Basel Art Museum Tours

Basel Art Museum showing street scenes
Photo provided by Kunstmuseum Basel, Julian Salinas
Photo provided by Kunstmuseum Basel, Julian Salinas
Basel Art Museum featuring street scenes
Photo provided by Kunstmuseum Basel, Julian Salinas


Appreciate a vast assortment of impressive works spanning several centuries on the gallery walls of the country’s largest art museum.

The Basel Art Museum is one of the oldest and most significant art collections in Switzerland. The museum, which dates back to the mid-1600s, holds an array of art from across the centuries. Explore how art has changed over time as you view the works.

Purchase an audio guide from reception for a detailed description of the context behind the inspiring art works decorating the museum’s walls.

Explore the various permanent exhibitions to appreciate specific themes. See contemporary art in a hall of works from the 19th century to present day. Take a look through historic drawings and paintings from local artists in the 1400s in another hall. Investigate the Holbein collection of prints and portraits.

The museum is famous for its eclectic range of works throughout the ages. Examine paintings from virtuosos, such as Rembrandt, Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh. The modern collection includes masterpieces from Andy Warhol and Enzo Cucchi. Frequent temporary exhibitions feature themes such as photography and surrealism.

Admire the museum’s building, which has housed the collection since 1936. Marvel at its elegant features: high arches, narrow columns and an arcade. The flat, gray façade with rectangular windows is simple and tasteful. Visit the contemporary art section in a separate building a short walk east.

Locals know the complex as the Kunstmuseum, which is German for Art Museum. It is open from morning until late afternoon every day except Monday. The admission fee provides discounts for students and teenagers. Entrance is free for children.

The Basel Art Museum is located in the center of the city, just south of a bend in the Rhine River. Take a tram to the Kunstmuseum stop outside the complex. You can also easily find the museum by taxi or bus.

Plan a trip to see Basel Art Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
City Pop 2Night Basel - Self check-in
Hotel Märthof Basel
Consum Boutique Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Basel Art Museum

Radisson Blu Hotel, Basel

Radisson Blu Hotel, Basel

4 out of 5
Steinentorstrasse 25, Basel, BS
Radisson Blu Hotel, Basel
Steinenschanze Charming City & Garden Hotel

Steinenschanze Charming City & Garden Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Steinengraben 69, Basel, BS
Steinenschanze Charming City & Garden Hotel
Hotel Schweizerhof Basel

Hotel Schweizerhof Basel

3.5 out of 5
Centralbahnplatz 1, Basel, BS
Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
Hotel Märthof Basel

Hotel Märthof Basel

4 out of 5
Marktgasse 19, Basel, BS
Hotel Märthof Basel
Central City Hotel Rochat

Central City Hotel Rochat

3 out of 5
Petersgraben 23, Basel
Central City Hotel Rochat
Hotel D - Basel - Fully Renovated 2025

Hotel D - Basel - Fully Renovated 2025

4 out of 5
Blumenrain 19, Basel, BS
Hotel D - Basel - Fully Renovated 2025
Hotel Metropol Basel

Hotel Metropol Basel

4 out of 5
Elisabethenanlage 5, Basel
Hotel Metropol Basel
Pullman Basel Europe

Pullman Basel Europe

4 out of 5
Clarastrasse 43, Basel, BS
Pullman Basel Europe
Der Teufelhof Basel

Der Teufelhof Basel

3.5 out of 5
Leonhardsgraben 47-49, Basel, BS
Der Teufelhof Basel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Basel Art Museum

While visiting the Basel Art Museum, explore nearby attractions like art galleries and exhibitions that showcase contemporary and classic works. Don't miss the famous Art Basel event held in Basel, which brings together artists, collectors, and enthusiasts. For a complete cultural experience, enjoy the vibrant theater and opera scene that Basel has to offer, ensuring your trip is filled with artistic inspiration and entertainment.

Food and drinks

For a unique dining experience near Basel Art Museum, visit Feldschloesschen Brewery, an alcohol brewery with a romantic vibe. Enjoy all-day dining, a lively nightclub atmosphere, and delicious offerings at the Mermaid Café and Bellini Restaurant, all while surrounded by art in this vibrant locale.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Basel Art Museum, visit Marktplatz, a vibrant public market just 0.4 miles away. If you're up for a drive, explore the St. Jakob-Park Shopping Centre and Stuecki Shopping Center, both 2 miles away, offering family-friendly entertainment and a bustling atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at St. Jakob-Park, a sports stadium just 1 mile from the museum, perfect for catching a game. Enjoy family fun at Aquabasilea, an aquatic center 5 miles away, or relax at St. Jakob Gartenbad pool, located 2 miles away, ideal for outdoor family activities.

Nightlife

After exploring the Basel Art Museum, catch a show at Baseldytschi Bihni, a charming theater only 0.3 miles away. For a lively evening, try your luck at Casino Romanix, 9 miles away, or enjoy thrilling rides at Deinkick Solarbob, located 17 miles from the museum.

Find the best attractions near Basel Art Museum

During your visit to the Basel Art Museum, immerse yourself in the city's rich culture by exploring nearby churches, cathedrals, and other museums. Families and outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of activities to enjoy, while those interested in luxury might consider a trip to South Beach for its iconic oceanfront experience. Be sure to check out Miami Beach reviews for insights on this vibrant destination.

  • Basler Muenster: Just a short stroll from the Basel Art Museum, this stunning cathedral boasts magnificent Gothic architecture and breathtaking views of the Rhine River. Explore its rich history and climb the tower for panoramic vistas of the city.
  • Congress Center Basel: Located nearby, this modern venue hosts international conferences and events. Its sleek design and state-of-the-art facilities make it a hub for business and innovation, perfect for networking in a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Basel Town Hall: A historical gem, this striking red building is known for its ornate façade and intricate frescoes. Located close to the museum, it serves as a reminder of Basel's rich cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into the city's civic life.

Best time to go to Basel Art Museum

Visitor numbers around Basel Art Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Basel Art Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February36.5°F (2.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Basel Art Museum

For a budget-friendly trip to Basel Art Museum, consider visiting during the low season from January to March when hotel prices drop. Nearby free attractions like Marktplatz, Stuecki Shopping Center, and Merian Park add to your savings. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for discounts. Use their search tool to filter for eco-certified hotels and arrange options by price. Additionally, consider booking a package that includes flights and activities, and join Expedia's One Key program for exclusive offers and cash back on future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Basel Art Museum are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Basel Art Museum is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at the Basel Art Museum with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.