Basel is a beautiful city known for its many museums and its nice old town. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Basel that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Basel?
You should plan to spend around $311 (Sfr256) per day on your vacation in Basel. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $117 (Sfr96) on meals
- $51 (Sfr42) on local transportation
- $318 (Sfr261) on hotels
A one week trip to Basel for two people costs, on average, $4,359 (Sfr3,584). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$2,180
Sfr1,792
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$4,359
Sfr3,584
-
One Month
Per person
$9,341
Sfr7,680
-
One Week
For a couple
$4,359
Sfr3,584
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$8,719
Sfr7,168
-
One Month
For a couple
$18,683
Sfr15,360
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Basel cost?
A one week trip to Basel usually costs around $2,180 (Sfr1,792) for one person and $4,359 (Sfr3,584) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Basel on average costs around $4,359 (Sfr3,584) for one person and $8,719 (Sfr7,168) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Basel will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Basel on average costs around $9,341 (Sfr7,680) for one person and $18,683 (Sfr15,360) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Basel expensive to visit?
Basel is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Basel can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $136 (Sfr112) per day, mid-range travelers spend $312 (Sfr256) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $604 (Sfr497) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Basel.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Basel is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Venice or Lesbos.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Basel Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Basel?
The average Basel trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Basel travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Basel cost?
Basel on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$69
(Sfr57)
|
$159
(Sfr131)
|
$303
(Sfr249)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$22
(Sfr18)
|
$51
(Sfr42)
|
$103
(Sfr85)
|
|
Food2
|
$51
(Sfr42)
|
$117
(Sfr96)
|
$227
(Sfr187)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$17
(Sfr14)
|
$41
(Sfr34)
|
$91
(Sfr75)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$8-23
(Sfr6-19)
|
$18-55
(Sfr15-45)
|
$38-113
(Sfr31-93)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Basel, it's important to have realistic expectations about your budget. Many believe they can travel on a shoestring, but that often leads to either uncomfortable travel experiences or some surprisingly high expenses. Consider your vacation style. Do you enjoy staying in hostels, resorts, regular hotels, or vacation rentals? Are attractions and dining experiences a priority? These factors will affect how much you spend and your itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $136 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Basel has plenty of hostels available, like Hyve Hostel Basel, Basel Backpack, and Basel Youth Hostel. Here, you can enjoy low-cost dorm lodging and a vibrant social environment, though amenities might be minimal. Lastly, the city offers an effective public transit system, enabling budget travelers to sidestep expensive taxis or rideshares.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Visitors to Basel typically prioritize the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks during their stay. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $312 per person, per day.
There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available in Basel. If you're traveling with companions, sharing a hotel with a partner, friend, or kids can help lower costs. Families should seek out hotels and dining options that are suitable for children. Hotel Schweizerhof Basel is a wonderful family-friendly hotel, and GAIA Hotel Basel is another excellent choice. For more family and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel cost guide for Basel here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $604 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the city, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private direct transfer: Basel to Zurich, English speaking driver - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Basel
Basel has a wide range of hotel prices. Luxury hotels come with higher price tags and better amenities, and prices are much steeper during peak season. On average, a room costs $114 in the off-season and averages $213 during peak summer season. Overall, you can expect prices from $86 to $310. Hostels, especially dorms, are cheaper alternatives. You can save by traveling in the low season, booking in advance, or looking for special offers.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Basel for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $318 (Sfr261). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $159 (Sfr131) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Basel? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Basel include:
- GAIA Hotel Basel starting at $148
- Nomad Design & Lifestyle Hotel starting at $132
- Hotel Spalentor starting at $125
- B & B Auf dem Wolf St Jakob starting at $101
- Hotel Victoria Basel starting at $136
The great public transit system in Basel gives you the option to stay outside the city, but keep in mind that while it may save you on lodging, it could cost more in transit.
If you're headed to Basel with your family, you'll likely want to look for accommodations with more room to spread out.
By skipping summer and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Walking is a favorite way for many to see Basel, so look for lodging in a prime location. Keep in mind, though, that this can raise your expenses.
The city's alluring old town pulls in numerous visitors. Although hotels in this area can be more expensive, they typically offer plenty of charm and convenient access to nearby attractions.
Transportation Budget in Basel
Getting around Basel is easy thanks to its excellent public transportation. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town. For an affordable and speedy option, public transit is your best bet, though taxis and rideshares are available for added convenience.
If you love to explore on foot, you'll really enjoy your time in the city. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (excellent)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $51 (Sfr42) per person, per day, on local transportation in Basel. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Basel is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$51
Sfr42
Most people choose to walk around Basel. The city itself is quite small and there are some fascinating narrow, winding roads that weave their way through the city. There are also a number of areas around town that are pedestrian only and closed off to vehicular traffic. Specifically, some of the more popular shopping streets are limited to foot traffic only. You will find yourself walking a good amount in Basel, particularly on uneven cobblestone streets that can be somewhat difficult to navigate. For this reason it is important that you be prepared with proper footwear.
If you're traveling a greater distance, the city does offer a good tram and bus system that is relatively easy to understand and navigate. Both the trams and buses are usually on time and affordable. They are convenient and provide you with access to most of the city.
Bicycling is also easy in Basel as the city is very bike friendly with many well marked bike lanes and amenities for bicyclists. Bikes can be rented from the Rent-a-Bike underground bike park that is located at Centralbahnplatz under the Basel SBB railway station.
There are four small ferry boats that operate in Basel as well. The most popular one is the one that starts in Grossbasel just below the Munster. There are also day excursions that go up and down the Rhine on large motor boats.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Arrival Private Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van for $127 details
- Basel Airport (BSL) to Basel - Arrival Private Transfer for $91 details
- Departure Private Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car for $115 details
How much does it cost to go to Basel? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Basel will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Basel
Cuisine in Basel is good, but it's not well known enough to draw in tourists for the restaurant scene. Still, there are a handful of excellent dining spots in the city to discover. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Basel can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Basel is $117 (Sfr96) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$117
Sfr96
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Basel is around $117 (Sfr96) per person, with previous travelers spending from $51 to $227. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Basel are as follows:
- Breakfast: $12 to $35
- Lunch: $18 to $47
- Dinner: $35 to $82
- Coffee: $9
- Fast Food or Street Food: $18
There is a very good and diverse number of restaurants and cafes around Basel. Around the streets of the old town you'll find many cafes that offer outdoor seating during the summer months. In general, the food in Basel is more expensive than elsewhere in Europe, but comparable to that in other Swiss cities. The cheapest option for budget travelers is to buy some food at a supermarket and prepare your own meals. Most of the supermarkets close early in the evening, so if you hope to do this, then it is best to plan ahead earlier in the day. It is also possible to cross the border into nearby France or Germany and dine for slightly less money.
When you're on the road with kids, look for eateries that have a kids' menu. This can lead to considerable savings, as those meals are generally less expensive. Some restaurants might not highlight their kids' options, so don't hesitate to ask the waiter before you order.
A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Why not save some bucks and enjoy the sights by having a picnic? Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful spot to enjoy your meal.
Keep a water bottle with you to cut down on drink purchases. It's also better for the environment.
Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Basel, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Homemade Italian Pizza & Focaccia Experience with a Local Family for $168 details
- Traditional Swiss Dinner: Cheese Fondue, Appetizers and Dessert for $162 details
- Traditional Swiss Dinner: Cheese Fondue, Appetizers/Dessert for $160 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Basel
It's no wonder that so many visitors make their way to Basel for its museums and attractions, historical sights, family-friendly activities, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Basel typically cost an average of $41 (Sfr34) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$41
Sfr34
Because Basel has a rich cultural history, you'll find a good number of interesting sights around town. Many of the sights are concentrated in the old town area, which is between the Basel Zool and the Rhine. This area is easily walkable and a great place to explore. Many of the stores close on Sundays, so it is best to save museums, which are usually open, for that day.
Sights around town include Marktplatz, or the Market Square, Rathaus, the town hall, the Gates to the Walled City, Kunstmuseum Basel, Fondation Beyeler, Museum Jean Tinguely, Schaulager and Museum der Kulturen among many others. You can wander around the cobblestone streets from Marktplatz to Munsterplatz (Cathedral Square). There you can see Basel's Munster, or cathedral, which was built between 1019 and 1500 in the Romanesque and Gothic style. Make sure you check out the views from the Pfalz, or plaza, that is north of the Munster. They look out over the Rhine and are some of the best around town. It's also a great area to enjoy a picnic.
In addition to seeing the countless sights around town, there are many activities you can enjoy in Basel. Theater is quite popular in Basel, as are sporting events such as football (soccer). There are any number of music concerts going on around town on any given week and there are often festivals or art shows that are well worth a visit.
Museums and Attractions:
The museums and landmarks in Basel are some of the most famous in the world. 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.
Historical Sights:
A significant number of visitors flock to the historic 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.
Shopping:
Be sure to enjoy the shopping here, as it's an experience you won't forget. 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.
A nice way to explore destinations in Basel is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Homemade Italian Lasagna Experience with a Local Family for $168 details
- Basel Private City Tour: Highlights And Hidden Gems for $112 details
- Basel Private City Tour with Chocolate tasting for $168 details
Nightlife Budget in Basel
While Basel offers some nightlife options, they aren't as bustling as those in other more popular locations. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $37 (Sfr30) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Basel per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$37
Sfr30
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
When drinking at night, be mindful of your surroundings, as pickpockets and other crimes can happen. Stay safe by sticking with a group of trusted people.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Basel. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Alsace wine tour & medieval villages small group guided tour for $351 details
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 27, 2025
Traveling in Basel
Basel, Switzerland
Basel is often overlooked as a tourist destination in Switzerland, but despite this, it does have a lot to offer visitors as well as a beautiful medieval historic center. Every year it also hosts a Carnival festival that is one of the most popular in Europe, competing with those in Venice and Rio de Janeiro in its popularity. There are also some excellent museums and great examples of regional architecture around town. Basel also serves as an excellent entry point to the Swiss Jura mountains and a jumping off point to visit more popular cities such as Zurich or Lucerne.
The town is located in the northwestern corner of the country and has a border with both France and Germany. This location means it's also a good entry point to the French region of Alsace and the German Black Forest.
Basel averages about 120 days of rain or snow every year and the rainiest month is June when you can expect rain for about 11 days. February is the driest month but snowfall is not uncommon.
Neighborhoods & Around
Most of Basel's sights and attractions are concentrated in the old town area, which is easily walkable. The area stretches from the Basel Zoo, which is just south of the Basel SBB train station, to the Rhine.
Related:
Are you a student or backpacker headed to Switzerland or Austria?
Need a hostel in Zurich or Vienna?
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
Many trains pass through Basel, so we've passed through a couple of times. It's more affordable than many Swiss cities, but still more expensive than most of Europe. If you want to visit Switzerland without the extremely high costs, then this is a good stop off, but it won't let you experience the Alps like you will in other places.