Trip to Basel, Switzerland

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

Today you will arrive in Basel, check into your accommodation and start exploring the beautiful Old Town. This area is full of history and amazing architecture, so take a stroll around and soak it all in. There are numerous buildings and landmarks, such as the Basel Minster, which is the city’s cathedral, the City Hall, Spalen Gate, Marktplatz, and the Rhine River, perfect for a scenic walk. Walking around Old Town can be quite tiresome, so head to the Rheinuferpromenade for a seat and some people-watching while taking in the beautiful views of the Rhine.

Day 2: Visit to the Vitra Design Museum

Today you will visit the Vitra Design Museum, which is located in Weil am Rhein, just outside Basel. The museum features the world’s largest collection of modern furniture design, ranging from classic designs to contemporary, and it has a vast collection of design-related objects. Exploring it will give you an insight into the evolution of furniture design from the early 19th century to present-day. Additionally, the scenic route to the museum along the Rhine River is gorgeous, making for a perfect day out.

Day 3: Shopping and History in Kleinbasel

Today, explore a lesser-known part of Basel: Kleinbasel. It is located on the opposite side of the Rhine River, and is the liveliest part of Basel. Walk along the bank of the river to get there and visit the Basel Paper Mill, which is a must-see. Afterwards, head towards Rheingasse and Gerbergasse, where you will find a variety of shops selling local Swiss products, clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs. Spend some time browsing through the shops before checking out the Basel Munster church, which is a Gothic architectural masterpiece and has a stunning view of the city from its top.

Day 4: Museum Day

Today, spend time visiting some of Basel’s world-renowned museums. Start with the Fondation Beyeler museum, which is located in Riehen, just outside Basel. This museum is home to a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso and Monet. Afterwards, head to Tinguely Museum, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Jean Tinguely, a Swiss sculptor known for his kinetic art. Additionally, Museum der Kulturen Basel is a must-visit for an insight into the culture and traditions of various continents.

Day 5: Café culture and Shopping at Freie Strasse

Today, start your day with a coffee at one of the famous cafes in Basel. Markthalle Basel, a market hall filled with shops and cafes, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. After your coffee, head to Freie Strasse, which is Basel’s most famous shopping street. It has a great selection of high-end boutiques, as well as some more affordable shops. Additionally, you will find many restaurants and cafes on this street to enjoy a break from shopping.

Day 6: The Beauty of Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen

Today, enjoy a day trip to Schaffhausen to visit the Rhine Falls, which is Europe’s largest waterfall. The falls are truly a sight to see, with the water cascading over a series of rocks. There are many walking trails around the falls, which are perfect for a scenic stroll and photography. Additionally, Schaffhausen has a charming Old Town and is the perfect place to enjoy a meal or have a drink.

Day 7: Basel by Night

Enjoy your last night in Basel in style, by exploring the nightlife of the city. Bar staff here are known for their creativity, so don’t hesitate to try out some of the signature cocktails. The city has plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from, but some of the must-visit locations include Volkshaus Basel, which has been recently converted into a nightclub, and Bar Rouge located on top of Basel’s tallest building. Feel free to explore the city and its different neighborhoods that appeal to you.