My journey through Basel, Switzerland began with a scenic trip from Colmar, France. The short train ride provided a glimpse of the picturesque landscapes before I arrived at the Basel SBB Train Station. From here, I started my adventure by walking to the Basel Historical Museum – Barfuesserkirche, located at Barfüsserplatz. I admired the stunning exterior of this historic site, housed in a medieval church, which is one of the oldest museums in Basel.
After taking in the views of Barfuesserkirche, I walked to the Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel, just a short stroll away. I enjoyed observing the architecture and the building’s historical significance from the outside.
Next, I wandered to the Basler Münster, the majestic Gothic cathedral that dominates Basel’s skyline. I entered the cathedral and was in awe of its impressive interior. The intricate stained glass windows, high vaulted ceilings, and historic artifacts made it a truly unforgettable experience.
After soaking in the grandeur of the cathedral, I walked to the nearby University of Basel Botanical Garden, which offered a peaceful escape with lush greenery and panoramic views of the city.
By now, I was ready to head toward the Rhine River, so I made my way to the iconic Mittlere Brücke, one of Basel’s most famous bridges. As I walked across, I marveled at the scenic views of the river and the cityscape, appreciating the contrast between the old and new sides of Basel.
On the other side of the river, I visited the Basler Pfalz, a stunning viewpoint that gave me a beautiful panorama of the Rhine and the city. Afterward, I crossed the Dreirosenbrücke Basel, which offered yet another incredible view of the river.
As my day came to a close, I ventured towards the Three Countries Bridge (Dreiländerbrücke), which links Switzerland, France, and Germany. Standing on the bridge, I reflected on the unique geographical location of Basel, where the borders of three countries meet at the Rhine River.
There were several places I had hoped to visit but didn’t have the time to explore: Schützenmattpark, Kannenfeldpark, Schwarz Park, Basler Papiermühle – Schweizerisches Museum für Papier, Schrift und Druck, St. Alban Tor, and Margarethenpark. These are definitely on my list for the next time I visit Basel!
After a full day of exploring Basel, I hopped on a train and continued my journey to Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. The short journey across the border was a perfect way to end the day, as I strolled through the medieval streets of Freiburg, soaking in the charm of this beautiful German city.
If you find yourself in Basel during the summer or fall, don’t miss the Basel Herbstmesse (Autumn Fair), a lively event that brings the streets to life with fun rides, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and add a bit of excitement to your trip!
