City of Basel
City of Basel
Basel, a city full of surprises, is at the center of north-western Switzerland. It is located in the so-called Dreiländereck, the triangle formed by the three countries of Switzerland, Germany, and France. The city canton with around 190,000 inhabitants and a 2000-year history offers a unique range of culture and art and possesses one of Europe´s most attractive and best preserved Old Towns. Despite its social dynamism and innovative economic strength, Basel is a lively border town, with a strong traditional base rooted in history. Both its historic townscape and modern architecture are part of Basel´s living present. Also the beautiful nearby regions can be reached in next to no time: The Jura, the Vosges in France and the Black Forest in Germany are all conveniently close by.
Climate
Its position in the Rhine valley gives Basel an exceptionally mild climate, which is infl uenced by Mediterranean air currents that fl ow up from the Rhone valley through the Belfort Gap. As a result, compared with the Swiss midlands, Basel enjoys an above-average amount of sunshine and only a few foggy days in fall.
In July and August temperatures may easily exceed 30 degrees Celsius or 86 Fahrenheit; occasional thunderstorms may cool down the air slightly in the evenings.
Language
The official language of Basel is Swiss-German. German, French and English are widely spoken.
Restaurants – Swiss Cuisine
Basel offers a wide variety of restaurants. The typical Swiss meals such as Roesti and Fondue are available as well as a large choice of international restaurants (Italian, Chinese, Japanese, French etc.).
People usually have lunch between 12:00 and 14:00 and dinner between 18:00 and 20:00. However, it is possible to dine throughout the day.
Shopping
Shops in Basel are usually open Monday through Friday from 09:00 – 18:30, Saturday from 09:00 – 17:00. Several larger department stores are open until 20:00. On Thursdays most of the stores in the city center are open until 21:00. All major credit cards are accepted.
Tipping
Service is almost always included in hotel and restaurant bills. A further tip of a few coins is appropriate
(restaurants 5 – 10%).
Travel within Basel
The Congress Center Basel (Tram stop Exhibition Square) is easily accessible from all three railway stations:
- From the Swiss railway station (SBB) and the French railway station (SNCF) take tram No. 2 in the direction of Eglisee.
- From the German (DB) take tram No. 2 in the direction of Binningen
- From Basel downtown take trams No. 6 or 14.
