Best Intro to Basel in 2 hours with a Local
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start your visit to Basel with this 2-hour-hour walk led by a Local. You’ll discover its highlights, hidden gems, taste a typical local product, and get practical tips. This is the best introduction to Basel.
Get to see places like Münster and Town Hall, along with hidden corners of Basel only known to locals that reveal the city’s everyday charm.
Enjoy a tasting of a typical local product, like Basler Läckerli, for a flavour of Basel and its traditions. You'll also receive local insights on where to eat, drink, and how to get around, helping you explore with confidence and make the most of your time.
• Get the best intro to Basel through its highlights and hidden gems
• Taste a typical local product and connect with Basel's traditions
• Get local tips on where to eat, drink, and how to move around the city
• Make the most of your time with this 2-hour-hour walking experience
• Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, with a maximum of 8 travellers
Available options
120 min - Private Tour
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Exclusively for you: Multiple language options available
120 min - German Tour
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience
120 min - English Tour
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience
What's included
Knowledgeable local host
Small group experience
Personalised recommendations
Local product tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
Admire Basel’s striking red sandstone cathedral, offering city views and a rich mix of Romanesque and Gothic design.
2
See the vibrant red façade and frescoes of this historic building, still the seat of Basel’s government.
3
Watch whimsical mechanical sculptures splash and spin in this playful fountain by artist Jean Tinguely.
4
Pass through this well-preserved medieval city gate, once part of Basel’s old fortifications.
5
Sample Basel’s famous spiced biscuits—sweet, chewy, and deeply rooted in local tradition.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour is hosted by an independent Local.
You will be part of a small group of up to 8 travellers.
The itinerary adapts to travellers' interests and walking pace.
The local product tasting may vary depending on the season, availability, and travellers' preferences.
Stops may vary depending on weather conditions.
Entry tickets for public transportation, museums and monuments are not included.
Not recommended for guests with impaired mobility
Meeting point
We will meet at the St-Alban City Gate to begin our discovery walk through the city.
Important notes
Your Local Host will contact you as from 24 hours before the experience to confirm the meeting location and share any final details.
The itinerary and stops may vary depending on traveller preferences, walking pace, and weather conditions.
This is a walking tour of city highlights and does not include entry tickets for public transport, monuments, or attractions.
Please bring your booking confirmation to show your Local Host at the beginning of the experience.
Arrive 15 minutes early. The experience begins on time and, for organisational reasons, cannot be delayed.
All experiences are hosted by independent Locals who offer in-depth knowledge and authentic insights into their city. LocalBini connects travellers with Locals for unique, personalised city tours.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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