Basel Rathaus

Basel is truly a unique city. To prove that I have collected some interesting facts about it:

• It is located at the border of Switzerland, France and Germany which makes it tri-national.
• It is the second largest urban area in Switzerland
• It has the oldest university in the country
• The most spoken language there is a Basel German dialect
• The name “Basel” comes from the word “pie” in Latin
• The Zoo of Basel is the first zoo built in Switzerland
• Basel is one of the most important cultural cities in Europe

Basel

Basel is really a charming city. All those old but well kept buildings, narrow streets, romantic shops and magnificent Rhine river. Yes, it is lovely!

And if you decide to go there, here is a small list of things to be seen:

• Basel Munster – an early Gothic red sandstone church
• Basel Town Hall (Rathaus) – again, a very red and magnificent building, used by the government
• Rhine river
• Basel Zoo

But above seeing all sights, enjoy yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Basel city.

Chateau de Chillon

If you are fond of medieval castles consider seeing Chateau de Chillon.

The castle is build on a small island in Lake Geneva and has been there for over 1000 years. It is situated very beautifully facing the great Alpes on the other shore of the lake. The castle is very preserved and accessible. You can walk trough it, from dungeons and courtyards, trough great halls and chambers, finally to the chapel and defenses. And if you want to learn the stories that the walls and halls have seen, don’t forget to take an audio guide at the entrance and learn a lot more about this lovely castle.

One of the stories of Chateau de Chillon tells about the famous English writer Lord Byron, and his enprisonment in the dungeons of the castle. You can still see his name carved in the pillar, down in the castles dungeons.

The old pieces of furniture in the chambers reveal a lot about the daily life of the medieval people. You can sink in the old atmosphere. The overall experience is magnificent!

The Chateau is one of the most visited historical monuments in Switzerland. More information about prices and opening times, you can find in the official website of the castle. The easiest way to get to the castle from anywhere in Switzerland is by train and doesn’t that make the trip even more romantic?