Blissful Basel: Discover this unique city

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Basel is a city of culture, found in the very heart of Europe, bordering Germany and France. A fascinating fusion of authentic Swiss quality and multicultural people, this city is both cosmopolitan and innovative.

With beautiful architecture of both historical and modern design, and a cultural capital afforded by its nearly 40 museums, Basel is top of the international class and draws many visitors to its intriguing city.

Particularly noteworthy are following four museums: Fondation Beyeler, Museum Tinguely, Vitra Design Museum as well as Kunstmuseum Basel.

The latter was ranked 5th in the London Times’ list of “The world’s 50 best museums” in 2013. In order to sustain this impressive reputation, it is currently constructing a new building, thus enabling more works to be displayed, as well as catering for more special exhibitions in spring 2016.

With Christmas coming up, the Basel Christmas markets at Barf√ºsserplatz and M√ºnsterplatz are top of the must-see list. The biggest market in Switzerland, it features attractions such as the enormous decorated Christmas tree, trader and artisan wares, and culinary delights of mulled wine, waffles, traditional biscuits and grilled sausages.

Basel also boasts unique charms such as the Carnival of Basel, a celebration of colours, costumes and sounds held annually between February and March, the most important international art trade fair Art Basel, and Basel Tattoo, the world’s second largest and most spectacular open-air tattoo shows.

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FOOD:

As well as more casual dining options, Basel punches above its weight with fine fining. Four restaurants in this city have two Michelin stars and 18 Gault Millau points, including Restaurant Stucki, Les Quatre Saisons, Cheval Blanc and Osteria TRE.

Epitomising modern, elegant dining, places like Restaurant Stucki host their guests in formal yet cosy dining rooms that combine both old and new in a harmonious manner, with market-fresh produce an important element of food in these venues.

For other unique dining experiences, you can't go past Charon restaurant, which serves up slightly French cuisine, with art-noveau decorative touches. Easily mistaken for someone's cosy home, Charon is an understated restaurant that has an authentic Swiss feel.

Acqua is another distinct food hub to visit, with affordable Tuscan-style cuisine served inside a converted waterworks besides a quiet stream. The atmosphere is a post- industrial glam, with brown-leather banquettes, candles and chandeliers inside raw, unpolished stone and concrete walls.

Experience an Avalon Waterways Romantic Rhine river cruise between Basel and Amsterdam from $2,861 per person twin share. For more information or to book, please contact Avalon Waterways on 1300 230 234 or visit www.avalonwaterways.com.au

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LOCATION

Basel is spread between both sides of the Rhine river, on the border of France, Germany and Switzerland. In less than one hour you reach Zurich or Lucerne, in less than two hours Titlis, Interlaken or Jungfrau.

The Rhine is the true lifeblood of Basel and the city’s enduring landmark. The ideal location for sunny riverside walks, Basel features a collection of boulevard caf√©s to peruse and enjoy as you meander along the Rhine.

During summertime, a special leisure activity in Basel is a swim in the Rhine. Rhine boat rides departing or arriving in Basel, too, are steadily gaining in popularity. The new boat terminal St. Johann, with state of the art power and water supply, can be found just a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

For more information visit www.basel.com/location

SWISS TRAVEL SYSTEM

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Basel is a major European transportation hub.

Direct high speed train connections are available from Germany by ICE and from France by TGV, with Paris reached in just three hours.

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The best way to explore Switzerland is with the highly efficient Swiss Pass. Holders of this pass have access to all trains (including panoramic trains), buses and boats as well as entry to more than 470 museums across the country.

Holders are also entitled to 50% off mountain railways, and children under 16 years old travel for free with the complimentary Swiss Family Card.

Find out more about family bonuses at www.MySwitzerland.com/rail

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basel city culture europe food switzerland