Top 10 things to do in Basel

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1. Discover the most Unusual Cathedral

Basel Münster is the city’s most popular touristic attraction. The main city landmark is a Heritage Site of National Significance. The imposing cathedral from the 10th century is constructed of red sandstone. The colored roof and the two towers add to the extraordinary and magnificent architecture. What make this cathedral famous are the uneven towers in Romanesque/Gothic style. An amazing view over the River Rhine to Germany is what you will find on the top of the tower. Beside that, the tomb of the Erasmus of Rotterdam (theologian) is inside the church. The Cathedral, located on a Hill overlooking the Rhine River, at nights is coloring the Basel’s skyline. Guided tours are offered if you want to fully explore the fabulous cathedral’s history, sculptures and artworks.

2. Cruise the Europe’s Longest River

Taking a boat cruise along the River Rhine is one of the top things to do in Basel. See the stunning architecture of the Old town with its walls and the immense Cathedral as you flow through the river. The cruise takes two and a half hours and you can choose from harbor cruises or town cruises. The most popular cruises depart from the Basel port to Rheinfelden and back. A walking tour in the old medieval town Rheinfelden is also included in most of the tours. Explore the picturesque narrow alleys of this historic town. Special cruises including a meal and music are also available. Daily, many cruise ships depart to Germany and France. Instead to cross the river on the bridge, get the ferry. One river crossing is 1, 60 CHF and the boats are attached to a cable, so they won’t drift away.

3. Explore the Old Town

The prettiest and one of the well-preserved old towns in Europe is the old medieval town of Basel. Stroll down the narrow picturesque streets, cobblestone alleys and be astonished of its intact and unique architecture. The Old Town is small and can be explored on foot. The unusual combination of 15th century buildings and contemporary architecture make the old town even more exciting and tourists are impressed at every turn. The Cathedral, the Town Hall and the city gates are the most important sights of the Old Town. The old town’s shopping streets are closed for traffic.

4. See where the Three Countries Meet

The terrace behind the Cathedral, known also as Pfalz (close to the bishop’s palace) offers a spectacular view over the whole city including the Cathedral, the blue tower and the bridges over the River Rhine. On clear days you can see the Dreiländereck, the place where Germany, France and Switzerland meet. The border triangle is on the left side behind the tall industrial buildings.

5. Walk on the Oldest Bridge over the River Rhine

Cross the bridge to experience the vintage of river-bank life and see the boats passing under your feet. The only permanent bridge over the Rhine River was in Basel and for many centuries it was the one and only bridge. Totally, there are five bridges including: Schwarzwaldbrücke, Dreirosenbrücke, Mittlere Brücke, Wettsteinbrücke and Johanniterbrücke. Mittlere Brücke was built in 1225. It is the oldest bridge, a symbol of the city. However, its current look is from 1905. All the other bridges were built 700 years later. Käppelijoch Chapelle (place where the criminals were executed) stands in the middle of the bridge. It is a copy of the original chapel from 1225.

6. Where the Government and the Parliament Meet

Basel-Canton’s government meets in the City Hall (Rathaus). This building dates from the 14th century. Today it houses the Cantonal Parliament and the Cantonal Government. It had been demolished many time but rebuilt over and over again. The Gothic and Renaissance style with some features of historicism and new art style are visible in the interior as well as on the exterior. The most striking are the red walls, golden glass decorations and amazing roofs. Worth seeing are the Chambers, the imposing tower, the impressive courtyard and the romantic walkways. The tower was built it 1501 when Basel joined the Swiss confederation. Guided tours are offered to explore the Hall; a history lecture is also included.

7. Taste the Most Popular Product of Basel

Typical Basel’s delicacy, Basler Läckerli is the most famous product from Läckerli Huss. It has been popular for the last 700 years. The biscuit product is made from hard gingerbread, mix of nuts, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, candied fruits and spices. The top recipe is still secret and unknown. The word Läckerli, can be translated as a “small and delicious.” The Läckerli Huss also sells other sweet delicacies such as: Flûtes de Bâle (filled wafer rolls) Rahmtäfeli (melts in mouth), seductive Gelée Russe, caramels and many assorted packs. The shop is located on Gerbergasse 57. Try the original and unique Basler Läckerli, one of the top things to do in Basel.

8. See the most amazing sculptures

Imagine a mad scientist creating a sculpture; it will be something totally out of the blue. That is the experience you will get in the Tinguely Museum. This museum will change your perspectives about the art. It will wake up your creative mind. Tinguely Museum is the place where you will discover, laugh, and be amazed at the same time. This museum is dedicated to the extravagant sculptor Jean Tinguely.

9. The Walls of Basel

The St. AlbansTor, St. JohannsTor and the SpalenTor are the names of the gates that were part of the medieval Walled City from the 14th century. The most famous Gate is the SpalenTor. On the west gate façade, the Basel Coat or Arms had been painted. Its magnificent structure, the roof tiles and the two towers had impressed many people. The Gates can be reached by tram of by walking. Take a walk and marvel the architecture of the 14th century.

10. How a Teddy Bear is made

The Dollhouse Museum (Puppenhausmuseum) is the largest Museum in Europe, one of a kind. It is located in the city center, Barfüsserplatz. It has over 6000 unique exhibits of dolls, play shops, dollhouses, teddy bears and miniatures which are displayed on four flours. Interactive information system is available on each floor where you can browse information about who made the teddy bear and how they made it. In the museum’s shop you will find an excellent and unique teddy bears miniatures.