Basel's Portrait Self-Guided Audio City Tour
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Basel's Portrait Self-Guided Audio City Tour

Active
(3 reviews)
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on this captivating self-guided audio tour to discover all the key attractions of Basel.

Rest assured, you'll immerse yourself in the city's must-have experiences, explored in rich and captivating detail. Prepare to uncover the courtyard of the Town Hall with its fascinating narrative, explore the intricacies of Basel Cathedral's interior, where almost every stone has a story, and see many other landmarks.

However, we won't just unveil the city's main attractions – we'll take you on a journey through time, sharing tales of those who once called this place home.

Our genuine aspiration is for Basel to be a wellspring of inspiration for you, and this audio guide aims to shed light on its unique character.

Available options

Basel's Portrait Self-Guided Audio City Tour

What's included

Listen to the high-quality audio guide recorded by a professional speaker
Visit all the main tourist attractions of Basel
Enjoy clear explanation of the route with photos and detailed directions

Detailed itinerary

1

Get ready to be enthralled by the captivating allure of Basel's Town Hall – a destination where architectural splendor seamlessly intertwines with profound historical significance. Your journey begins, promising a delightful fusion of discovery and wonder, all set against the backdrop of walls adorned with mesmerizing frescoes.

Step into a world where art and history converge in perfect harmony. As you explore, be mesmerized by iconic masterpieces such as "The Last Judgment," "Susanna and the Elders," and "Herod before Hyrcanus" that adorn the walls, each telling its own compelling story. The courtyard, a treasure trove of hidden gems, invites you to uncover the rich tapestry of Basel's past.

2

Uncover hidden treasures like the Textile and Wine Merchants' Guild houses, and witness the enduring legacy of Kaufhaus—a historical masterpiece that anchored Basel's economic life for nearly five centuries.

3

As you navigate the labyrinthine lanes, whimsical houses like "At the Mosquito" and "To Venice" reveal their unique stories, adding an eccentric touch to the city's historical fabric.

4

Two enchanting architectural landmarks grace the streets of Basel with their distinct charm—one dressed in white and the other in blue

5

St. Martin's Church in Basel beckons with a unique charm, featuring a captivating fresco above its entrance that hints at the hidden treasures within. The church, steeped in history, is graced by a poignant reminder of generosity – the depiction of St. Martin cutting off half of his cloak to share with a poor man, a timeless symbol of compassion that resonates throughout the sacred space.

6

Perched on a bridge, Käppelijoch Chapel exudes simple charm and tranquility. Its unassuming beauty is complemented by stunning views of the river and city. Witness how the chapel's modest presence harmonizes with the scenic surroundings amid the lively atmosphere.

7
Stop 7

Prepare to be transported to the celestial heights of awe and wonder as you stand in the shadow of Basel Minster – a breathtaking masterpiece that seamlessly blends architectural magnificence with historical richness.

Discover a symphony of colors and light as the beautiful stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of hues throughout the sacred space. Each pane tells a unique story, weaving together spirituality and artistry in a dance of luminous elegance.

As you continue your journey through this sacred haven, marvel at the intricate portal of St. Gallen. Witness the vivid portrayal of the Last Judgment, feel the resonance of the biblical "Parable of the Ten Virgins," and gaze upon a monumental window resembling a Wheel of Fortune.

8

Pfalz, a captivating viewing platform, offers an enchanting panorama that unfolds like a masterpiece and allows to witness the graceful meandering of the Rhine River through the historic city.

9

Nestled in the heart of Basel, Elisabeth Church stands as a testament to both architectural elegance and cultural significance. This neo-Gothic gem, adorned with graceful spires and intricate detailing, captivates visitors with its timeless beauty. Upon stepping inside, you are greeted by stunning stained glass windows that cast a kaleidoscope of colors, infusing the space with a spiritual glow.

10

Discover the whimsical allure of the Jean Tinguely Fountain, where each figure takes on a personality of its own, adorned with quirky charm and imaginative spirit. Among them, meet the intriguing "Head of the Theatre," a character that captivates observers as its head shakes rhythmically, and water gracefully flows from its eyes. As you gaze upon the rhythmic movements and flowing water, you're left to ponder – is it a heartfelt tribute to art or the poignant tears of regret? The Jean Tinguely Fountain invites you to engage with its playful characters and embrace emotions that dance amidst the splashing water.

11

Nestled in the heart of Basel, Barfüsserplatz invites you to uncover its rich history and cultural gems. As you wander through this delightful square, the grand Historical Museum building stands tall, offering a gateway to the city's complex past. Adorned with frescoes, the nearby structure unveils the compelling depiction of "Apollo and the Muses," offering a visual delight for those who appreciate classical mythology. Within the contrasting atmosphere, another architectural marvel, adorned with frescoes, invites your admiration as it vividly portrays scenes of the Basel Autumn Fair, capturing the essence of local traditions and celebrations.

12

St. Leonhard Church in Basel stands as a testament to simplicity, with an almost minimalist interior that pays homage to the ideals of the Reformation.

What's not included

You will need to have your own mobile phone with internet and headset
There will be no live guide. Instead, you'll explore the city using the link provided after booking

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
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Tripadvisor 5.0
1 reviews
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Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the designated meeting point, there won't be a live guide present. We invite you to commence this self-guided tour using the link provided at the time of booking.

Important notes

Please find your link to the self-guided audio tour below:

https://myfive.travel/en/quest/5/
Password: 6110

Copy this link and paste it into your internet browser to access the tour, and your journey through the city will begin!

Your link is accessible simultaneously from different mobile phones. This means that you can share the link with other participants and enjoy the tour, each using your own device.

About Basel

Basel is a vibrant city where Swiss, French, and German cultures converge. Known for its rich art scene, medieval architecture, and picturesque location along the Rhine River, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore, with numerous museums, festivals, and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Basel Minster

This iconic twin-spired cathedral is a symbol of Basel. It offers stunning views of the city and the Rhine River from its towers.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours CHF 6 for tower access

Fondation Beyeler

A world-class art museum featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. The museum is set in a beautiful park designed by architect Renzo Piano.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 24 for adults

Old Town (Altstadt)

The medieval old town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares. It's the heart of Basel's cultural and social life.

Historical/Cultural Half-day or more Free to explore

Rhine River

The Rhine River is a central feature of Basel, offering beautiful walks, boat trips, and swimming spots. The Rhine Promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Nature Varies Free (boat trips may have a fee)

Basel Zoo (Zolli)

One of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Switzerland, Basel Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and plants. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours CHF 24 for adults, CHF 12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Basler Läckerli

A traditional Swiss spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, and spices. It's a sweet treat that's perfect with coffee or tea.

Dessert Contains nuts, gluten, and honey

Basler Mehlsuppe

A traditional Swiss flour soup made with breadcrumbs, onions, and cheese. It's a hearty and comforting dish, often served with a side of sausage.

Dinner Contains gluten, dairy, and meat (if served with sausage)

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish made with grated potatoes that are pan-fried until crispy. It's often served as a side dish or topped with cheese and onions.

Dinner Vegetarian (if not topped with meat)

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

A Swiss dish made with sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, typically served with rösti.

Dinner Contains dairy, meat, and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Jura Mountains Swimming in the Rhine River Cycling along the Rhine Enjoying a coffee or pastry at a local café Taking a leisurely stroll along the Rhine Promenade Visiting a spa or wellness center Exploring the city's museums and galleries Attending a concert or performance at the Basel Theater

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with numerous events and cultural activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: German
  • Widely spoken: English, French
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Basel is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air
  • EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg • 5.5 km (3.4 miles) from city center
By train

Basel SBB, Basel Badischer Bahnhof

By bus

Basel Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram network is efficient and covers most of the city. Trams are clean, punctual, and user-friendly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Basel

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kleinbasel Grossbasel St. Alban

Day trips

Laufenburg
20 km (12.4 miles) • Half-day

A charming town on the Rhine River, known for its historic castle and picturesque old town. A great place for a leisurely stroll and a taste of Swiss-German culture.

Fribourg
80 km (50 miles) • Full-day

A picturesque medieval town in the canton of Fribourg, known for its well-preserved old town, stunning cathedral, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. A great place for history buffs and culture lovers.

Strasbourg
120 km (75 miles) • Full-day or overnight

A beautiful French city on the border with Germany, known for its stunning cathedral, charming old town, and rich history. A great place for a day trip or a longer stay.

Festivals

Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) • February/March (dates vary) Baselworld • March/April (dates vary) Basler Herbstmesse • October/November (dates vary)

Pro tips

  • Visit the Fondation Beyeler for its world-class art collection and beautiful park setting.
  • Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a unique and authentic experience.
  • Try a traditional Swiss fondue or raclette at a local restaurant.
  • Take a boat trip on the Rhine River for stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
  • Visit the Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) for a vibrant and colorful celebration of Swiss culture.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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