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

Should you visit Windsor or Basel?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Basel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Basel

Basel is a museum-filled, easily accessible, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Basel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Windsor or Basel?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Basel than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Basel is better known for its historical sights and shopping, while Windsor is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Basel and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town. Also, Basel is famous for The Kunstmuseum Basel.

How is Windsor different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Basel

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Windsor and Basel.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Many visitors head to Basel specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.


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

Windsor
Basel

Foodies will find both Windsor and Basel both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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 Windsor or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Basel

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

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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 Windsor or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Basel

Basel is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Basel. 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Basel?

Windsor
Basel

Basel is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Basel Better for Families?

Windsor
Basel

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

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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Basel Better for Couples?

Windsor
Basel

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

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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


Is Windsor or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Basel

Basel is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Basel Better for Students?

Windsor
Basel

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

Basel is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Windsor
Basel

Basel is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Windsor or Basel a more walkable city?

Windsor
Basel

Basel is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Basel or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Basel?

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

Families should spend more time in Basel than Windsor. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Windsor 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 Windsor or Basel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Basel 1-3

One day in Windsor or Basel?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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.

A weekend in Windsor or Basel?

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

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.


Five days in Windsor or Basel?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Windsor or Basel?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Basel or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, 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 Windsor and Basel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Basel £115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Basel £230
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Basel

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Basel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Basel £37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562

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 Windsor or Basel?

Prices for flights to both Basel and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Basel £49
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Basel £30

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

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
    Windsor £7.55
    Basel £26

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 Windsor and Basel, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Windsor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Windsor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Windsor 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 Windsor.

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Basel?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Basel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Basel. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Basel in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Windsor is cooler than Basel in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Basel fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Basel this time of the year. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Basel during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Basel. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Basel 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Basel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Basel. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Basel for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Windsor is cooler than Basel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Basel averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Basel. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Basel. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Basel 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Basel in the Winter?

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

The weather in Basel can be very cold. Windsor can be very cold during winter. In January, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Basel. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Basel 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Basel in the Spring?

Both Basel and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

Windsor is cooler than Basel in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Basel fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Basel. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Basel. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Basel 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Basel and Windsor

Windsor Basel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)