Top Choice

Augusta Raurica

© Dariya Korzhenko/Getty Images/iStockphoto

"Augusta Raurica is a Roman archaeological site and an open-air museum in Switzerland Basel Land near the villages of Augst and Kaiseraugst, Augusta Raurica, or Colonia Augusta Rauracorum, was founded by Lucius Munatius Plancus around 44 BC in the...

About 17km east of Basel, on the Rhine's south bank, Switzerland’s largest Roman ruins are the last remnants of a colony founded in 43 BC, the population of which grew to 20,000 by the 2nd century AD. Today visitors can stroll at will through a hotchpotch of ruins, highlighted by one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in Central Europe. Take the S-bahn (S1) from Basel to Kaiseraugst (Sfr3.80, 11 minutes) then walk 10 minutes, following signs to the site.

At the entrance to the site, the Römermuseum is also well worth a visit for its authentically restored Roman house and its unparalleled 270-piece collection of antique silver.

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.


Must-see attractions