3 Days in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips 2025

Searching for an AMAZING 3 Days in Basel, Switzerland itinerary?

We’ve got you covered! As professional travelers who have personally explored Basel in the last year, we’re excited to share our experiences and tips with you.

In this guide, we provide an easy-to-follow itinerary for 3 days in Basel, Switzerland. All the best activities are accounted for!

From exploring the charming Old Town and world-class museums to enjoying local flavors and scenic day trips, we’ve curated an itinerary that ensures you make the most of your visit.

Whether you’re here for art, history, or adventure, our detailed itinerary and practical tips will help you have an unforgettable trip. Let’s dive into the details of this 3 days in Basel itinerary together!

3 Days in Basel, Switzerland Itinerary

In just three days, you’ll explore Basel’s charming Old Town, enjoy world-class art, and savor delicious local flavors.

Whether you dive into the city’s rich museum scene or take a scenic day trip to the nearby Alps or Alsace wine region, this 3 Days in Basel Itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure.

Day 1 Basel Itinerary

Day 1 in Basel is spent diving into the city’s rich history.

From a morning walking tour of the Old Town to an afternoon exploring Spalenberg and the University of Basel, you’ll get a comprehensive introduction to what makes Basel special.

Plus, we recommend you end your day with a relaxing dinner by the Rhine and some evening entertainment – an amazing combo! Here are the details:

Morning

We recommend you start your Basel adventure with an exploration of its historic Old Town. Basel’s Old Town is a blend of medieval charm and modern energy. It is fun to explore!

A few highlights of Basel Old Town are:

• Basel Minster: This stunning Gothic cathedral, with its twin towers, incredible statues, and red sandstone walls, is one of Basel’s most iconic landmarks. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and the Rhine River.

• Town Hall (Rathaus): Located at Marktplatz, this bright red building features intricate frescoes and a beautiful courtyard. It’s some very cool artwork and a great spot for photos.

• Mittlere Brücke: One of the oldest Rhine crossings, this bridge offers lovely views of the river.

• Tinguely Fountain: Created by artist Jean Tinguely, this playful fountain near the Theater Basel is a fun and super interesting sight. It was one of our favorite spots in Basel!

We’ve outlined a full list of Basel Old Town sights here.

When it comes to how to see Basel Old Town, you have three options: self-guided with an audio guide, joining a group tour, or booking a private tour.

Self-Guided Audio Tour:

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, consider the self-guided audio tour.

We found this tour to be pretty good. There were times we wished it went into more detail but overall it gave a good overview.

Plus, doing a tour this way allows you to pause and spend extra time at spots that catch your interest!

Group Tour:

This two-hour historical walking tour through Basel is a great way to learn about the town while being able to ask questions.

We enjoyed learning from the knowledgeable guides and meeting other travelers. It’s a great way to hear different perspectives and ask questions on the go.

Private Tour:

The best of both worlds is a private tour because you can ask questions and pause at places that are the most interesting to YOU!

We think this is a fantastic option to ask lots of questions and get personalized recommendations. This tour company is our #1 pick!

Lunch

After your morning tour, head to Marktplatz for lunch. You’ll find a true… Market Plaza 🙂

The square will be covered with vendors selling food, flowers, and other products. We had an excellent time bouncing between them and sampling items. Our favorite was an incredible bratwurst.

It’s a great spot to enjoy good food and people-watch. Plus, the prices are great compared to sitting down at a restaurant.

The market runs every day but Sunday. Monday through Friday is it open from 7am to 2pm and on Saturday from 7am to 6pm. We found that most vendors took credit cards but having cash is probably a good idea!

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring Spalenberg, one of Basel’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

This area captures the essence of Basel’s charm and has plenty of opportunities for shopping and photography. We found some unique souvenirs and enjoyed the cozy cafes.

As you stroll through Spalenberg, don’t miss Spalentor, one of the remaining gates from Basel’s medieval city walls. This impressive structure is a great spot for photos.

Continue your afternoon by visiting the University of Basel, one of the oldest universities in Switzerland.

Make sure to explore the University of Basel Botanical Garden. We found it to be a relaxing break and were impressed by the wide variety of plants.

If you have time, check out the Pharmacy Museum and/or the Anatomical Museum. They are both unique museums that provide a fascinating look at the history of medicine and pharmacy. We found them both to be fascinating!

Evening

Wrap up your first day in Basel with a delightful dinner and some evening entertainment.

For dinner, head to Restaurant Fiorentina which is located along the Rhine River. They have excellent Italian dishes and the view of the river adds to the ambiance.

Be sure to make a reservation though! It is very popular and can be booked up a few weeks in advance.

After dinner, see if there’s a play or music performance at the Basel Theater. They host a variety of shows, from classical concerts to modern theater productions. It’s a great way to end your day and see inside the lovely Basel Theater.

Day 2 Basel Itinerary

Day 2 in Basel offers a mix of wildlife, art, and unique local experiences. Here are the details:

Morning

Start your morning with one of two fantastic options: Basel Zoo or Kunstmuseum Basel.

Basel Zoo

Known locally as Zolli, Basel Zoo is Switzerland’s oldest and largest zoo. It’s home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world.

We loved watching the playful monkeys and elephants in particular. The zoo is well-maintained, and the enclosures are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals.

There are typically some Zoo Keeper lead feedings or demonstrations which will be displayed at the park entrances! Our favorite is the Penguin Walk which happens at 11am during the winter months.

Kunstmuseum Basel

If art is more your thing, head to Kunstmuseum Basel. This *huge* museum has an impressive collection of art, ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

We were particularly taken with the Renaissance paintings and the modern art exhibits. The museum is well laid out between the 2 buildings – the more contemporary pieces in the “old” building and the more modern ones in the “new” building.

There is a cafe in case you need a snack or coffee!

Lunch

After your morning activity, head to Markthalle for lunch. At this indoor market hall, you’ll find a variety of food stalls offering dishes from all over the world.

We loved the atmosphere and the choices. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pizza, or traditional Swiss dishes, there’s an option!

Plus, it is close to the SBB station and trams for easy transportation between activities.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, we recommend continuing to explore Basel! First up is the Basel Paper Mill.

The Basel Paper Mill is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of paper, writing, and printing.

We found it to be a hands-on experience that’s both educational and fun. You can try your hand at making paper, using a printing press, and calligraphy.

The museum is housed in a historic mill which was also cool! You can anticipate your visit to take about an hour.

After visiting the Paper Mill, take a ride on the St. Alban-Fähre, a small ferry that crosses the Rhine. This traditional ferry doesn’t use any motor; it’s powered solely by the river’s current.

We loved the peaceful and unique ride! The ferry operates hundreds of times daily, and it’s a short but delightful trip.

Once you cross the river, walk along the riverbank to Museum Tinguely. This museum is dedicated to the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, known for his kinetic art sculptures.

The exhibits are playful and engaging, and we found the museum to be a lot of fun. It’s a great place to end your afternoon with some creativity and inspiration.

Evening

Wrap up your second day in Basel with a visit to Kleinbasel and a delicious dinner. Kleinbasel, located on the north bank of the Rhine, was once known as “little Basel” but is now known for its lively atmosphere.

We enjoyed wandering through its streets and along the river bank – the view of Old Town Basel is great from here!

For dinner, you have a couple of great options. Klara Basel offers a variety of food stalls with dishes from around the world, all under one roof. It’s a fun and casual dining experience.

We really enjoyed the African restaurant there!

Alternatively, you can head to Restaurant Boo Messeplatz for a more formal dining experience. They have great Thai food and cool cocktails! We were impressed with both the food and the service.

We recommend ending your evening with some delicious ice cream from Bruno Lorenzo – Gelato Lab. They have a wide range of cool flavors.

Day 3 Basel Itinerary

On your third day in Basel, you have two fantastic options: delve deeper into the city’s rich museum culture or take a day trip to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Both choices offer unique experiences, so pick the one that excites you the most!

Option 1: More Museums in Basel

If you love museums, Basel has plenty more to offer – here is our list of the top museums.

We recommend you start your day with a visit to the Fondation Beyeler. This museum has an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. We enjoyed the works of artists like Picasso, Monet, and Rothko.

The museum’s architecture is stunning, and the beautiful environment makes it a perfect place to start your day. The gardens surrounding the museum are also worth a stroll!

After a morning immersed in art, head to the Vitra Design Museum. The museum itself is a short drive or train ride from Basel and is located in Germany, near the Swiss border.

The on-site café offers a nice selection of sandwiches, salads, and pastries if you’d like an easy lunch!

The Vitra Design Museum is a must-visit for design enthusiasts. The museum showcases furniture, lighting, and interior design from the past century.

We were fascinated by the innovative designs and the stories behind them. The museum also has guided tours, which we found to be very informative.

Finish your afternoon with a visit to Dreiländereck (Three Countries Corner), the point where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet.

There’s a monument marking the location, and it’s a great place for a photo op. The area has walking paths along the Rhine River and/or you can grab a drink at Sandoase.

Lastly, head back to Basel for dinner. For a special dining experience, consider the Michelin-rated Restaurant Stucki, which offers gourmet, modern cuisine.

If you prefer something more casual but still nice, we recommend Schlüsselzunft.

Option 2: Day Trips from Basel

If you’re eager to explore beyond Basel, there are several exciting day trip options to choose from. Here are our top recommendations:

Wine Day in Alsace

Start your day by being picked up for a scenic drive to the Alsace wine region in France. It’s about an hour’s drive from Basel, and the journey through the picturesque countryside is a treat.

The tour includes visits to several wineries, where you can taste the region’s famous white wines. We had a fantastic time learning about the winemaking process and enjoying the beautiful views.

We highly recommend this tour company for a day trip well spent! The tour has full and half-day options and the itineraries are well-planned.

Pilatus Golden Roundtrip

For a breathtaking adventure, take the Pilatus Golden Roundtrip.

This tour includes a scenic train ride from Basel to Lucerne, a boat trip on Lake Lucerne, a ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, and a descent by aerial cableway and gondola.

The views from Mount Pilatus are simply stunning, and we loved the mix of transportation modes. This trip offers a perfect blend of amazing views, Swiss engineering marvels, and relaxation.

We recommend this provider for the Pilatus Golden Roundtrip.

Tour to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, and Mürren

If you want to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain scenery, consider a private full-day tour to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, and Mürren.

This tour takes you through the heart of the Swiss Alps, where you’ll have spectacular views of towering peaks, green valleys, and charming alpine villages.

We were awestruck by the beauty of Lauterbrunnen Valley, with its 72 waterfalls, and enjoyed the peacefulness of Mürren, a car-free village perched on a mountainside.

The tour also includes a visit to Interlaken, a popular resort town nestled between two lakes.

This tour provider does an excellent job of making a lengthy day trip awesome!

21 BEST Day Trips from Basel, Switzerland 2024

Where to Stay for 3 Days in Basel

Choosing the right place to stay can make your Basel adventure even more memorable.

We recommend staying in Old Town Basel since most of your activities on our 3 Days in Basel itinerary take place here. Plus, it is close to the train station.

Here are our top picks for hotels in Old Town Basel, tailored to different preferences and budgets:

🌟 BEST ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE

Grand Hôtel Les Trois Rois
For a unique and royal experience, stay at the Grand Hôtel Les Trois Rois. This historic hotel is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels and has hosted many famous people such as Napoleon, Elizabeth II, Pablo Picasso, and Thomas Mann.

It’s perfect for a truly memorable stay. The hotel has elegant rooms, a fantastic restaurant, and a beautiful view of the Rhine. Plus, it offers amenities like a spa and a fitness center to ensure a relaxing stay.

💎 BEST LUXURY STAY

Hotel Märthof Basel
Hotel Märthof Basel is the spot for luxury and comfort.

Located in the heart of Old Town, this hotel has beautifully designed rooms, a spa, and an excellent restaurant.

It’s ideal if you’re seeking a high-end experience. We loved the rooftop terrace, which has stunning views of Basel. The hotel’s central location means you’re just steps away from major attractions, making it a convenient and stylish choice.

🔑 BEST MODERATE HOTEL

Motel One Basel
If a moderate stay is your style, Motel One Basel has stylish and affordable accommodation. Its central location makes it easy to explore Basel Old Town.

This is our preferred place to stay! The rooms are modern and cozy, and the lobby bar is a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Plus, the hotel offers a delightful breakfast to start your day right.

👌 BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION

HITrental Marktplatz Apartments
HITrental Marktplatz Apartments are a great budget-friendly option. These well-equipped apartments offer a home-like feel and are situated close to key attractions.

The apartments include kitchens, making it easy to prepare your own meals. We appreciated the spacious layout and the convenience of being right in the heart of Basel.

Best Time to Visit for 3 Days in Basel

Basel is a year-round destination so we would say all the time is the best to visit Basel for 3 days! Each season has its own pros and cons so here they are:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a delightful time to visit Basel. Temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) in March to around 18°C (64°F) in May. The city bursts into bloom with beautiful flowers and greenery.

This is a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s parks and gardens. We loved visiting the Botanical Garden at the University of Basel during this season.

You can catch a break on pricing during this time since it is the slower season!

Summer (June to August)

Summer is peak tourist season in Basel, and for good reason. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F).

Rainfall is higher, with around 11-13 days of rain each month. Showers are usually brief, so you can still enjoy plenty of sunshine.

It’s perfect for strolling along the Rhine, enjoying outdoor cafes, and participating in various festivals. However, do note that it can get crowded, and hotel prices may be higher.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Basel is simply magical. Temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in September to around 8°C (46°F) in November.

The city’s parks and vineyards are beautiful with fall colors, and the weather is still pleasant for outdoor activities.

This is also the season for wine festivals in the nearby Alsace region, which we highly recommend. The Basel Autumn Fair (Basler Herbstmesse) is another highlight, featuring fun rides, delicious food, and local crafts.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Basel is festive, cozy, and busy! The city’s Christmas markets are a major attraction, with the largest being held at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.

The Christmas markets are definitely worth visiting but be sure to book very early since they are extremely popular.

Basel also hosts the Fasnacht, a vibrant carnival in February that’s the biggest in Switzerland.

In summary, the best time to visit Basel depends on your interests. We prefer spring and autumn but we are partial to the slower seasons 🙂

How to Get to Basel

Getting to Basel is convenient. We recommend getting there by plane or train. Here’s an overview of how to reach Basel.

By Air

• EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP):
  • This airport serves Basel and is located about 4 km (2.5 miles) northwest of the city center.
  • It’s unique because it’s operated jointly by France, Switzerland, and Germany.
  • The airport offers numerous international flights, making it easy to reach Basel from major cities around the world.
  • Once you arrive, you can take a taxi or the airport shuttle bus to Basel’s city center. The shuttle bus (Bus 50) runs every 10 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to reach Basel’s main train station (Basel SBB).

• Zurich Airport (ZRH):
  • Zurich Airport is another major airport in Switzerland, located about 90 km (56 miles) from Basel.
  • It offers more international flight options and is well-connected to Basel by train.
  • From Zurich Airport, you can take a direct train to Basel, which takes about 1 hour and runs frequently throughout the day.

By Train

• Basel SBB:
  • Basel’s main train station, Basel SBB, is a major hub in the Swiss and European rail network.
  • You can easily reach Basel by train from cities like Zurich (1 hour), Bern (1 hour), Lucerne (1.5 hours), and Geneva (3 hours).
  • International connections are also excellent, with direct trains from Paris (3 hours), Frankfurt (2.5 hours), and Milan (4 hours).

• Basel Badischer Bahnhof:
  • This is another important train station in Basel, operated by the German railway company Deutsche Bahn.
  • It offers additional options for travelers coming from Germany.

Getting Around Basel

Getting around Basel is easy and enjoyable, especially if you love walking. The city’s compact size and well-planned infrastructure make it perfect for exploring on foot.

Here’s a brief overview:

• Walking:
  • Basel is a very walkable city. Most of the main attractions, including the Old Town, are within a short walking distance of each other.
  • Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be covering a lot of ground!

• Public Transportation:
  • Trams and buses are frequent, reliable, and can take you anywhere you need to go in Basel and its surroundings.
  • You can purchase tickets at vending machines located at tram and bus stops. Day passes are available and offer unlimited travel on public transportation for a day.
  • If you’re staying at a hotel in Basel, you’ll receive a BaselCard, which provides free access to some of the public transportation.
  • We always get the Swiss Travel Pass so we can use public transportation as much as we want. Plus, it gets you into most of the museums for free!

• Taxis and Ride-Sharing:
  • Taxis are available but can be expensive. They are useful for late-night returns or if you have heavy luggage.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in Basel and are generally a bit more affordable.

Basel, Switzerland Travel Tips

Now that we’ve got you ready to go with our epic 3 Days in Basel itinerary, here are a few practical tips to prepare!

Currency in Basel

Basel uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels.

ATMs are readily available for withdrawing cash. While some establishments may accept Euros, the exchange rate might not be favorable, so it’s best to use Swiss Francs.

Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland, as service charges are included in the bill, but rounding up to the nearest franc for good service is appreciated.

Language in Basel

The primary language spoken in Basel is Swiss German, a dialect of German. Standard German is also widely understood and used in official settings.

Most locals speak English, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. French and Italian are also spoken by many residents, reflecting Switzerland’s multilingual culture.

Signs, menus, and information are often available in multiple languages, including English. We have never had any issues with communication in Basel!

Internet in Basel

While Wifi is available in some public areas, we always get an eSim with Airalo when traveling. Airalo is super convenient and pretty inexpensive.

An eSIM from Airalo allows you to access the internet without needing a physical SIM card. Here’s how it works:

1. Purchase an eSIM: Visit the Airalo website or app and choose a data plan that suits your needs for Switzerland.
2. Install the eSIM: Follow the instructions to download and install the eSIM profile on your compatible smartphone. Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM functionality.
3. Activate: Once installed, activate the eSIM and you’ll have instant access to local mobile data.

Using Airalo for an eSIM is cost-effective and hassle-free. We use it for navigation, staying in touch, and accessing travel information while exploring Basel.

FAQs for What to Do in Basel in 3 Days

In Conclusion: 3 Days in Basel, Switzerland

We hope this 3 Days in Basel Itinerary helps you make the most of your trip to this fantastic city. Basel’s blend of rich history, stunning art, and lively culture offers something for every traveler.

Safe travels and enjoy your adventure in Basel!

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!” 

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