Basel accommodation from AU$159

Things to Do in Basel

The Kunstmuseum is home to the largest art collection in Switzerland; it houses an extensive stock of Renaissance art, plus major Impressionist works from Monet and Gauguin. The museum also contains 20th century pieces from Van Gogh and Munch, so get Van-Gogh-ing and check it out! After spending some "Monet" on art museum souvenirs, take a boat tour on the Rhine River for a new perspective of the city. If it's architecture you're after, the Basel Minster church in the city centre highlights Romanesque and Gothic styles. Many hotels in Basel can hear the bells ringing from its historic tower. Not enough church for you? Check out our Milan accommodation and make the 340 km trip south to see the Duomo di Milano. That should hold you over for a while.

Getting To & Around Basel

By air, you’ll land at the EuroAirport Basel (BSL), which is just over the border in France but only 6 km from Basel accommodation in the city’s centre. Getting around Basel is simple thanks to the colour-coded tram system and ferries that shuttle you along the river. In Old Town, it’s even easier: Just use your own two feet in this pedestrian zone.

If you’re looking for a European holiday that combines the cosmopolitan vibe of Vienna, the major art of Italy and the history of, well, Switzerland, look no further. Book Basel hotels on Wotif today!

At Basel’s heart is a charming and historic medieval town centre, simply bursting with things to do and see. The old Town Hall is rather impressive, built from red bricks, and you can climb the tower at the Romanesque Cathedral for sweeping views of the city below. Historic architecture and modern buildings sit side by side in the friendly city. Other places of interest include the old gates to the former walled city, various museums, and the Marktplatz, where you can pick up a tasty selection of fresh and local produce. Why not treat yourself to a pastry for breakfast? The main shopping area is pedestrianised, and there are numerous shops and boutiques to appeal to all tastes.

Basel Zoo is a favourite for families, and a visit to Three Countries Corner is quite novel. Arrange day trips to Germany’s beautiful Black Forest and the French area of Alsace and tick more countries off the list. Within Switzerland, Zurich and Lucerne are within easy reach, as well as the pretty Jura Mountains, where you can enjoy a wide range of active leisure pursuits. Switzerland’s adventure capital of Interlaken is also within a few hours’ drive of Basel.

The compact city centre is really easy to explore on foot. Buses and trams are readily available to reach places further away, and a boat trip along the river provides an alternative view of the city. The Basel Carnival takes place at the beginning of Lent, and a number of art fairs take place throughout the year. Direct and cheap flights to Basel are available. If you would prefer to fly to Zurich before making your way to Basel we can do that too! Go on – check out our great deals on Basel accommodation and flights and give yourself a well-earned break in beautiful Basel.