Basel probably isn’t up there on a lot of peoples ‘must visit’ lists, but it should be! It’s currently well-known for being the European Pharma capital, but I’m hoping to change that as there’s so much to see and do – especially if you love quirky things like me!
Here’s my rundown of the top 5 things to do in brilliant Basel.
Eat Your Fill Of Chocolate At Laederach
This is one of the most famous chocolatier’s in Switzerland, so if you love the sweet stuff, go with an empty stomach and make sure you try the caramel vanilla truffles – you’ll die and go to Swiss chocolate heaven!
Try A Frosty Basel Brew
Basel isn’t just known for its sugary delights, it also brews a mean beer too! Head to the Ueli Brewery just over the river and sample their finest wheat beer, lager or even one of their yearly special varieties, like their recent ‘Tut-Anch-Ueli’ beer which is an ode to Tutankhamen himself, made from Egyptian wheat.
Visit The Puppenhausmuseum
The Puppenhausmuseum is one of the weirdest museums I’ve been to. It’s the world’s largest collection of dolls and teddy bears dating back over a century, and yes, it can freak you out if you stay in there too long! Creepy, but in a good way.
See The King Poke Out His Tongue
King Lällekönig’s gargoyle-like head (not his real one, thankfully!) sits on the corner of the restaurant Schifflände and pokes its tongue out at passers by. Legend has it that during the 15th Century the King’s gate tower was built to keep out ‘lesser citizens’ from the other side of the river. When it was destroyed, along with the King himself, the head was placed here as a kind of payback. Now, its your turn!
Take A Dip In The Rhine
If you happen to be visiting Basel in the warmer months (or the colder ones for those feeling adventurous), then make sure you truly dip your toe into the heart of the city by swimming in the Rhine, the fast flowing turquoise river that runs through it. Just make sure you grab one of the water-proof bags for your belongings first, otherwise it might be a little embarrassing on the way back!
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Thanks for sharing! I have never even heard of this spot but it looks fun.
What’s your favourite spot on the Rhine?
The Wanderfull Traveler
Lovely post – my sister-in-law and her family live in Basel so I have visited probably a dozen times. Love it there!
Thanks Amanda – you lucky thing having family there! : )