Basel Overview

Although Basel's climate is characterised as continental, it is actually one of the warmer places in the country. Winters in Basel tend to be mild and summers can range from quite warm to uncomfortably hot. more...

Basel Activities

There are a number of parks in the city where you and the family can fly a Frisbee, toss a ball around or just relax together. Schutzenmattpark can be reached by tram (Number 8) from the central Barfusserplatz station and Kannenfeldpark can be reached by tram Number 3, also departing from Barfusserplatz. more...

Basel Events and Festivals

Vogel Gryff: is a festival that dates to the pagan customs and rituals of the 13th century. The event today is held in honour of one of Kleinbasel’s three guilds. Late in the morning on the day of the festival, a raft carrying the Wild Maa (a mythical, hairy figure which symbolises fertility) courses down the Rhine as far as the Mittlere Brücke, accompanied by the beat of an ancient drum. He is met on the banks of the river by the Leu (lion) and the Vogel Gryff (griffon) and greeted by the booming of cannon. At noon, the three perform a traditional dance at the midpoint of the Mittlere Brücke, following dance steps dating from the Middle Ages. A Gryffemähli (a luncheon for all guild members) is held in Kleibasel, followed by a procession through the streets, during which jesters collect money for the poor. By the evening, a party is in full swing, involving plenty of dancing and drinking in the older restaurants of Kleinbasel. more...

Basel Sightseeing

Take in a football match at the New St Jakobs Park facility. FC Basel is a very popular and well-supported team, having won Swiss Championships in 2002, 2004 and 2005, the Swiss Cup in both 2002 and 2004 and has performed respectably in the European Championships in recent years. more...

Basel Transport

The city's network of public transportation is good and the cost of transport is relatively inexpensive. Tickets for the buses or trams must be purchased at a station in advance and an unlimited travel ticket is available. You can comfortably cover Basel on foot, as most of the city's attractions are near the ancient centre and along the Rhine River. For exploring farther afield, trams are a good bet, as taxis tend to quite costly. more...

Basel Travel Tips

Switzerland is one of the world's safest destinations for visitors and Basel is no exception. It's always a good idea to take special precautions, however, when travelling to any foreign country, safeguarding your valuables particularly when in crowded public places. At street markets, public transportation centres and busy tourists sites, petty criminals tend to prey on unsuspecting tourists, and caution is recommended. Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. more...