Basel offers an immensely wide choice of places of interest, from museums to churches, modern architecture, and art in public places. A tour of the city allows one to visit some of Basels best-known sights.

Nowadays Basel combines international style with the charm, intimacy and esprit of a small town. Often referred to as a 'pocket-sized metropolis' Basel is a dynamic business centre, a city of arts, science and culture. It is a home to people from about 150 nations. As Switzerland is famous for its tolerant people, Basel promotes peaceful co-existence and develops an active integration policy. A large number of key companies have their headquarters in Basel among which the seat of the Bank for International Settlements, BIS.

A significant historic moment for Basel was the Great Council of Christendom that was held in the city from 1431 to 1448. That was an event that brought the city to world attention. As a result followed the establishment of Basel's university, officially opened in 1460. It is currently the oldest University North of the Alps. During the following centuries Basel continued to develop as both science and economy centre. Then finally in 1501, the city joined the Swiss confederation.

Elegantly positioned on the bend of Rhine, Basel provides the visitors with a number of beautiful sights and attractions. In this cosmopolitan city there is something for everyone. Whether you want to visit museums, enjoy modern architecture, historic churches and buildings or simply mingle with people in restaurants and pubs, Basel has it all. A favourite tourist spot is the Rhine River where one can take a boat trip.

Particularly interesting is the Old Town of Basel where you can visit the Old City Gates, known as the Spalentor constructed in the end of 14th Century. A must see is Munster Cathedral. It is one of the most prominent spots in the city and the place where Erasmus was buried. Other places of interest include the red City Hall, which was erected in 1507-13 to mark Basel's acceptance into the Swiss Confederation.

Located in the Dreiländereck (three countries' corner), Basel is a gateway to the Swiss Jura mountains and nearby cities of Zürich and Lucerne, as well as the neighboring French region of Alsace and the German Black Forest. There are a number of things to see and do if you have a few days to spend. Basel is a cosmopolitan city because of its university and industry and its proximity to the borders of France and Germany.

Basel prides itself on having more than two dozen museums, covering a wide range of subjects, from art - emphasized below - and architecture to cartoons and even doll houses.

Many international events take place annually in Basel. One of them - Basel World International Watch and Jewelry fair. Late March-Early April. The world's biggest watch and jewelry trade show. The city's population more than doubles during this convention.