Top 10 free or inexpensive things to do in Basel

Written by Sophie Renassia

Published on November 22, 2025

Switzerland is often associated with a high cost of living... but in Basel, there's no shortage of great deals! Between the banks of the Rhine, the museums, the markets, and the urban art, the city is full of free or very affordable experiences. Here are 10 ideas for enjoying Basel without breaking the bank. Follow the guide.

1. Take Advantage of the Basel Card

When you stay in Basel, you automatically receive the Basel Card: a real bonus. It gives you free access to public transport (tram, bus), city-wide Wi-Fi connection, and 50% off major attractions and museums. An essential item for exploring Basel affordably, without worrying about travel.

2. Walk Along the Rhine

The Rhine is the backbone of Basel. The walks on both sides of the river are superb and free. Cross on a Rhine ferry for some retro charm, or settle down on the quays of Kleinbasel, where locals meet for a coffee, a swim, or an impromptu apéro. Our tip: In summer, bring your famous Wickelfisch waterproof bag; you can let yourself be carried by the current like a true Basler!

3. Discover Street Art in Kleinbasel and the Dreispitz Quarter

In Basel, art isn't just found in museums. In the Dreispitz quarter, former industrial areas have become spaces for expression for graffiti artists and contemporary artists. In Kleinbasel too, giant frescoes colour the walls: an artistic and free walk.

4. Get Lost in the Old Town

Basel's historic heart is an open-air museum. Its cobbled streets, colourful houses, and small squares are ideal for a free wander: discover the Marktplatz and the red brick City Hall, before climbing up towards the Cathedral. A perfect walk to feel the medieval and commercial soul of the Rhine city.

5. Stroll Through the Marktplatz Market

In the heart of the Old Town, the Marktplatz is one of the liveliest places in Basel. Among the stalls of fruits, flowers, spices, and local scents, people come for the pleasure of the eyes and the taste buds. No need to buy anything: the atmosphere, colours, and smells are worth the detour alone.

6. Have a Picnic in a Park or by the Rhine

When the weather is nice, Basel's parks transform into true open-air living rooms. Kannenfeld Park, for example, is one of the city's largest, ideal for a nature break. Settle down on the grass with your sandwich (or your Swiss tresse!), and enjoy the calm, far from the hustle and bustle of the centre.

7. Explore Museums at a Reduced or Free Rate

Basel is the Swiss cultural capital, with over 40 museums! Thanks to the Basel Card, you benefit from 50% off admission to numerous establishments:

• The Beyeler Foundation, for modern masterpieces.
• The Kunstmuseum Basel, the oldest public art museum in the world.
• The Tinguely Museum, dedicated to the Swiss artist and his kinetic sculptures.
• Or the Vitra Design Museum, just a few minutes away by tram.

8. Admire the Cathedral and the View over the Rhine

Basel Cathedral (Basler Münster) is one of the city's symbols. Free entry, Gothic architecture, and a spectacular view of the Rhine from the Pfalz terrace: a great—and free—classic! If you want to extend your visit, climb the bell tower for a few francs: panoramic view guaranteed.

9. Admire Basel's Public Art and Fountains

Art is also hidden around the squares: statues, modern sculptures, and fountains signed by Tinguely dot the city. The most famous example: the Tinguely Fountain, composed of moving metallic structures. A living, free, and emblematic work of Basel's artistic genius.

10. Enjoy Free Festivals

Throughout the year, Basel vibrates to the rhythm of its events: concerts, street arts, summer markets, open-air screenings... Some are free or accessible at a low price: for example, the ImFluss Festival, with its floating concerts on the Rhine. Check the events calendar on basel.com before your stay so you don't miss anything.

As you can see, in Basel, you can have a rich and cultural experience without emptying your wallet. Between its museums, its walks, its markets, and its banks of the Rhine, the city proves that a stay in Switzerland can rhyme with great deals.

Written by Sophie Renassia

Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).

Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.

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