Basel, Switzerland Vacation

Attractions and Sights by Boat, Rail & Walking Tour

By: Denise Morrison

Basel, Switzerland has long been associated as a pharmaceutical industry hub and increasingly as a world-class destination for art, watch and jewelry aficionados, as well as celebrations such as Fasnacht. Located on the Rhine and sharing borders with Germany and France, Basel is easily accessible from Zurich in one hour by train, or in two hours from Paris via the high-speed train, TGV.

As Switzerland's second largest city and with a history spanning more than 1,000 years, Basel deserves more than just a passing glance. The city is visitor-friendly, best traversed on foot or using public transportation. Trams criss-cross the city regularly and punctually. A one-day pass costs approx $7.50 and includes all modes of public transport – train, tram, bus. A standard fare, one-way ticket costs roughly the equivalent of $3.00 and is valid for 2 hours. Maps of the tramlines and fare details can be found posted at the tram stops. When staying at a hotel in Basel, ask about special public transportation passes for visitors.

A good starting point for exploring the city is the Barfüsserplatz bare feet square”, (named for the Franciscan monks who lived there centuries ago.) The Barfüsser Church once a convent, now houses Basel's Historical Museum. Next to it, the grand Casino building – soon to be newly designed by acclaimed architect Zaha Hadid, houses restaurants, a theater, a visitor information center and ticket office. You'll notice an abundance of sidewalk cafes located in this square and these seem to be popular even in chilly temps, day and evening. A unique spot for lunch is the Brötli Bar. Since 1906 this quaint restaurant has been serving open face sandwiches (Brötli means small or little bread.) The sandwiches feature everything from meats and seafood to celery salad to white asparagus. Think of it as the sushi bar for gourmet open-faced sandwiches! The Barfusserplatz's central location makes it also the site of Basel's Christmas market and other specialty craft fairs.

From here, stroll up the adjacent Freie Strasse - a prime-shopping street - to the Marktplatz square, located at the northwest end. This square features a fresh produce and flower market everyday except Sundays. Dominating the Marktplatz is the Renaissance style, brightly painted "Rathaus" or City Hall. Note the decorative wall paintings and wood paneling found in two council chambers that are open to the public. Across the square lies a must for chocoholics and those seeking souvenirs: Confiserie Schiesser. Since 1870 this store/café has been selling signature sweets and houses a Tea Room upstairs.