Information about Basel

Basel, with a population of around 190, 000 is situated in the north-west of Switzerland on the border with France and Germany. The city developed as a busy trading centre through the Middle Ages. During the Renaissance it was one of the great cities of the Humanist movement (Erasmus lived and died here). At that time the University of Basel was founded (1460) and the town has since developed into one of Switzerland’s thriving business locations. This success story has been built upon the global achievement of its pharmaceutical and chemical companies, among them two of the world’s top five. In their wake, a whole cluster of life sciences start-ups create a very dynamic economic climate. Basel is also a successful exhibition and congress city, is home to over 20 museums (including the world’s first public Art Museum) and Switzerland’s reigning football champions, FC Basel.
Basel has good transport connections to everywhere in Switzerland and neighboring countries, and has its own airport (Basel-Euroairport).

Climate

Its position in the Rhine Valley gives Basel an exceptionally mild climate. In September temperatures are in average at around 18 degrees Celsius or 64 Fahrenheit.

Language

The official language of Basel is Swiss-German. French and English are widely spoken.

Restaurants – Swiss Cuisine

Basel offers a wide range of international restaurants (Italian, Chinese, Japanese, French etc.) as well as typical Swiss cuisine (such as Roesti, Fondue and Raclette). People usually have lunch between 12:00 and 14:00 and dinner between 18:00 and 20:00.

Shopping

Shops in Basel are usually open Monday through Friday from 09:00 – 18:30, Saturday from 09:00 – 17:00. Several larger department stores are open until 20:00. On Thursdays most of the stores in the city center are open until 21:00. All major credit cards are accepted.

Tipping

Service is mostly included in hotel and restaurant bills. A further tip of a few coins is appropriate (Restaurants 5 – 10%).

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