swiss wines, which are rarely exported but renowned for their quality. Whether you’re nibbling on street food or dining in luxury, Basel’s culinary scene is sure to satisfy any palate.