Local Guide

Basel promises unlimited culture: the city sparkles with an incomparable programme of arts and leisure activities. Whether discovering one of the over 40 exciting museums or taking a boat ride back to the Roman age, Basel offers unforgettable stays. The city lies in the heart of Europe, on both banks of the Rhine. It is the centre of the idyllic border triangle of France, Germany and Switzerland – lying between the Swiss Jura, Germany’s Black Forest and the Vosges in Alsace. If you like to explore a city with shopping bags in hand, Basel is the place for you: it’s easy to combine shopping with sightseeing. And there is plenty to keep you occupied: luxury brands like Hermes, Louis Vuitton or Rolex; shoes, fashion, books and specialities.

Local Events

Basel Carnival

15 Feb

The "Morgenstraich" on Monday morning 40 days before Easter marks the start of Carnival in Basel. At 04.00 all lights in the old town and all streetlights are turned off. The only light remaining comes from the lanterns of the Cliques – and a three-day-carnival marathon begins.
15 - 29 Feb 2012

Basel Tattoo Festival

15 Jul

Based on the world-famous Edinburgh Tattoo, every year in July Basel Tattoo takes place in front of Basel’s historic military barracks. Visitors flock to the festival to hear bagpipes & drums watch folk dancing performed by troupes from all over the word.

Swiss Indoors Tennis Tournament

28 Oct

Switzerland’s largest sporting event and one of the most important indoor tournaments in the world, the Swiss Indoors takes place in Basel and always forms part of the end-of-season run-up to the World Finals. Swissotel Le Plaza is proud to have hosted various members of the ATP for many years.