Basel
Basel, the oldest university town in Switzerland, is a markedly open city. It stands at the point where Switzerland, Germany and France meet.
These multiple facets influence the artistic and cultural life of the place. Apart from its contrasting architectural styles, it has over 30 museums and galleries as well as many small theatres - besides the City
Theatre with its repertoire of operas, operettas and plays - and the first Musical Theatre in Switzerland, all waiting to be visited.
The new art and cultural scene is nothing like the traditional version. For example, many industrial buildings have been converted and now serve as the setting for concerts and club evenings. The possibilities of Basel are unlimited and its borders are always open for a quick trip into neighbouring France or Germany.
The Old Town with the Town Hall, Market Place and Cathedral is one of the best maintained and finest in Europe. See the biggest of Swiss zoos - an oasis in the heart of town, a market and trade-fair town. All manner of art, culture and architecture to see.
Basel Fasnacht (Carnival) - once a year the cultural city loses its head and spends three days celebrating the biggest street party (February/March).
Baselworld - at the worldwide leading watch and jewellery fair international companies provide an insight into current trends (March/April).
Art Basel - the exhibition with art from the 20th century is regarded as an important world fair of the international art market (June).
Davidoff Swiss Indoors - the biggest national sports event and one of the most important indoor tennis tournaments in the world always brings together the tennis world elite (October).
Basel Autumn Fair - the biggest fun fair in Switzerland featuring countless stalls and rides (October/November).