Set out on a captivating journey from Zurich and discover the cultural gems of Basel and Colmar. Venture through Basel’s historic old city, marvel at the modernist architecture, and learn about the diverse museums. Then, take a refreshing Rhine River boat trip and soak in the city’s stunning skyline. Venture to the charming Alsatian town of Colmar, where you’ll wander through the well-preserved half-timbered houses and explore the picturesque Little Venice canal district. But there’s more to uncover as you delve deeper into the enchanting details that make this tour a truly unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- This private full-day tour from Zurich visits the cultural capital of Switzerland, Basel, and the charming Alsatian town of Colmar in France.
- In Basel, the tour includes exploring the historic old city, admiring modern architecture, and discovering global cultures at the Ethnology Museum and Tinguely Museum.
- A Rhine River boat trip offers stunning views of Basel’s architecture and riverfront promenade.
- Colmar’s well-preserved half-timbered houses, picturesque Little Venice canal district, and unique evening lighting system are highlights of the tour.
- The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable driver-guide, museum tickets, and the Rhine River boat ride, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to explore these two cities.
Tour Details
This private tour from Zurich to Basel and Colmar lasts a full day, lasting around 8 hours. Guests will be picked up directly from their hotel in Zurich to begin the journey.
Along the way, you’ll visit Basel, the cultural capital of Switzerland, where you can explore the historic old town, admire the impressive Congress Hall, and choose to visit museums like the Tinguely or Ethnology Museum. In Basel, you’ll also have the option to take a relaxing boat ride along the Rhine River.
Next, you’ll head to the charming Alsatian town of Colmar, known for its well-preserved half-timbered houses and picturesque canals. As night falls, you’ll be able to admire Colmar’s captivating lighting system before returning to Zurich.
Destinations in Basel
Visitors will start their Basel exploration by strolling through the charming old city, marveling at the well-preserved medieval architecture that lines the cobblestone streets. From there, they can admire the striking modernist design of the Congress Hall, a landmark building that serves as a hub for cultural events. Three museums stand out as highlights – the Tinguely Museum showcases the kinetic sculptures of the pioneering Swiss artist, the Ethnology Museum offers insights into diverse global cultures, and the Basel Zoological Garden delights with its vast collection of exotic animals. For a truly unique perspective, guests can opt for a boat trip down the Rhine River, taking in the city’s sights from the water.
| Museum | Highlights | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Tinguely Museum | Kinetic sculptures | $15 |
| Ethnology Museum | Global cultural exhibits | $12 |
| Basel Zoological Garden | Exotic animal collection | $20 |
Museums in Basel
Guests can dive into Basel’s vibrant cultural landscape by exploring its renowned museums, each offering a unique perspective on art, history, and the natural world.
The Tinguely Museum celebrates the whimsical kinetic sculptures of Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, whose mechanical creations appear to dance and come alive.
At the Ethnology Museum, visitors can enjoy the diverse cultures and traditions from around the globe, including impressive collections of African and Oceanic art.
For nature enthusiasts, the Basel Zoological Garden boasts an impressive array of exotic flora and fauna, from playful primates to majestic big cats.
- Tinguely Museum
- Ethnology Museum
- Basel Zoological Garden
Rhine River Boat Trip
A relaxing Rhine River boat ride offers guests a unique perspective to admire Basel’s stunning architecture and vibrant riverfront from the water.
Gliding along the serene waters, passengers can take in the historic city skyline, punctuated by the iconic red-roofed buildings and towering cathedral spires that have defined Basel’s urban landscape for centuries.
As the boat cruises through the heart of the city, travelers can spot locals enjoying a stroll along the riverside promenade or dining at charming waterfront cafes.
This tranquil journey provides a refreshing change of pace, allowing visitors to soak in Basel’s beauty and rich history from the comfort of the boat.
Colmar’s Old Town
Cobblestoned streets wind through Colmar’s charming Old Town, flanked by meticulously preserved, half-timbered houses that date back centuries and offer a glimpse into the region’s storied Alsatian heritage.
Visitors can’t help but feel transported back in time as they stroll past the Adolf and Pfister Houses, two iconic structures that exemplify the town’s architectural splendor.
The highlight, however, is undoubtedly Little Venice, a picturesque canal district where brightly colored buildings line the waterways and small boats ferry passengers along the tranquil waters.
As the sun sets, Colmar’s Old Town comes alive, with the town’s unique lighting system illuminating the historic structures and creating an enchanting ambiance.
Explore the Adolf and Pfister Houses, two of Colmar’s most iconic buildings.
Wander through the charming Little Venice canal district.
Admire Colmar’s unique evening lighting system that highlights the town’s architectural gems.
Notable Houses in Colmar
Among Colmar’s most captivating architectural gems are the Adolf and Pfister Houses, two prominent structures that embody the town’s rich Alsatian heritage.
The Adolf House, with its striking half-timbered facade and ornate carvings, stands as a testament to the region’s distinctive style.
The Pfister House, with its vibrant colors and intricate detailing, captivates visitors with its sheer beauty.
Just steps away, the charming Little Venice neighborhood offers a picturesque glimpse into Colmar’s past, with its canals and quaint bridges flanked by charming half-timbered buildings.
Together, these historic sites showcase the timeless allure of Colmar, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine to create a truly enchanting experience.
Colmar’s Lighting System
Colmar’s enchanting lighting system casts a warm glow over the historic city, accentuating the charm of its meticulously preserved architecture and captivating visitors with a magical ambiance that lingers long after the sun sets.
As darkness falls, the city’s streets and alleyways are illuminated by a carefully curated network of strategically placed lights that highlight the intricate details of the half-timbered houses, cobblestone paths, and picturesque canals.
The lighting system in Colmar is designed to:
- Enhance the city’s medieval and Renaissance-era aesthetic.
- Improve visibility and safety for pedestrians and vehicles.
- Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger and explore the city’s charming nooks and crannies.
Tour Inclusions and Pricing
The comprehensive inclusions of the private tour from Zurich to Basel and Colmar ensure a seamless and enriching experience for visitors. From the meet-and-greet service at the hotel lobby to the convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour offers a hassle-free way to explore the cultural highlights of these captivating cities. Travelers will enjoy the services of a knowledgeable driver-guide, as well as access to a modern private vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi. The tour also includes a boat ride on the Rhine River in Basel and admission to museums, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the region.
| Tour Inclusion | Details |
|---|---|
| Private Transportation | Pickup and drop-off at hotel, modern vehicle with Wi-Fi |
| Guided Experiences | Driver-guide, museum tickets, Rhine River boat ride |
| Flexibility | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, reserve now pay later |
| Group Size | Private group tour, up to 3 people |
Priced at $1,222.09 per group, this all-inclusive tour provides excellent value for money, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is up to 3 people. This private group tour allows travelers to explore Basel and Colmar with the convenience and flexibility of their own dedicated driver-guide.
Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is available on weekends, allowing visitors to explore the cultural highlights of Basel and Colmar at their leisure. The private nature of the tour ensures a flexible and personalized experience throughout the day.
Can the Itinerary Be Customized for Personal Interests?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to accommodate personal interests. The private nature of the tour allows flexibility to visit specific museums, landmarks or attractions based on the group’s preferences and schedule.
Is There an Option for a Multilingual Guide?
Yes, the tour offers multilingual guides. Customers can request guides fluent in multiple languages, such as English, German, and French, to enhance their culture and understanding throughout the Basel and Colmar exploration.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $1,222.09 per group up to 3 people. However, the tour can accommodate wheelchair users and provides a private driver-guide service.
Recap
This private tour from Zurich offers a captivating exploration of the cultural treasures in Basel and Colmar.
Visitors can enjoy Basel’s historic old city, modernist architecture, and renowned museums, followed by a refreshing Rhine River boat trip.
They’ll venture to the charming Alsatian town of Colmar, where they’ll discover the well-preserved half-timbered houses, iconic landmarks, and the picturesque Little Venice canal district, all enhanced by the town’s inviting lighting system.
