Basel on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Basel: Experience Swiss charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Basel, Switzerland is a charming city with a rich history that offers a lot to see and do on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, gardens, and historic landmarks, take a stroll by the Rhine River, and enjoy affordable local cuisine at traditional Swiss restaurants. To save on travel expenses, affordable accommodation options such as hostels or budget hotels can be found throughout the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival & Exploring the Old Town

  • - Check into youth hostel Basel, a budget-friendly option for solo travelers
  • - Stroll through the Old Town, admiring the mix of medieval and contemporary architecture
  • - Visit the Basel Minster, a striking red sandstone church with stunning views of the city
  • - Cross the Rhine River on the Middle Bridge, a must-do in Basel
  • - Indulge in Swiss chocolate at Läderach, a heavenly chocolate shop that will satisfy every sweet tooth
Day 2

Art & History Museums

  • - Start the day at the Beyeler Foundation, a museum surrounded by a beautiful park filled with sculptures
  • - Next, visit the Kunstmuseum Basel, home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations
  • - Learn about Basel's history at the Basel Historical Museum, housed in four 500-year-old buildings
  • - Step into the world of toys and teddy bears at the Spielzeug Welten Museum
  • - Relax in the late afternoon at the Rhine Baths, a unique public swimming pool in the river
Day 3

Markets & Green Spaces

  • - Experience Basel's vibrant market scene at Markthalle, a covered market with stalls selling local produce and food
  • - Relax in the St. Johanns Park, where locals come to unwind, have a picnic, and play sports
  • - Discover the Botanical Garden, with over 9,000 species of plants, flowers, and trees
  • - Immerse yourself in modern art and architecture at the Vitra Design Museum, just a short train ride outside Basel
  • - Try raclette, a Swiss cheesy specialty, at Swiss Chuchi Restaurant, known for its cozy rustic atmosphere
Day 4

Day Trip to Lucerne & Mount Pilatus

  • - Take an early train to Lucerne, a charming town with a picturesque old town and the iconic Chapel Bridge
  • - Take the cogwheel train up to Mount Pilatus, the highest peak in Lucerne, for breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and lakes
  • - Have lunch at the top of the mountain, overlooking the views
  • - Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne, enjoying the stunning scenery from a different perspective
  • - Return to Basel in the evening, with memories to last a lifetime
Day 5

Food & Drink

  • - Start the day with coffee and fresh pastries at Andreas Coffee, a local favorite
  • - Experience the Swiss fondue at Walliser Kanne Restaurant, a cozy spot serving melted cheese with bread and potatoes
  • - Sip on local craft beer at Volta Brauerei, where beer is brewed on-site and served in a hip atmosphere
  • - Indulge in a classic Swiss dish, Rösti, at Ueli Brewery & Restaurant, paired with a refreshing beer
  • - End the day with a nightcap at Kaufleuten, a popular nightlife spot with live music and DJ sets
  • Au revoir, Basel!

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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: A Family Adventure of Charm and Fun

Basel, Switzerland, is a superb destination for a family-friendly trip. With its charming old town, rich history, and vibrant culture, the city offers a plethora of activities for all ages. Families can explore the impressive Basel Zoo, visit the fascinating Basel History Museum, and enjoy leisurely boat rides along the Rhine River while creating wonderful memories together.

Basel Bliss: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

Basel, Switzerland offers a delightful destination for a family-friendly trip with its charming blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the city's enchanting Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and medieval buildings, and visit renowned museums like the Kunstmuseum Basel or the Museum of Natural History. Take a relaxing boat ride on the Rhine River or venture to nearby Basel Zoo for a memorable wildlife experience, ensuring that there is something for everyone in this picturesque Swiss city.

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.