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.
Basel – Where Culture Meets Nightlife
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.
Clubs & Nightlife in Basel
The club scene centres around a few hotspots:
- Nordstern – The club for electronic music right on the Rhine. Techno, House and international DJs.
- Kaserne Basel – Cultural centre with club nights, concerts and alternative culture.
- Hinterhof – Small, fine venue for House and Disco.
- Das Schiff – Parties on the Rhine with views of the old town.
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.
Culture & Events in Basel
With over 40 museums in a compact area, Basel is Switzerland's cultural capital:
- Kunstmuseum Basel – One of the most important art collections in Europe
- Fondation Beyeler – World-class exhibitions in Riehen
- Tinguely Museum – Kinetic art on the Rhine
- Theater Basel – Opera, drama and ballet
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.
Popular Districts for Going Out
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.
What Makes Basel Special?
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.