Is Basel Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Basel, it’s a city, located where the Swiss, French and German borders meet.

The official language of Basel is (the Swiss variety of Standard) German, but the main spoken language is the local Basel German dialect.

The city is known for its many internationally renowned museums, ranging from the Kunstmuseum, the first collection of art accessible to the public in Europe and the largest museum of art in the whole of Switzerland, to the Fondation Beyeler.

The city is considered an underrated tourist destination.

Old Basel isn’t very large and with many narrow side streets.

There are many shopping streets, they are walkable free because are closed to car traffic.

Warnings & Dangers in Basel

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Basel is a more safe city to visit than many others in Europe. But petty crimes in public transportation may happen. However, using common sense should get you out of any trouble.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Keep an eye out for them as you cross a street, including on pedestrian crossings. Travelers should be watchful out for the trams: they are very quiet and you may easily be surprised when one sneaking up behind your back. Beware of pickpockets in the tram. Taxi has taximeters and safe for traveling.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Petty robberies as pickpockets happen in Basel, mainly in crowded trams. Be on the alert.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

When the natural hazards are in question, Basel is prone to some minor tremors and earthquakes. But they are not very frequent and do not represent a serious threat.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Muggings are not usually an issue in Basel. However, it is best to avoid strangers offering your help and be wary of people trying to distract you since it might be a trick to steal something from you. Be careful while walking by the city late at night.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

In Basel, cases of terror are practically not known. However, as elsewhere, you should be alert and study the news before a visit.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Usually, in Basel, there is no scamming. However, there have been cases when tourists were deceived with accommodation after booking. Be careful and book your accommodation and entrance fees to museums/performances in licensed sources.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women traveling alone in Basel can feel absolutely safe at any time of the day or night.

So... How Safe Is Basel Really?

As a rule, in Basel, you are safe anywhere at any time.

Swiss police usually are serious about traffic violations.

The good side of stringent traffic rules is that drivers are generally considerate and will stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, even if there are no traffic lights.

The index of crime is very low here.

The biggest danger may be pickpockets.

Watch yourself when you carry valuables, especially on trams and buses.

Trams are an important part of most Swiss towns and the public transport system.

But travelers should be watchful out for the trams: they are very quiet and you may easily be surprised when one sneaking up behind your back.

While walking by the Rhine jumping off bridges is not only forbidden but also dangerous and outright stupid, as is swimming the Rhine at night – don’t do it!

Despite the fact that Basel is a fairly safe city, there are cases of attacks or robberies in tourist places or on the streets late at night.

The best advice is not to walk here too late and avoid secluded streets.

The theft of personal belongings is also possible, it is especially it may occur in crowded public transport.

Travelers should be cautioned.

How Does Basel Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

You need to have a valid passport to travel to Basel. For stays that are 90 days or shorter, visas are not required. For longer stays, you will need to obtain a visa from the Switzerland Embassy, unless you have Schengen.

Currency

Swiss franc or CHF is the currency and legal tender of Switzerland. Sometimes you can also pay in Euro here.

Weather

The Best time to visit Basel is from May to October. Average temperatures in Basel vary greatly and it feels cold for about half of the year. A chance of rain or snow throughout most of the year is small.

Airports

In Basel, there is EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg is an international airport located 3.5 km northwest of the city. EuroAirport is one of the few airports in the world operated jointly by two countries.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Basel Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Switzerland - Safety by City