Kunstmuseum Basel
About
The Kunstmuseum Basel, founded in 1661, is one of the world’s oldest public art museums and houses the largest and oldest public art collection in Europe. Its three connected buildings – the historic Hauptbau, the contemporary Neubau, and the temporary space Gegenwart – showcase a breadth of art from the Upper Rhine school, the Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionism, Cubism, Expressionism, and contemporary Swiss and international works. Rotating special exhibitions such as ‘Geister – the supernatural trail’ and ‘Cassidy – Beyond the Point’ provide fresh encounters, while the museum’s free admission hours allow families and visitors of all budgets to explore the collection. With guided tours, workshops and educational programs, the museum serves as a cultural hub in the heart of Basel.
Highlights
- Holbein Collection
- Contemporary Architecture
- Free Admission Hours
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and fall offer the best chance to enjoy the exhibitions with fewer crowds
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Extensive Collection
- Free Admission Hours
- Architectural Splendor
Things to consider
- Crowded During Peak Season
- Long Queues for Guided Tours
What people are saying
Frequently Asked Questions
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 3 hours