Step into Basel's Altstadt Grossbasel, a medieval treasure where cobblestone streets wind past colourful Renaissance buildings. The towering Basel Minster cathedral overlooks lively Marktplatz, where market stalls gather beneath the ornate red Town Hall. This car-free district makes exploring the city's rich history a pleasure on foot. Art enthusiasts will find paradise in the neighborhood's exceptional museums. The Kunstmuseum Basel and Basel Historical Museum showcase centuries of cultural heritage. Traditional Swiss restaurants serve authentic fondue in historic guild houses, while boutique shops offer local crafts and chocolates.
Across the Rhine from Basel's Old Town, Kleinbasel offers a refreshing mix of multicultural charm and riverside beauty. The cobblestone streets wind past colourful buildings where locals outnumber tourists. Summer brings swimmers to the Rhine's clean waters while traditional wooden ferries glide silently between banks. Discover art at Museum Tinguely or browse independent boutiques along Klybeckstrasse. Diverse restaurants serve everything from Swiss rösti to Turkish döner at area prices. Excellent tram connections make exploring easy, but the peaceful riverfront promenades invite you to slow down.
Sankt Alban whispers tales of medieval Basel through its iconic gate and ancient paper mills. Narrow cobblestone streets wind between historic buildings, revealing centuries of stories. The peaceful Rhine promenade offers scenic walks with views of historic bridges and glittering waters. This upscale residential haven balances preserved history with authentic Swiss living. Elegant homes and local cafés provide glimpses into Basel's refined character. Excellent tram connections make exploring the wider city remarkably simple.
Clara blends multicultural charm with residential tranquility just minutes from Basel's city centre. Locals shop at area markets while children play in tree-lined streets. This welcoming district offers an authentic glimpse into everyday Swiss life away from tourist crowds. The area sits near Badischer Bahnhof railway station with excellent tram connections throughout the city. Discover family-run restaurants serving diverse cuisines that reflect the area's cultural mix. Clara's quiet evenings and modest parks create a peaceful retreat after exploring Basel's livelier districts.
Basel City Centre blends medieval charm with cultural richness across its pedestrian-friendly streets. The 12th-century Basel Minster cathedral stands majestically among historic buildings and lively squares. Cobblestone pathways lead to hidden treasures throughout this artistic hub. World-class museums like the Kunstmuseum showcase impressive collections in this Swiss cultural capital. Hop on frequent trams at Marktplatz or University stops for easy exploration. The flowing Rhine adds natural beauty to this walkable district filled with Swiss heritage.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Basel
Photo by Basel Tourismus/ Jörg Hess
Open Photo by Basel Tourismus/ Jörg Hess
Basel Zoo
8.6/10 (264 reviews)
Switzerland's oldest zoo houses over 6,000 animals across 600 species, famous for groundbreaking breeding programs. Witness the daily penguin walk in winter or observe snow leopards in their naturalistic habitats.
Marktplatz
9.0/10 (1,102 reviews)
Basel's historic Marktplatz buzzes with vendors selling fresh produce and local delicacies beneath the striking red sandstone Town Hall. Savour regional specialities while admiring the square's medieval architecture.
Basler Muenster
9.2/10 (612 reviews)
Basel Minster's red sandstone architecture blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, creating a defining feature of Basel's skyline. Climb 250 steps up its towers for panoramic views spanning three countries.
Basel Art Museum
9.4/10 (103 reviews)
Explore one of the world's oldest public art collections, from Renaissance to contemporary works. The three interconnected buildings showcase European art history, with free admission on the first Sunday monthly.
Photo by Stefanie
Open Photo by Stefanie
Basel Town Hall
9.2/10 (545 reviews)
Built in 1504, this vibrant red sandstone masterpiece showcases intricate frescoes blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. Explore the courtyard with its murals of Basel's history and admire the painted council chambers.
St. Jakobshalle
8.8/10 (136 reviews)
St. Jakobshalle Basel hosts world-class concerts and sporting events in Switzerland's premier indoor arena. Experience the Swiss Indoors tennis tournament or enjoy perfect acoustics at performances.
Congress Center Basel
8.6/10 (193 reviews)
Switzerland's largest conference centre boasts modern architecture with a striking oculus above the tram station. Attend international events like Art Basel or admire the impressive design.
St. Jakob-Park
8.8/10 (156 reviews)
Switzerland's largest football stadium, St. Jakob-Park, was designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Take a guided tour to access the subs bench and VIP areas while learning about FC Basel's passionate football heritage.
"The hotel staff was super friendly and helpful from the moment we arrived until the moment we left. Mashir (?), a server in the bar/restaurant, must have noticed how tired and hot we were when we arrived and he came over and gave us cool water. He was a fabulous server and tended to our needs. We really appreciated the service we received. Our only complaint was the room was very hot. It felt great when we arrived, but it got progressively hotter. Otherwise, the room was very clean and...
"1. Parking, ton of parking spots. Looks like they are trying to add electric chargers. Secured with closed gate (as this is an airport hotel) we felt safe leaving our luggage in the car. The gate is closed after 10pm, just call them and they will come.
2. Super nice staff, friendly and helpful
3. They have a shuttle service to the airport
4. Clean spacious room, beds were comfy
5. Can’t comment on the breakfast, cause didn’t have it.
6. Location: 10 mins from airport and 15mins from Basel...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Basel break. However, a range of factors like the season, choice of hotel and length of stay will influence how much your holiday to Basel costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Basel?
January, February and March are the best times to search for cheap Basel holiday packages. Travelling in quieter months means you can usually find lower prices on flights and accommodation.
How many days is enough for Basel?
With around 2 days, you'll have enough time to experience popular neighbourhoods such as Basel City Centre and Old Town during your Basel holiday. Remember to also add Basler Muenster and Munsterplatz to your sightseeing list. In the mood for more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Basel on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Basel?
Well known for its history and home to popular attractions like Basel Zoo, a Basel holiday is bound to impress. Another top sight worth exploring? Don't miss Old Town.
How to find the best Basel package deals?
Landing a cheap Basel package deal is a breeze with Expedia. After you've entered your destination and preferred dates under our "Packages" tab, set your budget range, add a few filters and see what's available. You can fine-tune your search by "Property class," "Number of bedrooms," "Traveller experience" and more. Sort the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most economical Basel package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Have some flexibility with your departure dates and consider travelling on a weekday, when prices are often lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Basel holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you significant savings when compared to booking flights and stays individually. Better still, you can tailor your Basel trip to match your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Basel?
If you've got your Basel travel dates confirmed, book as soon as you can to score some unbeatable deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spontaneous trips? Our last-minute deals are ideal for jetting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Basel?
Choose when to travel: Check your schedule and get packing. Your favourite time of year and the activities available will also help you decide when to visit Basel.
Set your budget: Factor in costs such as transportation, flights and meals when working out how much to put aside for your trip to Basel. Then, choose a hotel that fits your budget, whether that's an economical option or a swankier retreat.
Decide your trip length: Consider how long you want to spend exploring Basel. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a comfortable pace.
Bundle your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. Now all that's left is to choose a Basel holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
In Basel, you can enjoy shopping at Stuecki Shopping Center for a mix of entertainment and family vibes. Visit Marktplatz for a vibrant public market atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out St. Jakob-Park Shopping Centre for more shopping options and activities.
Recreation
In Basel, indulge in wellness at the serene Musical Theater Basel, where culture meets relaxation through captivating performances. For an active escape, visit St. Jakob-Park, a vibrant stadium offering various sports activities, perfect for energising your stay while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Deinkick Solarbob, an exhilarating amusement ride located 27.4km from Basel. For hiking enthusiasts, the Jura Crest Trail offers stunning outdoor scenery and adventure vibes, situated 29.0km away. If skiing is your passion, the Weissensteinbahn ski lift, 37.0km from Basel, awaits your arrival.
Nightlife
Basel's nightlife offers vibrant bars and clubs. Enjoy cocktails at Les Trois Rois, a luxurious hotel bar, or dance the night away at Club Les Trois Rois. For a relaxed vibe, check out Barfüsser, perfect for unwinding with friends after a day of exploring.
Find the best attractions in Basel
Basel offers a fantastic experience for families and business travellers alike, with its rich cultural scene. Key attractions include the stunning cathedral, various art museums, and other intriguing museums. Whether you're looking to explore the Rhine or discover local highlights, Basel caters to those seeking both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for your holiday.
St. Jakobshalle: This vibrant arena in Basel is the perfect spot for entertainment enthusiasts. Hosting concerts, sports events, and exhibitions, it offers a lively atmosphere ideal for families and friends looking to enjoy a memorable outing together.
Basel Art Museum: As a cultural gem, the Basel Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of artworks, particularly from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces. The museum’s serene environment invites you to immerse yourself in the rich history and creativity of the art world.
Caricature and Cartoon Museum: This unique museum celebrates the art of caricature and cartoons, providing a delightful experience for visitors. With its engaging exhibits, it offers a humorous perspective on culture and society, appealing to all ages.
Best time to go to Basel
The best time to visit Basel is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Basel
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and April) for more affordable package holidays to Basel.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.