Attractions
Divided by the Rhine, Basel is composed of 19 quarters each with its individual flair. However, it is the old medieval quarters of Grossbasel and Kleinbasel that will undoubtedly capture the visitors’ attention. Situated on the South bank of the Rhine, the atmospheric streets of Grossbasel are simply a jewel. Here, you can immerse yourself in the history of the town as you wander through the market square and the winding narrow lanes. Must-do’s include a walk up to the majestic Münster Cathedral and a trip around the richly ornamented interior of the Rathaus (town hall).However, while Basel is renowned for its history, it also has a reputation for some fine modernist architecture. In the nearby quarters of the Vorstädte, and north of the river in Kleinbasel and the surrounding quarters, there are some stunning buildings designed by the likes of Herzog & De Meuron. This modernist edge permeates through into the local art and cultural scene, particularly in Kleinbasel, where you can find a bunch of bars and venues offering all kinds of entertainment.
Altstadt and Münsterplatz
Lose yourself among the atmospheric streets and market squares of the Old Town!
Address: Munsterplatz
More Info: Tram to Barfusserplatz.
Kathedrale
The imposing Cathedral (Munster) is a magnificent piece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture.
Address: Munsterplatz
Phone: +41 61 271 2182
More Info: Tram to Barfusserplatz.
Rathaus (Town Hall)
Built in 1504, the City Hall (Rathaus) is a splendid mix of Gothic exteriors and Renaissance interiors.
Address: Marktplatz
More Info: Tram to Marktplatz
Stadttore – Spalentor
The Spalentor is the most impressive of the three surviving city gates (Spalen, St. Johann, St. Alban) that once formed part of the cities medieval walls.
Address: Spalenvorstadt
More Info: Tram to Spalentor
The Roman city of Augusta Raurica
Sample Basel’s rich Roman heritage at this excellent archaeological site. Includes the original theatre, which performances are still held today.
Address: Giebenacherstrasse 17
Phone: +41 61 816 2222
Internet: www.augusta-raurica.ch
More Info: By train to Kaiseraugst or bus 70 from Aeschenplatz to Augst.
Kunstmuseum
Impressive collection of work ranging from the old masters through to contemporary modern pieces!
Address: St. Alban-Graben 16
Phone: + 41 61 206 6262
Internet: www.kunstmuseumbasel.ch
More Info: Tram to Kuntsmuseum
Fondation Beyeler
A stunning collection of modern artwork, including pieces by Warhol, Pollock, Picasso, Kandinsky, et al.
Address: Baselstrasse 101
Phone: +41 616 459 700
Internet: www.beyeler.com
Zoo Basel
Established in 1874, this excellent zoo has a wide and diverse range of animals.
Address: Binningerstrasse 40
Phone: +41 61 295 3535
Internet: www.zoobasel.ch
More Info: Tram to Basel Zoo
Walking Along The Rhine
Join the locals and take a leisurely stroll along the promenades that fringe the Rhine.
Modern City Architecture
Take a walk around the city and marvel at some of the futuristic architecture, such as the Messeturm at Messeplatz, Zentralstellwerk Basel SBB, Fondation Beyeler and the Jean Tinguely Museum.