Basel Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Basel
This weekend itinerary offers a balanced mix of free activities and worthwhile paid experiences, designed for Basel families with children aged 3-12. We focus on engaging the kids with interactive museums, exciting animal encounters, and plenty of space to play, ensuring a memorable and budget-conscious weekend.
Friday Evening - City Exploration & Cozy Fun
Friday, January 2Rhine River Walk
Start the weekend with a refreshing walk along the Rhine River.
Enjoy the iconic views of the city, the Mittlere Brücke, and the charming Old Town. It's a great way for kids to burn off some energy while taking in the local atmosphere. You can often spot boats and watch the current flow. For a unique experience, head to the Pfalz terrace for panoramic views over the river.
Suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy watching the boats and the open space. Easy stroller access along the promenade. Public restrooms are available in the city center. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Easily accessible by public tram to 'Marktplatz' or 'Schifflände'. Parking available in nearby public garages (e.g., Parkhaus Storchen, Parkhaus Mitte) for a fee.
Indoor Play Center
After a fresh air walk, head indoors for some energetic play.
The 3-Käse-Hoch Family Center offers a commercial indoor play space perfect for children aged 0-6 years. It's a great spot for younger kids to climb, slide, and explore in a safe, warm environment, especially after the sun sets.
Ideal for children aged 3-6. Parents can relax while kids play. Facilities include restrooms and a small cafe for snacks and drinks. Duration: 1.5-2 hours, allowing for early bedtimes.
Centrally located, walkable from major tram stops like 'Marktplatz' or 'Heuwaage'. Public parking garages are available nearby. Stroller-friendly access.
Saturday - Museum & Animal Adventures
Saturday, January 3Toy Museum Fun
Dive into a world of play at the Toy Worlds Museum Basel.
On Saturday, January 3, 2026, they are hosting a 'Last Christmas Leftovers' event, where they will be giving away festive decorations and glittery trinkets, and spinning a wheel of fortune! It's a perfect interactive and fun start to the day for children. The museum itself houses an incredible collection of toys across four floors.
This event is perfect for the 3-12 age group, with hands-on elements and the excitement of a treasure hunt. The museum is stroller-accessible and has restrooms. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Located in the city center, easily reached by tram to 'Barfüsserplatz' or 'Heuwaage'. Several public parking garages are nearby. The museum is within walking distance from many central points.
Zoo Lunch & Play
Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Basel Zoo, affectionately known as 'Zolli'.
The zoo has several restaurants and cafeterias offering fresh, seasonal dishes. The self-service restaurant even includes a children's play area, perfect for a relaxed meal. After lunch, the kids can enjoy some outdoor play within the zoo grounds.
The zoo's restaurants offer kid-friendly meal options and high chairs. The play area is great for young children. Restrooms are widely available throughout the zoo. Duration for lunch and play: 1-1.5 hours.
Accessible by tram (lines 1, 2, 8, 10, 11 to 'Zoo Bachletten' or 'Zoo Dorenbach'). Parking is available at the zoo (fee applies). The zoo is stroller-friendly with paved paths.
Basel Zoo Exploration
Spend the afternoon exploring Basel Zoo, one of Switzerland's oldest and largest zoos, home to a diverse collection of indigenous and exotic animals. 'Zolli' is open 365 days a year, making it a reliable and exciting family attraction. Discover the vivarium with its underwater creatures and explore the various animal houses.
Suitable for all ages, with plenty of animals to see that will captivate children. Many indoor animal houses make it a good option regardless of weather. Educational opportunities about animal conservation. Restrooms and baby changing facilities are available. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Easily accessible via public transport (tram lines 1, 2, 8, 10, 11). On-site parking is available. Paths are suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Sweet Treat & Relax
Wind down your adventurous Saturday with a sweet treat.
Find a cozy café for some hot chocolate and pastries, or grab an ice cream. This is a perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's discoveries before heading home for an early evening. Look for local bakeries or a cafe near the zoo or city center.
A calm activity before dinner and bedtime. Offers a chance for kids to pick their favorite treat. Restrooms available at most cafes. Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour.
Centrally located options easily accessible by public transport or a short walk from the zoo.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Animal Park Visit
Enjoy a free morning at the Lange Erlen Animal Park (Tierpark Lange Erlen).
This charming park offers a chance to see various native and exotic animals, including deer, wild boars, and farm animals. There's also a large playground for children to enjoy, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed Sunday morning.
Free entry and ideal for all ages, especially younger children who love animals and playgrounds. Plenty of space to run around. Restrooms and a restaurant are available on-site. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Accessible by tram (e.g., line 8 to 'Wettsteinplatz' then a short walk or bus). Limited parking may be available in the vicinity.
Natural History Museum
Spend the afternoon at the Natural History Museum Basel.
Children under 12 years are usually admitted for free. The museum houses fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, and regional fauna. The 'Wildlife Photographer of the Year' exhibition is also running, offering stunning visuals for all ages.
Highly engaging for children with interactive displays and impressive collections. Stroller accessible with elevators. Restrooms available. Children are free, making it a budget-friendly cultural outing. Duration: 2 hours.
Centrally located, a short walk from 'Marktplatz' or 'Barfüsserplatz' tram stops. Public parking garages nearby.
Riverside Playground
Wrap up your weekend with a final playground visit by the Rhine.
Many playgrounds along the river offer unique equipment and space for kids to enjoy their last bursts of weekend energy before the school week begins. The 'Volkshaus' or 'Kannenfeldpark' are highly recommended for central and extensive play options.
Excellent for all ages (3-12). Provides a final opportunity for active play. Public restrooms usually available in larger parks. Stroller accessible. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Kannenfeldpark is accessible by tram (e.g., lines 1, 3). Other riverside playgrounds are also easily reachable by public transport.
This weekend itinerary for Basel can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.