Basel, Switzerland — City Information
City Facts
- Location
- Canton of Basel Stadt, northwest Switzerland.
- Time Zone
- GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).
- Electricity
- 230 volts AC, 50Hz; round two-pin plugs are standard.
- Average January Temperatures
- 0°C (32°F).
- Average July Temperatures
- 18°C (64.5°F).
- Average Annual Rainfall
- 791mm (31 inches).
Cost of Living
| 1.00 GBP = 1.31 CHF |
| 1.00 USD = 0.81 CHF |
| 1.00 EUR = 1.15 CHF |
| Currency conversion rates as of 19 July 2011 |
Special Events
‘Vogel Gryff' Festival
January
Traditional festival during which the three heraldic figures (Vogel Gryff (Griffin), Wild Maa (Wild Man) and Leu (Lion)) parade through the city, accompanied by drummers jesters who collect money for the needy.
Various venues
Website: www.vogel-gryff.ch
Fasnacht (Carnival)
February
The biggest party on the Basel calendar, a three-day non-stop carnival of parties and parades.
Various venues
Website: http://fasnacht.ch
Les Muséiques
April-May
A world-class international art and chamber music festival.
Various museums
Website: www.lesmuseiques.ch
Rheinschwimmen
August
The city's annual swimming race in the Rhine.
Website: www.rheinschwimmen.ch
Christmas Market
November-December
Over 150 lovingly decorated stands selling festive gifts, decorations, mulled wine and gingerbread.
Barfüsserplatz
Website: www.baslerweihnacht.ch
