12 tips for visiting Basel
Tips for your city trip to Basel
1. The cathedral with Erasmus
On Münsterplatz stands one of Basel’s most famous landmarks: the Münster. This medieval cathedral, featuring both Gothic and Romanesque elements, is the final resting place of the Dutch philosopher Erasmus. Above his grave, 250 steps up, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Climbing the tower is only allowed in groups of at least two people. Going up alone is not permitted.
2. Basel on two wheels
The city is very bike-friendly, with a car-free centre and beautiful cycle paths through the city and along the Rhine. You can rent (electric) bikes at many locations, very convenient! Tip: hire a bike straight away upon arrival at SBB station, so you’re ready to set off and explore right from the start.
3. Tasty lunch by the Rhine
A great tip is restaurant Ufer 7, located right on the banks of the Rhine, just a stone’s throw from the Mittlere Brücke. It’s a lovely spot for lunch, serving seasonal dishes with a beautiful view of the river. They also offer a carefully selected range of wines and beers, good coffee and creative cocktails.
Address: Untere Rheingasse 11
4. Ferries
In Basel, you can cross the Rhine in a rather special way – by taking one of the charming little ferries that glide back and forth without a motor, powered purely by the force of the current. These 'Fähri', as the people of Basel call them, are guided across the river by a cable and offer a peaceful ride from one bank to the other. There are four of these ferries in the city, each with its own name and character.
5. Architecture
Basel is a paradise for architecture lovers, with a mix of medieval city gates, half-timbered houses and modern masterpieces. Renowned architects such as Herzog & de Meuron and Frank Gehry have designed buildings here. Museums like the Kunstmuseum are also architectural gems. Basel delights with its beautiful blend of old and new.
6. Museum Fondation Beyeler
The Fondation Beyeler is another architectural gem. With outstanding collections and exhibitions housed in a stunning building, it is now the most popular art museum in Switzerland. The cycle route from the city centre to the museum is also beautiful!
Address: Baselstrasse 101, Riehen/Basel
7. Shopping in Basel
There are so many lovely and unique shops in Basel that it’s hard to choose just a few to recommend. Baselunverpackt is a shop where you can buy food without packaging and find original gifts. The shop at the Kunstmuseum offers beautiful design items, and there’s a store with an impressive selection of (Swiss) Freitag bags and backpacks. And what about chocolate? Or vintage finds? Whatever your style, Basel is the perfect place to indulge your love of shopping.
8. Swimming in the Rhine
Can you really swim in the Rhine? Yes, you can! The water in the Rhine at Basel is clear and clean. The large ships stay in the middle of the river, leaving plenty of space along the banks for swimmers. You can simply jump into the water or rent or buy a Wickelfisch, a waterproof swimming bag where you can safely store your belongings and float along with the current.
9. Biscuits with honey
At Jakob's Basler Leckerly, you can buy delicious biscuits in beautifully designed packaging. But there’s more to enjoy – discover how this famous biscuit has been made for over 270 years. During the tour, you’ll taste Leckerly recipes from three different centuries and even pack your own biscuits to take home. A sweet journey into history!
Address: St. Johanns-Vorstadt 47
10. Dining at Volkshaus Basel
In the heart of Kleinbasel, you’ll find Volkshaus Basel, an inviting French brasserie and classic bar with a beautiful courtyard filled with plane trees. The building is not just a great place to enjoy good food, but also a cultural meeting point. Here, you can savour timeless dishes, fine wines and the relaxed atmosphere of this peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.
Address: Rebgasse 12
11. Rooftop terrace on a Kaserne
Bar Amber is located on the rooftop of the Kaserne Basel, a former military barracks that has been transformed into a cultural centre, hosting concerts, theatre and festivals. On the top floor, you’ll find Bar Amber with its spacious rooftop terrace and views over the Rhine. It’s a lively bar with a changing programme on Friday and Saturday evenings, featuring either a DJ set or live music.
Address: Kasernenhof 6
12. Essential by Dorint Basel City
This four-star hotel is within walking distance of the Messe Basel exhibition centre and easily accessible by public transport. The rooms are spacious, the beds comfortable and the breakfast delicious! The hotel also offers good Wi-Fi and a fitness room.
Address: Schönaustrasse 10
Travelling by train is quick and comfortable
Basel is easily accessible by train from the Netherlands. ICE International takes you to Basel via connection train in Frankfurt from Amsterdam Central in just 7.10 hours.
Do you prefer travelling at night? Then a Nightjet is the way to travel quickly and comfortably to the heart of Basel. You book Basel from € 38 one way.
Read more about travelling by train to Basel
Tips for Basel
Eurovision 2025: Train to Basel
Enjoy Basel during the Song Contest. It's going to be a big party!