Where to stay in Basel

Are you planning a trip to Basel but don’t know where to stay? Here’s our selection of neighborhoods to find out where to stay in Basel!

With over 172,000 inhabitants, Basel is Switzerland’s 3rd largest city. Situated on the banks of the Rhine, not far from the German and French borders, it attracts many visitors every year. A city of many facets, Basel has become a tourist destination. Today, it’s known as the « Cultural Capital » for its 40 museums and « Art Basel », the world’s largest modern and contemporary art fair. With its historic city center, half-timbered houses with red facades, numerous Romanesque and Gothic churches and romantic strolls, Basel is a city of charm and calm. The Basel-Mulhouse international airport is a further attraction, making it easy for travellers to get around.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Basel, you’ll find accommodation to suit every budget, as the city now caters for all types of travelers. Unusual lodgings, period houses, luxury hotels… Each of Basel’s neighborhoods has its own personality. Here’s our guide to where to stay in Basel.

The historic heart of the city

Photo credit: Flickr – Hans Permana

The Old Town is the most popular area for accommodation in Basel. With its museums, authentic cafés and bistros and pleasant strolls in summer and winter alike, the center has it all. Walk through the narrow streets to the St. Alban Gate, one of Basel’s largest fortifications dating from the 15th century. Behind the gate you’ll find a village of historic buildings with a medieval feel. Staying in downtown Basel also means enjoying the city’s culture 100%, strolling through the fashion boutiques and admiring the view of the illuminated buildings at night from the banks of the Rhine. You can also indulge in a jacuzzi on the rooftop of one of the city’s luxury hotels.

Iselin, Gotthelf and Bachletten: popular residential properties

Photo credit: Flickr – Tambako The Jaguar

This is the westernmost part of Basel. Situated close to the French border, it is a popular area for French-Swiss workers. Travelers also like to venture here to visit the city’s large zoological garden. A veritable savannah on a human scale, it’s home to hundreds of animal species that delight young and old alike. You’ll also find a leisure area, Bachgraben, offering outdoor activities (swimming pool, mini golf…). It’s a popular summer spot when you don’t feel like swimming in the Rhine. This district to the west of Basel is also adored by food lovers. And yes, staying in Basel Iselin also means tasting quality cheeses! For pastry lovers, there’s nothing like a bike ride: let the delicious smells guide you straight to the district’s best bakeries.

St. Jean: the city within the city

Photo credit: Flickr – ::d::

Formerly a working-class district for the working classes, Saint Jean (or St Johann) is now home to the Novartis Campus, a veritable Mecca for modern architecture in Basel. It is often described as « a city within a city ». The gigantic building is not open to the public, but you can visit it once every two weeks with the city’s tourist office.

Saint-Jean is also a gastronomic crossroads. A large number of restaurants have taken up residence here, much to the delight of visitors who love to stroll through its appetizing alleyways. After a meal, we like to extend the stroll with a « Promenade réthane » along the Rhine. along the Rhine. In summer, it’s a meeting place for swimmers and locals in search of a cool dip.

To sleep in Saint-Jean, you can choose between hotels or Airbnb apartments. Please note, however, that accommodation is in short supply, so be sure to book ahead!