7 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Basel Switzerland

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Basel, nestled at the heart of Western and Central Europe, serves as an ideal starting or ending point for a Swiss adventure. Its strategic location, at the intersection of Switzerland, Germany, and France, makes it a gateway to a multitude of delightful destinations.

From Basel, the charming cities of Alsace in France, such as Strasbourg and Colmar, are within easy reach. Similarly, the enchanting towns and natural wonders of Germany’s Black Forest are just a stone’s throw away. Moreover, Switzerland’s top attractions are only a few hours away by train.

However, Basel is more than just a transit hub or a stepping stone to France, Germany, and Switzerland. It is a city of beauty in its own right. In this post, we will explore the most beautiful places you can visit during your stay in Basel.

In this article, you’ll find detailed information about the most beautiful places in Basel, including their exact locations and interesting tidbits. However, it’s important to note that these stunning locales represent just a fraction of what Basel has to offer.

Basel is a city where the past and present intertwine seamlessly, as evidenced by its captivating blend of medieval charm and modern elegance. It’s a treasure trove of culture and tradition, boasting impressive artworks scattered throughout the city and vibrant festivals that color its calendar.

Furthermore, Basel is a haven for art enthusiasts and museum lovers. Its streets are adorned with murals, sculptures, and architectural marvels. The city is home to around 40 museums, each offering unique insights into various fields such as history, culture, toys, contemporary & kinetic artworks, paper & printing, and more. You could easily spend three days immersing yourself in Basel’s rich museum scene alone.

In my opinion, Basel’s beauty lies in its ability to merge time periods and cultures, creating a unique tapestry that leaves every visitor enriched and inspired.

If your visit to Switzerland is limited to a week or just a few days and you’re keen on exploring Basel, I would recommend allocating a day or two for this charming city. During your Swiss adventure (check out my 14-day Switzerland itinerary), there are other must-visit places where you might want to spend more time like the ones below.

• Lucerne for mountain & lake experiences, charming city, and unique landmarks.
• Jungfrau Region for epic adventures, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, breathtaking scenery, serene countryside, and more. Discover Interlaken for relaxing cruise and epic hikes, Lauterbrunnen to see the heaven on earth valley; and Grindelwald for different kinds of outdoor fun.
• Zermatt for the Matterhorn, unparalleled alpine experience, scenic trains, and more.
• Montreux for music, a fairytale castle, and gorgeous vineyards & special wines.

From Basel, you can have a day trip to the places I mentioned above similar to other cities near the Swiss Alps and the most beautiful villages in the Swiss Alps. Here’s a list of day trips from Basel. And if you need a place to stay in Basel, you can find the best hotel deals in Basel here. 

By the way, if you’re planning a week-long or longer Switzerland trip, you may use the Swiss Travel Pass to save money.

Without further ado! I’ll bring you to the middle ages to modern times through the 7 most beautiful places in Basel:

1. Basel Town Hall

For travelers yearning for a journey back in time, Marktplatz in Basel is a destination not to be missed. Here, you’ll find the “Basler Rathaus” or Basel Town Hall, a 500-year-old architectural masterpiece that stands as one of Basel’s most beautiful landmarks. Spotting the Basel Town Hall from Marktplatz is a breeze – its striking red color and towering presence dominate the square, making it an unforgettable sight.

As soon as you set foot in Marktplatz, the Basel Town Hall is sure to captivate you. Its facade is adorned with trompe l’oeil murals that create an optical illusion of three-dimensional embellishments and sculptures. Don’t hesitate to step inside when you get there.

The walls of the Basel Town Hall’s inner courtyard are also painted with vibrant murals. As you wander around the courtyard, you’ll come across a statue of the Roman general Lucius Munatius Plancus, adding to the historical charm of the place.

Remarkably, this is one piece of marvelous artwork in Basel that has truly stood the test of time. The statue itself dates back to the late 16th century. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the stairs in the courtyard for a closer look at the murals on the walls of the upper floors. There, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of murals depicting scenes from the Swiss Confederation and various allegorical images representing law.

If you want to visit, you can check the official Basel Tourism website for Basel Town Hall’s Operating hours. But in summary, it is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm from Monday to Friday. Entry to Basel Town Hall is free, but I suggest you visit with a guide for an insightful tour inside the building. You can book your tours in Basel from this link. 

If you’re planning a visit, you can find the operating hours for Basel Town Hall on the official Basel Tourism website. Generally, it’s open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Entry to Basel Town Hall is free of charge. However, for a more insightful experience, I recommend taking a guided tour inside the building.

The comprehensive tours of Basel Town Hall offer a fascinating introduction to the art, history, and politics that lie within its walls. You’ll get to explore the meeting places of officials, marvel at the grandeur of parliamentary rooms, and discover centuries-old artifacts and captivating building ornamentations.

The walls of Basel Town Hall are adorned with frescoes, and the furniture is intricately carved from wood, each piece telling a story. These scenes and symbols depict a range of themes, from the unification of the cantons to the history of Basel, and even feature the basilisk, a symbol of Basel.

Here are some of the scenes inside Basel Town Hall:

2. Basel Minster

Coming in second on my list of Basel’s most beautiful places is the Basel Minster. This iconic structure, steeped in medieval history, is a must-see. It’s a location that photographers, in particular, would find immensely appealing.

In my view, Basel Minster stands out as the most picturesque spot in Basel for two main reasons: its stunning architecture, which is primarily Gothic, and its prime location overlooking the Rhine river.

Nestled between the Mittlere and Wettstein bridges along the riverbank, the Basel Minster is easily recognizable. Its two towering spires, Georgstrum and Martinstrum, rise over 60 meters high, making it a standout feature of the city’s skyline. The view of Basel Minster from the Wettstein bridge is particularly photogenic, especially with its beautifully colored tile roof included in the frame.

It’s a short stroll of about 5 minutes to reach Basel Minster from the Wettstein Bridge, and the same goes if you’re starting from Basel Town Hall. As you arrive at Minster Cathedral Square, the sight of Basel Minster greets you.

At first glance, you might not be overly impressed, especially if you’ve visited other European cities that boast more spectacular churches. However, the true charm of Basel Minster lies in its cloister, which is among the most picturesque spots in Basel.

Entrance to Basel Minster is free of charge, so be sure to step inside the church! The cloister of Basel Minster offers some truly dramatic scenes, especially when strong sunlight filters through the arcades and windows. The Gothic architecture of the church, coupled with the tablets adorning the walls, lends a magical aura to the place. Make sure to venture to the farthest side of the cloister, where you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the Rhine River through the windows.

When it comes to breathtaking views, Basel Minster’s tower offers an unobstructed panorama of Basel that’s truly a sight to behold. However, reaching this vantage point can be a bit of a challenge for some. The ascent involves climbing a staircase with 230 narrow steps, and there are sections where you’ll need to hold onto a rope for support.

But don’t let this deter you – the view from the top is absolutely worth it! You’ll also get to see a massive bell and its supporting timber structure. If climbing the tower isn’t for you, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a panoramic view of Basel across the Rhine River from the platform located behind Basel Minster.

In addition to the panoramic views and picturesque cloister, Basel Minster also boasts a collection of intricate artworks that are worth seeing. The pulpit, the sculptures of Saint George and the dragon, and the seducer & misguided virgin are particularly captivating. You can find the opening hours for Basel Minster on its official website.

3. Saint Paul’s Church

Another gem in Basel is Saint Paul’s Church. This church serves as a tranquil oasis in the heart of Basel, just a short tram ride away from Basel Train Station or a few minutes’ walk from Basel Zoo.

If you’re starting from Marktplatz or Basel Town Hall, a 15-minute walk or a quick ride on tram number 8 will bring you to Saint Paul’s Church. It’s a serene spot that’s easily accessible, no matter where you are in the city.

In my opinion, Saint Paul’s Church is indeed a beautiful spot in Basel. What makes it stand out? It’s the stunning neo-classical architecture and the serene atmosphere created by the surrounding trees and manicured garden.

If you’re someone who enjoys a peaceful setting or listening to concerts, Saint Paul’s Church could be an ideal place for you to visit in Basel. You can check the blog of Saint Paul’s Church to see their next concerts. 

4. Rhine River and Mittlere Bridge

If you’re planning to stay in Basel, you won’t want to miss the city’s golden hour. This is when the cityscape truly comes alive, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun that paints the buildings with a golden hue.

Wondering where the best place is to witness this magical hour and the sunrise or sunset in Basel? Look no further than the banks of the Rhine River and the Mittlere Bridge. These spots offer an unparalleled view of this daily spectacle.

They’re also Basel’s most beautiful places because:

1. They have beautiful panoramic views of the city.
2. Also, romantic scenery.
3. Lastly, there are fascinating artworks to discover as you explore the area.

I’ll show you a view of the golden hour in Basel later, but in the meantime, here’s how Mittlere Bridge looks like (see below)

In addition to its stunning views, the Mittlere Bridge holds significant historical and cultural value.

Did you know that the Mittlere Bridge, also known as the Middle Bridge, is situated on the oldest existing bridge site across the Rhine River? Moreover, this 192-meter-long structure is constructed entirely from Swiss materials. It’s made up of granite sourced from the Saint-Gotthard Massif, adding to its local significance.

The Mittlere Bridge serves as a connection between the two old districts of Basel: Grossbasel, or Greater Basel, which is located southwest of the Rhine River, and Kleinbasel, or Small Basel, situated to the northeast. If you’re an early riser and wish to witness the golden hour in Basel, I’d recommend heading to the banks of the Rhine River in Kleinbasel.

The Kleinbasel riverbank is akin to a mini park. It’s adorned with a handful of benches, quaint shops, and lush trees. A panoramic view awaits you there, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely morning picnic.

And don’t miss out on a leisurely stroll along the riverbank in Kleinbasel! Amidst its length, you’ll discover two pieces of artwork that add a touch of whimsy to the landscape. Starting from the Mittlere bridge, the first piece of art you’ll encounter is a delightful miniature sculpture that pays homage to Grossbasel.

The location where you can find the miniature is also the vantage point of Grossbasel. Then, continue a little further, and you’ll encounter the cute basilisk fountain.

For those who want to see the golden hour in Basel and the Rhine River before sunset, the viewing platform behind Basel Minster is the best place to go.

From there, you can feast your eyes on a blend of the old and the new – medieval houses standing tall alongside modern buildings that punctuate the skyline. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect to see while sightseeing at the Mittlere Bridge and the Rhine River:

5. Basel Messe Exhibition Center

If your first stop in Basel is sightseeing on the Mittlere Bridge, you’ll quickly notice that the city is not just about historical attractions.

The modern skyscrapers peeking out from behind traditional houses hint at Basel’s contemporary side. Among these modern structures, the Basel Messe Exhibition Center stands out. Even if you’re not typically a fan of modern architecture, this building might just change your mind. It’s a striking example of Basel’s blend of old and new, and for me, it’s the most beautiful modern spot in the city.

Here’s the exact location of the Basel Messe Exhibition Center in Google Maps. 

The Basel Messe Exhibition Center is a marvel of modern architecture. Its exterior, with a design reminiscent of a woven facade, is sure to catch your eye. The textured aluminum cladding adds an extra layer of intrigue.

But the real showstopper is the distinctive hole in the Messeplatz section of the building. It’s such a prominent feature that you’ll spot it as soon as you step off the tram at Messeplatz station. This blend of architectural innovation and design is what makes the Basel Messe Exhibition Center a must-see.

The Basel Messe Exhibition Center is home to a unique architectural feature known as the “Fenster zum Himmel” or “Window to Heaven.”

This giant hole in the structure shares the same textured aluminum cladding as the rest of the building, but its circular shape makes it all the more spectacular. Gazing up at the sky through this window creates a mesmerizing optical illusion, as if you’re being drawn upwards or the woven aluminum is moving towards you.

For minimalist photographers, the “Window to Heaven” offers a captivating subject that beautifully captures the interplay of architecture and nature.

As its names suggest, Basel Messe Exhibition Center conducts exhibitions and conferences. Sometimes, there are music festivals, food festivals, and exhibits like “Van Gogh Alive.” You can check the events list from the official website of the Basel Messe Exhibition Center.

Basel Messe Exhibition Center is a huge, interesting building. But I think a visit to Basel Messe Exhibition Center would be quick if there’s no event or an exhibit to attend. Also, it is worth seeing only if you plan to have a lengthy stay in Basel.

6. Tinguely Fountain & Museum

The Tinguely Museum, a standout among Basel’s numerous attractions, is a celebration of creativity. Its kinetic artwork is a feast for the eyes, sure to enthrall both adults and children alike.

The dynamic exhibits within are nothing short of extraordinary. The museum also boasts an Instagrammable gallery that provides breathtaking views of the Rhine river near Schwarzwaldbrücke. And upon arrival, you’re immediately welcomed by a serene garden adorned with well-kept lawns and additional kinetic artwork.

And yes, in my opinion, these distinctive features make the Tinguely Museum an essential stop on any Basel itinerary. See the exact location of Tinguely Museum on Google Maps.

To put it simply, the Tinguely Museum is a tribute to the creative genius of Jean Tinguely. This Swiss sculptor is renowned for his kinetic art and sculptural machines, often referred to as Métamatics. Here’s a video to give you a glimpse of what’s inside the museum:

By the way, there are two places where you can find his works in Basel. Most of Tinguely’s artworks are in the museum, but you can also find a few in the Tinguely fountain in front of the Theater Basel.

From an engineering perspective, I find Jean Tinguely’s work incredibly compelling. His knack for blending creativity with diverse engineering concepts is simply astounding. The precision with which Tinguely calculated the length and movement of each part of his mechanical masterpieces, enabling them to generate new artwork, is truly amazing. It feels as though Tinguely has instilled life into his creations.

The Tinguely Museum is not just a visual feast, but an interactive experience that engages all your senses. As the Basel tourism office aptly puts it, the museum is a place where discovery, laughter, and amazement come together. For visiting information, you can check out the official website of the Tinguely Museum. If you’re planning a visit, you can use the provided link to book your slot. And here’s a bonus – if you have a Swiss Travel Pass, you can enjoy free entry to the Tinguely Museum!

Swiss Travel Pass lets you use the trains, buses, and boats in Switzerland for unlimited times. It also lets you access hundreds of museums in Switzerland, not only Tinguely Museum. Learn more about the Swiss Travel Pass here.

7. Vitra Design Museum

Rounding off this list of stunning places to explore from Basel is the Vitra Campus & Design Museum. This destination is renowned worldwide for boasting one of the most comprehensive collections of modern furniture designs.

Did you know that Vitra is more than just a museum?

It’s actually one of the world’s premier design museums, exploring the intricate relationship between design and architecture. If you have a passion for home styling, a visit here is a must! The Vitra Design Museum boasts an extensive collection of furniture, with some pieces tracing their origins back to the 19th century.

The Vitra Campus stands out for its striking architecture, making it a haven for minimalists. Its clean, futuristic aesthetic is a sight to behold, and the landscaping adds a touch of natural beauty. Interestingly, you don’t even need to step inside to appreciate Vitra’s charm.

The museum building, with its deconstructivist design, is an attraction in itself. It’s as if Doctor Strange from Marvel Comics has twisted and turned its structure.

Below are some of the beautiful scenes that await you in Vitra.

It’s beautiful, right?

Even though Basel and the Vitra Design Museum are located in different countries, there’s no need to worry about transportation. Both Basel and Weil am Rhein are well-serviced by buses and trams. For more precise details, you can refer to the visiting information page of Vitra.

The Vitra Campus & Design Museum is just one of the many stunning destinations that await you beyond Switzerland’s borders. From Basel, you have easy access to a host of nearby cities in France and Germany, each boasting its own unique attractions and charming historic town centers. Here are some places in France and Germany that you might enjoy exploring, listed in order of proximity to Basel:

• The Black Forest (Germany) — It is where the world’s most famous fairy tales originated. With how this place looks (thick forest, half-timber framed houses, and scenic rolling hills), traveling to the Black Forest can be one of the most magical trips ever.
• Colmar (France) — It’s the most fairytale town in France. The dense half-timber framed houses, cobblestone streets, and castles around Colmar can explain why.
• Strasbourg (France) — It is similar to Colmar but larger and has more diverse experiences. The attractions in Strasbourg will time-transport you to the middle, industrial, and modern age.
• Stuttgart (Germany) — It is the largest city closest to the Black Forest, famous for the Porsche and Mercedes Benz museums in the city.

But before you leave Switzerland, you might also want to spend time in other cities in Switzerland.

• Zurich. Highlights: Epic nightlife, luxurious streets, and great museums & art galleries.
• Geneva. Highlights: International organizations, historical landmarks, and day trips to the French/Swiss Alps.
• Bern. Highlights: Charming UNESCO heritage site historic center, cute fountains, and Einstein’s house.

If you’re looking to experience the majesty of the Swiss Alps while also exploring urban landscapes, the cities listed below are worth considering. These cities are conveniently located near the Swiss Alps and serve as excellent bases for visiting various attractions in the mountain range. Let’s dive into these Alpine gateways:

• Montreux. Highlights: The magical Chillon Castle, unique wines from UNESCO Lavaux vineyard, and the music industry.
• Sion. Highlights: Picturesque landscape, wines, hilltop castle, and church.
• Brig. Highlights: Simplon Pass, Stockalper Palace, and World Nature Forum.
• Thun. Highlights: Cruise in Lake Thun, Oberhofen Castle, and Thun Castle.
• Lucerne. Highlights: Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and Mount Pilatus.

From the cities listed above, you can have a day trip to Switzerland’s best destinations (mentioned earlier) and to the places below.

• Kandersteg — it is one of the most beautiful villages in the Swiss Alps, closest to Oeschinensee, which is one of the most stunning lakes in the Alps.
• Gruyeres — a preserved medieval city in the Swiss Prealps. Come here to see a castle, visit unique museums, and taste the unique Gruyeres cheese.

How to Get to Basel

Believe it or not, there are four fantastic ways to journey to Basel: by air, train, car, and yes, even by cruise ship! If Basel is on your travel itinerary, here’s some handy information to help you plan your trip.

By Air

Basel is accessible through two airports.

The first is the EuroAirport, which is conveniently located just a few kilometers away from the city. It’s an international airport that serves as a hub for many major airlines, so you’ll have plenty of flight options.

The second option is Zurich Airport, which is a bit further away but is one of the largest international airports in Switzerland. It also offers numerous direct flights from cities around the world. If convenience and proximity to Basel are your top priorities, EuroAirport might be the better choice. If you prefer more flight options and don’t mind a bit of travel, Zurich Airport could be more suitable.

By Train

If you’re already in Europe, taking the train to Basel can be a great option. These stations are all conveniently located in the heart of the city and enjoy frequent domestic and international services.

Whether you’re traveling within Switzerland or coming from France or Germany, you’ll find Basel’s train stations to be easily accessible and convenient for your journey.

By Car

If you’re planning a road trip to Basel, you’re in for a treat. The city is conveniently located at the junction of major European motorways, making it an easy drive from many locations. For instance, if you’re coming from Zurich, it’s a pretty straight shot of about 85.5 km.

Once you arrive in Basel, you’ll find plenty of parking options. Here are a few:

1. APCOA Parking: This 24-hour parking lot is located at Rebgasse 20.
2. Parkhaus Badischer Bahnhof AG: Located at Schwarzwaldstrasse 160, it’s open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM Monday to Saturday, and from 7:30 AM to 10:30 PM on Sunday.
3. Aeschen Parking: Another 24-hour option.
4. Anfos Parking: Yet another round-the-clock parking lot.

And that’s just the start.

There are many more parking lots throughout the city, including Badischer Bahnhof Parking, Bahnhof Süd Parking, Centralbahnhof Parking, City Parking, Clara-Huus Parking, Elisabethen Parking, Europe Parking, Kunstmuseum Parking, Messe Parking, and Parkhaus Claramatte.

If you’re planning to park on the street, you can buy a visitor parking ticket for half or full day use in all spaces in the blue zone in Basel and Riehen.

These tickets are available online or at ticket machines of Basler Verkehrsbetriebe. Just remember, if you’re driving on Swiss motorways, you’ll need a vignette (toll road sticker). You can pick one up for CHF 40 at customs offices, post offices, petrol stations, garages and road traffic offices.

Check Basel’s Car Parks page for more information about the parking spaces in Basel.

By Cruise

Arriving in Basel by ship is a unique and special experience. Imagine gliding down the Rhine and arriving in the heart of Europe by ship – that’s exactly what you can to reach Basel!

Each year, about 100,000 guests sail into the city on cabin ships. There are three spots in Basel where these ships dock: the St. Johann district, the Klybeck district, and right at the border triangle. At each passenger terminal, you’ll find information panels with tips on things to do in Basel and directions to the city center. If you choose to arrive by cruise ship in Basel, here’s how you can reach the town center:

From St. Johann Pier

• By Train: Hop on a train from Basel St Johann to Basel SBB. You’ll be there in about 5 minutes.
• By Tram: Take the line 1 tram from Basel, Bahnhof St. Johann to Basel, Bahnhof SBB. It’s a quick 12-minute ride.
• By Bus: Catch a bus from Basel St Johann to Basel SBB. The ride takes about 9 minutes.

From Klybeck district

1. By Bus: Just hop on the bus at Basel, Feldbergstrasse and get off at Basel, Johanniterbrücke. You’ll be there in about 2 minutes.
2. By Tram: You can take the tram from Basel, Hüningerstrasse to Basel, St. Johanns-Tor. It’s a quick 3-minute ride. Or, you can catch the line 8 tram from Basel, Inselstrasse to Basel, Dreirosenbrücke, then switch to the line 1 tram to Basel, Birmannsgasse.

For real-time updates about vessels in the Port of Basel, check out MarineTraffic.

Learn more to arrive at Basel by Ship.

Best Time to Visit Basel

Deciding when to visit Basel, Switzerland, hinges on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. Here’s what you might want to consider:

If you’re looking to soak up the sun, the warmest months in Basel are June, July, and August. During this time, you can even take a dip in the Rhine River if you like! However, keep in mind that it might be crowded and there could be some rain. The average temperature during these months is around 23°C (73.4°F).

As usual, if you prefer a quieter time, consider visiting in May or early September. The weather is still pleasant with plenty of sunshine.

As for budget considerations, December is generally the most affordable month for hotel stays in Basel. On the other hand, June tends to be the most expensive month. Budget hotels with amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and private bathrooms start at 75 CHF per night. During the peak season (June – August), the average price can rise to $321 per night, while during the off-peak season (March – May), it can drop to $190 per night.

Another consideration when to visit Basel is its events. Basel, Switzerland is always buzzing with some pretty cool events throughout the year that might pique your interest. Here’s the lowdown:

• Art Basel (June): This is the big leagues of art fairs, folks.
• Longines CHI Classics Basel (January): A top-tier equestrian event.
• Baloise Session (October to November): A music fest with a unique club vibe.
• Basel Tattoo (July): The world’s second-largest military music event.
• Carnival in Basel (February): The biggest Carnival in Switzerland.
• Christmas market (November to December): One of the most charming and largest Christmas markets in Switzerland.
• Young Stage International Circus Festival (May): A circus festival with international flair.
• Herbstmesse Autumn fair (October to November): A fair that’s been around for over half a millennium.

Please check the official website of Basel for more information and exact dates of these events.

Where to Stay in Basel

Basel is a vibrant city with several neighborhoods that offer unique experiences. Here are some areas you might consider for your stay:

1. Altstadt Grossbasel: This is the old town area of Basel and is a great place for first-time visitors. It’s close to many of the city’s most famous tourist attractions and has excellent public transportation connections.
2. Altstadt Kleinbasel: Located on the other side of the Rhine River, this area offers a different perspective of the city and is known for its vibrant nightlife.
3. St. Alban: A quiet, residential area that’s still close to the city center. It’s known for its beautiful old buildings and the St. Alban-Teich canal.

Here’s where you can find the best hotel deals in Basel. You’ll also get a map to pinpoint the perfect spot for your stay.

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