Look no further than the picturesque city of Basel in Northewestern Switzerland for an array of independent shops, great food and stunning architecture around every corner. It’s the perfect city to while away a few relaxed hours and within easy reach of Zurich.
A day for Tommy Snr
We had a special trip to Basel to honour and remember Iain’s incredible Grandad who passed away in December 2024. It’s so important to take time to appreciate loved ones and all that they have taught us. Tommy reached 94 years of age and it was a privilege to know him. He was such a force in Iain’s life, his family’s and also in my own family’s, who got to know him so well. He was a man of impeccable style and values and it’s why we we named our Tommy after him. Basel will always hold a really warm place in our hearts as the place we reminisced on happy times with Tommy Snr. We are forever grateful for him in our lives.
Urban Art
If you like street art and music, the mural in Gerbergässlein, commissioned by the the bar L’Unique, depicts world famous rock artists. It’s well worth a visit! Street art is one of our favourite things and we always keep an eye out for it on our travels. Living in London for almost nine years meant that we were so spoiled for choice for eye-catching street art. It was so refreshing to see it scattered across Basel and I truly believe that graffiti is the social commentary of any location.
Retail Therapy
I can’t sing higher praises for the shopping in Basel. An easy favourite was Baby Come Back for pre-loved baby and kids clothes. The service was fantastic and we had such a nice chat to the owners who helped us find great pieces for Tommy. The stars of the show? Bright pink Mini Rodini sunglasses with a built-in visor and a pre-loved Stella McCartney ski jacket in the boldest pinks. As soon as Tommy is big enough for the slopes, he will be all kitted out in style!
If you are a fan of antiques, hand-crafted jewellery or vintage fashion, you are spoiled for choice. Iain picked up a 90s Ajax football jacket, and as a die-hard football fan (Man United to be exact), this vintage find had to leave the city with him!
Wander to your heart’s content
If you have time, just get walking! Bar the street art mural and lunch at Flannagan’s, we didn’t have a plan! We had such an enjoyable time taking a stroll into courtyards and along the winding streets of the Old Town. If you are after more affordable options, the main high street has brilliant choice and all brands you’d expect to find.
What Irish Pubs Do Best
As I mentioned, this day was dedicated to Tommy and things that he loved so this course this meant a pit-stop at an Irish pub! We went to Flannagan’s and I highly recommend it for hearty food, great service and creamy Guinness! As Tommy was also a big fan of scotch, we found such a nice bar with the comforting scent of Glühwein and lots of chatter. His kind of place!
All of this and we didn’t even get to see the Rhine River. It’s not often that you get a feeling that you can’t wait to plan your return to a city but this is definitely the case with Basel. If you go, I can’t wait to see what you find! Tommy Snr – cheers to you and I’m so thankful for this day.