Travel Guide to Basel, Switzerland

Swiss city Basel is divided into two parts by the Rhine River. So called Big Basel is considered the historical center of the city. Located on south-west, this is a picturesque pedestals only zone that traditionally attracts both locals and tourists by its clean air and rich flora. The symbol of Big Basel is the Cathedral that can be seen even from the opposite bank of the river.

The second part of the city (Small Basel) is connected with the historical center by the steel rope, along which moves a ferryboat. The ferry is moved exclusively by water stream, so even such type of transport is absolutely environment friendly. Small Basel is famous by multiple museums, with such places as the Museum of the Natural History, Swiss National Museums and the Museum of Cultures to be the most famous and frequently visited. The first museum will invite you with a rich collection of minerals, while the Museum of Cultures will provide you with the opportunity to watch picturesque Alpine landscapes and pictures of Gruyere and Appenzell.

Paper making is a traditional craft of people residing in Basel. First paper manufactures appeared here in the XV century. If you want to know more about this process with both historical outlook and modern technologies, you should visit St. Alban quarter. This district is still a home for multiple craft and souvenir shops that work since medieval times. The Museum of Paper is located nearby and it exhibits rich collection of artifacts and documents featuring the work of first paper makers.

Basel is widely known as a wonderful destination for tourists with kids. The city has numerous attractions for children and Zolli Zoo is one of them. Tourists, who enjoy shopping activities, will definitely like a huge market square in the center of Big Basel.