Basel is one of the most underrated tourist destinations in Switzerland. With its beautiful old town, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine and thriving cultural scene, this Swiss city is definitely worthy of a spot on your travel bucket list.
But, the only downside to Basel is that it can be crazy expensive. Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Basel.
Written by travellers for travellers, this guide will give you an in-depth look at Basel’s best neighbourhoods, so you’ll know exactly where to stay based on your needs.
So, whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, a party animal or a family of four, this Basel neighbourhood guide will get you where you need to be!
Let’s get right to it. Here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Basel, Switzerland.
- Where to Stay in Basel
- Basel Neighbourhood Guide
- Basel’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- #1 Altstadt Grossbasel – Where to Stay in Basel for Your First Time
- #2 Gundeldingen – Where to Stay in Basel on a Budget
- #3 Altstadt Kleinbasel – Where to Stay in Basel for Nightlife
- #4 St. Alban – Coolest Place to Stay in Basel
- #5 Bachletten – Where to Stay in Basel for Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Basel
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Basel
Looking for a specific place to stay in Switzerland? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Basel.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Best Hostel in Basel: Hyve Hostel Basel
The Hyve Hostel is our pick for the best hostel in Basel and sets a high standard for the Switzerland hostel experience. It is surrounded by great restaurants and charming cafes, and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away.
And, because of its great location near the train station, this is our pick for where to stay in Basel for one night.
Best Hotel in Basel: Steinenschanze Stadthotel
This is our pick for the best hotel in Basel because of its fantastic central location. Steinenschanze Stadthotel is situated at the heart of Basel’s tourist district. It is close to top tourist attractions and landmarks, and there are so many restaurants nearby. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities.
Best Airbnb in Basel: Classic space with great views
A cosy space with lots of natural light and a timeless view will help you feel situated in no time. Besides your room, you have access to a bathroom (with shower), living room and kitchen. There is also a small garden, shared with the neighbours, that you can use!
Classic space with great views is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Altstadt Grossbasel
At the heart and centre of the city is the Altstadt Grossbasel neighbourhood. Home to one of the most intact and beautiful old towns in Europe, Altstadt Grossbasel is the best neighbourhood to stay in Basel if you’re a history buff, culture vulture, or simply someone who wants to be surrounded by impressive architecture.
Gundeldingen
Gundeldinen is one of the first neighbourhoods many visitors experience in Basel because it is home to the massive Basel rail station. Thanks to the train station, this is one of the best-connected neighbourhoods in the city.
Altstadt Kleinbasel
Altstadt Kleinbasel is a large neighbourhood located on the northern side of the Rhine River. It sits across from Basel’s old town and is characterized by its buzzing squares, bustling bars and boisterous restaurants.
St. Alban
St. Alban is a neighbourhood bursting with myth, mystery and romance. Tucked away east of the old town, the St. Alban neighbourhood is often referred to as Little Venice because of the millstreams and canals that crisscross through the quarter.
Bachletten
The Bachletten neighbourhood is centrally located in Basel. It sits south of Altstadt Grossbasel and is adjacent to Gundeldingen and the train station, which makes it one of the best places to stay in Basel if you’re keen to explore.
Basel is a modern and cosmopolitan city set in the northwestern corner of Switzerland. It is the third largest city in the country and is situated in the Dreiländereck region where France, Switzerland and Germany meet.
One of the most important cities in the country, Basel is packed with excellent tourist attractions and historical landmarks. It has a charming old town centre, a lively and vibrant arts scene, a handful of world-class museums, as well as unique and interesting cuisine.
The city covers an area of more than 23 square kilometres. It is divided into three main municipalities, which are home to 19 distinct quarters.
This guide will highlight the best places in Basel to stay based on interest, budget and need.
Kleinbasel is located at the centre of the city on the north side of the Rhine River. It is in the lesser Basel district and is one of the best places to stay in Basel for nightlife.
Across the river is Altstadt Grossbasel. Best known for hosting Basel’s old town, Altstadt Grossbasel is the best neighbourhood to stay in Basel for visitors who want to see all the sights and be surrounded by exceptional architecture.
Travel east from here and you’ll arrive in St. Albans. One of the coolest places to stay in the city, St. Albans boasts charming canals and winding millstreams along with delicious restaurants and unique boutiques.
Set west of St. Albans is Gundeldingen. Home to the city’s main rail station, this is the best neighbourhood in Basel to stay in for travellers on a budget because of its excellent selection of good-value accommodations.
Bachletten is a charming neighbourhood in southwestern Basel. It boasts an excellent variety of activities, attractions, and landmarks, including the Basel Zoo, which is why it’s our top recommendation for where to stay in Basel with kids.
Still not sure which is the best neighbourhood to stay in Basel? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Basel’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look in more detail at the best areas to stay in Basel. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that best suits your needs.
At the heart and centre of the city is the Altstadt Grossbasel neighbourhood. Home to one of the most intact and beautiful old towns in Europe, Altstadt Grossbasel is the best neighbourhood to stay in Basel if you’re a history buff, culture vulture, or simply someone who wants to be surrounded by impressive architecture. Here you can enjoy a myriad of incredible landmarks and tourist attractions, as well as restaurants, shops and cafes.
Our top choice for where to stay in Basel for your first time, Alstadt Grossbasel is a neighbourhood that is easy and enjoyable to navigate on foot. We encourage visitors to explore the city centre on foot and to lose themselves in the history of the city.
Things to See and Do in Altstadt Grossbasel
– Marvel at the incredible and colourful Basler Münster.
– Be amazed by the bright red City Hall (Rathaus).
– Shop, snack and sample your way through Marktplatz.
– Cross the Mittlere Brücke.
– Enjoy a dynamic, experimental and incredible collection of art at Kunsthalle Basel.
– Take a boat cruise along the mighty Rhine river.
– Learn to make chocolate at Chocolatier Beschle.
– Dine on delicious Swiss dishes at Cheval Blanc.
– Indulge at Schlüsselzunft.
– Sip a glass of wine at Invino.
– Drink cocktails on the patio at Club 59.
Best Hotel in Altstadt Grossbasel: Hotel Stadthof
Hotel Stadthof is an excellent Basel accommodation option for travellers on a budget because it offers elegant rooms at an affordable price. Set at the centre of the city, this two-star hotel is close to a variety of bars and restaurants as well as popular tourist attractions.
Best Hotel in Altstadt Grossbasel: Steinenschanze Stadthotel
This is our pick for the best hotel in Basel because of its central location. Steinenschanze Stadthotel is situated at the heart of Basel’s tourist district. It is close to popular attractions and landmarks, and there are plenty of restaurants nearby. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities.
Best Hotel in Altstadt Grossbasel: Hotel Rochat
Located at the heart of the old town, this hotel is in one of Basel’s best neighbourhoods for sightseeing. By staying here, you’ll have a wide range of activities, attractions, restaurants and bars just a short walk away. This hotel has recently refurbished rooms with contemporary features.
Best Airbnb in Altstadt Grossbasel: Classic space with great views
A cosy space with lots of natural light and a timeless view will help you feel situated in no time. Besides your room, you have access to a bathroom (with shower), living room and kitchen. There is also a small garden, shared with the neighbours, that you can use!
Classic space with great views is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
We’ve tested countless packs over the years, and now we’ve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag.
Want more deetz on why we love it so damn much? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
Learn More Now!Gundeldinen is one of the first neighbourhoods many visitors experience in Basel because it is home to the massive Basel rail station. Thanks to the train station, this is one of the best-connected neighbourhoods in the city.
But there’s so much more to Gundeldingen than transportation and transit. This southern quarter is well-known for its diversity of cultural influences. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, and a great range of cultural activities.
Gundeldingen is also our top pick for where to stay in Basel on a budget because tucked throughout Gundeldingen’s streets are a handful of Basel backpacker hostels as well as good value and affordable hotels.
Things to See and Do in Gundeldingen
– Visit the Strassburger Denkmal statue.
– Go for a stroll through Pruntrutermatte.
– Aim for a strike at the Bowling Center Basel.
– Tease your taste buds at the Istanbul Kebap House.
– Enjoy a coffee at Café del Mundo.
– Dine on a delicious cordon bleu at Restaurant zur Wanderruh.
– Grab a slice at Pizza Time.
– Feast on Swiss dishes at Restaurant Bundesbahn.
– Eat a mouthwatering meal at Werk 8.
– Excite your sense by dining in the dark at blindekuh Basel.
– Sip an amazing coffee at La Columbiana Kaffeeroesterei.
Best Hostel in Gundeldingen: Hyve Hostel Basel
This is the best hostel in Basel. It is surrounded by great restaurants and charming cafes, and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away.
And, because of its great location near the train station, this is our pick for where to stay in Basel for one night.
Best Hotel in Gundeldingen: Basel BackPack
The Basel BackPack is a charming hotel that is perfect for budget travellers. Not only is it situated near the train station, but it is close to a number of popular restaurants, bars, shops and attractions. This hotel offers comfortable rooms and boasts a delicious on-site restaurant.
Best Airbnb in Gundeldingen: Everything you need and a little more!
A pretty minimal room at a very minimal price. You’ll have access to shared amenities, and it’s only a short walk to the train station, very efficient, just like the space itself.
Everything you need and a little more! is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Apartment in Gundeldingen: Apaliving – Budgethotel
Thanks to its excellent location and comfortable beds, this is one of our favourite properties in Gundeldingen. It provides a range of spacious rooms that are well-equipped with a coffee/tea maker and a refrigerator as well as an en-suite bathroom. Guests can also enjoy a great selection of dining, shopping and nightlife options nearby.
Apaliving – Budgethotel is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Altstadt Kleinbasel is a large neighbourhood located on the northern side of the Rhine River. It sits across from Basel’s old town and is characterized by its buzzing squares, bustling bars and boisterous restaurants. Because there’s such a great selection to choose from, Altstadt Kleinbasel wins our vote for where to stay in Basel for nightlife.
What used to be referred to as lesser Basel, Altstadt Kleinbasel is today one of the most popular districts in the city. On any given night you’ll find tourists and locals alike flocking to Altstadt Kleinbasel to enjoy a few drinks, a great meal and an unforgettable night on the town.
Things to See and Do in Altstadt Kleinbasel
– Indulge in Swiss dishes and sophisticated cocktails at Volkhaus.
– Enjoy a mouthwatering meal on the banks of the Rhine at Rhywyera.
– Dance the night away at Jägerhalle.
– Sip unique cocktails at Bar Rouge.
– Listen to live music at Sääli.
– Treat yourself to a night of hip drinks and good conversations at Concierge Bar.
– Dine on delicious contemporary European dishes at La Fourchette.
– Kickstart your day with a fantastic coffee at Café Frühling.
– Grab a pint and rock out at Irrsinn Bar.
– Sample signature cocktails at Angels’ Share Cocktailbar.
Best Budget Hotel in Altstadt Kleinbasel: Easyhotel Basel
This charming hotel is one of the best places to stay in Basel if you’re looking for nightlife because it is so close to bars, clubs and restaurants. They offer comfortable rooms and a range of features, including luggage storage, private baths and an on-site restaurant.
Best Hotel in Altstadt Kleinbasel: Hotel Rheinfelderhof
This traditional two-star hotel is conveniently located in Altstadt Kleinbasel. It is a short walk to the city’s top tourist attractions, and there are plenty of dining, shopping and nightlife options nearby. Rooms are recently refurbished and each comes complete with a variety of modern amenities.
Best Airbnb in Altstadt Kleinbasel: Party in style!
A room for two at an affordable price is always welcome, especially when it comes complete with near panoramic city views, your own viranda, and a rooftop hottub to boot! The perfect place to start off your evening, or come back to for the wind-down!
Party in style! is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Altstadt Kleinbasel: Hotel Balade
The Hotel Balade is in the best area in Basel to stay for nightlife. Not only are there are a number of bars and clubs nearby, but you’ll be within walking distance of amazing restaurants and cultural attractions. This property provides modern rooms, laundry facilities and a terrace. There’s also a restaurant and lounge bar on-site.
Hotel Balade is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Buy an eSIM!St. Alban is a neighbourhood bursting with myth, mystery and romance. Tucked away east of the old town, the St. Alban neighbourhood is often referred to as Little Venice because of the millstreams and canals that crisscross through the quarter. Thanks to its charming riverside setting, timber-framed buildings and its many shops selling traditional handicrafts, it’s easy to lose yourself in the romance of St. Alban.
This neighbourhood also gets our vote for as one of the coolest places to stay in Basel because of the way it seamlessly mixes the old with the new. Sitting alongside timber-framed houses you’ll find modern architecture and interesting designs that give this neighbourhood a fascinating atmosphere and flair.
Things to See and Do in St. Alban
– Browse the superb collections at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
– Cheer for FC Basel at St. Jakob-Park, the largest football venue in Switz.erland.
– See experimental and innovative exhibitions at Kunsthaus Baselland
– Explore the cultural heritage of Swiss sports at the Sportmuseum Schweiz.
– Dine on mouthwatering Swiss dishes at Restaurant Aeschenplatz.
– Delve deep into history at the Basel Paper Mill Museum.
– Unleash your inner child at the charming Cartoonmuseum Basel.
Best Hostel in St. Alban: Youthhostel Basel
This is one of the best places in Basel to stay if you’re on a budget because they offer great rooms at a fantastic price. This hostel expertly mixes old world charm with modern architecture. Set at the centre of the city, this hostel is close to Basel’s most famous tourist attractions and restaurants.
Best Hotel in St. Alban: Ibis Budget Basel City
This charming hotel is ideally located in St. Alban. It is in close proximity to popular attractions and landmarks and is within walking distance of shopping, dining and nightlife options. This hotel offers free wifi, air-conditioned rooms, luggage storage and laundry services.
Best Hotel in St. Alban: Dasbreitehotel
Dasbreitehotel is one of the coolest places to stay in Basel. Set in central St. Albans, this hotel is ideally located for drinking, dancing and eating. You’ll also find many top sightseeing attractions, like the Museum of Contemporary Art, just a short walk away. This property is comprised of 36 rooms each outfitted with modern amenities and features.
Best Airbnb in St. Alban: New space close to the old town
This recently refurbished townhouse apartment is ideal for those looking to make the most of the city’s history and culture. The old city centre is just a 15 walk away, and you’ll find public transport links to all the major galleries and museums a breeze from here.
New space close to the old town is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
The Bachletten neighbourhood is centrally located in Basel. It sits south of Altstadt Grossbasel and is adjacent to Gundeldingen and the train station, which makes it one of the best places to stay in Basel if you’re keen to explore. Head off in any direction and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with amazing adventures in Basel.
This neighbourhood is also our top pick for where to stay in Basel for families because it is home to the venerable Basel Zoo. Whether your kids are young or old, every traveller in your pack will love seeing their favourite exotic animals with their own eyes.
Things to See and Do in Bachletten
– Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in beautiful Schützenmatt Park.
– See nearly 7,000 exotic animals, including cheetahs, hippos, flamingoes and snakes, at the incredible Basel Zoo.
– Grab a quick and delicious bite to eat at the Restaurant Pavillon im Park.
– Feast on a fantastic homemade brunch at Salz & Zucker.
– Go for a swim at the Rialto Hallenbad, the only indoor swimming pool in Basel.
– Excite your sense at Sukhothai Restaurant.
– Take a stroll through Benkenpark.
– Start your day with a tasty and satisfying meal at Radius 39.
Best Bed and Breakfast in Bachletten: B&B Laupenring Basel
This delightful bed and breakfast has six rooms. It offers comfortable Basel accommodation right in the heart of Bachletten and is close to the Basel Zoo and popular dining, eating and nightlife options. Guests can enjoy a relaxing seating area and spacious rooms.
Best Hotel in Bachletten: Hotel Balegra
Hotel Balegra is one of our favourite Bachletten hotels because of its great location. This three-star hotel is conveniently situated for exploring Basel and is within walking distance of Basel Zoo. They provide cosy and clean rooms with excellent facilities – and, there are even rooms that can accommodate families.
Best Bed and Breakfast in Bachletten: B&B Adriana
This bed and breakfast gets our vote for where to stay in Basel with kids. It offers spacious rooms with a range of amenities, perfect for families of all shapes and sizes. This property also boasts a sundeck, massage services, luggage storage and on-site laundry facilities. There’s also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.
B&B Adriana is one of our favourites in Basel but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Basel
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Basel and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Basel
World Nomads’ mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently.
They’ve been doing it since 2002 – protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you.
Get a quote below or read our in-depth review!
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Basel
Basel is a stunning city with so much to see and do. From exploring the old town and losing yourself in history to partying the night away on the banks of the Rhine, whatever you fancy, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for – and more – in incredible Basel, Switzerland.
In this Basel neighbourhood guide, we’ve looked at the five best areas to stay in. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a recap of our favourite places.
Hyve Hostel Basel is our pick for the best hostel in Basel because it is close to great restaurants, charming cafes and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away.
Another excellent option is the Steinenschanze Stadthotel. It offers comfortable and spacious rooms, modern amenities, and an excellent location in Basel’s old town.
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
