Your guide to going out in Basel. Discover nightlife on the Rhine – from clubs in Steinenvorstadt to the alternative scene in Kleinbasel.
Basel offers dozens of events every week – from techno nights at Nordstern to world-class exhibitions at Fondation Beyeler. WasGoht shows you all parties, concerts and cultural events on the Rhine.
The city at the three-country corner combines world-class culture with a surprisingly diverse nightlife. Whether you're looking for techno beats, live jazz or a relaxed drink by the Rhine – Basel has something for every taste.
The club scene centres around a few hotspots:
Steinenvorstadt is the classic going-out district with bars and clubs in close proximity. Those who prefer it more alternative will find the more exciting scene in Kleinbasel.
With over 40 museums in a compact area, Basel is Switzerland's cultural capital:
Art Basel makes the city the centre of the international art world once a year. Add events like the Herbstmesse (one of the oldest and largest fairs in Switzerland) and the legendary Fasnacht.
Steinenvorstadt (Grossbasel): The classic nightlife district. Bars, clubs and restaurants line up next to each other. The nightlife pulses here at weekends.
Kleinbasel: The right bank of the Rhine is rougher, more authentic and more alternative. Here you'll find the most exciting bars and the local scene.
St. Johann: The up-and-coming quarter near the station. New venues, young crowd and creative atmosphere.
Old Town: Cosy pubs, historic ambience and the perfect place for a drink with views of the Minster.
Basel is compact and manageable – it's often just a few minutes' walk from a club to the riverbank. In summer, locals meet for swimming in the Rhine and drinking beer on the banks. This relaxed atmosphere also shapes the nightlife: less hectic than Zurich, more cosy, but still with international flair due to the proximity to Germany and France.