Basel Airport, although named after the Swiss city of Basel, is actually in France. The airport has the names of French, Swiss and German cities in the title and is a great starting place for trips to each of the countries.
Basel airport links directly to the A3 motorway which crosses Switzerland and joins onto the French motorway, the A35, meaning that with a hire car from Basel Airport a large area is within easy reach. Staying in Basel itself you’ll have the chance to see why the city is renowned as the cultural capital of Switzerland with its many theatres and concert halls.
Basel Airport Mini Guide
The Airport
Euro Airport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is 6km from the city centre of Basel, Switzerland. Mulhouse in France is 22km away and the German town of Freiburg is 70km. It is unusual in that the airport is owned by both France and Switzerland, essentially a Swiss airport on French ground! The airport is split into two sectors for travellers from and into France and Switzerland.
How Would I get There?
There are flights from most cities in Europe to Basel and some from North Africa. Holiday destinations are well catered for by the budget airlines but of course these flights are often seasonal.
Can I get Into the City Easily?
The BVB bus 50 takes you to the Bahnhof SBB train station if you wish to travel further afield or for being central in town. Hiring a car is an easy option there as the city is just 5 minutes drive from the airport via the A35 highway. The car hire desks can be found in hall 1 level 2 in the French sector and hall 4 level 2 in the Swiss sector.
What’s at the Airport for me?
If you feel a little lost at the airport there is an information desk for all your enquiries on level 2. There you will also find a hotel information desk, should you need somewhere to stay. There are 3 ICE currency exchange counters and 4 ATMs conveniently located around the terminal building. If you wish to check your emails, you can use the internet corner or use the Wi-Fi service – you can buy a prepaid card at Relay.
What if I get Hungry?
For fine dining whilst you wait, go to Restaurant Au 5eme on level 5. Crousti café on level 2 has a selection of freshly made sandwiches and snacks for something lighter. If you are in a hurry, you can get drinks and pre-packed snacks at Grab and Go.
Can I buy my Duty Free There?
Yes, there are a couple of Dufry duty free shops whether you are looking for designer names and fashion or a bottle of vodka and cigars. Relay has newspapers and magazines for your journey and you can buy books and sweets at K Kiosk. There is also a Petit Casino for grocery items or snacks.
Is There a Hotel at the Airport?
No, but you can stay at the Airport Hotel Basel, its 2.5 km from the airport and they have a shuttle bus service. You can eat a la carte at the hotel’s La Rose Restaurant or La Brasserie in the Grand Casino, next door. There is a sauna and fitness room available for residents to use.
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