These excursion destinations can be reached from Basel in 1–2 hours:

Liestal

There’s a unique way to explore the historic town of Liestal – on an indulgent treasure hunt. Solving the puzzles on the Food Trail leads you to a wealth of culinary delights at various locations. Nestled in gently rolling, wooded hills, Liestal’s history goes back more than 700 years. The town oozes charm with its winding alleys, impressive historic buildings, the imposing town hall and many other fascinating settings.

Travel time (public transport): 10 min

Rheinfelden

Rheinfelden is located directly on the Rhine and borders Germany. The Old Town impresses with its well-preserved medieval buildings and narrow streets that invite you to take a stroll. Rheinfelden is known for its saltworks and relaxing brine baths, which have attracted visitors for centuries. The town also offers numerous hiking and cycling trails along the Rhine.

Travel time (public transport): 12 min

Zurich

Zurich is not just the biggest city in Switzerland, it’s also an important financial hub and a cultural metropolis. The Old Town stretches along both sides of the Limmat river and boasts numerous places of interest such as the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches and Bahnhofstrasse – the main shopping street in the city centre. You can relax or enjoy an aquatic sport on Lake Zurich. The city also has several museums, galleries and a vibrant nightlife.

Travel time (public transport): 53 min 

Solothurn

Solothurn is the Baroque city of Switzerland, with a rich history and impressive architecture. You’ll find the Cathedral of St. Ursus, the clock tower and Waldegg Castle in the Old Town right by the Aare river. The city boasts plenty of museums, such as the Blumenstein Historical Museum of Solothurn and the Solothurn Art Museum, as well as a wide range of cultural offerings and cosy cafés.

Travel time (public transport): 53 min

Bern

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, impresses visitors with its well-preserved medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Federal Palace, the Zytglogge clock tower and the Bear Pit are unmissable. The city is also known for its six-kilometre-long arcades and Zentrum Paul Klee – a museum of modern art.

Travel time (public transport): 58 min 

Lucerne

The charming city of Lucerne lies by the picturesque Lake Lucerne, surrounded by the imposing Alps. You can visit Chapel Bridge – one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe – and the Water Tower. Other highlights include the Swiss Museum of Transport and the Richard Wagner Museum. The Old Town, with its well-preserved historic buildings, is the perfect place for a shopping trip.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 14 min 

Schaffhausen & Rhine Falls

Schaffhausen is a historic city with a well-preserved Old Town and the impressive Munot – a fortress dating back to the 16th century. The nearby Rhine Falls is the biggest waterfall in Europe – an impressive natural spectacle. A boat trip takes you right up close to the roaring mass of water. The surrounding area offers a wealth of hiking and cycling paths.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 24 min 

Thun

Located by Lake Thun, the city has a charming Old Town, which is home to Thun Castle. The lake is the perfect place for a swim, sail or boat trip. From the Schlossberg, you get an incredible view of the city and the surrounding mountains, while a walk along the Aare promenade is an absolute delight.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 24 min 

Interlaken

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfraujoch saddle – the “top of Europe”. The region offers countless outdoor activities such as paragliding, rafting and hiking. Other highlights include a ride on the Jungfrau Railway to Europe’s highest railway station, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding glaciers and mountain peaks.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 58 min 

Rigi

The Rigi, known as the “Queen of the Mountains”, offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding lakes and the Alps. You can reach the summit via cogwheel railway or cable car. The Rigi is perfect for hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Enjoy an oasis of wellness and relaxation at the Rigi Kaltbad mineral baths and spa designed by architect Mario Botta.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 1 min

Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is famous for being home to the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, which takes you up to mountain’s summit, from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps. It’s an ideal spot for skiing in winter and for hiking or tobogganing in summer. A ride on the Pilatus Railway is an unforgettable experience.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 4 min 

Engelberg–Titlis

Located next to Engelberg, Mount Titlis is a popular destination in Central Switzerland, offering snow sports activities all year round. You can reach the summit via the Rotair – the world’s first revolving cable car. Special attractions include the Gletschergrotte restaurant and the spectacular suspension bridge Titlis Cliff Walk. Hiking and mountain biking are particularly popular here in summer.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 22 min 

Gruyères

The small medieval town of Gruyères is known for its eponymous cheese. Make your way to the imposing Gruyères Castle and the cheese museum La Maison du Gruyère. This charming village is home to the fascinating HR Giger Museum dedicated to the creator of the creatures in Alien. The surrounding landscape is ideal for hiking. 
Basel Tourism offers an organized day trip to this destination.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 23 min 

Oeschinen Lake

Oeschinen Lake is an idyllic mountain lake located next to Kandersteg and a popular destination for lovers of nature. With its surrounding mountains, the lake is the perfect place for hiking, rowing and swimming. You can even ice skate on its frozen waters in winter. The lake is easily reachable by a gondola lift. 

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 30 min 

Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque valley in the Bernese Highlands known for its 72 waterfalls. Staubbach Falls, one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Europe, is particularly impressive. A hike to the Trümmelbach Falls, which roar inside the mountain, is an unforgettable experience.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 30 min 

Grindelwald

Grindelwald in the Bernese Highlands is a paradise for fans of the outdoors. The north face of the Eiger dominates the landscape and offers incredible climbing routes. Grindelwald is a popular skiing spot in winter and perfect for hiking and cycling in summer. The Firstbahn cableway can take you to exciting attractions such as the First Cliff Walk and the Bachalpsee lake.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 42 min 

Freiburg im Breisgau

The vibrant university city of Freiburg im Breisgau is known for its sunny days and historic Old Town. Unmissable sights include the cathedral, Marktplatz and the Bächle – small water-filled runnels which run through the streets and alleys of the Old Town. The city is the gateway to the Black Forest and offers countless nearby hiking and cycling paths.

Travel time (public transport): 40 min 

Europa-Park

The Europa-Park in Rust is Germany’s biggest theme park. It boasts over 100 attractions and shows in 18 themed areas, which are suitable for all age groups. From speedy roller coasters to fairy-tale worlds, there’s something for everyone. It’s an ideal destination for an exciting day out.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 29 min 

Titisee

Titisee-Neustadt in the Black Forest is famous for its crystal-clear lake and picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a boat trip on the lake or relax by the shore. There are numerous hiking and cycling routes as well as wellness facilities in the area. In winter, Titisee-Neustadt is a popular winter sports destination, as it offers skiing, cross-country skiing and ice skating. You can also combine this excursion with a visit to one of the cuckoo clock factories in the area.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 35 min 

Schluchsee

Schluchsee – the biggest lake in the Baden-Württemberg region – impresses with its clear waters and surrounding nature. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sailing and fishing as well as hiking and cycling on well-maintained paths. Schluchsee is also a popular destination in winter. This idyllic area is the perfect spot for nature lovers and active holidaymakers all year round.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 13 min 

Colmar

Colmar is known for its well-preserved Old Town featuring half-timbered houses and idyllic canals. Visit the Unterlinden Museum with the Isenheim Altarpiece, and discover the picturesque district of La Petite Venise. Savour the city’s rich culinary tradition by exploring the countless restaurants offering Alsatian specialities and local wines.
Basel Tourism offers an organized day trip to this destination.

Travel time (public transport): 43 min 

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace and impresses visitors with its Gothic cathedral and well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the European Parliament and stroll through the picturesque district of La Petite France. The city boasts a rich culinary tradition and is known for its Alsatian cuisine.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 18 min 

Dijon

The historic city of Dijon is located in the heart of the famous Burgundy wine region and has a rich history. It is the birthplace of the fine Burgundy wines. Dijon is best known for its eponymous mustard and Burgundy cuisine.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 25 min 

Ronchamp

Ronchamp is located in the region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and is best known for the Notre Dame du Haut chapel, designed by Le Corbusier. This feat of architecture has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and fascinates visitors with its unique design and spiritual atmosphere. Ronchamp also offers charming landscapes and a welcoming local culture – ideal for fans of architecture and nature.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 34 min 

Ribeauvillé

In Ribeauvillé, you can explore the three castle ruins towering over the city and stroll through the historic Old Town. The region is shaped by its long tradition of wine production, and you can enjoy typical Alsatian specialities in countless restaurants. 
Basel Tourism offers an organized day trip to this destination.

Travel time (public transport): 1 h 44 min 

Alsace Wine Route

The Alsace Wine Route leads through charming villages and picturesque vineyards where you can sample local wines. The Wine Route is best known for its white wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Enjoy the region’s idyllic landscape and warm hospitality.

Travel time (public transport): 2 h 30 min (Starting point: Marlenheim)