Swirzerland 7 days based in Basel
 

I'll be visiting my relative in Basel this early December. Traveling with my 13 year old son and husband, I've already planned a trip 4 days to Paris before that. Where would be the must-visit places in Switzerland? I'd love to experience the beautiful Switzerland scenery and its culture in the most cost-effective way. Is it also possible to see a little of Germany as well?

It would be helpful if you posted how many days you have to travel from Basel. I am ending a cruise in Basel next Summer and have been trying to figure out an itinerary in Switzerland. I've been there a couple times before both on train and in rental car. I'd suggest the train, as the European train system is excellent. There are Swiss Rail passes that help as Switzerland is a bit expensive. Consider your interests as to where you will go. I love Murren, but it is a small Swiss village in the mountains. Zermatt is touristy, but also interesting. We are going to Wengen near Murren next Summer. Others will respond. Check out the Swiss Railway for info. Sue

You may have a look at
http://www.myswitzerland.com/en/home.html
Early December is not the best period for outdoor things in Switzerland/France/Germany: often cold, rainy and foggy, snowfall in the mountains, mountains roads closed because of snow and danger of avalanches.
Most places of Switzerland, Black Forest, Alsace, Middle Rhine Valley etc. can easily be visited in day trips from Basel.

Is it also possible to see a little of Germany as well?>

Well Basel has a German counterpart - just cross the Rhine for a taste of Germany.

Switzerland in winter- good if into winter sports but otherwise I'd concentrate more on Germany and its Christmas markets - anyway for lots of train info and in winter driving can be dicey - check www.budgeteuropetravel.com (check their online European Planning & Rail Guide for lots of rail itineraries and info); www.ricksteves.com and www.seat61.com.

How much time will you actually spend in Basel? Have you been there before?

We live in Basel and love it. There is a lot to do and see. So while there is more than enough beauty and activities in Switzerland to fill that time (and then some), don't forget to give Basel a look too!

I agree with WeisserTee in terms of Basel offerings. As to using the rail system I would do some research before buying ANY passes, half-fare cards, or the like. Often you can get special fares on point-to-point tickets using the SBB.CH/EN website.

Those "must visit" places are going to depend on what kinds of things you want to see and do.

Lucerne would be an easy train trip from Basel for a day (or less). You might like to visit the Swiss Transport Museum there if the weather isn't "great" on the day you travel to Lucerne. The lake and mountains in the background are pure Switzerland.

Unless doing day at least two long day trips from Basel within Switzerland it would be hard to realize I think the value of a Swiss Pass- also not valid in Germany or neighboring France.

Basel is a short enough train ride from Colmar, France in the heart of the Alsace wine district and a lovely small city- great day trip-visit wineries in town or nearby.

Strasbourg is also a short enough rail ride from Basel and to me is one of Europe's most underrated cities-great for a day trip.

Let us know a bit more about your specific likes and dislikes.

December is not necessarily ideal for sightseeing across the country, but it can be nice on a given day in a given location, depending on weather and such. Nobody can tell in advance, so keep an open mind until you get there and let your family member be your guide.

There is great art on display in many locations - in Basel the Kunstmuseum www.kunstmuseumbasel.ch/en/home/, then the Paul Klee center in Bern, (www.zpk.org), and many more.

If art means nothing to you, maybe cheese and chocolate? See www.la-gruyere.ch/en/cheese-and-chocolate.html

The concert season will be in full swing - great music to be heard everywhere: https://bachtrack.com/country/switzerland

It's very easy to go places on the spur of the moment, reservations are not required on trains, even the fast Intercity trains (unlike in other countries). So read up in advance, then just go with the flow.