Basel, the third-largest city in Switzerland, is located in the corner of the country where Switzerland, Germany and France meet. The city's turbulent history dates back to around 374. Today Basel is known as the country's wealthiest and most discreet city with the fastest rate of economic growth. Basel is an international transport hub with a gigantic river port, excellent schools and universities, meticulously maintained parks and public leisure facilities and a high standard of living.
Tours of the city abound, ranging from a comprehensive overview in a vintage tram to a walking tour of Old Town, one of the best-preserved historic areas in Europe, where the famous Minster of the slender spires built between 1019 and 1500 can be toured. There is even a running tour of Basel center where tourists jog with a guide to discover the monuments and history of the city, while ferries offer roundtrip river cruises to view Basel's sights. A good spot to get a different vantage point of the city is the Pfalz Terrace high above the Rhine with a panoramic view over Old Town.
Basel hosts the annual Art Basel, a contemporary art fair that displays a vast array of art and culture. There are over 35 world-class museums and galleries in the city, such as the Fondation Beyeler, which houses one of the most well-known private collections in the world, and the Kunstmuseum, the oldest public art collection in the world, dating from 1661. The Basel Theatre offers a comprehensive program of opera, theater and ballet.
Basel restaurants include Blindekuh, a "dining in the dark" restaurant where diners are served in total darkness by visually impaired servers. There are numerous music venues and nightclubs offering nighttime entertainment, and the Basel Symphony and Basel Chamber orchestras often present concerts and recitals from students and visiting soloists. Basel has a thriving theatrical community and a range of first-run cinemas.
There are more than 4,000 hotel beds in establishments ranging from five-star hotels to small guest houses. There is even a hip and stylish YMCA located in the city center. In fact, all hotels in Basel are centrally located, with attractions, restaurants and shopping within easy reach. Hotels are often full due to the conference and exhibition events, so reserving ahead is a must. Hotel guests in Basel are given a Mobility Ticket, which allows free use of public transport.
