Basel, on the Rhine near the French and German borders, is Switzerland's culture capital with dozens of museums and a red-sandstone Münster.
Basel is a cultural hub on the Rhine, with an old town around Marktplatz, the red Rathaus and the Münster with its Pfalz terrace overlooking the river. Art museums include the Kunstmuseum, the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen and the Museum Tinguely. In summer locals float down the Rhine in waterproof bags.
| Distance | 85 km west of Zürich |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 55-60 minutes by train |
| Getting there | SBB InterCity or ICE: departs Zürich HB every 15-30 minutes, about CHF 40 (about $50) single |
| Cost | Train about CHF 40 (about $50) each way; Kunstmuseum admission about CHF 20 (about $25) |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Centralbahnplatz 1, 4051 Basel |
How to get there
- Train: SBB InterCity or ICE, 55-60 min, about CHF 40 (about $50)
- Bus: FlixBus Zürich to Basel, about 1 h 30 min
- Car: A3 motorway, 1 hour
Location
Centralbahnplatz 1, 4051 Basel
47.5476, 7.5896 View on map
Highlights
- Kunstmuseum Basel and Fondation Beyeler (Riehen)
- Basler Münster and the view over the Rhine
- Rhine ferries
- Old-town Marktplatz with the red Rathaus
- Basler Läckerli and Tinguely Fountain
Tips for visiting
- Museums are often closed on Mondays
- The BaselCard offers free museum entries for overnight guests
- Rhine ferries cross the river using the current
When to visit
Spring and autumn.
Accessibility
Basel SBB and trams are step-free; old-town streets are cobbled.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is Basel a good day trip?
Yes: it is under an hour from Zürich and compact.
Which museums to prioritise?
Kunstmuseum Basel and Fondation Beyeler.