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 programmes. 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.
"A beautiful hotel that is relatively new. Huge rooms. Beautifully appointed. Great restaurant and bar onsite plus a gorgeous rooftop where you can view the city and enjoy a cocktail. Very helpful and pleasant staff. Fabulous location - very close to the river, restaurants and shops."
"The hotel room was big, clean, quiet, and air conditioned. We had four people comfortably sleep in one room. The location was perfect, at the edge of the old town and just two blocks from the river. Breakfast was excellent. Staff were kind and helpful. Will stay again when next in Basel. A+ place."
"This is a lovely hotel in a fantastic location! It was very easy to get to from the train station and we could walk everywhere in the Altstadt which is very beautiful. The staff were wonderfully welcoming and knowledgeable and the room was so spacious and clean. The breakfast was excellent. We loved our stay in the Hotel Spalentor and highly recommend it!"
"The hotel is centrally located near the main train/tram station making getting around Basel easy. The hotel is well appointed with excellent amenities and the staff is very friendly and attentive."
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.
Basel is a vibrant city perfect for family and business-themed vacations, offering a variety of activities for all. You can explore lively public markets, enjoy live music, and attend exciting art events. For those seeking free and awesome activities, Basel’s arena entertainment facilities and diverse cultural experiences provide endless enjoyment. Discover the charm and energy of this Swiss gem, where there's something for everyone.
Shopping
In Basel, you can enjoy shopping at St. Jakob-Park Shopping Centre, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. The Marktplatz public market is perfect for local goods, while Stuecki Shopping Center Basel also provides a lively atmosphere for shoppers. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby shopping destinations.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of St. Jakob-Park, where you can enjoy thrilling sports events. Immerse yourself in the romantic ambiance of Musical Theater Basel and Theater Basel, both offering captivating performances that celebrate culture and entertainment, perfect for a family outing or a memorable date night.
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. Ski lovers can enjoy the Weissensteinbahn ski lift, located 37.0km from Basel, for an unforgettable alpine experience.
Nightlife
Experience Basel's vibrant nightlife at Les Trois Rois for a luxurious cocktail or enjoy the lively atmosphere at Klara, known for its eclectic crowd. For live music, visit Volkshaus, where local talent thrives, or dance the night away at the renowned Club Les Trois Rois, perfect for night owls.
Find the best attractions in Basel
Basel offers a delightful mix of experiences for families, business travellers, and city explorers alike. With its stunning cathedral, renowned art museums, and various cultural attractions, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage and vibrant outdoor experiences the city has to offer. Whether you're considering a city break or exploring further afield, Basel promises a memorable getaway filled with culture and enjoyment.
St. Jakobshalle: Experience the vibrant atmosphere at St. Jakobshalle, an impressive arena that hosts various events, from concerts to sports. Perfect for families, it offers an exciting day out with entertainment options suitable for all ages.
Swiss Architecture Museum: Delve into the rich architectural heritage of Switzerland at the Swiss Architecture Museum. This culturally enriching venue showcases innovative designs and thought-provoking exhibitions that celebrate the art of architecture.
Caricature and Cartoon Museum: Discover the whimsical world of humour at the Caricature and Cartoon Museum. This unique museum features captivating artworks that highlight the art of caricature and cartooning, providing a delightful experience for all visitors.
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 to Basel during the low season (January to February and April) for more affordable options.
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.