Basel is full of contrasts. The historic old town meets modern architecture. A mix of tradition and innovation. Punctuated by culture and architecture. A city of culture and at the same time a thriving metropolis on the Rhine with a great quality of life and plenty to enjoy. Be inspired by these contrasts.
This is Basel
Basel is located in the northwest of Switzerland in the border triangle between Germany, France and Switzerland. The city on the Rhine is considered the country’s art and culture capital.
Discover Basel
Basel’s
old town is an absolutely must. You will discover picturesque alleyways and over 200 fountains. Highlights include the
town hall and the
cathedral. From the vantage point of the Pfalz viewing terrace, you can look out over the old town to the point where three countries converge. You will find art wherever you go in Basel’s city centre, for example the
Tinguely Fountain. Are you an architecture fan? Look no further than
Messe Basel and the Roche Towers, both buildings designed by star architects Herzog & de Meuron or the
Novartis campus. Last but not least, the “
Mittlere Brücke”, one of the oldest bridges over the Rhine, is a must when visiting Basel.
Basel, city of culture
Basel has the highest density of museums and countless galleries. The
Kunstmuseum Basel presents art from the past 700 years. The
Museum Tinguely shows the extensive collection of works of art and sculptures by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely.
Art Basel is a major event held every June. It is considered one of the world’s leading art fairs and presents works from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Life on the Rhine
Particularly on warmer days, life in Basel gravitates to the banks of the
Rhine. The choices are broad: Bathing (referred to locally as “Rheinschwimmen”), a trip on a
Rhine ferry or aquatic sports. Afterwards, you can enjoy life in one of the many
buvettes – lovingly created open-air eating and drinking spots. And last but not least, the Rhine is also the venue for concerts and open-air cinemas in the summer months.
In and around Basel
Riehen is about 30 minutes from Basel. It is home to one of Switzerland’s most important museums – the
Fondation Beyeler. The museum presents modern and contemporary art. Equally close to Basel are the Roman ruins of
Augusta Raurica. If nature is your thing, the Basel Jura is popular for hikes and climbing tours.
Experience Basel for less
Stay overnight in Basel and receive discounts on many leisure and cultural activities with the
BaselCard. This gives you a 50% discount on admission to Basel Zoo, a city tour or a boat trip. In addition, you can travel free of charge by bus and tram.
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