7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Basel

Basel, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural tapestry, appealing to digital nomads who appreciate its blend of modern amenities and historical charm. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, its location on the borders of France and Germany makes it an ideal base for weekend getaways. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, the surrounding regions offer a diverse range of destinations that cater to all tastes. Here are seven fun weekend getaways from Basel, including both well-trodden and off-the-beaten-path locations.

Lake Lucerne

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Lake Lucerne is a picturesque destination that combines natural beauty with historical significance. Surrounded by mountains, the lake offers a plethora of activities such as boat cruises, hiking, and visiting the Swiss Transport Museum. The city of Lucerne itself, with its iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) and Water Tower, provides a charming backdrop for a leisurely weekend of exploration and relaxation.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach Lake Lucerne from Basel is by train, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to ride the world's steepest cogwheel railway up to Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding Alps.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel des Balances with its beautiful views of the Reuss River, or the Art Deco Hotel Montana, which offers a stunning terrace overlooking the lake.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, try the Restaurant Stadtkeller for traditional Swiss cuisine and live folk music in a historic setting.

Colmar, France

Just across the border in France, Colmar is a fairy-tale town that seems to have sprung straight out of a storybook. With its colorful half-timbered houses, canals, and flower-lined streets, Colmar is a feast for the eyes. The town is also part of the Alsace wine region, making it a perfect spot for wine enthusiasts to indulge in tastings and vineyard tours.

How to Get There: Colmar is easily accessible from Basel by train, with a journey time of around 45 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Visit the Unterlinden Museum to see the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of German Renaissance art.

Where to Stay: La Maison des Têtes offers luxury accommodations in a historic building, while Le Colombier is a charming hotel in the heart of the old town.

Where to Eat: Wistub Brenner is a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Alsatian dishes, such as tarte flambée and choucroute.

Creux du Van

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the natural rock arena of Creux du Van is a spectacular sight. This massive rocky cirque offers stunning views and is home to ibexes and other wildlife. Hiking to the top is a rewarding challenge, and the serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

How to Get There: The journey to Creux du Van from Basel typically involves a combination of train and bus travel, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during sunrise or sunset for a truly magical experience as the light plays off the rock formations.

Where to Stay: Nearby, the Hotel de l'Aigle in Couvet provides comfortable lodging with a traditional Swiss ambiance.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a hearty meal at Ferme du Soliat, located right on the edge of the Creux du Van, offering local specialties and panoramic views.

Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

Just over the border in Germany, Freiburg im Breisgau is known for its medieval architecture, sunny climate, and eco-friendly culture. The city's cobbled streets, historic buildings, and the iconic Freiburg Minster make it a delightful destination. Additionally, Freiburg is surrounded by the Black Forest, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

How to Get There: Freiburg is easily reached by train from Basel in about 40 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Explore the Schauinsland mountain by taking a ride on the Schauinslandbahn cable car for stunning views of the Black Forest.

Where to Stay: The Colombi Hotel offers luxury accommodations and features a beautiful garden, while the Hotel Oberkirch is a charming option right next to the Minster.

Where to Eat: Hausbrauerei Feierling is a popular brewery and beer garden that serves up local brews and traditional German fare.

Valle Verzasca, Switzerland

The Valle Verzasca is a hidden gem in the Swiss canton of Ticino, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and rustic charm. The valley is perfect for hiking, swimming in the Verzasca River, and visiting the picturesque stone village of Sonogno. The famous double-arched Roman bridge, Ponte dei Salti, is a must-see and a popular spot for adventurous cliff jumpers.

How to Get There: Reaching Valle Verzasca from Basel requires a train to Locarno and then a bus to the valley, with a total travel time of around 3 to 4 hours.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Verzasca Dam, where you can bungee jump from the same spot featured in the James Bond film "GoldenEye."

Where to Stay: Albergo Losone offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a tropical garden setting, while Casa delle Befane provides quaint accommodations in a traditional stone house.

Where to Eat: Grotto Efra is a cozy eatery serving local Ticinese cuisine, with a terrace that overlooks the beautiful Verzasca River.

La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland

La Chaux-de-Fonds is an unusual destination that boasts a unique claim to fame as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its role in the watchmaking industry. The city's grid-like layout was designed to optimize light in the watchmakers' workshops. Visitors can explore the International Watchmaking Museum, take architectural tours, and delve into the local horological heritage.

How to Get There: The journey from Basel to La Chaux-de-Fonds takes about 2 hours by train.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the house designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier, which is now a museum showcasing his early work.

Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Les Endroits offers a luxurious stay with spa facilities, while Hotel Athmos combines traditional charm with modern comforts.

Where to Eat: La Ferme des Brandt is a restaurant that specializes in regional dishes and offers a warm, rustic atmosphere.

Mont Sainte-Odile, France

Mont Sainte-Odile is a spiritual and historical site located atop a Vosges mountain in France. The monastery, founded by Saint Odile, the patron saint of Alsace, is a place of pilgrimage and offers panoramic views of the surrounding region. The area is also known for the Pagan Wall, an ancient structure whose origins remain a mystery.

How to Get There: To reach Mont Sainte-Odile from Basel, you can take a train to Strasbourg and then a bus or rental car to the mountain, with a total travel time of around 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Explore the surrounding hiking trails, which offer both spiritual stations and breathtaking natural vistas.

Where to Stay: Stay at the Hôtel Mont Sainte-Odile, which provides simple accommodations with the convenience of being on the monastery grounds.

Where to Eat: The Restaurant Mont Sainte-Odile serves traditional Alsatian cuisine with views that complement the dining experience.