Basel

Sights & Activities

Basel’s Munster or cathedral is a Romanesque and Gothic structure that was built in the 11th century. Though it was destroyed in 1356, it has been lovingly restored and has several interesting structural highlights such as the Gallusforte or the Gallus portal on the western façade of the cathedral. This particular sculpture is considered the most important Romanesque work in the whole country. The cathedral also bears two interesting spires that visitors can climb up to enjoy spectacular views all around.

Guided tours are also offered to the courtyard of the Basel Rathaus or Town Hall, though this Renaissance building is open to anyone who wishes to come and do some exploration on their own.

Art lovers and enthusiasts will surely enjoy their visit to the Kunstmuseum Basel where priceless paintings are on display, most of them dating back from the 19th to the 20th centuries. On the other hand, the Puppenhausmuseum Basel displays an impressive collection of teddy bears, toy shops, and doll houses.

Visitors and their families can also head out to the Basel Zoo, where both native and exotic animals are kept.

Every Monday following Ash Wednesday, Basel celebrates its version of the Carnival, the Basler Fasnacht. This event is celebrated with parade and street dancing.

In the town of Liestal, visitors get to watch a fire spectacle locals call the Chienbäse parade. Burning brooms are carried around by participants while carts with bonfires are taken around town. This particular celebration traces its history to the pagan times and is one of the most anticipated events in the area.

The ArtBasel festival celebrates contemporary art and even features the works of some amateur artists. The Basel Herbstmesse is a fair done every October and features theme rides and other entertainment.

Basel is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens. The Botanischer Garten Brüglingen or the Botanical Gardens feature numerous plant collections, some of them quite unusual and rarely cultivated. It also features a life-size statue of a dinosaur that has become a popular attraction among its visitors.

Visitors with children in tow should head out to the Tierpark Langen Erlen or the Wildlife Park that is home to numerous native and exotic animals.

Those who wish for some tranquility can stop by the aptly named Solitude Park that features large trees and numerous flowers. There is also a designated playground area for the children to enjoy.

Weather

Basel experiences only mild winters and comfortably warm summers, making it an ideal destination the whole year through. The city also enjoys an abundance of sunlight, with average summer temperature ranging from 21°C to 25°C. As one goes into elevated ground, the air also becomes cooler. Visitors who come to this area during the summer months of June to August should do well to be prepared for the frequent thunderstorms that occur during this time. Ski resorts open their resorts as winter approaches, which bears an average temperature of 3°C.