Basel, nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, is Switzerland’s cultural capital, known for its art scene, charming old town, and scenic riverfront. Whether you're into urban landscapes, serene river views, or historic architecture, Basel offers endless opportunities for plein air painting.

Best locations for Plein Air painting

1. Mittlere Brücke (Middle Bridge)

• What to paint: Panoramic views of the Rhine with pastel-coloured buildings along the riverbanks.
• Best time: Early morning or golden hour.
• Tips: Paint from the Kleinbasel side for a better view of the Altstadt skyline.

2. Basel Old Town (Altstadt Grossbasel)

• What to paint: Cobbled streets, historic buildings, and colourful facades.
• Hotspots:
• Spalenberg Street: Steep alleys and charming doorways.
• Basel Minster (Münster): A Gothic cathedral with twin towers.
• Tips: Weekday mornings are quieter for setup.

3. Rheinuferweg (Rhine River Promenade)

• What to paint: Boats, swans, swimmers, and sunbathers in summer.
• Atmosphere: Bustling in the afternoon, relaxed in the morning.
• Suggested spots: Along the promenade between Wettsteinbrücke and Dreirosenbrücke.

4. St. Alban Tal

• What to paint: Medieval walls, ivy-covered buildings, and tranquil pathways.
• Vibe: Peaceful, great for focused work.
• Notes: Light shifts beautifully through the trees midday.

5. Botmingen Castle (Schloss Bottmingen)

• What to paint: A fairytale-like castle surrounded by a moat.
• Travel tip: Just 20 minutes from Basel centre via tram.

What to Bring

• Portable easel or sketching board
• Weather-resistant stool
• Watercolour or acrylic kit (water-soluble oils work too)
• Water container (refill at fountains!)
• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen
• Layered clothing: Basel weather can shift quickly
• Ziplock bags or dry bags for brushes and rags
• Sketchbook for studies and thumbnails

When to visit

• Spring (April–June): Blossoms, mild temps, fewer tourists
• Summer (July–August): Lively, warm, long daylight hours
• Autumn (September–October): Gorgeous foliage along the river and hills

Art stores in Basel

• Künstlermaterial.ch (Spalentorweg 7): Excellent local art shop
• Boesner Basel: Large store with wide selection, located in nearby Pratteln

Artist-friendly places to rest & refuel

• Kaffeekränzchen – Cozy café near Spalenberg with outdoor seating
• Café Frühling – Kleinbasel favorite for great coffee and chill vibes
• Unternehmen Mitte – Former bank turned café and creative space

Transport tips

• Basel has a stellar tram network — grab a BaselCard if you're staying overnight (free public transport + discounts).
• River ferries (Fähri) are a fun and scenic way to cross the Rhine.

Bonus inspiration

• Visit the Kunstmuseum Basel for a dose of masterworks.
• Don’t miss the Fondation Beyeler — a short trip out, but the surrounding park is also great for plein air painting.