Basel Historical Old Town Tour
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Known as the cultural capital of Switzerland, our Basel Heritage tour will take you on a journey through the jewel of Northern Switzerland. With your guide, you will discover the historic city center and have the chance to stroll through some of the oldest and best-loved buildings in Europe. Climb to the top of the iconic Basel Münster cathedral, where you will enjoy stunning views over the city skyline. Visit the Opera House, and take in the fantastic art on display throughout the city. Hear about how the small city rose from rags to riches, to become one of Europe’s favorite historic destinations.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Local Landmarks
Local Guide
Gratuities
What To Expect
Basel's Old Town
Our discovery will take us to the heart of Swiss heritage as we explore the historic city of Basel. Internationally acknowledged as the cultural capital of Switzerland, our tour will take in the art, architecture, and rich array of historical sights that pepper the city. Your guide will reveal the multi-cultural stories behind some of the city’s best-loved buildings, including the 500-year-old Roothus (Town Hall), where you will have the chance to see some of Europe’s most distinguished artworks. Wander the cobbled streets of the stunning Old town Grossbasel, where you will discover the birthplace of pharmaceuticals and 360-degree views from the iconic Basel Minster cathedral. Journey back in time as you explore the lofty Romanesque passageways and hear how the building grew alongside the city into modern times. Immerse yourself in rich Swiss culture with a visit to the original Basel opera house, where you will discover the whimsical Tinguely fountain.
Options
Basel Historical Old Town Tour
Reviews
64 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Don't use them
Deborah N,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00The guide didn't show up. So very annoying. Viator did organise a refund. But I can't recommend any booking with this activity
Tour guide didn’t show up!
Stephanie C,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00Terrible. Tour guide didn’t show up. Viator should not list a tour, which is not expected to happen. Do contact the local guide to make sure there will be a tour before paying.
Great Walking Tour!
972danat,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Jon/Jean? was easy to understand, knowledgeable and did a great job showing us around while providing context around history, life, culture, etc. The pace and length (90 mins) was just right. Overall a great tour for first timers like ourselves.
Interesting and fun tour
John S,
Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jean was a fantastic guide. He’s very knowledgeable about the city’s, and Swiss country’s history. We learned about the best restaurants and places to visit. When in Basel don’t miss this informative tour.
The tour it self was...
Sandra D,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00The tour it self was interesting and the guide was knowledgeable, but the company cancelled our 2pm tour and changed it to 5pm. When it was gettingcolder and dark. And we had to ring the company to find out why our 2pm tour guide had not turned up. Won't use that company again to book a tour.
It was lovely!
V4326OHjillp,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a wonderful experience today!! Jean was very knowledgeable about the best of Basal. A good combination of history, art architecture and local chocolates, cheese and pastry. A real treat!!! Jean was also very helpful in suggestions for the remainder of my day. Not only with suggestions of other places to go, but how to get around easily. I loved it It was a great tour.
Informative
SaintIno,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was informative and was a good activity on a rainy day. We waited about 10 minutes or so to wait for the guide to show up. It was due to the delay of the train and he was apologizing, so all good. My advice to those who are joining is that wait for the guide for a little while.
Amazing
TrailBlazer63386,
Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It has been a very interesting tour. Jean, the guide, has made it very enjoyable. Highly recommended to visit Basel with him. He also tells you about things not only Basel, but Switzerland in general.
Wonderful Tour
Sylvia d,
Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Jean was an excellent tour guide. The Basel Old Town is facinating and he combined stories of the past with real life today and gave us a great picture of life there. He answered questions and gave us lots of information. Would definitely recommend the tour.
Great Walking Tour
CAA05,
Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great tour. Jean was warm and friendly and knew a lot about the city, and answered all additional questions. Definitely glad I booked it.
From CHF 16.00
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Operated by Tours of Switzerland