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

Should you visit Basel or Utrecht?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Utrecht, 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Basel and Utrecht: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Utrecht?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Utrecht than Basel. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Utrecht is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Basel attracts visitors for its museums. Utrecht is more touristy than Basel and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. It is also well known for the Dom Tower. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Utrecht 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 Utrecht?

Basel is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

Basel offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

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

Foodies will find both Basel and Utrecht both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. 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.

Utrecht is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Basel or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Utrecht has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Basel or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Utrecht is revered around the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Utrecht?

Both Basel and Utrecht are very good shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Is Basel or Utrecht Better for Families?

Basel is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Basel is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly city. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Basel or Utrecht Better for Couples?

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

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht is notable for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Basel or Utrecht Better for Students?

Basel and Utrecht are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

Both Basel and Utrecht offer very good public transit options.

Basel has some very good public transit options. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

The public transit in Utrecht can get you to most places easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Is Basel or Utrecht a more walkable city?

Basel and Utrecht both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Utrecht. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Basel?

How long in Basel or Utrecht?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Basel and Utrecht. In our opinion, Utrecht has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Utrecht than Basel. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Utrecht than Basel 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 Utrecht.

One day in Basel or Utrecht?

In Basel, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Utrecht, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Basel or Utrecht?

In Basel, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Basel has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Utrecht. 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 Utrecht?

Basel is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Utrecht is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Utrecht. 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 Utrecht?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Basel. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Utrecht. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Utrecht, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Utrecht much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Utrecht would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Utrecht 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 Utrecht.

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

Which is Bigger, Basel or Utrecht?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel and Utrecht, 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 Utrecht?

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

Both Utrecht and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Basel in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Utrecht for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Basel is generally a little warmer than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 21°C (70°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Utrecht. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Utrecht in the Autumn?

Both Utrecht and Basel during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Basel for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Basel is a little warmer than Utrecht in the autumn. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Utrecht fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets more sunshine than Utrecht. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Utrecht. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Utrecht in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Utrecht. The winter months attract visitors to Basel because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year.

It's quite cold in Utrecht in the winter. The weather in Basel can be very cold. In the winter, Basel is a little warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the winter temperatures in Basel in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Utrecht averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Basel usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Utrecht. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Utrecht in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Basel as well as Utrecht. The natural beauty are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Utrecht for the natural beauty.

In April, Basel is generally much warmer than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 12°C (53°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Utrecht. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Utrecht. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Basel