Basel - getting around by Mark Sukhija

By foot

Foot is the default, and superior, form of transport within the city.

The Old City itself isn't that large and the olldy-worldy cobbled streets are great to walk around and by far the best way to experience the city. The streets can be quite steep - so you'll get a decent work out while you're at it.

And, anyway, most of the streets in the Old City are closed to road traffic.

You should note, however, that where there are tram tracks the trams have right of way so watch out for them when crossing the street.

By tram and bus

Basel has an excellent tram and bus network. Buses and trams are, as you will come to expect from Swiss transport, one of the finest amenities available to a tourist being typically prompt, relatively inexpensive, clean and convenient. Each bus and tram stop has a timetable and route map displayed and several have electronic screens showing you how long you have to wait to the next tram going whereever.

While most buses and trams travel within Switzerland there are "special" trams and buses which will take you to nearby towns in France and Germany - this is border territory after all!

Ticketing

Bright green ticket machines are available at all tram and bus stops. Most take both Francs and Euros. Single, return and several hour tickets are available from the machines. Some of the ticket machines at the train station also sell tram and bus tickets.

Mobility Pass: All hotels in Basel issue each guest a free "Mobility Pass" on checkin. The Mobility Pass offers you all inclusive public transportation within the city of Basel.

Day Pass: Day passes are also available as are multi-trip and multi-day tickets. You can get these from either the ticket office or the "T" button on the ticket machine.

12-Trip One Zone Ticket: Handy for groups or if you're spending more than a few days in Basel.

By boat

Four ferries cross the Rhine and are drawn by the current to the other side. Münsterfähri - the ferry below the Cathedral - is the most popular and starts from below Basel Cathedral.

Basler Personenschiffahrt offer a range of excursions on the Rhine. Boats depart from Schifflände near Mittlerebrucke at the Grossbasel end.

Further reading