Basel might not get the limelight as much as Zurich, Bern, or Geneva, but trust me, this city is a hidden gem. Split by the serene Rhine River, Basel boasts a charming old town, an impressive lineup of museums, and a vibrant nightlife scene that you won’t want to miss.
Planning a trip to Basel? You’re making a fantastic choice! Not only will you enjoy a beautiful stay, but you’ll also find yourself perfectly positioned to explore the rest of Switzerland.
I visited Basel recently, and it was a treat to uncover the best neighborhoods and their unique traits. So, I’m excited to share the top spots to stay in Basel, complete with all the essential info and a few personal tips.
From my experience—since I stayed with my close friend who lives near the French border—I got a local’s insight. But if I were to visit again purely as a tourist, I’d definitely choose Altstadt Kleinbasel. It’s just so quintessentially Basel and exudes a historical charm that’s hard to find anywhere else!
1. Altstadt Grossbasel, best area to stay in Basel for tourists
Basel’s Old Town, or Altstadt, is beautifully split by the Rhine River into two distinct areas: Altstadt Grossbasel and Altstadt Kleinbasel.
Altstadt Grossbasel is notably picturesque, with its cobblestone streets and medieval gates—it’s my top pick for those looking to soak in the most charming part of the city.
This area is also super accessible, just a 15-20 minute walk from Basel’s main train station, Bahnhof Basel SBB, linking you to everywhere you need to go.
One of the standout sights here is the Basler Münster, a majestic Gothic cathedral with two towers that offer sweeping views of the city. There’s a balcony at the back that looks out over the river, providing a stunning backdrop for your photos.
Must see:
- Basler Münster (the Cathedral)
- The Town Hall, an eye-catching red building adorned with artwork
- Museum of Cultures Basel (Museum der Kulturen Basel)
- Fine Arts Museum (Kunstmuseum Basel), spanning three buildings
- University of Basel Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten der Universität Basel)
- Natural History Museum of Basel (Naturhistorisches Museum Basel)
Throughout the city, you’ll find numerous fountains (most with drinkable water), quaint and modern cafes, local shops, department stores, and hotels. It’s a city that perfectly blends historical charm with modern conveniences.
Best Hotels in Altstadt Grossbasel
- (€€€) Grand Hotel LES TROIS ROIS: a 5-star hotel with restaurant and bar, 350m from Town Hall
- (€€) Hotel Märthof Basel: a 4-star hotel with spa, breakfast and bar, 100m from Town Hall
- (€) Central City Hotel Rochat: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 400m from Town Hall
2. Altstadt Kleinbasel, best area to stay in Basel for nightlife
Altstadt Kleinbasel sits across the Rhine from its older sibling and, despite being part of the Old Town, sports a more contemporary vibe. The area is vibrant both day and night, blending modern architecture with lively streetscapes.
Right next to the Mittlere Brücke, on the Kleinbasel side, you’ll find the bronze statue Helvetia auf Reisen, depicting Switzerland herself sitting and enjoying the Rhine’s serene view.
This part of town is buzzing with life. It’s dotted with trendy cafes often filled with students and professionals, diverse eateries, cozy bars, and eclectic shops, including some cool second-hand stores. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and have a great time.
Take a stroll along the riverbank and soak in the views of the opposite shore. Visit during the warmer months, and you’ll find the area brimming with locals and visitors alike.
Here’s a little local advice: for some of the best pizza, head over to Vito Klybeck; for a drink, try Amber Bar; for a coffee break, Finkmuller is a must-visit; and for a sweet treat, don’t miss Gelateria di Berna.
Best Hotels in Altstadt Kleinbasel
- (€€) Krafft Basel: a 4-star hotel with restaurant and bar, close to Rhine river
- (€€) Boutique & Design Hotel Volkshaus Basel: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 300m from Mittlere Brücke
- (€) Merian Basel – Self Check-in: a 4-star hotel with river view
3. Clara, where to stay in Basel for food lovers
Clara is nestled right next to Altstadt Kleinbasel and is just as modern and trendy. Known for its bustling dining scene, this area boasts an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars that are sure to cater to any taste.
Here, you’ll also find the Congress Center Basel, a hub for various exhibitions that draws large crowds of visitors to the area. This makes Clara a lively spot almost any time of the year.
Transportation is a breeze in Clara, with excellent connections to the rest of Basel from the central Claraplatz station. When you need a break from the urban buzz, Claramatte Park offers a peaceful green space perfect for some downtime.
For those traveling with kids or anyone interested in a unique cultural experience, the nearby Tinguely Museum is a must-visit. It’s one of Basel’s most beloved museums and provides an engaging escape from the ordinary.
Staying in Clara is also more budget-friendly compared to the pricier neighborhoods in the Old Town, making it a smart choice for travelers looking to stretch their francs a bit further.
Best Hotels in Clara
- (€€) Basel Marriott Hotel: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, a 10-minute walk from Rhine river
- (€) Hotel Alexander: a modern 3-star hotel, with breakfast, just 7 minutes from Basel center
- (€) Aparthotel Adagio Basel City: apartments with kitchenette and breakfast, 10 minutes walk from Rhine river
4. Gundeldingen, where to stay in Basel on a budget
Gundeldingen is conveniently located right next to Basel’s main train station, Bahnhof Basel SBB.
If you’re planning to explore other Swiss cities, staying here makes perfect sense. It’s just south of Altstadt Grossbasel, about a kilometer from the Rhine’s banks.
I’d suggest staying near the station primarily for convenience. This area hosts several budget-friendly hotel chains, which could save you a bit on your travel expenses.
The station itself is a hub of activity, with stores, supermarkets, and spots for a quick coffee or snack. Just adjacent is De Wette Park, a lovely green space for relaxation.
Don’t miss Markthalle next door, a vibrant food market serving a variety of international dishes. It’s a great place to sample local flavors without breaking the bank.
Best Hotels in Gundeldingen
- (€€) ibis Basel Bahnhof: a modern hotel with breakfast, 4 minutes walk from main station
- (€) Hotel by Hyve Basel: an elegant hotel with breakfast, a 3-minute walk from main station
- (€) ibis budget Basel City: a budget-friendly hotel, 800m from station
5. Bachletten, best area to stay in Basel for families and kids
Bachletten, nestled southwest of Basel’s city center, offers a serene escape near the Basel Zoo. It’s a bit removed from the hustle and bustle but still boasts excellent connections to the city center, making it a practical choice for sightseers.
This area is particularly suited for families seeking a peaceful retreat in the city. It’s quieter and feels more residential, which I find perfect for a relaxing family vacation.
Nearby, you’ll find Allschwiler Weiher, a lovely forest perfect for unwinding and letting the kids play. It’s an idyllic spot to reconnect with nature and take a break from city life.
One downside of Bachletten is the limited accommodation options, as it’s primarily a residential area, not a tourist hub.
Tip: If you’re in the mood for a fantastic brunch or just a cozy spot to sip some coffee, check out Smilla Café. It’s a local favorite and never disappoints!
Best Hotels in Bachletten
- (€€) BALEGRA City Hotel Basel Contactless Self Check-in: a 3-star hotel, perfect for families
- (€€) B&B Laupenring, Basel: rooms with shared or private bathroom – breakfast included