Basel

Introducing Basel

Although it's famous for its Fasnacht and Vogel Gryff festivals in spring and winter, perhaps the best time to visit Basel is in summer. It is then when the city shucks off its notorious reserve to bask in, strangely for its northerly location, some of the hottest weather in Switzerland. As locals bob along in the fast-moving Rhine (Rhein) River, cool off in the city's numerous fountains, whiz by on motor scooters, and dine and drink on overcrowded pavements, you could almost be in Italy, rather than on the dual border with France and Germany.

Of course, most visitors come for the city's many trade fairs and arrive during the more buttoned-down remainder of the year. For them, as well as other travellers during this period, the major distractions in Basel (Bâle in French, sometimes Basle in English) are a couple of the country's best art collections and some compelling modern buildings.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009