Basel Travel Guide

Although it lacks the gilt and glitter of Zürich and the Latin grace of Geneva, in many ways Basel (Bâle in French) is more sophisticated than either. Situated at the frontier between two of Europe's most assertive personalities—France and Germany—and tapped directly into the artery of the Rhine, the city has grown remarkably urbane, cosmopolitan, and worldly wise, yet is delightfully eccentric as well.

Hotels

Basel Hotels

Grand as a palace? Way-cool as a converted prison? An art lover's paradise? Or cozy and comfortably lived-in like grandma's house? The hotel scene in Basel...read more

Restaurants

Basel Restaurants

Classic but boundary pushing, bank breaking but exquisite gourmet cuisine has long been one of Basel's fortes, along with medium-priced but fine restaurants...read more

Hotels

Basel Experiences

  • Top Reasons to Go

    Three corners: Not many cities offer a more cosmopolitan mix. Here Switzerland merges with Germany and France, and Basel is home to some 150 nationalities... Read more

  • Fasnacht

    Dating from the Middle Ages, Fasnacht, Switzerland's best-known festival, draws people from all over the world. Beginning at 4 am on the Monday... Read more

News & Features

View more blog stories

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

·Weather

Weather Underground
clear

Now

94.1° F Clear 35% Humidity

Check historic weather for your trip dates

Arriving:
Go

· Forums Trip Reports

View more trip reports

·

  • Switzerland 4 days for family

    Dear Fodorites
    We are visiting Switzerland (my parents 60+, wife and 3 year old)
    in the second week of August.
    We are staying at Lauterbrunnen for the whole trip.
    We arrive Aug 5 12h16 GENEVA CORNAVIN and Read more

View more travel discussions