The first thing you notice on your Basel vacation might not be the Rhine River but what's in it. The locals here love a good swim so much they’ll pack their clothes in waterproof, fish-shaped bags and ride the current. That's one way to get to work). But don't worry if you're not ready to take the plunge; Switzerland's highly walkable art capital has you within reach of 40 museums. All the better to admire Picasso's brooding Seated Harlequin at the Kunstmuseum Basel or interact with the kinetic machine sculptures at Museum Tinguely.
Visit Basel: get started
At first, Basel might seem like it's all business, but its curiosities soon reveal themselves. Choose a Basel vacation package that places you near the Old Town, where you can linger near the vermilion-hued Rathaus (Town Hall) boasting sculptures like a dragon the size of a dog, or check out some of Basel's close to 300 fountains, some so big you can dip in them (but please don’t).
Basel travel guide
Destination facts
Language
asel German, not surprising as this city sits on the border of Switzerland, Germany and France.
When to visit
Summer is when Basel comes alive, with major festivals along the Rhine.
What to bring back
Decorative cookie tins that house your Basler Läckerli? Too pretty not to take home. And authentic Swiss cowbells because, well, we could all use a little more cowbell in our lives.
What to eat
Sink your teeth into Basler Läckerli, a sweet biscuit dating back to the city's medieval spice trade, and Fastenwähe (pretzel-shaped bread), a popular pre-Lent treat that we'd devour year-round.
Fun fact
The four ferries on the Rhine River are connected by a wire cable and are driven by the current alone.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents and more, check Air Canada's Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada's Travel and Tourism website.
