Should I Visit Zurich or Basel? Which is Better for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive? | Budget Your Trip (2024)

Should you visit Zurich or Basel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Basel. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Basel

Basel is a museum-filled, easily accessible, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Basel?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zurich than Basel. Zurich is bigger than Basel, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zurich is more touristy than Basel and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Zurich different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Basel and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Basel?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Zurich and Basel.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Basel offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Is the Food Better in Zurich or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Zurich has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. 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.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Music?

Zurich is notable for its live music scene. However, Basel is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Basel is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Zurich is revered around the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Basel?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Basel. 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.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Basel are great family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Basel. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Couples?

Zurich is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Basel are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Students?

Zurich is a world-class destination for students. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Students come from all over to stay in Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Is Zurich or Basel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Zurich and Basel offer great public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

The public transit in Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Zurich or Basel a more walkable city?

Basel is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Basel. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Basel. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zurich, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Basel. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zurich that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Basel if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Zurich.

One day in Zurich or Basel?

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this liberal destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Basel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Basel?

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Basel?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the liberal destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Basel. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see , The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

When comparing the travel costs between Zurich and Basel, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zurich Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Basel?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Basel, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Zurich or Basel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zurich or Basel in the Summer?

Both Basel and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Zurich is around the same temperature as Basel in the summer. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Basel fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Basel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Basel. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Basel in the Autumn?

Both Basel and Zurich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zurich is around the same temperature as Basel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zurich in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Basel averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Basel. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Basel. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Basel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Basel. The winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. The weather in Zurich can be very cold. In January, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Basel. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 3°C (37°F), and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Basel. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Basel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Basel. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty.

Zurich is around the same temperature as Basel in the spring. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Basel fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Basel. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Basel. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Basel and Zurich