Hotel D logo in Basel, Switzerland, featuring a heart-shaped symbol with the letter V
View of Basel Cathedral at sunset, the Art Basel contemporary art center, and the illuminated buildings along the river
Welcome toBasel

Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in Basel

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Black and white drawing of a Gothic cathedral with twin towers, stained glass windows, and an ornate main entrance
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Basel, a City of Art and Culture on the Rhine

On the banks of the Rhine, Basel combines culture, remarkable architecture and an easy-going lifestyle.

From Hotel D, you can easily reach the city’s many museums, historic districts, riverbanks and shopping streets.

Discover Basel on foot, by tram or by bike, moving between exhibitions, terraces and charming side streets.

A rich and inspiring destination, ideal for alternating sightseeing, art and relaxation.

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Modern building with a large glass facade, surrounded by a landscaped garden and autumnal vegetation.

Basel, a City at the Crossroads of Three Countries

At the crossroads of Switzerland, France and Germany, Basel is one of Europe’s major cultural hubs. Prestigious museums, international art events, a beautifully preserved Old Town and lively Rhine banks create a vibrant and elegant urban landscape. Move from a major exhibition to a riverside walk, from a shopping street to a historic square, all within easy reach of Hotel D. The city offers an exceptional concentration of culture — now it is your turn to enjoy it.

View of the sky through a circular, tunnel-shaped architectural structure with geometric patterns

Art Basel

15-minute walk

A global showcase for contemporary art, Art Basel attracts leading galleries, collectors and artists every year. Even outside the fair period, the Messe district remains a major artistic and events hub in the city.

A group of people walks in front of a white dome-shaped structure and a building with the inscription "Art Basel".

Kunstmuseum Basel

10-minute walk

Kunstmuseum Basel is one of Europe’s major art museums. Discover exceptional collections spanning from the Middle Ages to the modern era, within a remarkable architectural setting.

City illuminated at night with a river running through the center, lit bridges, and historic buildings along the banks
Modern building with a brick facade displaying the text "GURATIVE POLLOCK DER FIGURATIVE POLLOCK" under urban lighting at twilight

Tinguely Museum

20-minute walk

This museum presents the distinctive and poetic works of Jean Tinguely. Interactive displays, moving machines and a playful spirit make the visit both surprising and accessible.

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Long corridor with photographs and texts displayed on the left wall and large windows on the right side.

Fondation Beyeler

25 minutes by tram

On the outskirts of Basel, Fondation Beyeler combines architecture, nature and modern art. Internationally acclaimed temporary exhibitions complement a major permanent collection.

Architectural drawing of a modern building with large glass windows, surrounded by vegetation
Modern building with a large glass facade, surrounded by a landscaped garden and autumnal vegetation.
Interior room with large windows overlooking a garden with a pond and trees

Vitra Design Museum

17 minutes by car / 40 minutes by public transport

A landmark of contemporary design and architecture, Vitra Design Museum is as appealing for its exhibitions as for its buildings designed by leading international architects.

White drawing on a light background depicting intertwined geometric and organic shapes
Modern building with angular geometric shapes and protruding extensions, located on a green lawn under a clear sky.

Rhine Banks

2-minute walk

Walks, summer swimming, terraces and views of the Old Town… the Rhine banks are one of Basel residents’ favourite places to spend time.

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Nighttime Christmas market with decorated stalls, illuminated pyramid, and visitors strolling between the shops

Shopping in the City Centre

10-minute walk

Les grandes artères commerçantes, dont la Freie Strasse, regroupent enseignes internationales, boutiques suisses et adresses indépendantes.

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Two monkeys sitting in a tree, one carrying the other on its back

Basel Zoo

14 minutes by public transport

Basel Zoo, the oldest zoo in Switzerland, offers a true nature escape just outside the city centre. An ideal family outing.