Welcome to Basel. The cultural city by the Rhine that lies in the heart of Europe and that the borders with Germany and France. With a population of around 200,000 people, Basel is at the centre of the Swiss life science and pharmaceutical industry. It has also grown into one of the leading trade fair and congress centres in Switzerland. With its over 2,000 year old history and its modern architecture, Basel is a city with a blend of contrasts. There can be few other cityscapes where buildings dating back from the 15th century engage so harmoniously and vibrantly with the contemporary creations of internationally distinguished architects. Basel has one of the most beautiful historic centres of Europe. The fact that Basel is also known as one of the architecture city's worldwide is not only thanks to the famous architects Herzog and Dymourne. Many other stars of the same category have enriched Basel with its buildings. You won't need to search for sites in Basel. As you wander through the city, you will find them with every step you take. From the climb Basel, Rhine's side, you will have a unique panoramic view of the Gross Basel district with the cathedral and faults. The narrow alleyways and hidden squares with over 180 fountains, as well as the many century-old buildings and eye-catching sites such as the City Hall or Cathedral make Basel's old town. Basel is considered the cultural capital of Switzerland, nearly 40 museums with world-renowned exhibitions. The museums offer something for every taste. For example, the Kunstmuseum Basel is regarded as one of the oldest public collections in the world. Apart from the museums, the largest three-tied theatres in Switzerland, the Basel Symphony Orchestra and the musical theatre provide a variety of impressive performances during the whole year. The Rhine is not only the city's enduring landmark, it also greatly contributes to the quality of life that Basel offers its inhabitants and visitors. The Rhine is the artery carrying the life blood of the city. It provides recreation and inspiration. In the summer months, Basel's inhabitants particularly like to enjoy their river and relax by the Rhine. When the sun sets and you start feeling hungry, you will find a great culinary selection in the many restaurants before diving into Basel's nightlife. A particularly special highlight of the Basel Gastronomy scene are the guild restaurants. Here, centuries of history meet culinary pleasure and the proof that Basel has room for new ideas over example the many locations that were opened lately along the Rhine Riviera and Harbour. And if you feel like going on a shopping tour, you will find everything you look for. Basel is one giant shopping paradise from the known brands to Brickaprock at Flea Market. Visit the Basel Zoo and experience the breathtaking wildlife and the worldwide famous and oldest zoo of Switzerland. Or indulge yourself with an excursion to the local mountain Vassafalen with a state of the art cable car and a fun forest high ropes course. If you look for more adventure, then go to Europa Park. The famous amusement park is only an hour away from Basel. You will also discover the variety of the three countries corner if you take a day trip to the nearby cities of Kolma in the French Alsace or to Freiburg in the south of Germany. But cities are only 40 minutes away from Basel. But don't be away for too long and come back soon to not miss the next important event amongst the many highlights during the whole year. For example the Carnival or Basel Fasnacht which starts already in February or March and means three days of an exceptional state. Or one of the most important worldfares like the art Basel, the largest and most important fare for modern and contemporary art. Or otherwise Basel World, the world watching jewelry fare. After the Edinburgh tattoo, the Basel tattoo is the second largest military music festival in the world. In July Basel becomes an important centre for pipes and folklore. Many cultural events and festivals for young people and people younger taught and which Basel during the whole year. If you like tennis, then Swiss indoors is an absolute must. The third largest indoor tennis tournament in the world is the home tournament of Rocher Federer. He's always happy as one of the biggest fans of FC Basel since his favourite football club regularly wins the Swiss Championship and causes a führer at the UEFA Champions League. During the advent season the city has a very special charm. Michelin's biggest Christmas market can be found in the heart of the Basel's historic centre, extending from Barfusserplatz right through to Münsterplatz. Basel is an innovative and cultural metropole worth seeing with hospitable and open-minded people. We welcome you to our city and wish you a great stay.