Basel, capital of museums: from the Kunstmuseum to the Fondation Beyeler
The Kunstmuseum, a jewel of European art
The Kunstmuseum Basel houses the oldest public art collection in the world, established in the 17th century. Its galleries present a striking panorama of painting history, from Flemish primitives to German Expressionists. Visitors can admire masterpieces by Holbein the Younger, a native of the region, alongside major works by Van Gogh, Cezanne and Picasso. The contemporary extension, opened in 2016, links the historic building via an underground passage and hosts top-tier temporary exhibitions.
The Fondation Beyeler in Riehen
About twenty minutes by tram from the centre, the Fondation Beyeler occupies a glass-and-steel pavilion designed by Renzo Piano amid lush parkland. The permanent collection brings together some 400 works of modern and contemporary art: Monet, Rothko, Bacon, Giacometti and Basquiat among others. Large bay windows dissolve the boundary between art and nature, offering unique perspectives over the gardens and Jura hills. The foundation hosts annual temporary exhibitions that draw visitors from around the world.
The Museum Tinguely and animated fountains
Set on the banks of the Rhine in a building by Mario Botta, the Museum Tinguely pays tribute to Basel-born sculptor Jean Tinguely. His kinetic machines, assemblages of scrap metal and motors, spring to life before visitors in a joyful mechanical clatter. In the city, the Tinguely Fountain on Theaterplatz extends the experience with its perpetually moving water sculptures. The museum also offers interactive workshops that appeal to families and curious minds of all ages.
Tips for planning your museum trail
The BaselCard, provided free of charge by partner hotels, grants unlimited access to public transport and discounts at many museums. Allow at least two days to make the most of the cultural offering. On day one, spend the morning at the Kunstmuseum and the afternoon at the Fondation Beyeler. On day two, explore the Museum Tinguely followed by the Paper Mill Museum, housed in a medieval watermill. From Basel-Mulhouse Airport, the city centre is just 20 minutes away by bus 50.