Swimming in the Rhine is Basel’s favourite summer outdoor activity!
Fancy a refreshing dip in one of Europe’s mightiest rivers? Each summer, thousands of locals and visitors alike partake in Basel’s beloved tradition: swimming in the Rhine. It’s not just a way to cool off, it’s a proper cultural experience that offers a unique perspective of this beautiful Swiss city.
Why swimming in the Rhine is a thrill
When temperatures soar in Basel, the Rhine transforms into the city’s largest and most spectacular swimming pool. Gliding downstream with the current, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Basel’s medieval Old Town, elegant bridges, and distinctive architecture from a perspective few tourists experience.
The Rhine’s clean, fresh water (typically between 20-24°C during summer months) provides the perfect refreshment on hot days. Best of all? It’s completely free and accessible right from the heart of the city.
How to enjoy a Rhine swim
The classic Rhine swimming route stretches from Schwarzwaldbrücke (Black Forest Bridge, next to the Tinguely Museum) to Johanniterbrücke, offering a leisurely 30-45 minute float downstream. Many swimmers extend their journey all the way to Dreirosen Bridge for an even longer experience.
Most swimmers enter the water near the Tinguely Museum or in the Breite and St. Alban neighbourhoods. Once you’re in, simply lie back, relax, and let the current do the work!
Your belongings will stay dry thanks to the “Wickelfisch“, Basel’s ingenious waterproof swim bag that doubles as a flotation device. These colourful fish-shaped bags have become iconic symbols of summer in Basel and are available for purchase at Basel Tourism offices and shops throughout the city.
Safety first
While Rhine swimming is tremendous fun, respecting safety guidelines is absolutely essential. Please check the current water conditions before swimming in the Rhine to make sure it’s safe. Only swim in the Rhine when:
- the water temperature is above 18 degrees Celsius.
- the water level is less than 650 cm.
- the water height (above sea level) is less than 246.5 metres.
You can download additional safety information from the official webpage.
When to take the plunge
The official Rhine swimming season typically runs from mid-June to mid-September, with water temperatures most inviting in July and August. Many locals consider the ideal Rhine swim to be late afternoon, when the water has been warmed by the day’s sunshine.
During special events like “Rhine Swimming” (Rheinschwimmen, this year on 12 August), thousands of people take to the water simultaneously, a truly unforgettable community experience!
Après-swim
After your refreshing dip, the Rhine’s banks offer numerous spots to dry off and relax. Numerous riverside buvettes (seasonal open-air cafés) serve refreshing drinks and light meals.
Why not try the Dreirosen Buvette, next to the bridge with the same name. Or the Saint-Louis close to St. Johanns-Park, the only buvette on the Grossbasel side of the Rhine. Alongside various snacks, this place also serves “Fischknusperli” (fried fish).
Come on in, the water’s inviting!
Swimming in the Rhine isn’t just about cooling off, it’s about embracing Basel’s culture and experiencing the city from a totally different angle. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, this delightful summer tradition offers an unforgettable way to connect with Basel’s aquatic heart.
So pack your swimmers, grab a Wickelfisch, and join the locals for one of Switzerland’s most refreshing experiences. The Rhine awaits!
You can find official information regarding swimming in the Rhine on the Basel website.
Comments
4 responses to “Swimming in the Rhine”
What’s the difference between the water level and the water height?
Hi Mary, good question! We included both “water level” and “water height” as that’s how they’re indicated on the local signage before entering the Rhine. By “water height”, we mean the height above sea level. We added this to the text to avoid any confusion. “Water level”, on the other hand, refers to the height of the water’s surface relative to the lakebed.
[…] 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 […]
Let’s organize a group and it all together. I’m thinking Wednesday afternoon, after Patricia’s picnic, or maybe Sunday afternoon. Ping me on Slack: “Marco Almeida”. It would be cool if any local member of the community could join the group to advise us.