Fancy a jaunt through one of Switzerland’s most charming cities? Let us take you through the alphabet of Basel’s delights. From world-class museums to quirky traditions, this Rhine-side gem has something for everyone.
A is for Art Basel
The crème de la crème of international art fairs! Art Basel transforms the city each year at the beginning of summer into a buzzing hive of creativity, attracting gallery owners, collectors, and art enthusiasts from around the globe. The high-calibre exhibitions showcase various art forms, with works by modern masters and art by emerging talents. Art Basel will occur just after WCEU2025, 19 – 22 June 2025.
B is for Barfüesser
The “Barfi” takes its name from the medieval Barfüesser (Barefoot) Franciscan monastery that once stood here. Today, it’s the bustling heart of Basel’s old town and home to the city’s largest Christmas market. From late November, wooden chalets transform the square into a twinkling wonderland of handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and festive treats. The historic Barfüesserkirche now houses the Basel Historical Museum – worth a visit to discover how this compact city shaped European history. Alongside the square’s many cafés, you’ll also find the Tourist Information office.
C is for Clara
Tucked away in Kleinbasel, the vibrant Clara neighbourhood surrounding the Congress Center is where Basel sheds its banker’s attire and loosens up a bit. Named after the 13th-century Clara Church and its associated medieval convent of Poor Clares (founded by followers of St. Clara of Assisi), this diverse neighbourhood has evolved from its religious origins into one of Basel’s most dynamic districts, buzzing with multicultural energy. The neighbourhood boasts many international restaurants, including the excellent food court Klara, whereas the restaurant Hahn serves fresh local produce.
D is for Dreiländereck
The Dreiländereck is the point where three countries meet! Stand at this unique spot where Switzerland, France, and Germany converge along the Rhine. There’s even a monument marking the place, which means you can cast a glance over three countries faster than you can say “international relations.” Next to this landmark is the Sandoase, a lovely bar with a beach feel. To get there, take tram 8 to Kleinhühigen and walk about 13 minutes.
E is for Erasmus
The great Dutch philosopher and humanist scholar Erasmus found his intellectual home in Basel during the 16th century. He came for the city’s progressive printing houses and vibrant intellectual climate, eventually spending his final years here. Erasmus’s presence in Basel helped cement the city’s reputation as a centre of humanism and scholarly thought. Read more about the connection between Basel and Erasmus. You can also visit his tomb in the cathedral, which could be the starting point for a little Erasmus Tour. Apart from Erasmus, many other personalities are closely related to Basel, including Roger Federer, of course!
F is for Fondation Beyeler
Art lovers visiting Basel shouldn’t miss the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen (Tram No. 6 from Messeplatz). Ernst and Hildy Beyeler were passionately involved in the arts throughout their lives. They made all the paintings and sculptures of their world-famous art collection accessible to the public at the Fondation Beyeler in 1997. This stunning collection now comprises over 400 classic modern and contemporary works. The building, designed by Renzo Piano, is a masterpiece set in a lovely garden. During the WCEU2025, the Foundation Beyeler will exhibit a presentation of the collection focusing exclusively on painting (with a special Picasso room) and present a new virtual reality (VR) installation by American artist Jordan Wolfson.
You’ll get a discount on tickets for Fondation Beyeler with your BaselCard!
G is for Gundeli
Just south of the central SBB train station, Gundeldingen is affectionately known as “Gundeli” to locals. This vibrant, unpretentious neighbourhood has transformed from its industrial roots into one of Basel’s most diverse and dynamic districts. You’ll find everything from circus schools to urban gardens, quirky restaurants to startup offices, all sharing space in an industrial setting. Try the restaurant Werk8 for inventive cuisine in a former workshop or Tellplatz3 with its choice of platters. Gundeli offers a refreshingly authentic experience away from the tourist track.
H is for Helvetica
One of the world’s most famous typefaces has Swiss roots that connect to Basel’s rich typographic tradition. Helvetica – initially named Neue Haas Grotesk – was created in 1957 by Swiss designer Max Miedinger within the Hass Type Foundry directed by Eduard Hoffmann in Münchenstein, on the outskirts of Basel. Helvetica exemplifies the clean, functional Swiss style. Read more about this typeface that became one of the world’s most commonly used fonts in advertising, publishing, and urban signage.
I is for Innenstadt
Basel’s “Innenstadt” – the historical (and largely pedestrian!) old town – forms an enchanting labyrinth of narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and well-preserved medieval buildings. Wander through Münsterplatz with its distinctive red sandstone Münster (cathedral), discover secluded fountains – where you can also take a dip in summer! – or explore the shop-lined Freie Strasse, Basel’s oldest shopping mile. The Pfalz terrace behind the Münster offers sweeping Rhine views, while the Rathaus’ (City hall) red facade proudly dominates the Marktplatz and its daily market stands.
J is for Joggeli
Even if you’re not a football fanatic, no visit to Basel is complete without understanding the significance of “Joggeli” – the affectionate nickname for St. Jakob-Park stadium, home to FC Basel. Switzerland’s largest stadium (36,000 seats!), built by star architects Herzog & de Meuron, is the beating heart of Basel’s passionate football culture. On match days, the city transforms as fans in red and blue stream toward the stadium, filling pubs and trams with songs and chants. The stadium also hosts Switzerland’s national team matches and major concerts.
K is for Kaserne
Once a military barracks, this cultural hub in Kleinbasel is where Basel’s creative heart beats loudest. The Kaserne hosts everything from experimental theatre and contemporary dance to indie concerts and club nights that keep the party going until dawn. Many bars and eateries are also situated in the area, both within the Kaserne (KaBar) and along the Rhine. The Kaserne is also the spot chosen for the traditional picnic, the side-event that takes place the day before the Contributor Day.
L is for Läckerli
Basel’s famous honey-spice Läckerli dates back to the 17th century; it was created as a long-lasting bread for church council members. While Läckerli-Huus, founded in 1904, produces the most widely distributed version, Jakob’s bakery on Spalenberg has been making its renowned traditional recipe since 1753. The authentic Basler Läckerli contains honey, hazelnuts, almonds, candied citrus peel, and kirschwasser. The hard biscuits are cut while still hot, then glazed. Originally a Christmas speciality, they’re now enjoyed year-round and considered Basel’s most famous culinary export. It obviously appears in Switzerland’s Culinary Heritage.
M is for Morgenstreich
At precisely 4:00 am on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, the Morgenstreich marks the official start of the Basler Fasnacht (Carnival). Following the command “Morgestraich, vorwärts marsch!” all city lights extinguish, and thousands of fifers and drummers begin playing their march through darkened streets, illuminated only by hand-painted lanterns (Laternen). This tradition dates to the 19th century. Unlike other Swiss carnivals, Basel’s Fasnacht begins after Lent due to the city’s Protestant reformation. The three-day celebration features over 10,000 participants in organised Cliques, elaborate costumes (Larven), and sharp political satire in lantern paintings and Schnitzelbank verses (one of the many words related to the Basler Fasnacht). Since 2017, the Carnival of Basel has been included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage.
N is for Novartis Campus
This pharmaceutical giant’s headquarters isn’t your typical corporate compound. The Novartis Campus is an architectural wonderland where some 20 buildings designed by stars like Frank Gehry, SANAA, and Tadao Ando create a stunning visual dialogue. While the campus isn’t fully open to the public, guided tours are available by reservation. The Novartis Pavillon, designed by Italian designer and architect Michele De Lucchi, houses the Wonders of Medicine interactive permanent exhibition. This “city within a city” showcases Basel’s unique blend of innovation, science, and design sensibility.
O is for Open Church of St. Elisabeth
The 19th-century neo-Gothic Elisabethenkirche stands out in Basel not just for its architecture, but for its revolutionary approach. Since 1994, the “Open Church” has functioned as an unconventional spiritual and cultural space welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. It hosts meditation sessions, concerts, exhibitions, social justice initiatives and a café. The beautiful stained glass windows illuminate events ranging from jazz performances to interfaith dialogues. This progressive institution embodies Basel’s open-minded spirit and commitment to community beyond traditional boundaries.
P is for Papiermühle
The Basler Papiermühle (Paper Mill), in St. Alban district (“Dalbe” in Baseldytsch, also known as Basel’s “Little Venice”), is a fascinating museum that showcases the traditional craft of papermaking, bookbinding and typesetting in a historic mill building. Watch demonstrations of paper and parchment production or try your hand at making your own sheet of paper, writing with a goose quill, using an old typewriter or creating colored patterns in the marbling workshop. It’s hands-on history at its finest – and a reminder of life before smartphones and everything digital! The museum’s shop is also the place to pick up a wide selection of stationery and calligraphy tools.
Q is for Quartiere
Basel is divided into 19 official Quartiere (districts), each with a distinct history and character. Grossbasel’s (city centre) districts include the medieval Altstadt, the affluent Bachletten, and the charming St. Alban. Across the Rhine, Kleinbasel features multicultural Matthäus, industrial Klybeck, and rapidly gentrifying Wettstein. The Quartiere system dates to 1875 and was last reorganised in 2008. Basel residents typically identify strongly with their neighbourhood, with local Quartiervereine (neighbourhood associations) organising community events. Each Quartier has its own flags and colours displayed prominently during city celebrations, particularly during Fasnacht. The book Mein Basel and the website Basel Live (both in German only) offer a comprehensive approach to Basel’s Quartiere.
R is for Rhine
The mighty Rhine is the lifeblood of Basel. For centuries, this magnificent waterway has shaped the city’s history, culture, and daily life. In summer, locals plunge into its refreshing currents with their colourful Wickelfisch waterproof bags: read about that in our Swimming in the Rhine post. The riverside promenades bustle with activity year-round, from morning joggers to sunset picnickers. Four Fähri (ferries) cross the river using nothing but the current’s natural power: an enchanting and eco-friendly transport method operating since the Middle Ages. You’ll also find plenty of buvettes along the Rhine to stop for a drink or a light snack.
S is for Spalenberg
The Spalenberg is a charming cobblestone street climbing from Marktplatz, lined with beautifully preserved medieval buildings. The street and its little side alleys also house independent boutiques (including Johann Wanner, a shop that offers hand-painted and hand-blown Christmas decorations all year round!), artisan workshops, and cosy cafés. At the top of the hill, beyond the university, you’ll find the Spalentor, the most magnificent and impressive of the three city gates remaining from the city fortifications dating from 1400. The Hoosesaggmuseum, Basel’s “pocket museum”, a real hotchpotch of small objects, is also hidden in the Spalenberg area!
T is for Tinguely
Jean Tinguely (1925-1991), Switzerland’s celebrated sculptor closely associated with Basel, revolutionised art with his kinetic “metamechanical” sculptures. His Fasnacht-Brunnen (1977), commonly called Tinguely Fountain, occupies the former stage of the old city theatre, with ten mechanical sculptures moving and spraying water in shallow pools. The Tinguely Museum, designed by Mario Botta and opened in 1996, houses the world’s most extensive collection of his works (approximately 55 sculptures) in a striking building overlooking the Rhine. 2025 marks Tinguely’s centenary with Tinguely100 featuring special exhibitions at the museum and guided tours throughout the city. On 5 June, a free Sound Bar will be held in the Solitude Park surrounding the Tinguely Museum.
You’ll get a discount on tickets for Tingely Museum with your BaselCard!
U is for Urban Art
Look beyond the pristine streets and you’ll discover that Basel has a vibrant urban art scene, with numerous legal walls and commissioned murals brightening unexpected corners. Check out this map to find your way around the city’s 664 street art masterpieces. In the city centre, the rock star graffiti in Gerbergässlein is a real magnet for visitors. More than 20 Space Invaders by the world star of urban art are also scattered around the city. The tri-border area is regarded as an unrivalled street-art Mecca. Various guided tours are offered in English to discover the incredible street art adorning Basel’s walls.
V is for Volkshaus
This historic “People’s House” has reinvented itself throughout Basel’s history. Originally a castle bailiwick, later a brewery, the Volkshaus then developed into a centre of political, social and cultural activities. Today, it is a stylish multipurpose venue, restaurant and boutique hotel designed by the prestigious Basel-based architects Herzog & de Meuron. The building also houses an intimate concert hall that hosts events ranging from jazz quartets to indie bands. Don’t miss the hidden courtyard bar in summer, a perfect urban oasis for an aperitif, only a few minutes’ walk from the Congress Center!
W is for Warteck
The Werkraum Warteck pp complex, in the Wettstein Quarter, is another brilliant example of Basel’s knack for repurposing industrial heritage. The former Warteck brewery now houses creative businesses, galleries, and cultural spaces. The iconic red-brick building is instantly recognisable for its magnificent spiral staircase (added in 2014), zigzagging up the exterior. This could be part of your Architectural Highlights Tour. Climb to the rooftop for panoramic views and stop for something to eat at the Cantina Don Camillo, which offers a wide range of vegan and vegetarian options.
X is for (Radio) X
Now in its 20th year, the Basel youth and culture Radio X station presents a programme of musical and linguistic diversity, complemented by cultural and political information and rounded off by special programmes on all aspects of music. 200 volunteer programme makers present 30 special programmes on music, politics and culture in 12 different languages. The English Show is a weekly live show for English-speaking expats in Basel. The radio’s purpose is to bring the expat community and interested local English speakers information about cultural events and the community.
Y is for Y (or even YY)
The local dialect spoken in Basel, known as Baseldytsch, is a distinctive variant of Swiss German. While it shares many features with other Alemannic dialects, it stands out for its unique phonetic and orthographic traits, particularly in the way it handles vowel sounds. One of the most striking features of Baseldytsch is the replacement of the Standard German “i” sound with a “y” or even a “yy”, which reflects a real phonetic difference in pronunciation. For instance, Rhine (EN) – Rhein (DE) – Rhy (Baseldytsch).
Z is for Zolli
Known affectionately as the “Zolli” by locals, Basel’s zoo is Switzerland’s oldest zoological garden. (founded 1874) It is home to over 500 species and is renowned for its successful breeding programmes for endangered animals. This “Urban Oasis” is beautifully landscaped and emphasises animal welfare and conservation in its various enclosures, such as the Monkey House, the Africa Enclosure and the Aviary. Don’t miss the pelicans’ and sea lions’ feeding times and the penguins’ walk among the daily events! Various restaurants are scattered around the park, and you can also bring your picnic.
You’ll get a discount on tickets for Zolli with your BaselCard!
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