Basel Old Town Shopping Walk (Self Guided), Basel

Basel’s Old Town is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city. It is a place where you can see buildings from the 15th century as well as contemporary structures. The architectural diversity of this well-preserved historical area is stunning as are the shopping opportunities.

On the left bank of the Rhine is Grossbasel, which encompasses the Old Town and many mainstream shops. On the right bank of the Rhine is Kleinbasel, which takes in Kleinbasel Old Town and a number of small independent shops. One way to get across the river to explore both these areas is to walk on Mittlere Brücke, one of the oldest and longest Rhine crossings.

A good place to start your shopping expedition is at Claraplatz in Kleinbasel, the beginning of Basel's shopping mile. The principle shopping street here is Freii Strasse, and it is home to several upmarket designer and fashion boutiques. For more designer brands, explore the stores and boutiques lining the historic alleyways of the Old Town's Spalenberg district.

Among the other exciting places to shop are the markets. Purchase fresh produce and local specialties at the daily market at Marktplatz. For antiques, vintage clothing and unusual finds it has to be the flea market at Barfüsserplatz. It takes place every second and forth Wednesday. There is also a new goods market here every Thursday.

Take this self-guided walk to experience shopping in Basel.