Inviting you to what many consider the cultural capital of Switzerland, each Basel river cruise is an enriching experience in a city filled with art, history, and more. Due to its location in Northwestern Switzerland, near the border of Germany and France, this beautiful and modern metropolis holds a unique blend of German, French, and Swiss tradition. Sail into Basel along the massive Rhine River, which stretches all the way from its source in Switzerland to where it empties in the North Sea. Basel is a common feature among Rhine River cruises and Swiss river cruises -- and among travelers, is one of Switzerland's most popular cities. 

Old Town District in Basel

The Artist's City

Basel is known for many things -- its diverse culture, phenomenal dining, a long history, immaculately-preserved architecture. Perhaps its most famous feature is its art though. The city has a seemingly endless amount of it, with multiple museums housing historic masterpieces and incredible street art around almost every corner. Creative works are found almost everywhere you look throughout Basel, providing a snapshot of its culture, from past to present.  

One of the most well-known creative events in the city is the famed Art Basel. Happening each year in early Fall, European river cruises visiting at this time are in for a treat. This art fair is one of the largest in the world, designed to connect art collectors and artists. Many of the most renowned modern artists have showcased their works at Art Basel. Starting with only a few Basel art-gallery owners in 1970, the event has grown to take place not just in Basel, but also in Miami, Florida, and Hong Kong. If your Basel cruise takes place at the same time as Art Basel, this event is definitely worth a visit. 

Basel Cruise Ships

Visiting Basel with a river cruise, you'll have the opportunity to see the city in its best way. The Rhine curves right through the middle of Basel, taking your ship up close to all the best sights. Aboard a luxury European river cruise ship, you'll have all the great amenities and features of a five-star hotel. Spacious staterooms, spas, fitness centers, lounges, restaurants, and even movie theaters can all be found on our cruise lines' Rhine-sailing vessels. We offer cruises to Basel from all of our top cruise lines, including Viking River Cruises, Scenic River Cruises, and Uniworld River Cruises. Each presents its own unique features and opportunities while cruising, providing something for every traveler.

Top Attractions for Basel River Cruises

There's lots to do when you arrive in the city, so much so that it can be difficult to decide what's next. When cruising Basel, you'll often only be visiting the city for one day before continuing along the Rhine or flying back home. Because of this, it's important to have a plan, knowing the essential attractions that you'd like to see before your time in Basel comes to a close. Here, with the help of our river cruising experts and our previous travelers, we've weighed in on the best things to do in Basel when you only have one day.

• Kunstmuseum Basel. Famous for being the earliest public collection of art in the world, this museum was founded in 1661. Today, it houses a multitude of collections, from art dating back to the time of the museums founding to an entire room dedicated to Picasso. You'll find historic works from all kinds of artists in Switzerland's largest collection of art, making it one of the most worth-it visits on our list.
• Old Town. Much like the majority of our European cruise cities, the Old Town district is a snapshot into the past that can't be missed. Basel's Old Town is packed with historic buildings, shops, and other tributes to its culture formed by being the crossroads for three different countries. Marktplatz is the center of Old Town, packed with vendors and a great place to sample local delicacies. Basel walking tours in Old Town are a common way to maximize your time and how much you'll learn while in the area.​
• Basel Minster. This historic church was built in the 1300s, overlooking the city of Basel on a spot that was once the site of an ancient Roman fort. Basel Minster is considered one of Basel's best architectural pieces, a popular attraction for architecture and history enthusiasts alike. For the best views of the city and the chance to tour a piece of history, Basel Minster simply can't be missed.
  

Kundstmuseum Basel

Basel Minster

Sailing from Basel, Switzerland

Setting sail from Basel, you'll be traveling along the Rhine River, one of Europe's largest and most populated rivers. Some cruisers go as far as to Rhine River cruise Basel to Amsterdam, all the way up to where the river spills into the North Sea. Other popular cities include Koblenz, Germany, Cologne, Germany, and Strasbourg, France. Sailing from Basel, you'll have access to some of the best castles and historical sites in Europe along the Rhine. A number of cities on the river are home to cultures that invite you to immerse yourself in the traditions and daily life of residents. From history to art to rich culture, you'll find it all along Basel river cruises.

Swiss River Cruises