Located where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, Basel reflects a fascinating blend of traditions. The city straddles the Rhine at the river’s farthest navigable point, and an alluring cluster of old-town buildings huddles along the riverbank. Around Market Square, guild houses recall Gothic, Renaissance and baroque splendor; the red-sandstone Rathaus, or Town Hall, is the centerpiece. More than 40 museums of art and culture lend modern polish to its history-rich streets. And there is no more refined way to sample it all than over cheese fondue or croissants.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.
Basel Walking Tour
Tour this fascinating city where three nations converge: Switzerland, France and Germany.
Highlights of the Alps
Immerse yourself for a day among the splendid vistas and rich culture of alpine Switzerland.
Novartis’s Campus on Foot
Walk through the cutting-edge campus of Basel’s economic powerhouse to see its impressive architecture.
Highlights of Basel
Explore Basel and learn about the age-old techniques of paper, writing and printing at a local museum.
Cheese Fondue Evening
Savor a taste of Switzerland during a delicious cheese fondue dining experience.
Videos
At Home in Basel with Joost
Join Joost Ouendag, VP of Product Development at Viking, as he shares some of his favorite things to do, see and eat in Basel. As an experienced traveler who was born in the Netherlands, Joost answers viewers' questions while exploring aspects of Basel that are sure to surprise and delight you.
Savor regional specialities from Breisach to Basel
Sail on with Jean as she travels across the river from French Alsace to Breisach, Germany, a gateway to the Black Forest. Famous for its vineyards, Breisach is perhaps best known for spätburgunder, a German pinot noir. Follow along with Jean as she tastes this varietal and learns about organic wine production at the Missbach winery, family-owned since 1758. Next, Jean ventures to the charming town of Staufen to tour the Schladerer distillery, a family-run business that has been practicing their craft for nearly two centuries. Gain insight into the innovative process they use to produce their schnapps, a delicious clear brandy distilled with fruit. Afterward, Jean concludes her 8-day voyage in snowy Basel, Switzerland, where she visits her final Christmas market and indulges in some traditional Swiss fondue.
Viking Longships Naming Ceremony 2019
During a festive naming ceremony in Basel, Switzerland, Viking welcomed seven new Europe river ships to its award-winning fleet, including six innovative Viking Longships. Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen is pictured with the ships’ honorary godmothers at the Picasso exhibition at Basel’s Foundation Beyeler museum.
Viking Longships: Innovative Elegance
Our innovative Viking Longships offer full-size verandas and the largest suites on Europe’s rivers. Dine in the restaurant or al fresco on our Aquavit Terrace®, all with panoramic views.
Viking Longships Christening 2016
During a festive waterfront Christening Ceremony in Amsterdam, Viking was proud to welcome six of its new Viking Longships to the award-winning and innovative fleet.
German Language Lesson
Learn a few useful German words and phrases with Rebecca, your Viking tutor. Prost!
