Shopping in Basel
Discover 14 markets, shops, and shopping spots in Basel, Switzerland. From local markets to specialty stores — curated from real traveler tips.
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Plattfon Record Shop
Very cool, small and independent record shop carrying mostly vinyl of genres like: Hip Hop, Electronica, Techno, Drum n Bass, Punk Rock, Dub, Metal and so on. It is open Wednesday through Saturday 12-8PM. There's also a small selection of books and zines about music, anarchy, situationism and alternative art. Definitely a place worth checking out.
Feldbergstr. 48 Website -
choco loco
An unusual chocolate shop, selling not mass-produced brands like ''Lindt'' or ''Cailler'' - not that there is anything wrong with those - but unusual artisan chocolates, including spicy ones, most of which are (heaven help!) not even made in Switzerland.
Spalenberg 38a Website -
Läckerli Huus
Gerbergasse 57, city center. Another location is at ''Cafe Spitz'' (see ''Eat Splurge'') on the Kleinbasel side of ''Mittlere Brücke''. Traditional and non-traditional versions of the famous ''Basler Läckerli'' and many other sweets - nice souvenirs.
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Thalia
This is Switzerland's version of ''Barnes & Noble'', and part of a major German chain. The biggest bookstore in town, but not the most personal one. Also carries a small selection of English books (including computer books) and stationery.
Freie Strasse 32 Website -
Comix Shop
If you're into comics, whether the American ''Spiderman'' & Co., or arty French ''bandes déssinées'', plan to spend an afternoon in this vast shop with a terrific selection. Also sells postcards and other comics related items.
Theaterpassage 7, city center Website -
Confiserie Sprüngli
At Basel SBB station, upstairs. Satellite location of the famous Zürich chocolatier. Wide variety of chocolate products and pastries. Try the dark chocolate or ''Luxemburgerli'', something like little macarons - just better.
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TARZAN
in a cosy backyard behind ''Bahnhof SBB'', Swiss label for trendy and high quality streetwear. The shop sells cotton shirts, hoodies, underwear and also some special design items. Clothes for heroes and other suspects.
Güterstrasse 145 Website -
Heimatwerk
High quality traditional and neo-traditional Swiss goods, such as silken bands (formerly Basel's main export), cotton towels and handkerchiefs from Appenzell, wood toys and traditional clothes.
Schneidergasse 2, near ''Marktplatz'' Website -
Bider & Tanner
Large bookstore with a well-stocked English book section and a wide selection of travel books and maps. The place to go to get local topo maps and Swiss bike maps.
Aeschenvorstadt 2, city center Website -
Pep & No Name
Wide selection of books, including on art and photography, limited selection of titles in English. It's also a photography gallery featuring changing exhibitions.
Unterer Heuberg 21, old town, near ''Spalenberg'' Website -
Marinsel*
Crazy little shop, independent fashion for boys / girls and kids, over 50 local brands, colorful stuff like comics, stickers, buttons, bags, belts and more…
Feldbergstrasse 10 Website -
Globus
High-end department store, with two floors of gourmet grocery store (take the elevator or escalator downstairs).
Marktplatz 1/2 Website -
erfolg
Trendy underwear and t-shirts, somewhat reminiscent of the ''AmericanApparel'' brand.
Spalenberg 36 Website
Travel tips by Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA 3.0). Verify opening hours before visiting.
Shopping Guide for Basel: Markets, Stores & Souvenirs
Shopping in Basel is one of the best ways to experience local culture beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're browsing open-air markets for fresh produce and local specialties, hunting for antiques in backstreet shops, or looking for handcrafted souvenirs to bring home, Basel's shopping scene has something for every kind of traveler.
This guide lists 14 shopping spots in Basel sourced from Wikivoyage — the community travel guide written by real travelers. These are the shops, markets, and stores that visitors actually recommend to each other.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Basel
- Visit markets early for the best selection at Basel's food and craft markets.
- Carry local cash — many independent vendors and market stalls prefer cash over cards.
- Check opening days — many specialty shops in Basel are closed on Sundays or have limited weekend hours.
- Ask about local products — the best souvenirs are made locally, not imported for tourist shops.
- Use Nomax to connect with travelers currently in Basel who can share real-time shopping tips.
Meet Fellow Travelers in Basel
Download Nomax to see other travelers currently in Basel. Find a market companion, share shopping discoveries, or join city activities organized by the traveler community. Free on iOS and Android.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shopping in Basel
Where to shop in Basel?
Basel has 14 curated shopping spots including markets, specialty stores, and local boutiques. This guide covers the best places to shop in Basel, from open-air markets to specialist shops. Use Nomax to connect with fellow travelers who can share shopping tips.
What souvenirs to buy in Basel?
The best souvenirs from Basel are locally produced food and drink, handmade crafts, books about the city, and artisan goods. Markets are the best place to find authentic products. Check listings in this guide for specialty shops and markets in Basel.
Are there markets in Basel?
Yes, Basel has several markets in this guide including food markets, antique fairs, and craft markets. Opening days and hours vary by market — check individual listings before visiting.
Is Nomax free to use in Basel?
Yes, Nomax is completely free. Download it on iOS or Android to connect with travelers currently in Basel, join activities, and get shopping recommendations from people who know the city.
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