The Lay of the Land
I didn’t know what to expect when I first ventured into Art Basel. For anyone who’s managed to dodge every art history class, it’s essentially the Olympics of the contemporary art world, taking over Basel, Switzerland, every June. It’s where the art caravan—including everyone from highbrows to aspiring TikTok influencers (yes, the modern version of Instagram influencers, for those over 30)—gathers to photograph and be photographed.
Walking through the halls of Art Basel, I quickly realized it’s not some impenetrable ivory tower reserved for the art elite. Instead, it’s a vibrant community where everyone—from seasoned collectors to casual observers and even the “I-know-what-I-like” crowd—can find something to connect with. Set against the charming backdrop of Basel, it’s an experience that combines art, travel, food, and even a little luxury (because why not enjoy high-thread-count bedding while you’re at it?) into a weekend I won’t forget.
Getting There
Basel is reachable by train from major Swiss hubs like Geneva and Zurich, offering a scenic route for those who appreciate the journey as much as the destination. Basel’s airport is conveniently small for those flying in, so even the most directionally challenged can find their way out. (NB: make sure you head for Art Base in Basel, not Miami, Paris, or Hong Kong! I know… they are everywhere.)
Timetable, Location, Navigation
Scheduled for June 13-16, 2024 (and around the same time for the foreseeable future), at the architectural marvel Messe Basel (designed by the Swiss starchitects Herzog & de Meuron), the event promises to cram your schedule with more art than your brain can possibly process in a short span. With 250 galleries representing 4,000 artists, hiring a docent might not just be a luxury, but a necessity unless you fancy getting lost in a sea of contemporary art with no lifeguard on duty. On this page you can learn about group and self-guided tour options.
Sleep Like an Art Connoisseur
Choosing where to crash after a day of art immersion can be tricky—you don’t want to end up, for example, in Bettingen, a beautiful place, but very far from the fair. Instead, here are a few spots from our guide where you can rest your art-weary head that offer quality and convenience:
Our Recommendations
Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Why we like it
One of The Leading Hotels of the World, this 5-star, old-world grand hotel is an architectural masterpiece. Choose a river suite. A newly renovated addition is coming online in 2024/2025.
Where to find them
Blumenrain 8, Basel, 4001, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Krafft Basel Hotel
Krafft Basel Hotel
Why we like it
Oh what fun! Simple, modern, and friendly. Choose a river-facing room.
Where to find them
Rheingasse 12, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Why we like it
One of The Leading Hotels of the World, this 5-star, old-world grand hotel is an architectural masterpiece. Choose a river suite. A newly renovated addition is coming online in 2024/2025.
Where to find them
Blumenrain 8, Basel, 4001, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Krafft Basel Hotel
Krafft Basel Hotel
Why we like it
Oh what fun! Simple, modern, and friendly. Choose a river-facing room.
Where to find them
Rheingasse 12, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Dining: An Art Form of Its Own
Because interpreting art on an empty stomach is a no-go, here are some of my favorite culinary stops:
Our Recommendations
Matt & Elly
Matt & Elly
Why we like it
Industrial, creative space for fine dining and afternoon tapas. Elevated brewery. The surprise menu with beer or wine pairing makes it simple. Restaurant has vegan and vegetarian options.
Where to find them
Erlenmattstrasse 93, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
La Vongola
La Vongola
Why we like it
Highly rates, ever-changing Italian menu and open all day. This is a definite go-to in Basel.
Where to find them
St. Galler-Ring 225, Basel, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Stücki
Stücki
Why we like it
Expensive 2-Michelin in a spare, modern comfortable environment with a terrace. The food stands out because of the flavors, colors, use of edible flowers, and presentation. Gorgeous food prepared by a gorgeous team. You’re in experienced hands.
Where to find them
Restaurant Stucki - Tanja Grandits, Bruderholzallee, Basel, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Why we like it
One of The Leading Hotels of the World, this 5-star, old-world grand hotel is an architectural masterpiece. Choose a river suite. A newly renovated addition is coming online in 2024/2025.
Where to find them
Blumenrain 8, Basel, 4001, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Krafft Basel Hotel
Krafft Basel Hotel
Why we like it
Oh what fun! Simple, modern, and friendly. Choose a river-facing room.
Where to find them
Rheingasse 12, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Making the Most Out of Art Basel
While the fair itself is a behemoth of contemporary art, its fringes often surprise. From the Unlimited section, showcasing mammoth-sized art projects, to the Parcours, turning the city itself into a gallery, there’s plenty to explore. And if you’re into discussions, the Conversations segment offers debates without requiring a referee.
Let’s not forget the satellite fairs and events popping up faster than you can say “postmodernism,” offering a deeper and more intimate view of the art world.
Pair It With
- Book: For a more informed Art Basel experience, consider picking up a copy of “Boom” by Michael Shnayerson, a fascinating exploration of the contemporary art market’s explosive growth and the dealers behind it.
- Music: For your AirPods, download “Métamorphose” by Swiss artist Vendredi sur Mer (a stage name that means Friday at the Seaside), whose introspective and ethereal music complements the vibe of contemporary art perfectly. See if you don’t feel at least 10% cooler with that in your ears.
Article by
Jason Claire
