A short time in Switzerland, making our way to Italy by road, found us wanting to see more of one of the most picturesque countries in the world. Basel was our first stop on our comprehensive road tour of the country. Be sure to visit Basel, a Swiss treasure that you must see.
Why you should visit Basel
Basel, located in northwestern Switzerland, is conveniently situated near the borders of both France and Germany. Known as the art and culture capital of Switzerland, unless one embarks on a river cruise along the mighty Rhine River, travellers do not often make the city a priority for a visit. Read on to learn more about why we think you should.
Steeped in history with its origins going back to Roman times, Basel is Switzerland’s third-largest city, often overlooked by visitors who prefer to visit Zurich.
For visitors, central Basel is split into two unique areas on either side of the Rhine River: Kleinbasel and Basel’s Altstadt. Even though the River divides the city, bridges crossing over the river make the city easy to navigate on foot.
Our favourite things to do in Basel
Explore Basel Altstadt
Visit the Rathaus
Basel’s Rathaus (Town Hall) is a unique structure. Standing in the heart of Basel’s bustling Marktplatz, the building’s red facade catches your attention. We were in awe of this building, which was constructed over 500 years ago. Sit on a bench across from the Renaissance building to study its beautiful façade, complete with intricate carvings and sculptures.
But wait, there’s more. Step inside the arcaded entrance, and you’ll find yourself in an inner courtyard. You’ll find your breath taken away with walls covered extravagantly in frescoes and grand staircases.
While the building is an iconic landmark in Basel, it is also a working building housing the city council and the mayor’s office, as well as being the seat of government.
Basel Munsterplatz
Basel’s Munsterplatz is one of the oldest public squares in Basel, hosting not only the Basler Munster but also many beautiful historic buildings around the square. Take a look around at the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of the buildings, many of which date back to medieval times.
The square has also been a public meeting place for centuries and continues the tradition today, with concerts and major events held there, including the annual Christmas Markets.
Basel Munster
Basel Munster, and its towers are visible across the city on either side of the river. However, it’s most striking up close in Munsterplatz. The Munster was built between 1019 and 1500 and is known for its red sandstone exterior, colourful roof and Gothic facade. The church was destroyed and rebuilt after an earthquake in 1356.
The interior is simple and lightly adorned, but what stands out are the beautiful stained glass windows and frescoes. The highlight was wandering around the two cloisters, which led to a shaded terrace with a viewpoint overlooking the river and across to the other side.
Walk along medieval Augustinegasse
One of the most beautiful routes to walk to Munsterplatz and the Munster is along Augustinegasse. A stroll along the street takes you past medieval and aristocratic houses, as well as museums with glimpses across the river from vantage points. Along the way, look out for the Augustiner Brunnen, a decorative fountain bearing the city’s coat of arms. A fountain has been on the site since 1468.
Mittlere Brücke
Since 1226, the Mittlere Brücke has been one of Basel’s most well-known landmarks. Linking the two sides of the river, it is one of the oldest Rhine crossings.
The current bridge, known as the new Mittlere Brücke, was erected in 1905 to incorporate the city’s tram system.
Stroll in Altstadt’s backstreets
Venture away from the more popular riverside streets in the Altstadt and discover the backstreets of the old town. Filled with beautiful old houses and intimate squares dating back to the 12th century, you’ll find it a treat to walk around.
Be mesmerised by the Tinguely Fountain
Walk through Basel’s theatre district and you’ll find a modern addition to the Altstadt, the Tinguely Fountain
For a modern twist, visit the Tinguely Fountain (Tinguely-Brunnen). IT sits on the site of the old Basel Theatre and next to the new Basel Theatre. Watch the fun and mechanical sculptures moving in this quirky fountain.
The fountain was created by Jean Tinguely, one of Basel’s most celebrated artists. There’s also a museum in Basel dedicated to his work.
Venture across the river to Kleinbasel
With its vibrant squares and choice of inernatleinbasel, originally known as “lesser Basel”, has become a popular part of town to visit.
Kaserne Basel and the Basel Tattoo
Kaserne Basel is Basel’s central culture hub. The open-air theatre hosts up to 250 concerts and performances every year.
During our stay, the annual Basel Tattoo was being held at the venue. The Basel Tattoo is the second-largest open-air tattoo in the world. It promises to be a sensational show featuring bagpipes, music, and folk dancing.
If you’re planning to attend the Tattoo, tickets sell out fast, so book early. We didn’t have tickets, so we spent some time enjoying the grounds outside the venue with the locals, who, like us, were taking in the sounds of the rehearsals before the main event.
Stroll the Rhein Promenade
The Rhein Promenade offers some of the best views of the Altstadt. Take a morning walk or evening stroll.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, you’ll find a phenomenon particular to the city. On our morning walk, we came across locals engaging in one of their favourite activities. With their daywear in special waterproof bags doubling as floats, we saw dozens of people floating down the river.
Enjoy a riverside picnic dinner
The huge Migros supermarket (it even has a large patisserie section) in Kleinbasel was our spot to collect a crisp rosé wine and an assortment of breads, cheeses, and olives one evening.
In the summer, the riverside is wonderful for an evening picnic. We found a spot to join the locals watching the floaters go down the river, listening to musicians entertain us, looking over the scenic Altstadt and engaging in a little people-watching while enjoying our simple evening meal.
More things you can do while in Basel
- Not much of the castle walls remain in Basel today, but walk a little further from the Altstadt to St Alban and you’ll find the parts of castle walls and the Spalen Gate, one of the city’s three remaining gates.
- Also in St Alban, you’ll find Basel’s Paper Museum. It’s a working paper museum set in a medieval paper mill.
- Make a day trip to Baden in the Limmat Valley. It has a beautiful old town and is known for its thermal baths, and is just 56km from Basel.
In case you’re interested
You name it, we’ve been on all sorts of holidays. However, whether we’re exploring our own country or travelling further afield, our most treasured ones are our road trips. Read why on our blog post dedicated to self-driving – “It’s more fun to self-drive“
