Basel
Basel
Basel sits on the Rhine River where Switzerland, Germany, and France come together - a truly unique spot in Europe. The city center feels like walking through a charming storybook with its well-preserved old town, colorful buildings, and the stunning red sandstone Town Hall standing proudly in Market Square.
As Switzerland's cultural capital, Basel boasts around 40 museums within just 37 square kilometers. Art lovers will appreciate the Kunstmuseum, which houses the oldest public art collection in the world. The city also has a thriving contemporary art scene, and hosts Art Basel, one of the most prestigious international art fairs.
The Rhine plays a central role in Basel's identity. In summer, locals float down the river with special waterproof bags called "Wickelfisch" to keep their belongings dry. The city transforms during its famous Fasnacht (carnival) - Switzerland's largest - which kicks off at 4 AM on a Monday with a parade called Morgestraich where all city lights are turned off.
Basel's position makes it a perfect starting point for exploring three countries in one trip. The city seamlessly blends Swiss precision, German efficiency, and French flair in its architecture, cuisine, and overall atmosphere.
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Things to do in Basel
Top things to do in Basel by www.planetware.com
Where to stay in Basel
Best hotels in Basel:
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Hotel Märthof (luxury hotel)
Hotel Märthof in Basel have rooms that are modern and comfy, with nice touches like coffee machines and flat-screen TVs. The location can't be beat - you're steps away from the market square and other main sights.
The hotel has some great amenities too. There's a fitness center if you want to squeeze in a workout, plus a spa area with a sauna and steam room to relax after a day of sightseeing. The on-site restaurant serves up tasty European cuisine, and the bar is perfect for an evening drink.
While it's not the cheapest option in Basel, the Märthof offers a high-end stay with lots of perks. The staff get good reviews for being friendly and helpful. Overall, it's a solid choice if you're looking for an upscale hotel in a prime location.
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The Passage (medium range hotel)
The Passage in Basel is a cool, modern hotel built in 2014, it's got a great location that makes exploring Basel super easy - you can walk to most of the main sights in just a few minutes.
The rooms are spacious and really well soundproofed, so you can get a good night's sleep even though you're in the middle of town. They've got all the amenities you'd expect like flat-screen TVs, coffee machines and free WiFi. The bathrooms are nice too, with either a shower or bathtub.
One of the best things about The Passage is the extras - there's a fitness center and sauna that guests can use for free. The courtyard cafe is a nice spot to relax with a drink. And the staff get great reviews for being really friendly and helpful. It's a great base for checking out Basel, whether you're there for business or sightseeing.
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Best hostels in Basel:
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Hostel Basel (hostel)
Silo Design & Boutique Hostel in Basel is a unique spot that blends industrial chic with cozy comfort. The building itself is eye-catching, with its circular windows and converted silo structure giving it a cool, urban vibe. Inside, you'll find a mix of dorms and private rooms with a stylish minimalist design.
The common areas are where this place really shines. There's a living room with comfy couches and even a hammock for chilling out. The spiral staircase adds an architectural wow factor as you move between floors. While it has a modern feel, little touches like wooden furniture keep things warm and inviting.
Location-wise, it's conveniently close to public transit, making it easy to explore Basel. The staff get high marks for being friendly and helpful. And don't skip the breakfast - guests rave about the quality and variety of the organic options. All in all, it's a great choice if you want a hostel experience with a bit more style and comfort than your average backpacker spot.
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Basel Backpack (party hostel)
Basel Backpack is a cool spot for budget travelers in Basel. It's in an old factory building that's been fixed up, just a quick 10-minute trip from the main train station. The rooms have a trendy urban loft vibe, and you get free public transport around the city included with your stay.
The hostel has all the basics covered - free WiFi, a shared kitchen if you want to cook, and a bar/cafe for grabbing food and drinks. The dorms and private rooms are clean and comfy. There's also a nice outdoor area with a terrace where you can hang out when the weather's good.
Location-wise, it's pretty convenient. There's a tram stop super close by, so it's easy to get around Basel. Overall, it's a solid budget-friendly option if you're looking for a fun, social place to stay while exploring the city.