We're interested in some recommendations for a good moderate priced hotel, either close to where Viking Cruises dock OR in an area within close walking distance to major sites as we will have just one evening and the better part of a day to see what we can and we are most interested in wandering around rather than spending hours in a museum (though we know there are many great options for museums!). Just for one night......

A few years ago we stayed at the Hotel Schweizerhof Basel and thought it was good. We normally stay at budget places so this was a step up for us. I do remember we walked everywhere so a central location.

https://www.schweizerhof-basel.ch/en/home/

Kay

Hotel Rochat (www.hotelrochat.ch) was good value and close to the sights.

I've stayed at the Hotel Rochat recently and agree that it is a good choice for location and value.

Although there is a cruise ship berth near central Basel, the vast majority of ships dock at the Dreiländereck, which is an industrial port area. I wouldn't stay near there, and am not sure that there are even any hotels close by.