Basel is a fantastic starting point for full-day tours that showcase both Switzerland’s natural beauty and its neighboring regions. Its central location makes it easy to reach the Swiss Alps, picturesque towns in France and Germany, and historic cities like Lucerne and Colmar. We particularly love the Private Full-Day Tour to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, and Mürren for its stunning mountain scenery and personalized experience, which really captures the essence of the Swiss Alps. Plus, the ability to explore Lauterbrunnen’s waterfalls and the car-free village of Mürren makes this a truly immersive adventure. If you’re looking for a blend of mountain majesty and authentic Swiss charm, this tour is hard to beat.
Whether you’re after dramatic alpine landscapes, cultural exploration, or charming towns, Basel offers a versatile launchpad. The tours listed below cover a range of interests—from the spectacular Jungfrau region to the colorful streets of Colmar, and scenic lakeside escapes with private guides. Each offers a unique way to spend your full day outside the city, with options suited for different tastes and budgets.
1. Private Full-Day Tour to Grindelwald Lauterbrunnen Interlaken Murren from Basel
This highly-rated tour combines the best of Switzerland’s iconic mountain villages and waterfalls, all guided by a local expert. Starting early from Basel, you’ll head straight into the Jungfrau region, home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery. The day kicks off in Lauterbrunnen, famous for its 72 waterfalls and lush valley, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in nature. The tour then continues to Stechelberg where you’ll take a cable car to Mürren, a car-free village with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau—truly postcard-worthy. The walk from Mürren to Gimmelwald adds a peaceful, less crowded experience, ideal for a relaxed lunch with views.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized guide, who shares local insights and Swiss traditions—plus the chance to enjoy a picnic lunch beneath waterfalls or on mountain trails. Reviews applaud the relaxed, friendly guide and the seamless blend of scenery and cultural moments. Priced at $1,451.88 per person, it’s a premium experience, suited for those seeking a full day of alpine adventure with exclusive guidance.
Bottom Line: If you want an immersive, private experience that hits all the highlights of the Jungfrau, this tour offers spectacular scenery and personal touches in one package.
2. From Zurich Full-day private tour Basel and Colmar
For a mix of Swiss and French charm, this full-day private tour from Zurich takes you through Basel’s historic streets and the enchanting town of Colmar. The best part? It’s flexible and tailored to your interests, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The tour visits Basel Minster and the Old Town, where medieval architecture meets lively cafés—and you’ll have plenty of time to discover art galleries housing works from the Renaissance to modern times. Then, you cross into France to wander Colmar’s colorful half-timbered houses and narrow streets, perfect for photos and souvenir shopping.
Highlights include a stop at Haut-Königsbourg Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Vosges mountains. The itinerary can be customized, making it ideal for history, art, or architecture enthusiasts. The 10-hour duration is a good fit for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of both Swiss and Alsace regions in one day.
Reviews note the expert guidance and personal flexibility, making this a favorite for those wanting a private, tailored experience. While pricier, the tour’s depth and customization provide excellent value for a full day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want both cultural exploration and a private, flexible schedule, with highlights spanning architecture, art, and castles.
3. Private all day trip: Basel to Lucerne & back, in English
This private day trip is an ideal choice if you’re after a straightforward but memorable outing to Lucerne. Starting from Basel, it promises stress-free, personalized transport with an English-speaking driver. The trip centers around Lucerne’s famous Chapel Bridge and the lakeside scenery, which are postcard-perfect. You’ll also have the chance to take a lunch cruise on Lake Lucerne, offering a relaxing way to enjoy stunning mountain views from the water.
The 5-hour itinerary is perfect if you want a shorter, more flexible day but still want to see highlights like scenic lakes and historic bridges. The private nature of the tour means your driver can customize stops, including additional sightseeing or shopping, depending on your interests.
Guests have praised the personalized service and ease of logistics, making it a hassle-free way to see one of Switzerland’s most charming cities. At $597 per person, it’s a good value for a private, half-day experience, especially for travelers short on time but eager to see the Swiss lakes.
Bottom Line: A great option for visitors wanting a quick, private trip to Lucerne with personalized service, ideal for those with limited time but a desire for quality.
4. Private all day trip from Basel to Lucerne, Aarburg & Castle
This 6-hour private tour offers a blend of lakeside beauty and medieval history. Starting with a visit to Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge, you’ll enjoy scenic views and some free time for photos or local snacks. The highlight here is the Aarburg Castle, perched high above the Aare River, providing a dramatic backdrop for photos and exploration. The tour is convenient—your English-speaking driver takes care of logistics, allowing you to focus on the sights.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of natural scenery and historical sites—perfect for travelers who like a little bit of everything. The flexible itinerary can be tailored to include more time at each stop or additional points of interest around Basel. It’s well-suited for those who want a relaxing day exploring Swiss lakes, old castles, and charming towns without the hassle of planning.
Guests appreciate the professionalism and friendly service. At $734 per person, it’s a mid-range option offering personalized attention and a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a mix of lakeside scenery and medieval castles, with the ease of a private guided day.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Basel
When selecting your perfect day trip, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you’re dreaming of stunning mountain vistas and don’t mind splurging, the Private Full-Day Tour to the Jungfrau offers unmatched scenery and exclusivity. For those seeking cultural highlights with flexibility, the Basel and Colmar trip combines art, architecture, and castles in France. Short on time but want a hassle-free experience? The Lucerne private trip is a practical and memorable choice.
Think about whether you prefer a guided group experience or a private, customizable outing. For example, if you’re a fan of castles and lakes, the Aarburg & Lucerne trip hits that sweet spot. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Basel’s location offers a wealth of full-day adventures, each suited to different traveler types. For a personalized alpine tour with spectacular views and local insights, the Private Full-Day Tour to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken, and Mürren is top-notch. If you want a cultural and scenic blend crossing into France, Basel and Colmar deliver a charming, flexible experience. For shorter, stress-free explorations, the Lucerne private trip provides a perfect balance.
No matter which option you choose, these tours showcase Switzerland’s incredible diversity—mountains, lakes, castles, and charming towns. Booking early will ensure you get the best experience, so plan ahead and get ready for a memorable day outside Basel.
Happy travels, and enjoy your Swiss adventures!