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Basel Architecture

Our most recommended Basel Architecture

From Zürich: Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls

1. From Zürich: Stein am Rhein and Rhine Falls

Travel out of Zürich for a scenic tour through dramatic natural landscapes and historic landmarks. Come across quaint villages and vast vineyards, and take the lift to the Rhine Falls. Depart Zürich and journey towards the Swiss/German border of northern Switzerland. Travel through a beautiful wine-growing region of charming farming villages and picturesque landscapes en route to Laufen. See the splendid medieval castle of Schloss Laufen and the mighty Rhine Falls and experience Europe's biggest waterfall. Get unique views from the panoramic lift and discover what it looks like when an average of 700,000 liters of water per second plunges into the basin below. If you are feeling adventurous, take the optional boat ride and experience the falls from below. Continue via Schaffhausen with its famous Munot Fortress. Soak up the views of the gently rolling vineyards and farming villages en route to Stein am Rhein. Upon arrival, learn about the well-preserved old town during a stroll. See distinctive medieval buildings such as the church and former monastery of St. George's Abbey. Look at the half-timber frame townhouses, along with the city gates and towers, the Town Hall, and the Armory. Admire the delicate wooden window frames of many of the buildings and marvel at their exceptional frescoes.

Walking Tour through Basel Old Town

2. Walking Tour through Basel Old Town

Basel is situated in the heart of Europe, on both sides of the Rhine River. The city is the center of the idyllic border triangle of France, Germany, and Switzerland, nestled between the Swiss Jura, Germany's Black Forest and the Vosges in Alsace. Describing Basel in one word is not easy. Sometimes known as the cultural capital of Switzerland or as a university city, Basel boasts a wealth of cultural, historical, leisure, and enjoyment experiences. This traditional tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Basel as well as visitors who already know the city but want to learn more. During the 2-hour walk you will follow the traces of a very eventful past, from the tranquil Tinguely Fountain to Cathedral Hill, the town hall, and through the winding streets of the well-preserved old town. In addition to the public city tour, many other interesting, exciting, and thematic tours are offered.

Basel History Tour for Groups

3. Basel History Tour for Groups

Through an interesting tour of the city, discover Basel's romantic winding alleyways and well-preserved Old Town. Immerse yourself in the city's history and admire the imposing structures, cozy squares and many more highlights. Beginning at the Tinguely Fountain at Theater Basel, make your way through the Basel oppidum, known as Basel-Münsterhügel, to the Rotes Rathaus (Town Hall), which dates back to the 16th century. Pass Basel Minster and "Barfüßer Kirche," a former church that now houses the Basel Historical Museum, as well as other sites capturing the spirit of the city. See the most beautiful sights in Basel and let a friendly tour guide teach you all about the history and landmarks of the breathtaking Swiss city.

From Zurich: Full-Day Discover Basel & Colmar Private Tour

4. From Zurich: Full-Day Discover Basel & Colmar Private Tour

On this unique journey, you will be able to visit two neighboring countries, Switzerland and France and compare them. Your driver will pick you up from any convenient location for you in Zurich and you will start your private tour to Basel, the cultural capital of Switzerland. Have a walking tour to Congress Hall and the old city. Then, your driver will take you to one of your preferred museums such as Tinguely Museum, Ethnology Museum, Basel Zoological Garden or another museum according to your preferences. If you would like to have a boat trip instead, then you will be assisted in this case as well. Basel is famous for its fine chocolates and sweets, thus, you will taste some specialties before proceeding to Colmar in France. This small city showcases the lifestyle of the whole Alsace region. Surely you will be amazed by half-timbered houses dating back to 16th-century. Namely, you will visit the Adolf and Pfister Houses and 'little Venice,' also on the list of must-see locations while visiting Colmar. In the evening, you will be amazed at the originality of the lighting system of this city. At the end of the day, you will have your private transfer from Colmar to Zurich. 

Express Walk of Basel with a Local

5. Express Walk of Basel with a Local

Discover Basel during a short but sweet excursion during which you will learn the most intriguing facts about the history, local lifestyle, and contemporary transformation of the city. After meeting your local guide at St. Albans Tor, start the stroll and 1-hour sightseeing tour where you are sure to fall in love with Basel. See the city through the eyes of a local, discover what the everyday life looks like, and find out where the city gets its characteristic ambience. While walking through Basel, you will discover its parks, monuments, and historical architecture with the chance of getting insider tips about the best cafes, restaurants, and bars to visit during your time here. Make the most of your visit and enjoy an experience perfect for someone visiting for the first time, or for someone who wants to rediscover the city.

Basel: 1-Hour Group Walking Tour

6. Basel: 1-Hour Group Walking Tour

Discover Basel in just 1 hour and see all the highlights of the city on a short walking tour. See the architecturally-significant buildings, lively squares and impressive places. Take a look at the lovely sculptures decorating the Basel Minster and learn about the whimsical decorations on the Tinguely fountain. On the way, hear an overview of the history and founding of Basel. Get an incredible overview of the famous landmarks and history of the Swiss city in just one hour during a tour of the old city by a professional and friendly tour guide.

Basel: Exclusive Private Architecture Tour with a Local

7. Basel: Exclusive Private Architecture Tour with a Local

Immerse yourself in Basel's rich history and impressive architecture on this private tour with a local guide. Discover the most impressive buildings in the city and learn about the history behind each of those historical buildings and structures on this invigorating architectural walk. Join your guide on this adventure to discover the beauty and history of the city’s most significant buildings and find out a bit more about the local culture in Switzerland from a local perspective. During your tour, become better acquainted with the local architecture and learn how it has changed over the years while still retaining its unique character. You will also get to learn about world-famous architects such as Richard Meier and Frank O. Gehry, and gain an insight into how Basel came to be a melting pot of architectural wonders.

Basel City Center Private Walking Tour

8. Basel City Center Private Walking Tour

Discover the highlights of Basel on a private walking tour with an expert guide. Enjoy a comprehensive overview of the notable landmarks of the city center. Meet your guide at your hotel and begin by exploring the Kleinbasel district. Enjoy the stunning views of the Rhine river and the city cathedral. Cross the river by a short ferry ride and walk along the old town buildings at Grossbasel. Explore narrow alleyways and hidden squares as you make your way to the beautiful city hall. Get insider tips about the life, culture, museums, and history of the city.

Basel: 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour

9. Basel: 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour

Discover Basel's vibrant history with a passionate local tour guide on a walking tour. Begin your tour at the iconic Marktplatz and embark on a journey through various time periods and their corresponding architectural styles as you discover some of the city's most important buildings. Learn more about how Basel has changed over time and get off the beaten track as you visit churches and the city hall. Discover sites that a normal tour group would not visit and even get the opportunity to cross the oldest bridge in town.  During the tour, benefit from the knowledge and experience of a local guide who will share with you insider tips and the city's best-kept secrets. Feel free to inform your guide of any particular interests or desires you may have as they will be happy to adjust the itinerary to your requirements.

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Frequently asked questions about Basel

What are the best day trips and excursions from Basel?

The best day trips and excursions from Basel are:

Lucerne

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Other Sightseeing Options in Basel

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What people are saying about Basel

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 188 reviews

Martin, our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. Thank you to our driver Francesco. It was a very beautiful trip down to Rhine falls which is magnificent to view from the observation decks. Stein am Rhine was a quaint little town with beautiful history. I would have loved to hear more stories about the history of the town, rather than spend so much time exploring it though. An hour was a long time in the winter, when there weren’t as many stores open. However, it gave us enough time to enjoy a yummy hot chocolate at the bakery. Highly recommend this tour, we had a blast!

Fun day on Rheinfalls! Boat ride on river was awesome, it took us quite close to the falls. Our guide ensured that that was no wait time for us to get tickets to falls & clearly explained old buildings at Rhein am stein.

The whole tour is amazing, Francisca y Armando excellent. She knows the area to perfection. The falls are impressive and the medieval town is like taken from a movie. Beautiful!!

Beautiful view of the falls and an informative guided tour of the quaint historical Stein am Rhein. Farina and Francesco gave a good tour and we would recommend this one to all.

loved this tour. tour guide was very knowledgeable