Beyond the Alps
Basel’s slogan, ‘Swiss but different,’ captures the city’s unique charm. As Switzerland’s third-largest city, Basel offers nearly 40 museums to explore, blending the historic with the avant-garde.
When an opportunity to visit Switzerland’s cultural heartland comes along, it’s impossible to refuse. This time, we set our sights on a city with a distinct identity: Basel. Trading ski slopes for sunny riversides, we’re here to embrace Swiss summers at their finest, with Basel’s rich art scene and vibrant urban life ready to captivate.
Switzerland may be famous for its winter wonderland reputation, but in summer, Basel transforms into a lively cultural playground. Locals spill onto the streets, lakesides, and riversides, hosting impromptu picnics and open-air concerts. Here, life moves at an engaging yet relaxed pace, perfect for exploring this city with a deeply woven artistic identity.
Basel’s slogan, ‘Swiss but different,’ captures the city’s unique charm. As Switzerland’s third-largest city, Basel offers nearly 40 museums to explore, blending the historic with the avant-garde. Start your journey with a stroll through the charming Altstadt, the city’s historic heart. Cobblestone streets lead to the red-sandstone Rathaus, a striking emblem of Basel’s commitment to heritage. Our walking guide, Jacqueline Frei, paints a vivid picture of the city’s evolution from a medieval centre to a modern art capital.
The Rhine River is central to Basel’s identity, and crossing it is best done on one of the city’s unique ferries, which operate sans motor, powered only by the current. As we glide across, we’re treated to panoramic views of both Kleinbasel and Grossbasel, two halves of a city that balance modernity with tradition. On the far bank, Basel Minster awaits, a 12th-century Gothic gem offering breathtaking views from its perch.
Basel’s museums are legendary, but if time allows only one, make it the Fondation Beyeler. Located in the lush suburb of Riehen, this Renzo Piano-designed marvel harmonises art, architecture and nature. The serene setting houses an enviable collection of works by the likes of Monet, Picasso, and Warhol, making it an oasis for art lovers. It is worth keeping an eye to coordinate your stay on the equally impressive rotating exhibitions that happen throughout the year.
For contemporary design aficionados, Vitra Design Museum is a must. Though technically in Germany, it’s a quick jaunt from Basel and a testament to modern innovation, featuring iconic furniture design and rotating exhibitions that celebrate creativity.
Dining in Basel is another cultural experience. We dove into the city’s culinary creativity at Alchemist, a hotspot known for its fusion of gastronomy and science. The theatrically presented 5-course Philosopher’s Stone surprise menu, including dry ice, was a great way to sample the menu’s offerings.
For a more casual option, Markthalle near the main station is a bustling food hub housed under a grand 1920s dome. Here, organic foods from around the globe sit alongside wine and craft beer stalls, perfect for groups craving variety. If you’d rather dine with a view, Cantina Don Camillo on Warteck’s rooftop offers a beautiful terrace with a mostly vegan menu that surprised us with hearty, bold flavours.
No visit to Basel is complete without a swim in the Rhine. Pack a Wickelfisch (the famous waterproof bag that floats alongside you), to keep valuables dry as you drift downstream. Join locals for this quintessential summer activity—steps and showers await along the river for an easy exit and a refreshing end to the day.