The very best 12 nightlife spots in Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Basel, a city bursting with magnificent architecture, famous museums, and a rhythm that comes to life after dark. If you're on the hunt for an unforgettable night out, fear not, for we have compiled the absolute crème de la crème of Basel's nightlife spots. From hipster hangouts serving avocado martinis to swanky cocktail bars that will make James Bond go weak at the knees, Basel has it all. So whether you're sipping a mojito in a secret speakeasy or dancing the night away at a techno temple tucked away in a medieval alley, this vibrant city guarantees a nocturnal adventure to remember.
Save destination1. Acqua
Binningerstrasse 14, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Acqua, where water flows and so does laughter! This charming gem in Basel will make your taste buds dive headfirst into an ocean of flavors. With a delightful menu that showcases dishes like the "Salad Symphony," where vegetables sing in harmony, and the "Over the Sea Sashimi," where your palate will embark on a delicious voyage, you're in for a splashy culinary adventure. Just remember to bring your appetite and a towel, because the food at Acqua is known to make mouths water and cheeks sore from grinning!
Learn more2. The Paddy Irish Pub
Steinentorstrasse 45, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to The Paddy Irish Pub, Basel's cozy little slice of Ireland in Switzerland! Step inside and be transported to a land where leprechauns sip whiskey and potatoes are currency (well, not really). With its snug interior, genuine Irish beers on tap, and a lively atmosphere that will leave you jigging like you've never jigged before, this pub is the perfect spot to nurse your pint, practice your "cheers" in Gaelic, and ponder why Swiss cheese never seems to make it onto the Irish menu.
Learn more3. Cargo Bar
St. Johanns-Rheinweg 46, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Basel, home to the fabulous Cargo Bar! Nestled along the picturesque Rhine River, this gem of a watering hole promises to transport you beyond the realms of ordinary nightlife. Upon entering, you’ll find yourself immersed in a whimsical atmosphere where pirates and mermaids rendezvous, lending an undeniable charm to your evening escapades. With its impeccable blend of tantalizing drinks, lively music, and captivating company, Cargo Bar is a must-visit for those seeking a dose of adventure on their Swiss travels.
Learn more4. Brauerei Fischerstube
Rheingasse 45, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Brauerei Fischerstube in Basel, where the locals say beer flows faster than the mighty Rhine! Step inside this cozy paradise sprawled near the enchanting Marktplatz, and prepare yourself for an experience that will make you hop with joy. With its rustic charm and hearty grub, this brewpub has the power to turn even the most sophisticated beer connoisseur into a giggling, lederhosen-wearing enthusiast.
www.restaurant-fischerstube.ch
Learn more5. Fasskeller
Luftgässlein 5, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
Nestled in the charming city of Basel, lies Fasskeller, a delightful haven for beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike. This vibrant establishment boasts an ambiance that is simultaneously rustic and hipster, as if an old Swiss grandfather suddenly donned a hipster hat. Prepare to feast your eyes (and your taste buds) on an impressive selection of regional brews, served up by friendly, mustachioed bartenders who take their beer as seriously as Shakespeare did his plays.
Learn more6. Das Viertel
Münchensteinerstrasse 81, 4052 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Das Viertel in Basel, a quirky neighborhood that will make you feel like you've accidentally stepped into a charmingly peculiar parallel universe. Wander through its winding streets, where vintage shops rub elbows with avant-garde art galleries, and traditional coffee houses mingle with offbeat vegan restaurants. Whether you're an eccentric soul searching for a one-of-a-kind treasure or just fancy a comically delightful evening, Das Viertel is sure to satisfy your appetite for weird and wonderful experiences.
Learn more7. Bodega-Basel
Barfüsserpl. 16, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Bodega-Basel, a place where Swiss precision meets the fruity passion of Spain! Located in the heart of Basel, this hidden gem will transport you to the vibrant streets of Madrid without the need for a Euro trip (or a passport, for that matter). Get ready to indulge in mouthwatering tapas, sip on marvelous sangria, and dance like nobody's watching (except for the resident parrot, who always seems to be silently judging your moves).
Learn more8. Bar Rouge
Messepl. 10, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Bar Rouge, the ultimate spot for the Basel party-goers who believe in turning everything up a notch, including the volume of their laughter! Step into this chic oasis where cocktails reign supreme and your Instagram feed will definitely become a tad more fabulous (and blurry) as the night progresses. Don't be surprised if you find yourself dancing along to the beats of the DJ, surrounded by a sea of fellow revelers who share your unwavering passion for life and for staying up way past bedtime!
Learn more9. Bar & Rouge
Messepl. 10, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Bar & Rouge, the epitome of glamorous entertainment in Basel! This stunning establishment seamlessly fuses a sophisticated cocktail bar with the allure of a retro-themed dance floor. Picture yourself sipping on a dazzling martini while grooving to the tunes of a DJ who looks like he just stepped out of an '80s music video—cheesy dance moves not included. With its trendy ambiance and charming bartenders who mix drinks with a dash of theatrical flair, Bar & Rouge is a must-visit destination for those looking to let loose and feel fabulous in Switzerland's cultural hub.
Learn more10. Virage
Welcome to Basel, Switzerland, where you'll find the delightful neighborhood of Virage, home to a curious mix of cultural gems and enchanting surprises. Prepare to have your taste buds tickled by the plethora of cozy cafes and hip bistros sprinkled along the cobblestone streets. But watch your step, for the oh-so-narrow lanes, seemingly designed by mischievous gnomes, will have you perfecting your graceful sidestepping dance in no time.
11. Kaschemme
Lehenmattstrasse 357, 4052 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Kaschemme, Basel's hidden gem hidden in plain sight! This charming establishment is an absolute must-visit for all travelers seeking a touch of local flavor and a dash of quirkiness. As you step inside, brace yourself for an eccentric mix of mismatched furniture, delightfully tacky decor, and a cozy atmosphere that screams, "You're among friends, so leave your pretenses at the door!" Bring your taste buds on an exceptional culinary journey with their mouthwatering menu, where traditional Swiss delicacies collide with unexpected international twists, leaving you both delighted and confused in the most delicious way possible. So, whether you're a foodie, an adventurer, or just someone thirsty for an unforgettable experience, Kaschemme awaits, ready to charm the pants off you (not literally, that would be awkward).
Learn more12. Dreiländereck
Westquaistrasse 75, 4057 Basel, Switzerland
Welcome to Dreiländereck in Basel, where three countries join forces to confuse your sense of direction! Prepare to feel like a character from a classic comedy movie as you navigate this unique intersection. Beware of accidentally leaving one country for another while innocently enjoying a delightful stroll through the park. Just remember to bring your sense of humor and a map so you can locate yourself when multiple borders start playing hide and seek with you!
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Basel, Switzerland by plane is to fly into EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, which is located just 6km from the city center. Several airlines, including Swiss International Airlines, Lufthansa, and Air France, operate flights to Basel from major cities across Europe and beyond.
Car
If you are traveling to Basel by car, it is recommended to take the A3 motorway, which runs directly into the city center. However, parking in the city can be challenging, so it is worth considering using public transport or a taxi once you arrive.
Train
For those traveling to Basel by train, the best option is to take advantage of the city's excellent rail links. The main railway station, Basel SBB, is located in the city center and is served by a number of domestic and international trains.
Boat
Traveling to Basel by boat is a unique and picturesque way to arrive in the city. River cruises operate along the Rhine River, with many stopping in Basel as part of their itinerary. The main port in Basel is located in the city center, just a short walk from many of the city's attractions.
Bus
Traveling to Basel by bus is easy and convenient, with several bus companies operating services to the city from various European destinations. The main bus station in Basel is located just a short walk from the city center.