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Basel holidays: Discover a blend of culture and adventure
Basel holidays are where culture, history and adventure come together. This Swiss destination, nestled along the Rhine River, is bursting with charming towns, world-class museums and quirky spots to explore. From wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Basel to checking out the futuristic architecture of the Vitra Design Museum, you'll never run out of things to do. Don't forget to hop on a day trip from Basel to nearby gems, like Mulhouse or Colmar in France! Whether you're a culture buff, foodie or nature lover, Basel is your ideal European getaway.
Are you planning a city break or a family holiday in Basel? Discover our deals on holidays and flights to Basel.
Basel at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 1 hour 35 minutes
Main airport: EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL)
Population: 579,000
Language: German
Currency: The Swiss Franc
Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
Flights to Basel from the UK
Flights to Basel from the UK are your ticket to exploring one of Switzerland's most charming cities! Whether you're flying from London, Manchester or Bristol, there are plenty of direct flights to get you to Basel-Mulhouse Airport. Low-cost carriers like easyJet often offer great deals, making it easier than ever to visit this city without breaking the bank.
Once you land, it's just a quick ride (20 minutes) to the city centre, where you can start soaking up the history, culture and stunning architecture. Whether you're in Basel for a weekend city break or a longer adventure, the journey is easy, leaving you plenty of time to explore.
The best time to visit Basel
Basel is a city for all seasons, each bringing a unique charm and activities to enjoy. Spring in Basel is beautiful, with the city coming alive with flowers and mild temperatures. April marks the start of the famous Basel Easter Market, where you can shop cute stalls filled with handmade goods and delicious treats. This is also a good time to explore the city's outdoor cafes by the Rhine River or take a boat cruise. The Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler are perfect places to visit on cooler days.
Summer is the peak season in Basel. Take a dip in the Rhine; locals love floating down the river on a rubber ring. The Basel Summer Festival offers everything from outdoor concerts to food trucks and street performances. For art lovers, the Art Basel Fair in June is one of the world's biggest contemporary art events. It's also a great time for a day trip to the nearby French or German borders.
The city's parks and streets are covered in beautiful autumn colours, making it the perfect time for a leisurely walk. The Basel Autumn Fair kicks off in October, featuring thrilling rides, games and food stalls. It's also wine harvesting season, so head to nearby vineyards in Alsace or Baden for wine tasting.
Basel is beautiful in winter, with its famous Christmas Markets. The Basel Christmas Market is one of Switzerland's largest and best, with sparkling lights, festive food and handcrafted gifts.
Top attractions in Basel
Stop by Tinguely Fountain
Created by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, this whimsical water fountain features nine moving mechanical sculptures, each splashing, twirling and bubbling in its own unique way. Tinguely Fountain is located near the Basel Theatre and is magical in winter. Your kids will love watching the quirky metal figures in action.
Visit Marktplatz
Marktplatz is the beating heart of Basel! This lively square is home to the stunning Basel Town Hall (Rathaus), a bright red masterpiece with intricate frescoes. But the real fun is in exploring the bustling market.
Here, you can sample fresh Swiss produce, grab a warm pretzel and browse stalls overflowing with handmade goodies. It's the perfect spot to soak up local life, chat with friendly vendors and maybe even pick up a unique Swiss souvenir.
Explore Basel Cathedral
A visit to Basel Cathedral (Basler Munster) is like stepping into a fairytale. This red sandstone masterpiece, with its twin towers and tiled roof, is one of Basel's most famous landmarks. Basel Cathedral features both Romanesque and Gothic architecture, making it a popular spot for history and architecture lovers.
Step inside to admire the tomb of Erasmus, the famous Dutch scholar. But the real magic is in climbing the towers. Brave the winding staircase and enjoy panoramic views of Basel and the Rhine River.
Go on a Rhine River boat tour
Take the Rhine River boat tour and see Basel from a whole new perspective. Glide along the majestic river, passing landmarks like Basel Minster, Kunstmuseum and charming medieval buildings. Choose a classic boat for a relaxing ride or a traditional wooden boat for a more rustic, old-world feel. If you're looking for something extra special for a romantic getaway, go for an evening dinner cruise. You can sip Swiss wine and watch the sunset over the city.
FAQs about Basel holidays
Q: What is the best month to visit Basel?
A: The best month to visit Basel is September. The weather is mild, which is ideal for exploring Basel's outdoor attractions and enjoying a Rhine River cruise. It's also the time for the Basel Autumn Fair, one of the largest funfairs in Switzerland, offering rides, games and delicious treats.
Q: How many days in Basel is enough?
A: Two to three days is enough to explore the best of Basel. In two days, you can visit the city's landmarks, wander through Old Town and check out a few world-class museums, such as the Kunstmuseum and the Tinguely Museum. On the last day, take a Rhine River cruise or enjoy some leisure time in one of the city's beautiful parks or cafes.
Q: Is Basel cheap to visit?
A: Basel is generally considered moderately priced for travellers. While Switzerland is known for being an expensive destination, you can still find affordable options in Basel. Public transport is reasonably priced, and there are free activities to do, like walking tours of the Old Town and visiting the Rhine River. Dining out can be pricey, but local eateries and street food offer more budget-friendly options.
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