Basel City Guide

Local dishes like Basler Leckerli are must-tries. You'll find diverse international food and many vegan/vegetarian options. Late-night snacks are limited but available at some bars.

Diverse scene with bars and clubs like Bar Rouge and Nordstern offering different music styles.

Good mix of traditional and specialty coffee shops offering quality brews.

Not required as service is included, but small tips of 5-10% or rounding up are appreciated, best given in cash.

SIM cards are sold at mobile stores or electronics shops. Providers include Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt. Registration with ID is required.

High cleanliness standards and efficient waste management.

Some late-night pharmacies and minimarts exist but no full 24/7 ecosystem.

Coop and Migros are main supermarkets. International products are available. Shops open 7:30/8:30 AM to around 7/8 PM on weekdays; closed Sundays.

Card payments are widely accepted, but carry some Swiss Francs for small buys or markets.

ATMs are common throughout the city. Check with your bank for possible withdrawal fees before traveling.

International School Basel offers English instruction. Local schools teach mainly in German. Apply early due to waiting lists.

Community is growing with coworking spaces and meetups available.

Many parks like Kannenfeldpark and Schützenmattpark and riverside paths.

Safe running routes along the Rhine and parks; good air quality.

Multiple gyms with various workout options across the city.

Several tennis clubs and public courts with some rentals.

Padel courts are becoming common; book in advance.

Many yoga studios with drop-in classes and English instructors.

Dozens of clubs for BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, and more.

Ski resorts in Swiss Alps and Black Forest are 1-3 hours away, with slopes for all levels and rentals available.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Rhine are popular in summer.

No surfing; inland city.

No diving or snorkeling near Basel.

High quality hospitals with English-speaking staff like Universitätsspital Basel. Pharmacies offer OTC meds and some emergency services.

Tap water in Basel is safe and drinkable.

Good parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly cafes. Attractions like Basel Zoo and Natural History Museum are great for families.

Very LGBTQ+ friendly with inclusive venues and regular events. Legal protections are strong.

Pet-friendly with parks, vets, and public transport access. Check import rules before arrival.