SSEF Guide to Basel

Welcome to the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF and Basel!
While you’re here for a gemmology course and furthering your expertise, take the opportunity to explore Basel like a local. This guide will help you make the most of your stay in Basel – even outside the classroom.

For any questions about your visit to Basel and SSEF, feel free to contact us!

Contact us

SSEF Location

SSEF’s headquarters are conveniently located, just a short walk from the Basel SBB train station. All courses are held in SSEF’s course room. With its central location, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore Basel’s vibrant city centre before or after your course sessions.

SSEF

Aeschengraben 26
CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
Tel.: +41 61 262 06 40

Discover Basel

Known for its rich cultural diversity and world-renowned arts scene, Basel is an art lover’s paradise. After class, stroll through the city’s historic old town or visit one of its many vintage boutiques, galleries and museums, including the famous Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler. Basel is a haven of leisure, offering charming cafes, green parks, and shopping. 

Marktplatz_L1300563
Das Museum Tinguely wurde vom Tessiner Architekten Mario Botta errichtet und zeigt in exzellenter Lage direkt am Rhein die grösste Werksammlung von Jean Tinguely (1925 - 1991). // Museum Tinguely on the Rhine was designed by the Ticino architect Mario Botta and houses the largest collection of works by Jean Tinguely (1925-1991).
Die Buvetten am Kleinbasler Rheinufer sind aus dem Basler Stadtbild mittlerweile nicht mehr wegzudenken. Bei schönem Wetter öffnen sie ihre Tresen und laden mit leckeren Drinks und Snacks zum Geniessen und Verweilen ein. // The buvettes on the right-hand banks of the Rhine have become an established part of the Basel cityscape. They open up in fine weather to serve delicious drinks and snacks – perfect for relaxing.
Das Spalentor ist eines der drei noch erhaltenen mittelalterlichen Stadttore der Stadt Basel. Zusammen mit dem St. Johanns-Tor und dem St. Alban-Tor markiert es bis heute die einstige Befestigung der Stadt. // The three surviving medieval entrance gates - Spalentor, St. Johanns-Tor and St. Alban-Tor - continue to mark the city's former fortifications.
Fondation Beyeler_L1300797
Die Kleinbasler Altstadt bietet Mediterrane Stimmung am sonnenverwöhnten Rheinufer und ganz viel Leben auf Plätzen, Strassen sowie in den Bars und Restaurants der Gegend. /// The Old Town of Kleinbasel offers a Mediterranean ambiance along the sun-drenched banks of the Rhine and vibrant squares, streets, bars and restaurants.
Die markante Aussentreppe an der ehemaligen Bierbrauerei Warteck erschliesst Räume für Kultur, Kunst, Handwerk und Gastronomie. /// The distinctive exterior staircase at the former Warteck brewery provides access to spaces for culture, art, crafts, and dining.

SSEF Team’s Favourite Basel Hotspots & Things to Do

University botanical gardens

Including the tropical house. Free entry!

Rhine River

In the summer months, cool off with a refreshing swim in the Rhine. Side note: Make sure to get a locally made Wickelfisch waterproof bag to keep your clothes and belongings dry. All year round: cross the opposite bank on one of the Rhine ferries, which are attached to a long wire cable and driven purely by the river’s current.

Klybeck Quarter

An up-and-coming, creative neighbourhood filled with art studios, pop-up events, and alternative cafés.

Kunsthalle Basel Restaurant

Located inside Kunsthalle Basel, a major contemporary art institution, this chic restaurant is a favourite among the art scene.

Les Trois Rois Bar

For a posh vibe, head to the iconic bar at Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois. Its elegant setting and river views make it a prime spot to enjoy cocktails.

Markthalle Basel

A trendy food hall offering a variety of global cuisines in a casual yet hip setting.

Nordstern

A popular nightclub located on a boat along the Rhine River known for its electronic music scene.
Photo:  Nordsternbasel

Café Zum Roten Engel

Stop by Café Zum Roten Engel at Andreasplatz for a traditional afternoon with “kaffee und kuchen” (in English: “coffee and cake”). Photo:  aengeloderaff

Fischerstube

A cosy pub and home of the local Ueli beer.

Zum Kuss

Located in a historic building near the Basel SBB train station, this cute café-bar is a favourite for locals looking for a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.

Kaserne Basel

A cultural centre with an outdoor bar offers a mix of music, theatre, and contemporary performances. Photo:  aengeloderaff

Basel Zoo

Affectionally called "Zolli", the Basel zoo has inspired locals since 1874. Photo:  ZooBasel

Sandoase

Chill "sand bar" on the Rhine river for drinks and food.
Photo:  Sandoase

Special Events

Art Basel in Basel

The world-renowned art fair is usually held in June.

Herbstmesse

An autumn fair blending food, local traditions and entertainment - usually held at the end of October into early beginning of November.

Christmas Markets

Usually held at the end of November until the 23rd of December.

Fasnacht

In Basel, carnival is serious business! Basel’s Fasnacht, often referred to as the “three most beautiful days,” is one of Switzerland’s most significant, unique and traditional celebrations.

For a full calendar of events, see Basel Tourism’s website

Weekend Getaways

Enough of Basel? Take advantage of the city’s unique location which makes it easy to explore beyond Switzerland. A short tram ride will take you across the borders to either Germany or France. Discover the enchanting German Black Forest or follow the picturesque wine routes of Alsace all the way to Strasbourg for a quick weekend escape before or after your course.

Public Transport Perks

Here’s a bonus! If you’re staying in a hotel or guest house in Basel, you can enjoy free public transportation for the duration of your stay. From the moment you arrive, your hotel reservation serves as your ticket – even for travel to and from the airport.

Experience Basel to the fullest and enjoy your stay while taking your course at SSEF!

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Want to learn more about our courses? Click here to discover SSEF’s gemmological course options, calendar and prices.