Hotels in Basel

Basel: Where Art Meets the Rhine's Serenity

Nestled at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel is a vibrant cultural gem that enchants travelers with its rich history and artistic flair. Stroll through the enchanting Old Town, where the stunning Rathaus and Basel Cathedral stand as testaments to its medieval heritage. Dive into creativity at world-class museums, including the renowned Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler. The Rhine River invites leisurely walks and boat tours, offering picturesque views of the city. With its lively theater scene and the delightful Basel Zoo, this city promises an unforgettable experience that blends culture, history, and scenic beauty. For the best hotel rates in Basel and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Basel

Some of the best places to stay in Basel are Basel City Centre, Altstadt Grossbasel and Kleinbasel. Basel is a vibrant destination, rich in culture and history. Basel City Centre is ideal for first-time visitors, offering easy access to attractions, shops, and restaurants. Altstadt Grossbasel boasts charming medieval architecture and lively squares, perfect for exploring on foot. Kleinbasel provides a more relaxed vibe along the Rhine River, with picturesque views. Accommodations in these areas range from boutique hotels to comfortable mid-range options, ensuring a pleasant stay in this enchanting Swiss city. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Basel:

1. Basel City CentreOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is ideal for business travelers and families alike, featuring a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. You'll find key attractions like St. Jakobshalle, Marktplatz, and Congress Center Basel nearby. For accommodations, consider Grand Hotel Les Trois RoisOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel set in a historic building, which offers business facilities and child-friendly amenities. Another option is Basel Marriott HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that boasts accessible business services and is located in the city center, perfect for both work and leisure. For a pet-friendly stay, check out ART HOUSE Basel - Member of Design HotelsOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel with multiple meeting rooms and a central location, welcoming furry companions.
2. Altstadt GrossbaselOpens in a new window: Known for its cultural richness and convenient access to major attractions like St. Jakobshalle and Basler Muenster, this area offers a mix of history and modernity. Hotel SpalentorOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, caters to business travelers with essential amenities like a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms. Another great choice is Hotel EulerOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star property, which allows pets and provides extensive business facilities. For a city-centered experience, Hotel Metropol BaselOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, focuses on business travelers while keeping you close to the heart of the city.
3. KleinbaselOpens in a new window: This culturally rich area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Basel's local life, with attractions like Marktplatz and Congress Center Basel nearby. Ariv Apartments + Spaces – self check inOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that offers a variety of dining options and recreational activities, ensuring a comfortable stay. For a slightly upscale experience, Airport Hotel BaselOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, features an on-site casino and caters to business travelers while also welcoming pets. Both hotels provide a great base for exploring the cultural offerings of Kleinbasel.

Things to do in Basel for first time

Three days in Basel offers a delightful mix of vibrant cultural experiences and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy art, take scenic river tours, explore lush parks, and partake in lively festivals, all while basking in the city’s charming atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Basel:

• Day 1: Start your exploration at the Beyeler Foundation, an art museum showcasing modern classics in a beautiful natural setting. Take your time to appreciate the stunning collection and the serene surroundings. Next, head over to the Schänzli Racecourse, where you can soak in the excitement of horse racing and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to Chrischona, a tranquil hill that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Rhine River, perfect for a relaxing evening walk or a sunset picnic.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Binningen Castle, a charming historical site with beautiful architecture and lush gardens. After exploring the castle, make your way to the Botanischer Garten Bruglingen / Grun 80, where you can wander through diverse plant collections and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Finish your day with a visit to St. Theresia, a stunning church known for its exquisite interior and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot to reflect on your day.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Sole Uno, a wellness oasis where you can relax and rejuvenate in their thermal baths and spa facilities. Next, visit Dom von Arlesheim, an impressive cathedral with beautiful architecture and rich history, perfect for some quiet contemplation. Wrap up your day at Augusta Raurica, an ancient Roman site where you can explore fascinating ruins and gain insight into the region's historical significance, making for a memorable end to your Basel adventure.

5 tips to find a great Basel hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Basel is from January to March when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're an international traveler, it's wise to book your flight at least five months in advance for great value. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city's highlights, including its renowned museums and scenic riverside. This approach ensures you make the most of your trip while keeping expenses low.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Basel, you're in luck! Exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com can lead you to discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of finding a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you save on your Basel adventure. Don't miss out on the opportunity to book your ideal stay!
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Basel.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center of Basel and close to local attractions is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like trams, buses, and bikes to explore the area while potentially saving money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Basel and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Basel

Here are a few popular dishes in Basel, Basel-Stadt, Switzerland:

• Fondue: A quintessential Swiss dish, fondue features melted cheese served in a communal pot. Diners dip pieces of bread using long forks, creating a fun and interactive dining experience. In Basel, you can enjoy variations with local cheeses, and many restaurants offer this dish in cozy settings, perfect for socializing with friends or family.
• Raclette: Another beloved Swiss classic, raclette involves melting a wheel of cheese and scraping it onto boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats. This dish is often prepared at the table, allowing for a personalized touch as each person customizes their plate. It’s a hearty meal that showcases regional ingredients and is perfect for sharing.
• Rösti: This crispy potato dish is a Swiss staple, often enjoyed at breakfast or as a side. Made from grated potatoes, it’s pan-fried until golden brown and can be topped with anything from cheese to eggs, reflecting the local culinary creativity and comfort food vibe.

Best time to go to Basel

Basel experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 34.9°F (1.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 67.8°F (19.9°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Basel, June, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and April are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.