Basel Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Basel
This itinerary focuses on balancing free outdoor activities with exciting ticketed attractions, tailored for families with children aged 3-12. Public transport in Basel is excellent and generally stroller-friendly. Always check specific opening hours and event details closer to your travel date.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Kannenfeldpark Play
Explore Basel's largest and most beautiful enclosed park, Kannenfeldpark.
It features several diverse playground islands with climbing towers, slides, swings, and sand play areas, catering to children of all ages. Even in colder months, the drained paddling pool area can be used for scooters. There's also a cafe on-site.
Ideal for all ages (3-12). Multiple play areas, open green space, benches for parents. Cafe available for snacks and drinks. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Easily accessible by tram line 1 and bus lines 36, 38, 50 to Kannenfeldplatz. Stroller-friendly paths throughout the park. Limited street parking may be available.
Markthalle Dinner
Enjoy a diverse dinner at Markthalle Basel, a popular indoor food market.
It offers a wide variety of international cuisines from numerous stalls, providing options for every family member. There's also a small play area, making it family-friendly.
Suitable for all ages. Kids can explore different food options and use the small play corner. Cozy seating. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Centrally located, a short walk from Basel SBB train station. Public transport accessible. Limited parking nearby. Stroller friendly inside.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Basel Zoo Visit
Spend the morning at Basel Zoo, affectionately known as 'Zolli'.
It's home to a large number of indigenous and exotic animals from all continents. In winter months (Dec-Feb), don't miss the daily penguin walk at 11:00 AM.
Excellent for all ages (3-12). Children under 6 are free. Offers diverse animal encounters and a specific winter highlight with the penguin walk. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Well connected by public transport; trams and buses stop near the entrance. Stroller accessible throughout most of the zoo. Limited paid parking available.
Zoo Lunch Break
Enjoy a casual family lunch at one of the Basel Zoo's restaurants or cafeterias.
The self-service restaurant offers hot food and often has a children's play area, perfect for a quick and convenient meal within the park.
Kid-friendly menu options available. High chairs may be provided. Duration: 1 hour.
Located inside Basel Zoo.
Petersplatz Flea Market
Discover treasures at the Petersplatz Flea Market.
This vibrant market takes place every Saturday and is known for its wide range of items, from antiques to clothes. It also features a dedicated children's flea market in the center of the square where kids (6-14 years) can sell their own toys and books.
Engaging for all ages, especially if children enjoy finding unique items or even setting up their own small 'shop' (requires a CHF 5 fee for selling). Good for browsing and experiencing local life. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Easily reachable by public transport. The market is outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather. Stroller-friendly, but can be crowded.
Topolino Indoor Play
Head to Topolino, a large indoor playground in Pratteln, a short drive from Basel.
It offers extensive play structures, slides, and activities perfect for children to burn off energy. It's especially good for children aged 1-11 years.
Best for ages 3-11. Provides a safe and fun environment for active play regardless of weather. Adults can relax while children play. Duration: 2 hours.
Located in Pratteln, about a 14-minute drive from Basel SBB. Check public transport options (train to Pratteln, then local bus or walk). Parking likely available on-site. Stroller accessible.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Lange Erlen Animals
Visit the Tierpark Lange Erlen (Lange Erlen Animal Park), a popular recreational area for families with free admission.
Observe various native and exotic animals like deer, wild pigs, goats, ponies, and birds in natural settings. There's also a large playground within the park. On Sundays, pony riding is offered for children.
Great for all ages (3-12). Offers animal viewing, expansive walking paths, and a spacious playground. Pony riding is a fun extra on Sundays. Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
Accessible by public transport. From Basel Badischer Bahnhof, take bus line 36 towards Kleinhüningen to 'Lange Erlen' stop. Stroller-friendly paths. Parking available.
Park Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch amidst nature at Tierpark Lange Erlen.
The park provides various picnic spots and grill areas. Alternatively, a kiosk is available in the park for snacks and drinks.
Casual and flexible lunch option. Allows for continued enjoyment of the park's surroundings. Duration: 1 hour.
Located within Tierpark Lange Erlen.
Toy World Wonders
Step into the magical world of toys at the Toy Worlds Museum Basel.
This museum showcases a fascinating collection of dolls, teddy bears, carousels, and miniature houses. It's particularly appealing for children, and admission is free for children and youth up to 16 years of age. The museum is open on this Sunday, as Carnival closures begin on February 23rd.
Highly engaging for children aged 3-12. Parents will also enjoy the nostalgic displays. Children can explore at their own pace. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Centrally located and easily accessible by public transport (various tram/bus stops nearby). Stroller accessible. Limited street parking.
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