A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Basel vs. Dusseldorf for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Basel or Dusseldorf?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Dusseldorf, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Basel and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Dusseldorf?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dusseldorf than Basel. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dusseldorf is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Basel attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and impressive beauty. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town. Dusseldorf is famous for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also well known for Altstadt (the Old Town).

How is Basel different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dusseldorf and Basel. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Basel or Dusseldorf?

Basel is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is the Food Better in Basel or Dusseldorf? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dusseldorf is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Dusseldorf. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Basel and Dusseldorf.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dusseldorf. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Basel and Dusseldorf both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Basel to see the historical old town. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Dusseldorf is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Dusseldorf?

Basel is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Basel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Basel and Dusseldorf are both great destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dusseldorf. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Dusseldorf is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Basel and Dusseldorf are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Dusseldorf is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Basel is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Many students visit Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dusseldorf is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Dusseldorf can get you around easily. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

The public transit in Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Basel or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Basel is very popular for its walkability. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable city. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Basel?

How long in Basel or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Basel and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Basel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Basel than Dusseldorf. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

Families should spend more time in Basel than Dusseldorf. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Basel, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Basel. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dusseldorf that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Dusseldorf if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Basel.

One day in Basel or Dusseldorf?

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Basel, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Basel, one day is sufficent for most.

In Dusseldorf, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Dusseldorf?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Basel, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Dusseldorf?

Basel, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Dusseldorf?

Basel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Dusseldorf. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Dusseldorf, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Dusseldorf much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dusseldorf would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dusseldorf and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Dusseldorf.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Basel Expensive? and Is Dusseldorf Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Basel or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel and Dusseldorf, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Basel or Dusseldorf?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Basel or Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Dusseldorf. Many travelers come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Basel is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 21°C (70°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Dusseldorf. Many visitors come to Basel in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Basel is a little warmer than Dusseldorf in the autumn. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in October than Dusseldorf. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. Basel can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Basel is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Typically, the winter temperatures in Basel in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Basel usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

Both Dusseldorf and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Basel because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

In April, Basel is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 12°C (53°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Dusseldorf. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Basel