After the swimming season in Basel is over, a lot of locals prefer to go to Germany or France to spend their free time, because it’s very close and way (WAAAY!) cheaper. I must admit – I do it often myself. I know that it’s very easy to spend a fortune in Basel, but it’s possible to have a great time without breaking the bank. And as it’s getting colder outside now and as the weather can be disappointing sometimes, many of you may struggle with planning the free time. I’m sharing 7 ideas of spending quality time in the city.

1. Basel Autumn Fair Herbstmesse

The tradition of this event reaches back to more than 500 years ago. This huge fair stretches over the entire city! All the main squares of Basel will be full of attractions starting from 27th October this year. My favourite ones are the Big Wheel (Münsterplatz) that lets you enjoy the panoramic view over the city and the Thrill Rides at Kaserne followed by some delicious local food at Petersplatz.

If you’re still not convinced, you can take  a long walk along the river in Kleinbasel and enjoy all the colorful lights and obviously stop near Mittlere Bruecke to take a picture of the Big Wheel with Münster!

2. Visit a museum

Basel homes up to 40 museums and has the highest concentration of museums in the country. Why not to discover them? Most of the museums in Basel have free admission on the first Sunday of the month. If you want to visit any museum of Basel on a different day, then you can get yourself BaselCard which lets you to get discounts on visiting museums and also on other cultural offers and attractions.
My two favourite museums in Basel are: Kunstmuseum – FREE ENTERANCE ON 1st SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH! (St. Alban-Graben 16) and Natural History Museum of Basel (Augustinergasse 2).

3. Take a ferry

If you stroll around the city and look for something to do, you should definitely take a short boat trip. You can find one of the location of these traditional wooden ferry boats and timetables here . You pay only CHF 1.60 for adults and 0.80 for kids and can reach the other side of the river. I know it’s just few minutes, but it’s definitely a great experience!

4. Explore the flea market

Flohmarkt at Petersplatz takes place every Saturday morning in Basel (from 8:00 to 16:00). It’s a popular meeting point for people, who love second-hand goods. You can find anything there – from antiques through kitchen appliance to clothes. This market sells everything you would need – at extremely low prices. If you’re into that kind of thing then take some time to browse the many stands and you may uncover something special.

5. Visit the Botanic Garden

I came across the Botanic Garden by accident, while coming back home from the Flohmarkt last winter. This is my favourite green area in Basel. This botanic garden is not huge but there are plenty of uncommon exotic plants and trees. For me personally, the best part was the beautiful birds flying around and singing. The entry is free. What should I add more?

The garden is located at on  Schoenbeinstrasse 6. It’s open everyday, also on public holidays.

The opening hours: April – October: 8:00-18:00 and November – March: 8:00-17:00.

6. Climb the Münster tower

I’m not going to lie- it’s quite a climb! If you’re not scared of heights and don’t mind tight spaces – I highly recommend it! After making your way to the top you can enjoy the best views over three countries and an amazing panorama of Basel. I couldn’t stop snapping pictures!

The entrance is 5chf per person and totally worth it!

7. Take a long stroll

Go for a long walk starting from Kaserne, and walk up to the Gate of Spalen. My favourite (and obviously the most instagrammable route) is already featured in my Instagram highlight “My Basel”. Click HERE and check it out! Separate post with a complete guide is coming soon!

Enjoy your Autumn days!