City guide
Basel
June for Art Basel; the Monday after Ash Wednesday for the Fasnacht carnival; summer for swimming the Rhine, or April-May and September-October for milder weather and smaller crowdsBest time
SwitzerlandRegion
Basel sits on the Rhine exactly where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, split between the medieval old town of Grossbasel and the more local, nightlife-heavy Kleinbasel across the river. It punches well above its size on art, with nearly 40 museums including the Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler, and each June Art Basel turns it into one of the world's most important contemporary art gatherings. In summer, locals float down the Rhine with a waterproof bag as their only equipment.
About Basel
Basel sits on the Rhine exactly where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, split between the medieval old town of Grossbasel and the more local, nightlife-heavy Kleinbasel across the river. It punches well above its size on art, with nearly 40 museums including the Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler, and each June Art Basel turns it into one of the world's most important contemporary art gatherings. In summer, locals float down the Rhine with a waterproof bag as their only equipment.
Country: SwitzerlandLanguage: German, French, ItalianCurrency: Franc (CHF)Time zone: CET (UTC+1)
BaselSee what's onThe vibe & who it suits
Basel sits on the Rhine exactly where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, split between the medieval old town of Grossbasel and the more local, nightlife-heavy Kleinbasel across the river. It punches well above its size on art, with nearly 40 museums including the Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler, and each June Art Basel turns it into one of the world's most important contemporary art gatherings. In summer, locals float down the Rhine with a waterproof bag as their only equipment.
Best forArt and museum lovers, and travellers using its tri-border position for day trips into Germany and France
When to goJune for Art Basel; the Monday after Ash Wednesday for the Fasnacht carnival; summer for swimming the Rhine, or April-May and September-October for milder weather and smaller crowds
Getting aroundCompact, walkable old town with an extensive tram network reaching every neighbourhood; many hotels include a free transit card for guests
Where to stayAltstadt Grossbasel, the historic old town near Marktplatz and the Münster, puts you within walking distance of most sights; Kleinbasel on the north bank has more of the nightlife and a local feel; Gundeldingen, behind the main station, offers cheaper, residential lodging with easy tram access.
Maybe skip ifBudget travellers, or anyone wanting a laid-back beach or party scene
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