Episode 193: Basel in Two Days: Top Attractions, Local Eats, and Easy Day Trips

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Wondering if Basel is worth visiting, or how best to spend two days in Basel before or after your Rhine River cruise? You’re not alone! Many travelers overlook Basel, but this charming Swiss city on the banks of the Rhine River is packed with history, culture, and surprises – making it well worth including in your Swiss itinerary.

In this episode, I chat with Basel resident, Melinda Schoutens. Melinda shares her suggested Basel itinerary for two days, covering what to do in Basel for a day or more and how to make the most of your time in the Rhine River city.

We dive into the best hotels in Basel and walk you through the must-see sights, from the atmospheric Basel Old Town and the majestic Basel Minster, to photo stops at the iconic Mittlere Brucke Basel (Middle Bridge) and a stroll around Marktplatz. 

You’ll get tips for visiting the fascinating Basel Town Hall, exploring the city’s vibrant café culture with a sweet treat at Confiserie Schiesser, and catching a scenic ride on the Basel ferry river crossing.

Looking for unique museums in Basel? We chat about the innovative Jean Tinguely Museum and Fondation Beyler, and reveal how the Basel Card gives you free city transport and discounts on everything from museums to the fun Basel tour bus. 

Melinda also shares her favourite day trips from Basel including the ancient Roman ruins at Augusta Raurica, and the thermal baths at Sole Uno Rheinfelden.

We also cover big annual events like Fasnacht Basel (Basel Carnival) and the magical Christmas Markets, along with essential local tips on when to visit, where to refuel, and how to pack your Basel itinerary with authentic, memorable experiences – whatever the season.

If you’re planning a short stopover in Basel or building a full Switzerland itinerary, this episode has everything you need to make your two days in Basel unforgettable!

Show Notes

In this episode you’ll learn about:

• Why Basel is a worthwhile inclusion in your Swiss itinerary, especially if you’re starting or ending a Rhine river cruise
• Where to stay in Basel, including recommendations for unique and centrally located hotels
• The must-see sights and local experiences for two days in Basel
• How to make the most of the Basel Card, which offers free public transport and museum discounts
• Suggested day trips from Basel
• Practical tips about the best times to visit Basel, key annual events, and what to expect in different seasons

Our Guest

Basel recommendations mentioned in this episode

Where to stay in Basel

Teufelhof, which offers delicious meals, unique rooms, and in the basement of the building, a part of the old city wall.

Hotel Brasserie Au Violin – This hotel has a delicious Brasserie, a private, quiet setting, and very sweet rooms.

For a quiet location in Klein Basel, try Volkshaus Basel which we reviewed in episode 125.

Favourite bakeries in Basel

Just across from Marktplatz sits Confiserie Schiesser. There is a tea room located on top, which serves their magnificent pastries, drinks, lunch, and/or a glass of wine.

Gilgen – Located on Spalenberg, this very old, and popular, bakery in Basel which is housed in a pink and green building. Melinda’s favourite pastry is Russenzopf, a sweet bread with a mix of marzipan, raisins, and thinly sliced almonds.

Where to eat in Basel

Florentina Basel – a simple, Italian restaurant with a picturesque setting on the river. Make reservations in advance and ask for a Rhine view!

Other recommendations include St. Alban Stübli – St. Alban Vorstadt and on a beautiful street, Gasthof Zum Goldenen Sternen, and the restaurants at the hotels mentioned above – Teufelhof, Au Violin and Volkshaus Basel.

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> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.