A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Basel for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Basel?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Basel can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

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.

Nottingham and Basel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Basel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nottingham than Basel. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nottingham is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Basel attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Nottingham different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Basel

Basel is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


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

Nottingham
Basel

Both Nottingham and Basel offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Basel has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Nottingham or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Basel

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Basel.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Basel has a few options to choose from. 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 Nottingham or Basel Better for Music?

Nottingham
Basel

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Basel is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Nottingham active and fun. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Basel is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Basel

Basel is well known for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

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.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Basel?

Nottingham
Basel

Shopping is a popular activity in both Basel and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Basel is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Nottingham or Basel Better for Families?

Nottingham
Basel

Basel is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.


Is Nottingham or Basel Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Basel

Both Nottingham and Basel are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Basel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Nottingham or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Basel

Basel is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Basel Better for Students?

Nottingham
Basel

Basel is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


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

Nottingham
Basel

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Nottingham and Basel.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit in Basel can get you to some places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Nottingham or Basel a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Basel

Basel is very popular for its walkability. Also, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Basel or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Basel than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

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

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Basel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Basel 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Basel?

In Nottingham, many people enjoy the live music and food that this livable destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant 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.


A weekend in Nottingham or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

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.

Five days in Nottingham or Basel?

Nottingham is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Nottingham. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Nottingham or Basel?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Nottingham. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Basel or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Basel is £190. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Basel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Basel £115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Basel £230
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Basel

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Basel? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Basel


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Basel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Basel £37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Basel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Basel:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car: $108
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Car: $157
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • ONE WAY: Basel Train Station (ZDH) to / from Basel transfer: $88
  • Private Direct Transfer from Basel to Zurich: $205
  • Private One-way Transfer From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $186
  • Private Transfer From Basel To Bern With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $224
  • Private Transfer from Basel to Zurich with 3h Sightseeing Stops: $251
  • Private Transfer: Basel Airport BSL to Zurich in Luxury Van: $261
  • Private direct transfer from Basel to Lucerne with a local driver: $177
  • Private transfer from Basel to Strasbourg with a local driver: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Basel?

Prices for flights to both Basel and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Basel £49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Basel £30

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Basel

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Basel are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Basel Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Basel's Portrait Self Guided Audio City Tour: $5.60
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.99
  • The Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Uncover Basel's Charms: In-App Audio Tour of Cultural Gems: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Basel (Kleinbasel) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Basel £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Basel

Also in Basel, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Meet People and Hidden Bars and Clubs: $33
  • Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg: $279
  • Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!: $285
  • Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel: $289


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Basel?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Basel, 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 Nottingham or Basel?

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 Nottingham or Basel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Basel. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nottingham is cooler than Basel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nottingham in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Basel averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Basel this time of the year. Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Basel during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Basel. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Basel 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Basel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Basel. The autumn months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

In October, Nottingham is generally cooler than Basel. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

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

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Basel. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Basel 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Basel in the Winter?

Both Basel and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. It's quite cold in Nottingham in the winter. Nottingham is a little warmer than Basel in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Basel during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Basel. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Basel 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Basel in the Spring?

Both Basel and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nottingham is cooler than Basel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Basel averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Basel. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Basel. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Basel 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Basel and Nottingham

Nottingham Basel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)