Guided tours in Basel

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Guided Tours in Basel. Programme 2016.


Experience Basel. A dedicated team of guides is looking forward to your visit. Why not go on one of the walking tours organised by Basel Tourism: our expert and flexible guides take pleasure in presenting you with facts and anecdotes – both seriously and lightheartedly – about the past and the present. The wide and exciting range of tours presented on the next few pages is bound to inspire you! The first part of the brochure contains our public tours, while in the second part you'll find a varied range of tours for groups which would prefer to have their own city guide.

Tickets and reservations. Basel Tourism Phone +41 (0)61 268 68 68, Fax +41 (0)61 268 68 70 info@basel.com, www.basel.com Tourist & Hotel Information In the Stadtcasino at Barfüsserplatz, Steinenberg 14, CH-4010 Basel Monday to Friday 9 am – 6.30 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm Sunday and public holidays 10 am – 3 pm Tourist & Hotel Information Swiss Railway Station SBB, CH-4010 Basel Monday to Friday 8 am – 6 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm Sunday and public holidays 9 am – 3 pm

Bookings for groups. The Basel Tourism Guided Tours team will be pleased to advise you individually. All public tours can also be booked for individual groups. Basel Tourism Guided Tours Aeschenvorstadt 36, CH-4010 Basel Phone +41 (0)61 268 68 32, Fax +41 (0)61 268 68 75 guidedtours@basel.com, www.basel.com/guidedtours


Contents. Public guided tours. 4

Typically Basel

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Basel: yours to explore

Guided tours for groups. 11

Themed city tours

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Historic buildings

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Our tours at a glance

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Prices and general terms and conditions


Typically Basel. Our public tours show you what's special about Basel. In the “Typically Basel” category you'll find a selection of traditional walking tours on Basel and its history. Come along and discover Basel's historic city centre, the magnificent City Hall overlooking the Marktplatz or the Roman city of Augusta Raurica. On Sundays you can relax while touring the city on board a vintage tram. We look forward to wel­com­ing you on our tours. www.basel.com/guidedtours


Typically Basel

Stories of Basel's Old Town. Past and present. Join us on a journey back through all the epochs. There can be few other cityscapes where buildings dating back as far as the fifteenth century engage so harmoniously and vibrantly with the contemporary creations of internationally distinguished architects. On our tour, we'll tell you all about Basel and the background to its development while passing historic buildings such as the city hall, the Basel Cathedral and the Barfüsserkirche. We'll also explain a lot about the city's present situation. As well as taking you to some picturesque corners of the Old Town, we'll show you places that closely reflect Basel's present-day Zeitgeist, such as the Museum der Kulturen and the Tinguely fountain. Dates: daily from May to October, every Saturday from November to April Time: 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm Meeting point: at the Tourist & Hotel Information in the Stadtcasino at Barfüsserplatz Tour ending point: in the Old Town of Basel at Spalenberg Languages: in German and English. Depending on the constellation of the group, the tour is held bilingually. Prices: adults CHF 18 / children up to 16 years CHF 9 Tickets: available from the tourist information offices of Basel Tourism and online at www.basel.com/guidedtours

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Discovery trip in a vintage tram. A real Sunday pleasure. Trams have long been an important element of Basel life. Our trip on a vintage tram will provide a window on the past: giving you a feeling of what it was like to travel around the city a hundred years ago. You can look forward to a tour in which you'll hear authentic sounds of yesteryear: as you rumble along in the old tram, our guide's enlightening commentary will help evoke times past. Besides that, the trip will enable you to see the city from a different perspective. Dates: every Sunday (except on 25 September 2016 during the IWB Basel Marathon) Time: 10.30 am to 11.30 am and 11.45 am to 12.45 pm Meeting and ending point: tram stop “Bahnhof SBB” in front of Hotel Euler Languages: German and English (commentaries are bilingually) Prices: adults CHF 25 / children up to 16 years CHF 12.50 Tickets and reservation: available from the tourist information offices of Basel Tourism and online at www.basel.com/guidedtours. For both trips we recommend reserving with Basel Tourism. Summer special: enjoy a ride in the open-top summer car from 26 June to 11 September 2016.


Typically Basel Thematische Stadtrundgänge

Basel for newcomers. Getting to know the city. Newcomers to the Basel region will be offered tours of the city featuring useful tips on everyday life in Basel. Information will be provided on shopping, cultural facilities and leisure pro­ grammes, as well as introductions to essential themes such as public transport, postal and health services. This offer is a joint project organised by the Department of Presidential Affairs of the Canton of Basel-Stadt and Basel Tourism. Dates: on Saturdays English: 27.02., 23.04., 28.05., 03.09., 01.10. and 10.12.2016 German: 05.03., 18.06. and 22.10.2016 Time: 10 am to 12.30 pm Meeting point: in front of the Tourist & Hotel Information in the Swiss Railway Station SBB Tour ending point: City Hall Languages: English, German Price: CHF 5 Tickets and reservation: a reservation is required. Tickets are available from the tourist information offices of Basel Tourism.

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Basel: yours to explore. Eight walks through the town. You don't have to search far for sights in Basel – they're at every turn. Discover countless works of art in public spaces and modern world-class architecture, or simply take a stroll along the sunny banks of the Rhine and enjoy a panoramic view of the picturesque half-timbered houses and baroque patrician mansions. The city of culture at the bend in the Rhine has something for every taste. The easiest way to explore the city under your own steam is to follow one of the five circular tours or one of the three architecture trails.


Basel: yours to explore

Tour of the historic city centre with the itour Basel App. Audiovisual walking tours through Basel. Experience Basel's history with multimedia technology. You can choose between five walking tours with commentaries in German or English and illustrated with over 500 pictures. You can select the stops on your tour according to your own wishes, and you can switch from one tour to the next. You'll discover different aspects and details that you would otherwise miss. Dates: you can set off on one of the five walking tours of the historic city centre any day of the year as soon as you've downloaded the app. Collection point: download the app at the Apple App Store or at Google Play Store (search for “itour Basel”). Languages: German, English Prices: app “itour Basel” for iPhones: CHF 8 / for Android: CHF 4.40

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The architecture trails. A blend of traditional and modern. Covering an area of only 37 km2, Basel can rightly claim to be a city of short distances. To discover the architectural highlights, we recommend following one of the trails shown in the brochure “Architecture in Basel”, available free of charge from Basel Tourism. You can comfortably complete these tours on foot or by public transport. Dates: You can set off on one of the architecture trails at any time Available from: the brochure ”Architecture in Basel“ is available from the tourist information offices of Basel Tourism or at www.basel.com Languages: German, English or French Duration: 2 – 3 hours for each circular trail


Themed city tours

Themed city tours for groups. History and stories at first hand. Let Basel Tourism's walking tours amaze you. You'll discover lots of hidden corners, a fascinating past and a host of time-honoured traditions, plus some vibrant new districts – as you'd expect of a compact but world-class city. And you'll find that your guide speaks your language: German, English, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese, Czech, Russian, Japanese or Chinese. No matter whether you choose a historic or a themed tour, Basel Tourism's wide range of city tours provides something for every taste and helps you to get to know Basel in an entertaining way. You determine the time and select your tour from over 50 themes. Our 60 ISO-certified and professionally trained guides will take you on a truly special adventure 365 days a year.

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Stories of Basel's Old Town. This traditional tour offers visitors and locals alike a close-up view of Basel. We will guide you through the narrow alleyways and secluded squares, past impressive buildings and lively and vivid cityscapes, experiencing what has shaped the city and given it its unique character. Duration: up to 2 hours Price: CHF 280

Basel in a nutshell. What are the essential things to see in one hour for newcomers to Basel? The tour provides an impressive overview of Basel's principal sights and history. During the one-hour walk, you will discover plenty of picturesque corners and squares in the beautiful Old Town. Duration: 1 hour Price: CHF 230


Themed city tours Thematische Stadtrundgänge

St. Alban-Tal – Basel's "little Venice". Explore the St. Alban quarter, an intensely romantic, quiet district shrouded in myth and mystery. With its millstream and riverside setting, traditional handicrafts and former industrial complexes interspersed with old timber-framed buildings and modern architecture, the mediaeval paper mill and Museum of Contemporary Arts, St. Alban is a fascinating mix of old and new. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280

St. Johann – a district for the future. Formerly a working-class district, St. Johann is a good example of the way Basel is moving into the future. With the completion of the city's northern bypass road and the creation of the Novartis Campus, the whole district has been transformed and is now a showcase for contemporary Basel architecture. On this walking tour, you will be thrilled by the diversity of this district and by the fast evolving cityscape. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280

Kleinbasel – bathing nuns and traditional craftsmen. You will discover the exciting history of the foundation and development of this quarter from the 13th century to the industrialisation of the city. Discover more about the churches and monasteries in the Middle Ages, their inhabi­tants, their daily lives and traditions. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280

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Segway City tour. Discover the most beautiful sights of the city by Segway – the combination of culture and innovative technology has never been so much fun! The tour of Basel's Old Town passes spectacular buildings from the 15th century and gives you an insight into more than 2,000 years of history. Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours Price: CHF 150 (price per person) Points to note: from 14 years of age. Participants between 14 and 16 years of age require a valid driving licence of category M.

Augusta Raurica. Join us on our tour in the Roman city of Augusta Raurica and discover more about ancient health spas, porridge and 20-man latrines. Experience the daily life of the ancient Romans! We fill the imposing ruins with life and tell you the stories of how the Romans lived, ate, bathed and entertained themselves. We will also show you the remarkable silver treasure at the Roman museum. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280 (museum admission not included)


Themed city tours

Art and modern architecture. Basel has never been afraid of treading new ground. This is reflected in the city's striking array of buildings designed by internationally renowned architects. Go on a tour to view these outstanding examples of modern architecture: works by Mario Botta, Richard Meier, Herzog & de Meuron and many more. Choose from themes such as “Major Buildings for the Future”, “Between the Old Town and Green Oases”, “Working and Living in Kleinbasel” or “Modern Architecture in St. Johann”. Besides the modern buildings, the streets and squares of Basel are adorned with numerous works of art as well. Join us on our special “Art in the City” tour through what is almost an open air art gallery. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280

Novartis Campus. With its first-class architecture and exquisite design, the St.  Johann campus is being transformed into a modern workplace and the new home of the pharmaceutical group Novartis, to the benefit of the company itself, its employees and the city of Basel as a whole. On selected Saturdays you have the opportunity of visiting the campus with expert guidance around the facility by Novartis employees. The income generated from all tours is donated by Novartis to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Duration: 2 hours Price: CHF 400, students CHF 200

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Basel: Christmas magic. Discover Basel during Christmas time and learn about old and new Christmas customs and traditions. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the charm of Basel during Advent. In addition to decorative lighting, Christmas trees and angels, you will get to know a rich history and a wealth of Christmas traditions in the city on the Rhine. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280

Carnival in Basel. Basel's famous carnival begins on the Monday following Ash Wednesday with the “Morgestraich�. The lantern parade starts at 4 in the morning, when the city is plunged into darkness and the carnival cliques take control for the three-day event. On this tour you will discover everything there is to know about the Basler Fasnacht, from its origins to the present day. Duration: 1.5 hours Price: CHF 280


Themed city tours

Culinary Basel. A congenial finish to your city tour. You can finish your group tour by going for an aperitif or a meal together. The Guided Tours team from Basel Tourism will be pleased to organize a follow-on programme tailored to your needs. Here are a few ideas: Aperitifs at Hotel Der Teufelhof Classic Prosecco Champagne

CHF 19.50 CHF 26.00 CHF 38.00

Lunch at Hotel Der Teufelhof Choice of 3-course set meals

from CHF 33.00

Dinner at Hotel Der Teufelhof Choice of 2- to 4-course set meals

from CHF 42.00

Fondue aperitif in St. Alban-Tal With tea With white wine

from CHF 13.50 from CHF 18.50

Mulled wine at the Christmas market Without Christmas mug With souvenir Christmas mug Aperitif at Swiss么tel Le Plaza Basel Selection available on request

CHF 4.50 CHF 7.50 from CHF 25.00

Price per person for groups of ten or more. Smaller groups on request.

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Historic buildings. The treasures of Basel. Basel is history with a future. Find out all about one of the three most prominent historic landmarks – the Cathedral, the City Hall or the Spalentor – and enjoy these tangible witnesses to Basel's past. Duration: 1 hour Price: CHF 230


Historic buildings Thematische Stadtrundgänge

Cathedral – the city's hallmark. Discover Basel's glorious Cathedral, the most famous landmark of our city. Built on a hill overlooking the Rhine with red sandstone walls, colourful roof tiles and twin towers, no other building equals it as a city landmark. Discover the rich history and fabulous sculptures and artworks of this beautiful building.

City Hall – the seat of government. Basel's City Hall is a combination of fine architecture, art and politics from five centuries. This splendid building on Marktplatz is still the seat of government of the Canton of Basel-Stadt. On our tour through the rooms of the cantonal parliament and Governing Council, we will inform you of the political history and current situation of the city and the Canton of Basel-Stadt.

Spalentor – fortified city gate. Climb the steep stairs of the mediaeval Spalentor city gate and discover one of the city's most famous landmarks. The climb is well worth the effort and the views across the rooftops of the Old Town are simply wonderful. A quick breather on each level gives you the opportunity to learn more about the city's defence works and the history of this splendid structure. By the way, the Spalentor has the highest open-air toilet in Basel.

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Our tours at a glance. Unique Basel. Basel in a nutshell | Stories of Basel's Old Town | Basel for newcomers | Fountains and spring water | History of medicine | Jewish Basel | Money and the mind – an economic tour | Plants, colours, high-tech – the chemistry in Basel | Women of Basel | Kleinbasel – bathing nuns and traditional craftmen | St. Alban-Tal – Basel's “little Venice” | St. Johann – a district for the future | The Reformation in Basel

Modern architecture. Working and Living in Kleinbasel | Between the Old Town and Green Oases | Major Buildings for the Future | Modern Architecture in St. Johann | Architecture Tour by bus | Novartis Campus | Messe Basel

Art and museums. Basler Papiermühle | Fondation Beyeler | Kunstmuseum Basel | Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel | Art in the city

Roman City of Augusta Raurica. Augusta Raurica – the roman city | Augusta Raurica in a nutshell | The Augusta Raurica silver hoard | Kaiseraugst – picturesque village within a Roman castrum


tours at a glance ThematischeOur Stadtrundgänge

Seasons. Carnival in Basel | Basel: Christmas Magic

The treasures of Basel: buildings and churches. Cathedral – the city's hallmark | City Hall – the seat of government | Spalentor – fortified city gate

For children, teenagers and schools. Basler Papiermühle | City tour for school classes | Roman City of Augusta Raurica | Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel | City tour with a visit of the Spalentor | Kaiseraugst – picturesque village within a Roman castrum

Basel on wheels. City tour by bus | Guide for a vintage tram tour | Segway city tour

Culinary finale. Aperitif, lunch or dinner in the art gallery hotel Der Teufelhof | Cheese fondue aperitif at St. Alban-Tal | Glühwein at the Christmas market | Aperitif in the Swissôtel Le Plaza Basel

Basel Tourism brings you to your destination. Excursions | Transfers

To see the complete programme, please visit www.basel.com/guidedtours

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Prices and contact details. We will be delighted to advise you individually. Basel Tourism Guided Tours Phone +41 (0)61 268 68 32, Fax +41 (0)61 268 68 75 guidedtours@basel.com, www.basel.com/guidedtours

Costs for a group of up to 20 participants. City tour “Basel in a nutshell” (1 h)

CHF 230

City tours on various topics (1.5 – 2 h)

CHF 280

Augusta Raurica for school classes (1.5 – 2 h)

CHF 200

City tours for school classes (up to 1.5 h)

CHF 235

City tour by bus (up to 2 h)

CHF 280 bus rental not included

Segway City Tour (2.5 – 3h, price per person) Guided tours of historic buildings and museums (1 h)

CHF 150 CHF 200 – 230 plus admission

Novartis Campus (2 h)

CHF 400

Messe Basel (75 mins)

CHF 365

Excursions: 4 – 8 h Surcharges: Evening surcharge from 6 pm Night surcharge from 10 pm to 8 am Admissions, special openings Express surcharge for bookings made within less than 24 hours notice Surcharge on Sundays and bank holidays

CHF 400 – 600 CHF 50 CHF 70 not included CHF 50 none


Prices and general terms and conditions Thematische Stadtrundgänge

General terms and conditions. In the event of a late arrival, the maximum waiting time for guides is 30 minutes. The duration of the tour will be reduced accordingly. Cancellation costs: No-show Cancellation 0 – 2 days before the tour Cancellation 3 – 7 days before the tour Cancellation up to 8 days before the tour

100 % 100 % 50 % CHF 25

Where services of partner institutions have been confirmed, those institutions' own conditions shall apply. Any cancellation costs will be charged on directly and without any additional fee. The first alteration of a booking is free of charge. For any further alterations a fee of CHF 25 will be charged. You can pay for a tour in one of the following ways: cash (Swiss francs) on the tour, credit card (Visa, MasterCard) or invoice (CHF 25 extra). Basel Tourism reserves the right to invoice confirmed services in advance. All prices are in Swiss francs and include VAT at the standard rate.

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