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Basel

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Basel Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Basel year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): 8.5–15.7°C on average, the climate gradually changes from cold to warm, rainfall gradually increases, with the most rainfall in May. Common activities: outdoor walks, visiting museums, exploring the Rhine. Recommended clothing: light jacket, comfortable trousers or skirt, comfortable shoes.
  • Summer (June–August): 20.1–21.7°C on average, warm and humid climate, abundant sunshine, relatively little rainfall. Common activities: picnics on the Rhine, boating, visiting Art Basel (if during the event). Recommended clothing: light and breathable clothing, sun hat, sunscreen.
  • Autumn (September–November): 16.7–7.3°C on average, the climate changes from warm to cool, more rainfall, and greater weather variability. Common activities: tasting local cuisine, visiting Basel Minster, enjoying autumn scenery. Recommended clothing: warm jacket, comfortable trousers or skirt.
  • Winter (December–February): 3.9–6.3°C on average, cold climate, rain and snow mixed, feeling relatively damp and cold. Common activities: visiting indoor museums or art galleries, enjoying hot chocolate, Christmas market (if during the event). Recommended clothing: heavy coat, scarf, gloves, hat.

Basel climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 12.5°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 800 mm / Summer humidity: 65%–75% / Rainiest month: May

Basel monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
3.2°C
44.3
February
6.3°C
28.3
March
8.5°C
63
April
10.4°C
65.3
May
15.7°C
91
June
20.1°C
81
July
21.5°C
61.7
August
21.7°C
78.3
September
16.7°C
82.7
October
14°C
67
November
7.3°C
80.7
December
3.9°C
57

Basel weather for the next seven days

12/1
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
6.2°C/0.8°C
12/2
Tuesday
Sunny
7.4°C/0.4°C
12/3
Wednesday
Partly Cloudy
7°C/1.2°C
12/4
Thursday
Partly Cloudy
6.9°C/0.9°C
12/5
Friday
Partly Cloudy
6.4°C/0.5°C
12/6
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
4.9°C/1.7°C
12/7
Sunday
Partly Cloudy
7.7°C/2.8°C

Basel Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

Is Basel, Switzerland worth visiting?

Yes, Basel is definitely worth visiting. It boasts over 40 museums, a beautifully preserved historic Old Town, a lively atmosphere along the Rhine River, excellent dining options, and convenient access to neighboring France and Germany for day trips. Basel offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy, making it an ideal destination for art lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a well-rounded cultural experience.

How many days are enough for Basel, Switzerland?

For a good overview of Basel's highlights, plan for 2 to 4 days. Two days are generally sufficient for first-time visitors to explore the Old Town and visit a couple of renowned museums. Three to four days allow for a more in-depth exploration of Basel's museums, shopping, dining, and even day trips to the surrounding countryside or the Black Forest.

What is Basel, Switzerland famous for?

Basel is famous for its world-renowned Art Basel fair and its extensive art museum culture, including one of the oldest public art museums in the world. It's also known for its vibrant Carnival of Basel (Fasnacht), a historically rich medieval Old Town situated along the Rhine, and its significant role as a global center for the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries. Its unique geographical position at the crossroads of Switzerland, Germany, and France also adds to its distinctiveness.

What are the best things to do in Basel, Switzerland?

In Basel, you can explore the historic Old Town with its charming narrow streets and the impressive Rathaus. Art enthusiasts will love visiting numerous museums, such as the Kunstmuseum Basel. Enjoy the Rhine River by taking a refreshing dip in the summer with a Wickelfisch or simply relax by its banks. Don't forget to try the local Basler Läckerli cookies.

When is the best time to visit Basel, Switzerland?

The best time to visit Basel generally aligns with Switzerland's summer tourist season, which runs from May through September. During July and August, you can expect the best weather, snow-free alpine trails if you plan any excursions, very long daylight hours, and a lively schedule of events. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather for exploring the city.