Basel Bound: The Ultimate 4-Day Budget Trip

Exploring the charm of Basel on a budget - an unforgettable adventure awaits!

21 June 2023

Basel, Switzerland offers budget-friendly travel options for tourists. From affordable accommodations to budget-friendly restaurants, travelers on a limited budget can still enjoy the city's rich history and beautiful architecture. The city's museums and galleries also offer free admission on certain days, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Basel!

  • Check in at Hotel Rochat, a charming budget hotel that offers a cozy atmosphere and a central location.
  • Kick off your trip at the Old Town, home to medieval buildings, picturesque alleys, and cobbled streets.
  • Visit the Basel Minster, a stunning cathedral that offers panoramic views of the city from its towers.
  • Have lunch at Restaurant zum Goldenen Sternen, a traditional Swiss eatery that serves mouthwatering local dishes.
  • Stroll along the Rhine River and take in the views of the city's bridges, parks, and street art.
  • End your day with a drink at Bar Rouge, a stylish rooftop bar that boasts a 360-degree view of Basel's skyline.
Day 2

Art, Culture, and Nature

  • Start your day at Kunstmuseum Basel, one of the oldest and largest art museums in Switzerland, with a world-renowned collection of art from the 15th century to the present day.
  • Visit the Basel Zoo, home to over 6,000 animals from 600 species, including red pandas, Siberian tigers, and elephants.
  • Have a picnic at the Merian Gärten, a beautiful botanical garden that features a wide variety of plants from around the world.
  • Walk through the city's many fountains, including the popular Tinguely Fountain, a kinetic sculpture that sprays water in all directions.
  • Have dinner at Brasserie Freilager, a cozy and casual restaurant that serves French-inspired cuisine.
  • End your day with a performance at the Theater Basel, one of the largest and most renowned theaters in Switzerland.
Day 3

Excursions and Adventures

  • Take a day trip to the Rhine Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Europe, located just 45 minutes away from Basel.
  • Visit the Vitra Design Museum and take a guided tour of the world-famous Vitra Campus, an architectural masterpiece that showcases some of the most innovative designs in furniture and interior architecture.
  • Have lunch at Ufer7, a riverside restaurant that offers stunning views of the Rhine and serves contemporary dishes made with local ingredients.
  • Go for a bike ride along the Basel Rhine promenade and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Visit the Fondation Beyeler, an art museum that features a world-class collection of impressionist, modern, and contemporary art.
  • End your day with a drink at Barfüsser, a cozy and friendly bar that serves local beers and wines.
Day 4

Relaxation and Reflection

  • Start your day with a visit to the Caracalla Spa, a luxurious spa that offers various wellness and beauty treatments, including saunas, steam baths, and massages.
  • Have brunch at Markthalle Basel, a vibrant food market that offers a wide variety of fresh and local produce.
  • Take a walk through Münsterplatz, a picturesque square in the heart of the Old Town that features a colorful farmers market every weekday.
  • Visit the Basel Historical Museum, a fascinating museum that tells the story of Basel's rich cultural and social history.
  • Have dinner at Restaurant Volkshaus, a trendy and modern eatery that serves international cuisine.
  • End your day with a stroll along the Rhine River, taking in the sights and sounds of Basel one last time.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How 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.

Destination

Basel

Welcome to the city where Swiss precision meets German efficiency, and they both agree to have a good time. Basel, the land of chocolate and bankers.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Basel Old Town Romance Guide

A romantic trip to Basel, Switzerland offers couples a charming and intimate experience. From strolling through the scenic old town to enjoying a candlelit dinner by the Rhine, this city offers numerous romantic opportunities. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, and relaxing atmosphere, Basel is the perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Basel on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun!

A trip to Basel can be done on a limited budget, with free activities such as visiting the Rhine riverfront, exploring the old town, and taking in the artwork of the numerous public sculptures. Affordable accommodations can be found outside the city center, and budget-friendly food options include street stands and local cafes serving traditional Swiss dishes like raclette and roesti. Visitors can also take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system with a daily pass for around 9 Swiss francs.

The Ultimate 5-Day Basel Adventure: Family Fun on a Budget

Basel, Switzerland is a charming and family-friendly destination offering a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor experiences. Visit the Basel Zoo, one of the oldest and largest in Switzerland, to marvel at a variety of animals and even participate in interactive exhibits. Explore the captivating Old Town with its well-preserved medieval architecture, and don't miss the family-friendly Basel Paper Mill Museum that showcases the art of papermaking.

Basel Bliss: A 4-Day Adventure

As a tourist in Basel, Switzerland, one can explore the city's rich history through its museums and old town. The city also boasts impressive modern architecture, including the iconic Roche Tower. Visitors can enjoy the Rhine River that runs through the center of the city, as well as delicious Swiss cuisine and chocolate.