Basel Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Basel

The modern and bustling city of Basel gets its name from a third-century Roman castle that stood here. It is likely the modernization of "Villa Basilius," or "Estate of Basilius." Interestingly, the basilisk has been closely associated with the city and used in the coat of arms and coins. The association is likely simple assonance rather than anything more profound.

However, it's likely that settlements here began well before the name appeared. Excavations and research have shown Gallic tribes were living here as far back as the fifth century BC. The Basel oppidum from the Iron Age sits on the site of Basel Minster.

Most of Basel that you see today was laid out during medieval times. For example, the cathedral of Basel was built between 1019 and 1500, as were many of the town squares like Market Square or Munster Square.

Basel joined the Swiss Confederacy in 1501 as the 11th canton. Thanks to a history of humanism and the local University of Basel, the city has always been known as a safe haven during times of unrest.

As with most European cities like Basel, the real draw of coming here is to appreciate the history. Among its many claims to fame, the city has been home to many notable figures such as the Bernoulli family of mathematicians, psychiatrist Carl Jung, and the site of the first World Zionist Congress.

Basel occupies a lovely spot on the river Rhine. The town is well known for the number of museums--forty of them are spread across town. It has also been ranked as one of the ten most livable cities globally, along with Zurich and Geneva.

The best way to get to know a city like Basel is to walk its streets with the locals. Visit the city's famous squares and see historic sites like the Town Hall, Middle Bridge, and the Three Kings Hotel. So, when you're ready, grab your shoes and set out on this self-guided tour of the best sights in Basel.