Basel, a mix of the historic and the modern. Whether for a sightseeing tour, a city trip, a shopping excursion, a wellness weekend or a business trip: Basel is suitable for every taste and every journey. The university city is located at the border triangle with France and Germany and is therefore also known as the most international city in Switzerland. 

Excursions around Basel
One of the most famous sights of Basel is the Basel Cathedral. Built in the Romanesque and Gothic styles, the building with its red sandstone and colourful bricks is a real eye-catcher. The square around the Basel Minster is a popular meeting place. Just behind the cathedral is the Basler Pfalz. From the viewing platform you have a stunning view of the Rhine and the old town.

Basel makes the heart of all art lovers beat faster. With the highest density of museums in Switzerland, you are guaranteed to find the right museum here. Be it the Kunstmuseum Basel with the oldest public art collection in the world, the Museum Tinguely with the largest collection of works by Jean Tinguely, the Kunsthalle Basel with its bold and diverse programme or the Vitra Design Museum. There is also a very special art exhibition to admire at the Fondation Beyeler, in neighbouring Riehen. Here you can see world-famous works of art by Picasso, Monet, Matisse, Cézanne, Giacometti and Andy Warhol, among others. 

If you are more interested in history than art, Augusta Raurica is the place to be. At one time, 10,000 people were said to have lived in the Roman city. You can immerse yourself in Roman life: discover archaeological finds, recreate gladiator fights in the amphitheatre or, with a little imagination, cool off in the baths. A perfect destination for the whole family. Another exciting excursion for young and old is a visit to Basel Zoo. Who can resist a cute meerkat or a little monkey?

Experiences around Basel
For the people of Basel, the "three most beautiful days" of the year are the days of carnival. When the rest of Switzerland puts away its carnival costumes for another year, things really get going in Basel. The fun starts as early as 4 o'clock in the morning with colourful disguises, lots of Guggen music, creatively designed masks, lots of confetti and a lot of fun. We recommend booking a hotel outside the city centre so you can still get some sleep after an exciting day. But be quick, because this is a popular time and availability is limited.

20-time Swiss champions and 13-time Swiss Cup winners: these are the achievements of Basel Football Club. How about a visit to the home stadium St. Jakob-Park? Join in the fever with all the fans, let yourself be carried away by the La Ola, cheer on the teams and simply enjoy the sporting, emotion-filled atmosphere. 

For those who like it a bit more relaxed, relax with a refreshing dip in the Rhine and let the wonderful rays of the sun warm you up. Swimming on the Rhine is the number one popular sport for the people of Basel. Let yourself be carried along by the current from the Tinguely Museum and see where it takes you. The Basel Rhine Swim takes place once a year, and anyone can take part. After a cool swim, a stroll along the Rhine promenade is a must. Countless cosy snack bars with tasty snacks and drinks, lots of green spaces and several bathing spots on the banks of the Rhine make the Basel Rhine Promenade a wonderful, cosy experience. Perfect for winding down at the end of the day.

From budget hotels to business hotels to boutique hotels, you will find a top selection of different accommodations on hotelcard.com. Many more excursions and experiences in the Basel region are waiting for you. Let yourself be inspired and book your stay in Basel now.