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

Looking for the perfect 2 days in Basel, Switzerland itinerary?

You’re in the right place! As seasoned travelers who’ve explored Basel in 2024, we’re excited to share our favorite spots and tips to make your trip unforgettable.

This guide provides an easy-to-follow plan for two incredible days in Basel. From the charming Old Town and world-renowned museums to delightful local food and picturesque strolls, we’ve curated the best experiences for you.

If you’re into art, history, or outdoor adventures, our detailed itinerary and practical tips will help you make the most of your trip. Let’s get into the details of the ideal 2 days in Basel, Switzerland!

2 Days in Basel, Switzerland Itinerary

48 hours in Basel, Switzerland is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of the 2 main sections of Basel: Kleinbasel and Grossbasel.

We have based this 2 days in Basel itinerary on our own personal experiences exploring Basel – it is the best of the sites to visit in Switzerland for 48 hours.

Day 1 Basel Itinerary

Day 1 of your 48 hours in Basel is spent exploring all of the Old Town. It is a great pace and has tons of opportunities to take more time on areas that are of particular interest to you!

Morning

The best place to start your Basel adventure is in the heart of its historic Old Town.

Basel’s Old Town is a cool blend of medieval and modern charm. You can easily spend hours wandering the area and soaking in the rich history that surrounds you.

A few of the top Basel Old Town highlights to be sure to see are:

• Basel Minster: This Gothic cathedral, with its twin towers and red sandstone walls, is one of Basel’s most iconic landmarks. You can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River. The climb is a bit strenuous but absolutely worth it for the breathtaking view.

• Town Hall (Rathaus): Located at Marktplatz, this bright red building with elaborate frescoes is a stunning sight. The beautiful courtyard is perfect for photos. Don’t forget to peek inside the Rathaus for a closer look at the detailed architecture.

• Mittlere Brücke: One of the oldest Rhine crossings, offering lovely views of the river.

• Tinguely Fountain: Created by artist Jean Tinguely, this playful fountain near Theater Basel is a fun and quirky sight. The fountain has several moving sculptures which are super neat!

For exploring the Old Town, you have three options: a self-guided audio tour, joining a group tour, or booking a private tour.

Self-Guided Audio Tour

This option is ideal for those who like to explore at their own pace. We thought the tour provided a good overview but we did dislike not being able to ask questions.

What we loved was that since it was self-guided, we could pause and spend extra time at spots that caught our interest.

Small Group Tour

This two-hour historical walking tour is perfect for learning about Basel’s history while asking questions and meeting fellow travelers.

The guides are very knowledgeable and share their personal experiences. We loved hearing these local anecdotes and historical tidbits from our guide!

We recommend this tour company!

Lunch

After your morning tour, head to Marktplatz for lunch. The square is lively with vendors selling delicious food, flowers, and other products.

We loved sampling different items, with the bratwurst being a standout. It was the best we had in Switzerland!

Most vendors accept credit cards, but having some cash on hand is a good idea.

Afternoon

After lunch, it is time to stretch your legs again! Spend the afternoon exploring Spalenberg, one of Basel’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

It’s a great spot for shopping, photography, and enjoying cozy cafes.

Outside of the cute shops and cafes, there are several must-see spots in this area including:

• Spalentor: One of the remaining gates from Basel’s medieval city walls, perfect for photos.

• University of Basel: One of Switzerland’s oldest universities. The campus is pretty! Don’t miss the Botanical Garden. We loved exploring it – it was beautiful!

• Unique Museums: If you have time, visit the Pharmacy Museum and/or the Anatomical Museum for a fascinating glimpse into the history of medicine. Both museums offer unique insights and are well worth a visit.

Evening

End your first day in Basel with a delightful dinner by the Rhine and some evening entertainment.

Located along the Rhine River, Restaurant Fiorentina offers excellent Italian dishes and a beautiful view. Make a reservation – it’s popular!

The ambiance, combined with the quality of the food, was what we loved about it!

After dinner, check to see if there is a play or music performance at Basel Theater. They host a variety of shows, from classical concerts to modern theater productions.

We were lucky to catch a local performance that was very entertaining!

Day 2 Basel Itinerary

Day 2 of your 48 hours in Basel is spent diving into some of the most famous attractions in Basel, going to the location where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet, and exploring Grossbasel!

Morning

Begin your second day with a choice between Basel Zoo or Kunstmuseum Basel. Both are excellent options – it really just depends on which one is of more interest to you.

Basel Zoo

Switzerland’s oldest and largest zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and would be a great way to start your second day in Basel! We loved the playful monkeys and elephants.

The zoo is well-maintained, and the enclosures are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats.

They have a Penguin Walk that happens at 11 am during the winter months. Watching the penguins waddle around the Zoo is an entertaining experience.

Be sure to check the schedule at the entrance for animal feeding times and demonstrations!

Kunstmuseum Basel

If you enjoy art Kunstmuseum Basel is definitely the right option for you! They have an impressive collection from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

We enjoyed the wide range of exhibits! Some of the well-known artists you will see are Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Hans Holbein the Younger, Arnold Böcklin, and Jasper Johns.

There are 2 buildings for the Kunstmuseum Basel – the original which houses the more classic pieces and then the new building which holds the more contemporary pieces. You can travel between the buildings in an underground tunnel!

We really enjoyed our time at the Kunstmuseum Basel even though we do not typically love art museums.

Lunch

Once you wrap up your morning, head to Markthalle for lunch. This indoor market hall has a wide mix of local and international food vendors, so it’s easy to find what you’re craving.

We usually go for the sushi, Thai noodles, or a fresh slice of pizza. The location is super convenient, right by SBB, and it’s a great spot to escape the rain, heat, or cold for a bit.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, we suggest seeing a few of Basel’s more unique museums and exploring the area of Kleinbasel.

First, head to the Basel Paper Mill. As you can probably tell from the name, it is a fascinating museum on the history of paper, writing, and printing.

We like it so much because it is housed in an old mill and it’s hands-on – you can try making paper, using a printing press, and calligraphy.

Your experience at the Paper Mill shouldn’t take too long, probably an hour or so. After, head to the boat St. Alban-Fähre to cross the Rhine. This ferry is one of 4 traditional, motorless ferries that cross the Rhine powered solely by the river’s current.

It’s a short but delightful trip – it will cost a couple of Swiss Franks but it is totally worth it!

Once on the other side of the Rhine, you can walk along the river to the famous Museum Tinguely. The museum has the works of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely.

He is famous for his kinetic sculptures made of items he found in landfills and junk yards. The exhibits are interactive and fun which makes for a fun end to your afternoon.

Guide to the BEST Museums in Basel, Switzerland 2025

Evening

Now it is time to conclude your Basel adventure with a visit to Dreiländereck, followed by exploring Kleinbasel and enjoying a delicious dinner.

Start your evening at Dreiländereck, 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 you can grab a drink at Sandoase, a nearby bar with a rooftop and beautiful river views.

After your visit to Dreiländereck, head to Kleinbasel, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful river views of Old Town Basel.

We enjoyed wandering through its streets and along the riverbank. This area is the “newer” area of Basel and we saw even more locals enjoying life in this area.

For dinner, we suggest either:

• Klara Basel: A variety of food stalls with dishes from around the world in a casual setting. We loved the African restaurant!
• Restaurant Boo Messeplatz: A more formal dining experience with excellent Thai food and cool cocktails. The ambiance and quality of the food were impressive. The coconut soup is one of the best we’ve had!

To put a sweet finish on your last evening, grab an ice cream from Bruno Lorenzo – Gelato Lab. They have a wide range of delicious flavors. It’s the perfect way to cap off your day.

Where to Stay for 2 Days in Basel

We recommend staying in Old Town Basel for easy access to attractions and the train station.

Our top recommendations are:

• $$$$ – Grand Hôtel Les Trois Rois: Historic and luxurious, with elegant rooms and a stunning view of the Rhine. Staying here feels like you are royalty.

• $$$ – Hotel Märthof Basel: Offers luxury and comfort, with beautifully designed rooms and a central location. We loved the rooftop terrace, which provides stunning views of Basel.

• $$ – Motel One Basel: Stylish and affordable, centrally located with modern amenities. The lobby bar is a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

• $ – HITrental Marktplatz Apartments: Budget-friendly with a home-like feel, including kitchen facilities. The spacious layout and central location make it a convenient choice.

Best Time to Visit for 2 Days in Basel

Basel is a fantastic year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique charm. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide the best time for your 2 Days in Basel, Switzerland:

Spring (March to May):

Spring in Basel is delightful, with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in March to around 18°C (64°F) in May. The city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and exploring parks and gardens.

We especially enjoyed visiting the Botanical Garden at the University of Basel during this season. Additionally, spring is a slower tourist season, so you can often find better pricing on accommodations.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is the peak tourist season in Basel, and it’s easy to see why. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82°F).

Although there is more rainfall, with about 11-13 days of rain a month, the showers are typically brief. This season is perfect for strolls along the Rhine, dining at outdoor cafes, and enjoying the city’s various festivals.

However, it’s also the most crowded time, and hotel prices can be higher.

Fall (September to November):

Fall in Basel is *magical*. Temperatures start at 18°C (64°F) in September and drop to around 8°C (46°F) by November. The city is stunning in fall colors, and the weather remains pleasant for outdoor activities.

This season also features wine festivals in the Alsace region, which are highly recommended. The Basel Autumn Fair (Basler Herbstmesse) is another highlight, offering fun rides, delicious food, and local crafts.

Winter (December to February):

Winter in Basel is arguably the best! The city’s Christmas markets, particularly those at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, are some of the best in Europe.

These markets are definitely worth a visit, but be sure to book accommodations early due to their popularity. Basel also hosts Fasnacht, Switzerland’s largest carnival, in February.

How to Get to Basel

Getting to Basel is pretty easy and straightforward, whether you’re arriving by air, train, or bus. Here’s everything you need to know to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting to Basel By Air

There are 2 main airports to fly into to get to Basel: EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg and Zurich Airport.

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP)

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is the primary airport serving Basel. Located just 4 km (2.5 miles) northwest of the city center, it is unique in that it is operated jointly by France, Switzerland, and Germany.

This international airport offers numerous flights from major cities across Europe and beyond.

• Getting to Basel from EuroAirport:
  • Shuttle Bus: The Airport Shuttle Bus (Bus 50) runs every 10 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to reach Basel’s main train station (Basel SBB).
  • Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal and can take you directly to your accommodation in Basel. The journey to the city center typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
  • Car Rental: Various car rental services are available at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Zurich Airport, located about 90 km (56 miles) from Basel, is another major gateway to the city. Zurich Airport offers a larger selection of international flights and is well-connected to Basel by train.

• Getting to Basel from Zurich Airport:
  • Train: Direct trains from Zurich Airport to Basel take about 1 hour. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it a convenient option.
  • Car Rental: If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available at Zurich Airport. The drive to Basel takes about 1.5 hours via the A3 motorway.

Getting to Basel By Train

The train is our favorite way to get to Basel! Here is what you need to know about the train stations in Basel.

Basel SBB

Basel SBB is the main train station in Basel and a major hub in the Swiss and European rail network. It’s centrally located, making it easy to reach most parts of the city.

• From Swiss Cities: You can easily reach Basel by train from cities like Zurich (1 hour), Bern (1 hour), Lucerne (1.5 hours), and Geneva (3 hours).
• From European Cities: Basel is well-connected to major European cities with direct trains from Paris (3 hours), Frankfurt (2.5 hours), and Milan (4 hours).

Basel Badischer Bahnhof

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

• From German Cities: You can take direct trains to Basel from cities like Berlin, Munich, and Stuttgart. The station is conveniently located and well-connected to the rest of the city.

Getting to Basel By Car

Driving to Basel is a scenic and flexible option. The city is well-connected by a network of highways, making it accessible from various parts of Europe.

• From Switzerland: Basel is easily reachable via the A2 and A3 motorways.
• From France: You can drive to Basel via the A35 motorway.
• From Germany: The A5 motorway provides a direct route to Basel.
• Parking: Basel has several parking garages and park-and-ride facilities. It’s advisable to use these as parking in the city center can be limited and expensive.

Getting to Basel By Bus

Several long-distance bus companies operate routes to Basel, making it an affordable option for travelers.

• Bus Terminals: Most long-distance buses arrive at Basel SBB or Basel Badischer Bahnhof. From there, you can easily reach your destination using public transportation or a taxi.

With these options, getting to Basel for your 2 Days in Basel, Switzerland will be a breeze. Safe travels!

Getting Around Basel

Navigating Basel is a breeze thanks to its compact size and efficient public transport system. Here’s how to get around Basel with ease for your 2 Days in Basel, Switzerland.

Walking

Walking is the best way to explore Basel’s charming streets and main attractions, most of which are within a short distance.

The city center is small enough that you can easily walk from one end to the other in about 20 minutes. Plus, a number of the streets are pedestrian-only anyway!

Public Transportation

Basel, like the rest of Switzerland, has an excellent network of trams and buses. If you’re staying at a hotel, you’ll receive a BaselCard, offering free public transport.

For broader travel, the Swiss Travel Pass is a GREAT option. You’ll get unlimited travel on public transport across Switzerland and free entry to over 500 museums, including many in Basel.

We always get a Swiss Travel Pass and always save money because of it.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

While taxis and Uber are available, they are more expensive than public transport and walking. They are useful for late-night returns or when you have heavy luggage.

Basel, Switzerland Travel Tips

Here is some good information for traveling to Basel, Switzerland!

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 very easy to find if you need to grab cash! Some establishments may accept Euros but it is definitely not common 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 German. 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, so communication is generally very easy!

Internet in Basel

For easy internet access throughout your trip, we recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. An eSIM allows you to access local mobile data without needing a physical SIM card.

You can purchase an eSIM online, install it on your compatible smartphone, and activate it for instant access to mobile data, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go in Basel.

We always use Airalo – it is SO CHEAP, has great speeds, and is easy to use.

What to Eat in Basel

Basel offers a diverse culinary scene with a mix of Swiss and international flavors. Some must-try dishes include:

• Rösti: A Swiss-style potato pancake, crispy and delicious.
• Fondue: Melted cheese served with bread for dipping, a traditional Swiss favorite.
• Basler Läckerli: A local gingerbread made with honey, almonds, candied peel, and Kirsch.
• Bratwurst: Enjoy this tasty sausage at one of the many market stalls.
• Tarte flambée: An Alsatian dish similar to a thin-crust pizza, topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.

Be sure to explore the local markets and food stalls for a taste of Basel’s specialties.

FAQs for What to Do in Basel in 2 Days

In Conclusion: 2 Days in Basel, Switzerland

Your 2 days in Basel, Switzerland will be packed with historical charm, culture, and delicious food.

Enjoy the scenic views along the Rhine, indulge in local treats at the markets, and immerse yourself in Basel’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Basel blends art, history, and stunning architecture into one easy-to-love city. You’ll find world-class museums and a culture that’s fun to explore at your own pace.

Safe travels and enjoy your 48 hours in Basel!

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

Read More About Switzerland

Basel

• Is Basel Worth Visiting? Honest Review & GREAT 2025 Guide
• Guide to the BEST Museums in Basel, Switzerland
• 3 Days in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips
• Basel Old Town Guide: 23 Best Things To Do, Where To Stay + More!
• Basel Zoo: The Complete Guide to Visiting
• 2 Days in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips 2025
• 21 BEST Day Trips from Basel, Switzerland
• 11 BEST Hotels in Basel, Switzerland Near Train Station (Basel SBB)
• 1 Day in Basel, Switzerland: GREAT Itinerary and Tips

Geneva

• Is Geneva Worth Visiting? Honest Review & GREAT 2025 Guide
• The BEST Way to Spend 3 Days in Geneva, Switzerland
• 13 BEST Day Trips From Geneva You Can’t Miss
• 11 BEST Hotels Near Geneva Train Station
• The BEST Way to Spend One Day in Geneva, Switzerland
• BEST Hiking in Geneva, Switzerland 2025 (Map Included)
• How Many Days in Geneva, Switzerland: 15 Tips for a GREAT Trip!
• Geneva to Zermatt: 3 EASIEST Travel Options
• 11 BEST Geneva, Switzerland Hotels on the Lake
• The BEST Way to Spend 2 Days in Geneva, Switzerland 2025
• Geneva to Annecy: 5 BEST Options
• The BEST Way to Spend a Half Day in Geneva, Switzerland

Swiss Riviera

• 21 BEST Lake Geneva, Switzerland Things to Do
• Geneva vs Lausanne: Which City Should You Visit in 2025?
• Top 11 Lake Geneva Switzerland Boat Tours You Can’t Miss
• Is Gruyères Worth Visiting? Honest Review & GREAT Guide
• Is Lausanne Worth Visiting? Honest Review & 2025 Guide
• Lausanne or Montreux: Which is better?
• 23 BEST Things to Do in Montreux, Switzerland (Includes Map!)
• 21 BEST Day Trips from Montreux by Train, Car, Boat, and Tour
• Is Montreux Worth Visiting? Honest Review & Great Guide
• 15 BEST Things to Do in Vevey, Switzerland 2025 (+ Map!)

Zermatt

• How Many Days in Zermatt is Enough? + BEST Seasonal Itineraries
• Is Zermatt Worth Visiting? Honest Review & GREAT 2025 Guide
• Best Fondue in Zermatt – TOP 10 Places + Map
• The BEST Time to Visit Zermatt, Switzerland 2025
• 15 BEST Things to Do in Zermatt in Summer
• 12 BEST Day Trips from Zermatt, Switzerland