EXPLORING BASEL & LAUSANNE’S VIBRANT CULTURAL SCENES

Exploring Basel & Lausanne’s Vibrant Cultural Scenes: Any excuse to hop on a flight to Switzerland and we’ll be there, so when it was suggested we head to Basel to glide down the River Rhine with a Wickelfisch our interest was piqued. Add to that a visit to the dynamic arts scene of Lausanne and a perfect itinerary awaits.

Summer in Switzerland is as joyous as a place can be and as sun worshippers (rather than snow lovers) getting the opportunity to explore two unique and diverse cities gives visitors like us the chance to see the best this beautiful country has to offer. 

Locals know how to enjoy the most of the warm days taking to the streets for late afternoon meet-ups along riversides and lake shorelines to set up impromptu picnics and watch floating concerts, adding to the vibrancy of a country that truly knows how to live life well.

Basel: A Blend of Swiss Tradition and Cosmopolitan Culture

We love a snappy strap line and Basel’s ‘Swiss but different’ is a perfect description of the country’s third largest city (after Zürich and Geneva). There’s a choice of almost 40 museums where the masters mix with street art; a plethora of eateries from gastro and gourmet to casual and cafe to dine at; and outstanding architecture that takes you from medieval to monumental to discover. 

Art and Architecture: The Heartbeat of Basel

As big fans of walkable cities the best way to see the central part of Basel is by meandering around the cobbled streets of the charming Altstadt (Old Town). Our guide, Jacqueline Frei, shares details about the city’s continued urban development, historical events, and cultural influences that have shaped the region. We’re captivated by the architectural splendour that surrounds us, especially the red-sandstone Town Hall that perfectly showcases Basel’s commitment to preserving its heritage and is evident all around in the beautifully restored buildings.

As we walk along the river we make our way towards the stunning Basel Minster, a Gothic 12th Century masterpiece that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. But first, we have to cross the river to get to it and the best way to do that is by one of the four ferries which operate between the five Rhine bridges connecting Kleinbasel (where you’ll find small independent businesses, eateries and boutiques) with Grossbasel (the older commercial and cultural centre on the south bank).

The Ferries operate without an engine, using only the force of the river’s current making them a pleasant and convenient means of transport for locals and commuters. And, if you want a really memorable experience, you can hire one out of hours for a fondue party (which sounds amazing to us).

Once we’ve passed through Basel Minster the rooftop addition to the Museum der Kulturen Basel is another spot to witness a mix of that ‘Swiss but different’ attitude. The Herzog & de Meuron designed expansion sees a rooftop of irregular folds that was designed to fit harmoniously into the rooftops surrounding the cathedral. It’s a real piece of art itself seamlessly blending the old with the new. 

Immerse yourself in Basel’s world-class art scene 

With over 40 museums, including the renowned Kunstmuseum Basel which houses an impressive collection of fine art spanning centuries, the city is an art lover’s paradise. 

For a touch of modernity, venture into Basel’s Vitra Design Museum. Showcasing innovative furniture design and contemporary art installations, this museum is a testament to Basel’s forward-thinking spirit.

If you only have time for one, then don’t miss out on Fondation Beyeler, a stunning museum set in a landscaped park, featuring works by iconic artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Warhol. Located in the suburb of Riehen (just a short tram ride from Basel) Fondation Beyeler stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of its founders, Ernst and Hildy Beyeler, to the world of art.

Designed by Renzo Piano, the architectural marvel is a seamless integration of nature, art, and architecture. As first-time visitors, we were lucky to catch the Jean-Michel Basquiat Modena Paintings exhibition which brought together some of the artist’s work from his troubled time in Modena, Italy for the first time. The eight works are held in private collections around the world and were seen together for the first time since they were painted.

Alongside a strong rotation of exhibitions Fondation Beyeler’s integration with the surrounding landscape, its exceptional art collection and immersive displays, this is a cultural oasis that offers an experience that feels both inspiring and rejuvenating. 

Try out the diverse culinary scene

Alchemist will take you on a culinary journey of innovation with a fusion of artistry, science and gastronomy. This avant-garde culinary establishment is quickly gaining a solid reputation as one of Basel’s most creative dining experiences and presents an experience that transcends mere dining, offering a great blend of flavours, textures, and visual delights. 

The dry ice and smoke game here is strong drawing upon elements from chemistry and gastronomy to create an experimental, science-based taste and sensory experience. We arrived hungry and ordered the Philosopher‘s Stone 5-course menu surprise at 79.-/ per person. It did not disappoint. While we had no idea what was coming our way the highlights were the Beefballs in BBQ sauce, the seasonal mushrooms, the marinated tofu in a Teriyaki sauce, and the chicken with a ginger chilli marinade all topped off with a deconstructed panna cotta. Be warned, it’s a lot of food! Thank goodness for elastic-waisted trousers; we needed them.

Warteck is a multi-use industrial building named after the old brewery of the beer of the same name and is home to Cantina Don Camillo. With a beautiful rooftop terrace to enjoy, the creative cuisine here has predominantly vegan choices with a few meat dishes. The deliciously creamy cauliflower soup du jour was one of the best soups we’ve tasted, and we would have been satisfied with just that, but the generous portion of the Tofu green curry main course meant that there was no room to try desserts. No complaints here though.

Eating out in Basel can be expensive. For more affordable options, head to the Markthalle near the city’s main railway station. Housed under a 1920s dome, this market features stalls that offer organic foods from around the world, along with wines, craft beers, cocktails, and coffee. It’s a buzzy atmosphere and for groups it’s great because you can all choose from different stalls meaning if you can’t agree on what to eat you just need to agree on where.

Basel’s Iconic River Rhine Experience with a Wickelfisch

If you truly want to experience the summer vibe like a local then join the residents for a swim in the Rhine. You can keep your clothes and valuables dry in a waterproof Wickelfisch swim bag, a clever local creation that acts as both a handy carry-all bag and float. You’ll see hundreds of people each day with their distinctive bags so you know exactly what they are up to.

A favoured spot to start a swim is just below the Museum Tinguely, where you can float along a two-mile stretch in Kleinbasel. Plenty of locals choose this as a mode of transport to traverse the city and there are steps, showers and changing spaces along the river for when you reach your destination (just so you know they take this as a serious business).

Accommodation Choices: Where to Stay in Basel 

Fused stayed at The four-star Hotel Märthof, nestled in the vibrant heart of Basel’s Old Town, which serves as the perfect launchpad for city exploration and a hotspot for lovers of urban life. 

Each of the 68 stylishly decorated rooms and junior suites is equipped with a host of complimentary amenities including a minibar, Nespresso machine, Wi-Fi, telephone, television, desk, and a luxurious rainfall shower. Guests have full access to the hotel’s wellness facilities, which include a fitness room, steam bath, and sauna, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation during your stay.

The ground floor hosts the Bohemia restaurant and bar, which features a terrace overlooking the lively Marktplatz. From the bar, guests can enjoy views of bustling Eisengasse. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick espresso, a leisurely à la carte brunch on weekends, a sumptuous dinner from the open charcoal grill, or a final glass of wine after a busy evening exploring, Bohemia offers a diverse menu catering to all tastes. 

Book your stay at Hotel Marthof here.

Lausanne’s Artistic Pulse: From Museums to Street Art

A scenic 2.5-hour trip on the super-clean, efficient and on-time train journey from Basel and you land in picturesque Lausanne on the shores of Lake Geneva. This French-speaking Swiss city is expanding its creative and visitor offer, on what appears to be an annual basis.

Lausanne’s Plateforme 10: A New Cultural District

As soon as you step off the train and exit the station you arrive at Lausanne’s newest and most impressive arts district Plateforme 10. Situated at the heart of the city, this innovative complex unites three prestigious museums: the Musée Cantonal des Beaux-Arts (MCBA), the Musée de l’Elysée (dedicated to photography), and the mudac (Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts).

The 22,000 sq metre site, which originally housed a train shed, underwent a remarkable transformation, reimagined by the Riba-award-winning architect Estudio Barozzi/Veiga from Barcelona for MCBA and Aires Mateus from Lisbon for mudac.

The striking renovation project has not only enhanced the functionality of the space but also infused it with life again becoming not just a museum district but an integral part of the local community. Its galleries, exhibitions, and events all invite visitors to embark on a journey of exploration, enlightenment, and appreciation of art in its myriad forms.

Explore from top to bottom (and back again)

Once you’ve checked in to your hotel and grabbed your free travel card you can hop on the metro and head downhill to Ouchy which will see you arrive at the shore of Lake Geneva. Here you can take a sunset boat ride or hire a small paddle boat, but we suggest a walk past the enviable mansions along the shore before arriving at Parc Olympique.

The Olympic Museum is where the worlds of art and sports intersect, offering a rich tapestry of exhibits and installations. There’s plenty to do here and even if your thing isn’t sport we promise you’ll find the curation, stories and activities entertaining and fun. The bustling and popular restaurant at the top of the museum itself is worthy of a visit alone.

Back up the hill (we suggest the metro again as it’s pretty steep) and Lausanne’s artistic vibrancy spills onto the streets, especially in the Flon district, which is adorned with colourful murals and graffiti that bring the city’s walls to life. Here there are also stages for music events and festivals that seemingly appear every weekend. It’s also a place to grab a drink outdoors or some street food as you take time to enjoy whatever might be popping up during your visit.

Make way for art of all kinds

Getting the opportunity to explore the Collection de l’Art Brut, which showcases extraordinary works by self-taught artists outside the mainstream art world, is a great way to see some unique outsider art. Founded in 1976 by French artist Jean Dubuffet, the museum showcases artworks created by self-taught individuals who exist outside the boundaries of traditional artistic norms. The collection encompasses a diverse range of pieces, including drawings, paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works, created by individuals from all walks of life, often characterised by their unconventional techniques, vivid imagination, and uninhibited expression.

A 1.5km stroll from the discoveries of Art Brut and you will arrive at the opposite end of the creative spectrum if you choose to visit the Fondation de l’Hermitage. Nestled in serene surroundings the collection is housed within a majestic 19th-century mansion with panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps and is renowned for its exquisite collection of art spanning from the 14th century to contemporary works. 

The foundation’s mission is to promote the appreciation of art through diverse exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events so visitors are regularly treated to a curated journey through various movements and styles, from traditional to avant-garde, showcasing both Swiss and international talent. 

Refuel where food is treated like art

If all this art exploration leaves you hungry then we recommend a trip to the beautiful bistro Sardine. Offering a menu of locally sourced dishes and an impressive selection of gins it’s a hit with both Lausanne’s local students and the celebrities staying at the Beau-Rivage Palace. Great service, excellent food and friendly staff make this a must-try. 

Despite having a poor grasp of the French language and not quite understanding all the options on the menu our ‘potluck’ approach included a lovely ceviche dish as well as marinated sardines with watermelon for our entree, followed by lemon risotto with anchovies and capers and a rabbit stew with a lobster bisque sauce for our main course. Certainly, things we wouldn’t have probably ordered but we felt richly rewarded by our serendipitous choices.

For a fully immersive arty eatery then Le Nabi on Plateforme 10 is an ideal food pitstop to refuel you as you explore the displays and exhibitions. We chose to share the seasonal dish of the day which was an exquisite ceviche which we washed down with a great local IPA.

As our exploration of Basel and Lausanne concludes, we are left enriched by the artistic and cultural richness of these diverse Swiss cities. From world-class museums to lively street art, Basel and Lausanne offer a compelling mix of history, culture and modern creativity. A must-visit for art lovers, foodies, history buffs, architecture fans and anyone who has an appreciation for being close to water and beauty.

Planning Your Cultural Getaway to Basel and Lausanne

Find out more about what to see and do in Basel here and Lausanne here.

For inspiration on where to stay in Lausanne check here.

Fused flew with Easyjet – for flight info and best prices check here.