Basel Anti-Tourist Guide

Here’s our Basel Anti-Tourist Guide to make sure you take the best of it while feeling like a local

Basel is the third most populated city in Swiss, offering plenty of activities and must-see places. From various museums and contrasting architecture to vibrant streets to roam around, and nightlife to party all night long. To help you explore the best of Basel, we invite you to check out our Basel Anti-Tourist Guide to ensure you enjoy the city from the inside out.

First questions first:

How many days should I save to visit Basel?

For a quick peek, we would say that two days are okay here. Want to experience Basel without any rush and actually enjoy the vibe and avoid checking the time 24/7? We suggest staying for three or four full days. It will be just enough to explore the city through a local’s eyes.

What are the main highlights of Basel?

1. Basel’s Cultural Scene

Basel is a treat for art lovers! Here you can choose from more than 40 museums and art galleries.

a) Must-visit Museums

• Kunstmuseum Basel: one of the most impressive and well-known museums in the world is located right in Basel. Impressive art collections and exhibitions here will let you experience art of the highest quality. Even though this is not a hidden gem, this experience is worth it for sure!

• Fondation Beyeler: another masterpiece is situated very near Basel, in Riehen. The building itself is a must-see art object, designed by famous Italian architect Renzo Piano. Here you can immerse in modern and contemporary art, visit gallery-organized events, and just enjoy the cultural ambiance.

b) Art Galleries

• Artstübli: this is not just a casual art gallery, as they call themselves. It is a platform that promotes contemporary and urban art. They have hosted exhibitions at various alternative locations, bringing together creative places with urban art and like-minded people. Their primary exhibition location is Steinentorberg 28, Basel.

• Galerie Stampa: a venue for local and international contemporary art… and that’s not all! From paintings to sculptures and installations, the gallery offers diverse artwork as well as books available to purchase at the place. Additionally, Stampa hosts book presentations and different seminars. Check their calendar, and plan your visit for whenever it suits you best.

2. Where to eat in Basel

Basel’s traditional culinary scene is mostly influenced by Swiss traditional cuisine as well as neighboring countries France and Germany. A local dish that we urge you to try is Zürcher Geschnetzeltes which is a potato dish traditionally served with Rösti (grated potatoes that look like a big potato pancake). When it comes to places where to head, we have some special suggestions that are undiscovered by tourists:

• Markthalle: here everyone will be satisfied, this is a big food court-type place. Many stands to choose from and a great option for big company get-togethers or date nights in a relaxed atmosphere.

• KLARA 13 AG: another food court with a vibrant atmosphere and good prices. Wide selection of international cuisines with nine kitchens and an in-house bar.

• Vegitat: an affordable Vegan restaurant with a variety of rich-in-taste dishes to try. Choose from wraps, sandwiches, bowls, or tasty vegan desserts. If you are a sweet lover, opt for vegan tiramisu!
• Sapori de Sud: Italian fast food place with an always welcoming atmosphere. Here you can make a quick stop and taste the best quality Italian sandwiches.

3. What to see in Basel

• Elisabethenkirche: not just an ordinary church. This one has impressive architecture you have not seen before. Plus, the church hosts such events as concerts, fashion shows, and more.
• Old Town: take a walk through the picturesque Basel´s historical center. 
• Martkplatz: the open-air fresh produce market square situated by Basel City Hall. When wandering around the Old town, it’s impossible to miss this central square.
• Urban Art: Gerbergässlein is the most famous streets for urban art in Basel. Although this street is well-known to tourists, if you wander around the center of Basel, you will come across many other graffiti masterpieces. In fact, Europe is full of different styles of urban art, check out our Top Street Art Destinations in Europe.

4. Alternative places in Basel

• Flea Markets: Whether you are or not a thrift shop lover, Flea Markets are great places for catching the local urban vibe. Our top suggestions for Flea Markets are Petersplatz and Barfüsserplatz. Of course, let’s not forget about the cute District Flea Markets. Be sure to have some cash with you, even if the original plan is not shopping, we know how it always ends…
• Basel Riviera: a great spot for summer visitors. Near Middle Bridge is a loved spot where locals gather in the evenings. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere while watching the sunset, and sipping some beer.
• KASERNE: everything in one place for a great evening out. An authentic place, well-loved by locals with outdoor bars and cafes. Additionally, it is a venue for a variety of events, live performances and more, so better check out the agenda before heading here.

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