Northern Switzerland, Switzerland
These are required visits for any traveler, offering rich historical and cultural context.
Basel's landmarks showcase centuries of Swiss history and architectural grandeur.
Spalentor: Viewable 24/7 from exterior; cannot be climbed. Area around it is charming with shops.
Admire impressive stained-glass windows and tomb of Erasmus.
Notice intricate facade details and lively market atmosphere.
Watch locals swim in the Rhine with their "Wickelfisch" bags in summer.
Best viewed from the front for its imposing structure and details.
Observe current-powered ferries crossing the river near Mittlere Brücke.
Basel holds over 40 museums, one of the highest museum densities in Europe, a destination for art and culture enthusiasts.
Switzerland's largest public art collection, from Early Masters to contemporary art. (Check website for hours, fees; Basel Card discounts.)
Modern and contemporary art in a Renzo Piano-designed building, set in a beautiful park. (Monet, Picasso, Warhol highlights.)
Dedicated to Jean Tinguely's kinetic sculptures, interactive and engaging. (Located by the Rhine River.)
In Weil am Rhein, Germany (short ride from Basel), demonstrating furniture, architecture, and modern design. Campus itself is an architectural park.
Numerous smaller art galleries and independent exhibition spaces in St. Johann and Lysbüchel, showing contemporary art.
Museums frequently host temporary exhibitions. Check individual museum websites for current programming before your visit.
Focuses on Basel's city history, including medieval tapestries. Main collection in Barfüsserkirche.
Extensive collections of fossils, minerals, and animal exhibits, suitable for families and science enthusiasts.
One of Europe's largest collections of pharmaceutical objects, a fascinating look at the history of medicine.
Basel offers a diverse program of high-quality performances across various venues.
Basel’s long history comes alive through its well-preserved historical sites, spanning from Roman times to the industrial era.
Explore ancient ruins, medieval districts, and monuments that tell the story of this city.
Uncover remnants of Basel's ancient past at a significant Roman site.
Wander through charming districts revealing centuries of history and unique architecture.
Discover Basel's spiritual heritage through its historic churches.
Explore unique monuments and sites reflecting Basel's cultural and industrial past.
Beyond the well-known attractions, Basel holds many lesser-known spots, unique insights into local life and culture.
Tranquil valley with a historic paper mill, small stream, and picturesque half-timbered houses, a peaceful escape.
Charming, hidden courtyards tucked behind Old Town buildings, revealing peaceful oases or quaint architectural details.
Four traditional, current-powered ferries offer an unique and quiet way to experience the river without engines.
Peaceful green space adjacent to Museum Tinguely, quiet walking paths, large lawn, and Rhine views.
Hotel complex with a charming courtyard, unique art installations, often overlooked theater and art gallery.
The actual point where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet, marked by a symbolic monument.
Unique art storage facility and exhibition space; check schedule for rare world-class contemporary art viewings.
Corporate research campus with buildings by Gehry, Zaha Hadid; walking around the exterior a fascinating architectural look.
Capture Basel's beauty from distinct perspectives.
Discover quiet, historic street scenes away from the crowds.
For attraction tickets, consider using GetYourGuide to pre-book and skip lines.
The Basel Card may provide discounts on museum entry and public transport.
Discover Basel's diverse animal life within its city limits, suitable for all ages.
One of the oldest and largest zoos in Switzerland, globally renowned for its breeding programs and naturalistic enclosures. Houses a wide variety of animals.
A smaller, free-entry zoo focusing on native European animals like deer, wild boar, and various birds. Offers a relaxed atmosphere, suitable for families.
Prominent geological features are not found within Basel city. The surrounding Jura mountains offer interesting formations and landscapes.
A large, welcoming park with extensive green spaces, playgrounds, and recreational areas. Popular with locals for relaxing, picnicking, and sports.
Located a short tram ride from the city center, these extensive botanical gardens feature diverse plant collections.
A smaller but historically significant botanical garden, part of the university. Showcases a wide range of plant species.
This bridge offers good views of the Basel Minster and the Rhine, especially if you are staying in Kleinbasel.
An elevated terrace behind the Basel Minster, offering stunning panoramic views of the Rhine River and surrounding areas.
The Rhine is central to Basel's life and leisure, offering unique water activities.
While mainly urban, Basel offers access to nearby natural landscapes.
For high-adrenaline adventure sports like white-water rafting or paragliding, travel to Switzerland's mountainous regions like Interlaken or Lucerne.
