Basel is one of the most underrated tourist destinations in Switzerland. With its beautiful old town, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine and thriving cultural scene, this Swiss city is definitely worthy of a spot on your travel bucket list.
But, the only downside to Basel is that it can be crazy expensive. Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Basel.
Written by travellers for travellers, this guide will give you an in-depth look at Basel’s best neighborhoods, so you’ll know exactly where to stay based on your needs.
So, whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, a party animal or a family of four, this Basel neighborhood guide will get you where you need to be!
Let’s get right to it. Here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Basel, Switzerland.
Looking for a specific place to stay in Switzerland? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Basel.
Hyve Hostel Basel | Best Hostel in Basel
The Hyve Hostel is our pick for the best hostel in Basel and sets a high standard for the Switzerland hostel experience. It is surrounded by great restaurants and charming cafes, and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away.
And, because of its great location near the train station, this is our pick for where to stay in Basel for one night.
Steinenschanze Stadthotel | Best Hotel in Basel
This is our pick for the best hotel in Basel because of its fantastic central location. Steinenschanze Stadthotel is situated at the heart of Basel’s tourist district. It is close to top tourist attractions and landmarks, and there are so many restaurants nearby. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities.
Classic space with great views | Best Airbnb in Basel
A cosy space with lots of natural light and a timeless view will help you feel situated in no time. Besides your room, you have access to a bathroom (with shower), living room and kitchen. There is also a small garden, shared with the neighbors, that you can use!
Altstadt Grossbasel
At the heart and centre of the city is the Altstadt Grossbasel neighbourhood. Home to one of the most intact and beautiful old towns in Europe, Altstadt Grossbasel is the best neighbourhood to stay in Basel if you’re a history buff, culture vulture, or simply someone who wants to be surrounded by impressive architecture.
Gundeldingen
Gundeldinen is one of the first neighbourhoods many visitors experience in Basel because it is home to the massive Basel rail station. Thanks to the train station, this is one of the best-connected neighbourhoods in the city.
Altstadt Kleinbasel
Altstadt Kleinbasel is a large neighbourhood located on the northern side of the Rhine River. It sits across from Basel’s old town and is characterized by its buzzing squares, bustling bars and boisterous restaurants.
St. Alban
St. Alban is a neighbourhood bursting with myth, mystery and romance. Tucked away east of the old town, the St. Alban neighbourhood is often referred to as Little Venice because of the millstreams and canals that crisscross through the quarter.
Bachletten
The Bachletten neighbourhood is centrally located in Basel. It sits south of Altstadt Grossbasel and is adjacent to Gundeldingen and the train station, which makes it one of the best places to stay in Basel if you’re keen to explore.
Basel is a modern and cosmopolitan city set in the northwestern corner of Switzerland. It is the third largest city in the country and is situated in the Dreiländereck region where France, Switzerland and Germany meet.
One of the most important cities in the country, Basel is packed with excellent tourist attractions and historical landmarks. It has a charming old town centre, a lively and vibrant arts scene, a handful of world-class museums, as well as unique and interesting cuisine.
The city covers an area of more than 23 square kilometres. It is divided into three main municipalities, which are home to 19 distinct quarters.
This guide will highlight the best places in Basel to stay based on interest, budget and need.
Kleinbasel is located at the centre of the city on the north side of the Rhine River. It is in the lesser Basel district and is one of the best places to stay in Basel for nightlife.
Across the river is Altstadt Grossbasel. Best known for hosting Basel’s old town, Altstadt Grossbasel is the best neighborhood to stay in Basel for visitors who want to see all the sights and be surrounded by exceptional architecture.
Travel east from here and you’ll arrive in St. Albans. One of the coolest places to stay in the city, St. Albans boasts charming canals and winding millstreams along with delicious restaurants and unique boutiques.
Set west of St. Albans is Gundeldingen. Home to the city’s main rail station, this is the best neighborhood in Basel to stay in for travellers on a budget because of its excellent selection of good-value accommodations.
Bachletten is a charming neighborhood in southwestern Basel. It boasts an excellent variety of activities, attractions, and landmarks, including the Basel Zoo, which is why it’s our top recommendation for where to stay in Basel with kids.
Still not sure which is the best neighborhood to stay in Basel? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Basel’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look in more detail at the best areas to stay in Basel. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the neighborhood that best suits your needs.
1. Altstadt Grossbasel – Where to Stay in Basel for Your First Time
At the heart and centre of the city is the Altstadt Grossbasel neighborhood. Home to one of the most intact and beautiful old towns in Europe, Altstadt Grossbasel is the best neighborhood to stay in Basel if you’re a history buff, culture vulture, or simply someone who wants to be surrounded by impressive architecture. Here you can enjoy a myriad of incredible landmarks and tourist attractions, as well as restaurants, shops and cafes.
Our top choice for where to stay in Basel for your first time, Alstadt Grossbasel is a neighborhood that is easy and enjoyable to navigate on foot. We encourage visitors to explore the city centre on foot and to lose themselves in the history of the city.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Hotel Stadthof | Best Hotel in Altstadt Grossbasel
Hotel Stadthof is an excellent Basel accommodation option for travellers on a budget because it offers elegant rooms at an affordable price. Set at the centre of the city, this two-star hotel is close to a variety of bars and restaurants as well as popular tourist attractions.
Steinenschanze Stadthotel | Best Hotel in Altstadt Grossbasel
This is our pick for the best hotel in Basel because of its central location. Steinenschanze Stadthotel is situated at the heart of Basel’s tourist district. It is close to popular attractions and landmarks, and there are plenty of restaurants nearby. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities.
Hotel Rochat | Best Hotel in Altstadt Grossbasel
Located at the heart of the old town, this hotel is in one of Basel’s best neighborhoods for sightseeing. By staying here, you’ll have a wide range of activities, attractions, restaurants and bars just a short walk away. This hotel has recently refurbished rooms with contemporary features.
Classic space with great views | Best Airbnb in Altstadt Grossbasel
A cosy space with lots of natural light and a timeless view will help you feel situated in no time. Besides your room, you have access to a bathroom (with shower), living room and kitchen. There is also a small garden, shared with the neighbors, that you can use!
Things to See and Do in Altstadt Grossbasel
- Marvel at the incredible and colourful Basler Münster.
- Be amazed by the bright red City Hall (Rathaus).
- Shop, snack and sample your way through Marktplatz.
- Cross the Mittlere Brücke.
- Enjoy a dynamic, experimental and incredible collection of art at Kunsthalle Basel.
- Take a boat cruise along the mighty Rhine river.
- Learn to make chocolate at Chocolatier Beschle.
- Dine on delicious Swiss dishes at Cheval Blanc.
- Indulge at Schlüsselzunft.
- Sip a glass of wine at Invino.
- Drink cocktails on the patio at Club 59.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Gundeldingen – Where to Stay in Basel on a Budget
Gundeldinen is one of the first neighborhoods many visitors experience in Basel because it is home to the massive Basel rail station. Thanks to the train station, this is one of the best-connected neighborhoods in the city.
But there’s so much more to Gundeldingen than transportation and transit. This southern quarter is well-known for its diversity of cultural influences. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, and a great range of cultural activities.
Gundeldingen is also our top pick for where to stay in Basel on a budget because tucked throughout Gundeldingen’s streets are a handful of Basel backpacker hostels as well as good value and affordable hotels.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Hyve Hostel Basel | Best Hostel in Gundeldingen
This is the best hostel in Basel. It is surrounded by great restaurants and charming cafes, and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away.
And, because of its great location near the train station, this is our pick for where to stay in Basel for one night.
Basel BackPack | Best Hotel in Gundeldingen
The Basel BackPack is a charming hotel that is perfect for budget travellers. Not only is it situated near the train station, but it is close to a number of popular restaurants, bars, shops and attractions. This hotel offers comfortable rooms and boasts a delicious on-site restaurant.
Everything you need and a little more! | Best Airbnb in Gundeldingen
A pretty minimal room at a very minimal price. You’ll have access to shared amenities, and it’s only a short walk to the train station, very efficient, just like the space itself.
Apaliving – Budgethotel | Best Apartment in Gundeldingen
Thanks to its excellent location and comfortable beds, this is one of our favourite properties in Gundeldingen. It provides a range of spacious rooms that are well-equipped with a coffee/tea maker and a refrigerator as well as an en-suite bathroom. Guests can also enjoy a great selection of dining, shopping and nightlife options nearby.
Things to See and Do in Gundeldingen
- Visit the Strassburger Denkmal statue.
- Go for a stroll through Pruntrutermatte.
- Aim for a strike at the Bowling Center Basel.
- Tease your taste buds at the Istanbul Kebap House.
- Enjoy a coffee at Café del Mundo.
- Dine on a delicious cordon bleu at Restaurant zur Wanderruh.
- Grab a slice at Pizza Time.
- Feast on Swiss dishes at Restaurant Bundesbahn.
- Eat a mouthwatering meal at Werk 8.
- Excite your sense by dining in the dark at blindekuh Basel.
- Sip an amazing coffee at La Columbiana Kaffeeroesterei.
3. Altstadt Kleinbasel – Where to Stay in Basel for Nightlife
Altstadt Kleinbasel is a large neighborhood located on the northern side of the Rhine River. It sits across from Basel’s old town and is characterized by its buzzing squares, bustling bars and boisterous restaurants. Because there’s such a great selection to choose from, Altstadt Kleinbasel wins our vote for where to stay in Basel for nightlife.
What used to be referred to as lesser Basel, Altstadt Kleinbasel is today one of the most popular districts in the city. On any given night you’ll find tourists and locals alike flocking to Altstadt Kleinbasel to enjoy a few drinks, a great meal and an unforgettable night on the town.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Easyhotel Basel | Best Budget Hotel in Altstadt Kleinbasel
This charming hotel is one of the best places to stay in Basel if you’re looking for nightlife because it is so close to bars, clubs and restaurants. They offer comfortable rooms and a range of features, including luggage storage, private baths and an on-site restaurant.
Hotel Rheinfelderhof | Best Hotel in Altstadt Kleinbasel
This traditional two-star hotel is conveniently located in Altstadt Kleinbasel. It is a short walk to the city’s top tourist attractions, and there are plenty of dining, shopping and nightlife options nearby. Rooms are recently refurbished and each comes complete with a variety of modern amenities.
Party in style! | Best Airbnb in Altstadt Kleinbasel
A room for two at an affordable price is always welcome, especially when it comes complete with near panoramic city views, your own viranda, and a rooftop hottub to boot! The perfect place to start off your evening, or come back to for the wind-down!
Hotel Balade | Best Hotel in Altstadt Kleinbasel
The Hotel Balade is in the best area in Basel to stay for nightlife. Not only are there are a number of bars and clubs nearby, but you’ll be within walking distance of amazing restaurants and cultural attractions. This property provides modern rooms, laundry facilities and a terrace. There’s also a restaurant and lounge bar on-site.
Things to See and Do in Altstadt Kleinbasel
- Indulge in Swiss dishes and sophisticated cocktails at Volkhaus.
- Enjoy a mouthwatering meal on the banks of the Rhine at Rhywyera.
- Dance the night away at Jägerhalle.
- Sip unique cocktails at Bar Rouge.
- Listen to live music at Sääli.
- Treat yourself to a night of hip drinks and good conversations at Concierge Bar.
- Dine on delicious contemporary European dishes at La Fourchette.
- Kickstart your day with a fantastic coffee at Café Frühling.
- Grab a pint and rock out at Irrsinn Bar.
- Sample signature cocktails at Angels’ Share Cocktailbar.
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Grab an eSIM!4. St. Alban – Coolest Place to Stay in Basel
St. Alban is a neighborhood bursting with myth, mystery and romance. Tucked away east of the old town, the St. Alban neighborhood is often referred to as Little Venice because of the millstreams and canals that crisscross through the quarter. Thanks to its charming riverside setting, timber-framed buildings and its many shops selling traditional handicrafts, it’s easy to lose yourself in the romance of St. Alban.
This neighbourhood also gets our vote for as one of the coolest places to stay in Basel because of the way it seamlessly mixes the old with the new. Sitting alongside timber-framed houses you’ll find modern architecture and interesting designs that give this neighborhood a fascinating atmosphere and flair.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Youthhostel Basel | Best Hostel in St. Alban
This is one of the best places in Basel to stay if you’re on a budget because they offer great rooms at a fantastic price. This hostel expertly mixes old world charm with modern architecture. Set at the centre of the city, this hostel is close to Basel’s most famous tourist attractions and restaurants.
Ibis Budget Basel City | Best Hotel in St. Alban
This charming hotel is ideally located in St. Alban. It is in close proximity to popular attractions and landmarks and is within walking distance of shopping, dining and nightlife options. This hotel offers free wifi, air-conditioned rooms, luggage storage and laundry services.
Dasbreitehotel | Best Hotel in St. Alban
Dasbreitehotel is one of the coolest places to stay in Basel. Set in central St. Albans, this hotel is ideally located for drinking, dancing and eating. You’ll also find many top sightseeing attractions, like the Museum of Contemporary Art, just a short walk away. This property is comprised of 36 rooms each outfitted with modern amenities and features.
New space close to the old town | Best Airbnb in St. Alban
This recently refurbished townhouse apartment is ideal for those looking to make the most of the city’s history and culture. The old city centre is just a 15 walk away, and you’ll find public transport links to all the major galleries and museums a breeze from here.
Things to See and Do in St. Alban
- Browse the superb collections at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Cheer for FC Basel at St. Jakob-Park, the largest football venue in Switz.erland.
- See experimental and innovative exhibitions at Kunsthaus Baselland
- Explore the cultural heritage of Swiss sports at the Sportmuseum Schweiz.
- Dine on mouthwatering Swiss dishes at Restaurant Aeschenplatz.
- Delve deep into history at the Basel Paper Mill Museum.
- Unleash your inner child at the charming Cartoonmuseum Basel.
5. Bachletten – Where to Stay in Basel for Families
The Bachletten neighborhood is centrally located in Basel. It sits south of Altstadt Grossbasel and is adjacent to Gundeldingen and the train station, which makes it one of the best places to stay in Basel if you’re keen to explore. Head off in any direction and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with amazing adventures in Basel.
This neighborhood is also our top pick for where to stay in Basel for families because it is home to the venerable Basel Zoo. Whether your kids are young or old, every traveller in your pack will love seeing their favourite exotic animals with their own eyes.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
B&B Laupenring Basel | Best Bed and Breakfast in Bachletten
This delightful bed and breakfast has six rooms. It offers comfortable Basel accommodation right in the heart of Bachletten and is close to the Basel Zoo and popular dining, eating and nightlife options. Guests can enjoy a relaxing seating area and spacious rooms.
Hotel Balegra | Best Hotel in Bachletten
Hotel Balegra is one of our favourite Bachletten hotels because of its great location. This three-star hotel is conveniently situated for exploring Basel and is within walking distance of Basel Zoo. They provide cosy and clean rooms with excellent facilities – and, there are even rooms that can accommodate families.
B&B Adriana | Best Bed and Breakfast in Bachletten
This bed and breakfast gets our vote for where to stay in Basel with kids. It offers spacious rooms with a range of amenities, perfect for families of all shapes and sizes. This property also boasts a sundeck, massage services, luggage storage and on-site laundry facilities. There’s also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.
Things to See and Do in Bachletten
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in beautiful Schützenmatt Park.
- See nearly 7,000 exotic animals, including cheetahs, hippos, flamingoes and snakes, at the incredible Basel Zoo.
- Grab a quick and delicious bite to eat at the Restaurant Pavillon im Park.
- Feast on a fantastic homemade brunch at Salz & Zucker.
- Go for a swim at the Rialto Hallenbad, the only indoor swimming pool in Basel.
- Excite your sense at Sukhothai Restaurant.
- Take a stroll through Benkenpark.
- Start your day with a tasty and satisfying meal at Radius 39.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Basel
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Basel and where to stay.
What To Pack For Basel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Basel
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Basel
Basel is a stunning city with so much to see and do. From exploring the old town and losing yourself in history to partying the night away on the banks of the Rhine, whatever you fancy, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for – and more – in incredible Basel, Switzerland.
In this Basel neighborhood guide, we’ve looked at the five best areas to stay in. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a recap of our favourite places.
Hyve Hostel Basel is our pick for the best hostel in Basel because it is close to great restaurants, charming cafes and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away.
Another excellent option is the Steinenschanze Stadthotel. It offers comfortable and spacious rooms, modern amenities, and an excellent location in Basel’s old town.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Switzerland.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Basel.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Switzerland instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
