Things To Do
in Riehen

Riehen is a picturesque suburb located on the borders of Switzerland and Germany, near Basel. Known for its beautiful parks, art galleries, and cultural heritage, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The area is also home to the renowned Fondation Beyeler, which showcases modern art in a stunning architectural setting.

With its charming streets and proximity to the Rhine River, Riehen presents a unique blend of nature and culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Riehen and Art
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Fondation Beyeler to enjoy its impressive collection of modern art and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic village center, visiting local shops and cafes for lunch. Consider visiting the local Riehen Museum for insights into the region's history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local Swiss restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Rhine River to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Riehen forest, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Basel, located nearby, to explore diverse plant species.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy bistro and unwind at a local bar, experiencing the friendly atmosphere of Riehen.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$15
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel per night$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Rich cultural heritage and art scene.
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from city noise.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other regions.
  • Less public transport connectivity compared to larger cities.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Riehen

Visit one of these nice places.

Fondation Beyeler

Capture the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens of this iconic art museum.

Rhine Riverbanks

The banks of the Rhine provide picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Riehen Village Center

The charming streets, with traditional Swiss architecture, are perfect for capturing local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Riehen

Riehen offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its Swiss heritage, with a variety of local dishes to savor.

Riehen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A crispy Swiss potato dish, often served as a side or topped with various ingredients.

Must-Try!

Zopf

A traditional Swiss bread, braided and typically enjoyed on Sundays with butter and jam.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Riehen Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and handmade goods every Saturday.

Climate Guide

Weather

Riehen experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and pleasant, averaging around 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with summer months experiencing occasional thunderstorms. Spring and autumn are characterized by mild temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and social events is highly respected in Swiss culture.

Quietness

Maintain a low noise level, especially in residential areas and public transport.

Politeness

Use polite greetings and farewells, such as 'Grüezi' (hello) and 'Adieu' (goodbye).

Safety Guide

Safety

Riehen is generally considered a safe destination, with low crime rates. It's advisable to take standard precautions, such as securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Riehen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, although some smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for enjoying the Rhine and outdoor cafes, though occasional rain showers may occur.

Autumn

Enjoy stunning fall foliage and mild weather, great for hiking and enjoying the local harvest.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow create a magical atmosphere, perfect for cozying up in cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Riehen at Night

Riehen's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Most bars and cafes close early, but you can find a few lively establishments offering local wines and craft beers. For a more vibrant scene, consider visiting nearby Basel, which boasts a variety of clubs, live music venues, and cultural events.

Hiking in Riehen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riehen Forest Trail

A scenic trail through Riehen Forest, suitable for all skill levels, offering views of the surrounding nature.

Reinach to Riehen Trail

A lovely hiking route that connects Reinach and Riehen, featuring picturesque landscapes and local flora.

Airports

How to reach Riehen by plane.

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg

Located about 15 km from Riehen, this airport serves international flights and is well connected to public transport options, including shuttles and trams.

Getting Around

Walkability

Riehen is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths. The village center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Many attractions, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance, promoting a leisurely pace of exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Riehen's population consists of a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, contributing to a diverse community.

International Community

Due to its proximity to Basel, Riehen attracts expatriates and international workers, adding to its multicultural environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Riehen, with local clubs and teams engaging the community.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity due to the scenic routes along the Rhine and in the surrounding countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Riehen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include trams and buses that connect to Basel and other nearby areas, providing efficient travel options for residents and visitors alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Riehen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and you can find vegan options as well.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some local eateries provide gluten-free options; always check with the staff for availability.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has a high-quality healthcare system. Emergency services are readily available, and Riehen is close to Basel, where hospitals and clinics are easily accessible. Visitors should ensure they have appropriate health insurance that covers international travel.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide