Tour on the vintage tram

Taking a vintage tram around Basel offers a fun and nostalgic way to see the city’s highlights, blending history with a leisurely ride through its lively streets. This 75-minute tour, operated by Basel Tourismus, is designed for those who love authentic experiences and want to explore Basel from a different perspective. With a small group size and guided commentary, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, informative activity that captures the city’s character.

One thing we especially like about this tour is how it combines historical insights with the charm of riding a vintage streetcar. The authentic sounds and the bumpy ride give you a tangible feel for what traveling in Basel was like nearly a century ago. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour runs only from June to August, so if you’re visiting outside these months, you’ll need to seek alternative activities. This experience is well-suited for history buffs, families, and anyone curious about Basel’s development who wants to enjoy a unique, laid-back sightseeing journey.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Experience: Ride in a historic streetcar from the 1920s, complete with sounds and atmosphere from that era.
• Informative Tour: Live commentary in German, with English available, offers insight into Basel’s past and present.
• Scenic Route: The tour takes you through Basel’s city center, showcasing both historic and modern landmarks.
• Family Friendly: The open-top carriage is ideal for family outings, especially during sunny weather.
• Cost-Effective: At $26 per person, it provides a charming and affordable way to explore the city.
• Limited Schedule: Tours run only on Sundays from June to August, so timing is key for planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Vintage Tram Tour

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The tour begins in front of the Hotel Euler at Centralbahnplatz 14, on track 1. This convenient central location makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing plans in Basel. The small group size (including the option for a private experience) ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction with the guide.

The Vintage Carriages – Charm and Comfort

The tour features two carriages: the motorized front carriage from the 1920s with 16 seats, and a charming open-top summer carriage built in 1905/1906 that seats 18 people. The front carriage offers a more traditional, enclosed experience with live commentary in German, and sanitized headsets for a clearer understanding of the commentary. The open-top carriage is perfect if you’re after fresh air and a more casual, family-friendly vibe—especially during summer days when you can feel the breeze and soak in Basel’s sights.

The Ride and What to Expect

The 75-minute journey takes you through Basel’s streets at a relaxed speed of approximately 30 km/h, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery. The sounds of the vintage tram, with its bumpy ride, transport you back in time and add a touch of authenticity. The live guide, often named as knowledgeable and friendly—sometimes providing extra tidbits or answering questions—ensures the ride is both educational and engaging.

More Great Tours Nearby

Highlights of the Route

While precise stops are not detailed, the route runs through Basel’s city center, meaning you’ll likely see both historic and modern landmarks. Travelers have appreciated the way the tour offers perspectives on Basel’s development by contrasting old and new architecture. Passengers report that the guide’s background stories added depth to what might otherwise be a simple sightseeing trip.

The Guide and Commentary

The tour guide provides live commentary in German, with English available, making the experience accessible to international visitors. Reviewers have noted the guides as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting details about Basel’s history—adding context to what you see around you. This commentary turns a simple tram ride into a mini history lesson, making the journey more memorable.

The Experience for Different Travelers

Families tend to enjoy the open-top summer carriage, as it provides a relaxed, fun atmosphere without feeling cramped. History enthusiasts appreciate the authentic vintage vehicles and the opportunity to learn about Basel’s past from a local guide. Visitors who enjoy leisurely, scenic tours with a touch of nostalgia will find this experience charming and worthwhile.

Practical Aspects: Price, Duration, and Booking

At $26 per person, this vintage tram tour offers good value, given the unique experience and insider info provided. The 75-minute duration is ideal for fitting into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Since the tours are only offered on Sundays from June to August, it’s wise to plan ahead—especially if you’re visiting during peak summer months.

Reviews and What Travelers Say

The overall rating stands at 4.3 out of 5 based on 78 reviews, reflecting mostly positive experiences. Many travelers highlighted the interesting details shared by guides, with some describing the tour as “an informative journey with lots of interesting details.” One reviewer from Germany praised the tour as “really nice” and appreciated the chance to see Basel from a different angle.

However, there are some logistical concerns noted, especially around capacity. A review from a Swiss traveler recounts how tickets sold exceeded available seats, leading to some children having to sit on laps, which was unfortunate. This highlights the importance of booking in advance and being aware of the limited capacity of the vintage vehicles.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This vintage tram experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate historical charm and authentic local transport. It’s perfect for families looking for a relaxed activity, history buffs eager to learn more about Basel’s evolution, or anyone wanting a different view of the city beyond traditional walking tours. Since it’s a short ride, it works well as part of a broader sightseeing day or as a leisurely stand-alone activity.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a memorable, authentic way to explore Basel, this vintage tram tour hits the right notes. It combines historical ambiance with scenic views, guided commentary, and a relaxed pace. While its limited schedule and capacity considerations are worth noting, the overall experience offers good value and a charming glimpse into a bygone era of Basel’s transportation.

If you’re visiting Basel during summer Sundays and love a bit of nostalgia paired with insightful stories, this tour is likely to delight. It’s a simple but meaningful way to connect with the city’s past, making your trip more personal and memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially the open-top carriage, which provides space for families. Do keep in mind capacity issues noted in reviews, so booking in advance is recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the sights and sounds of Basel.

What languages are available for the commentary?
The live commentary is primarily in German, with English available, making it accessible for most visitors.

Where does the tour start?
It starts in front of Hotel Euler at Centralbahnplatz 14, on track 1, a central and easy-to-find location.

Is the vintage tram tour wheelchair accessible?
The available information does not specify accessibility features; it’s best to contact Basel Tourismus directly if you have specific needs.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes the guided vintage streetcar ride and sanitized headsets for the commentary.

When does the tour run?
It operates only on Sundays from June through August, so plan your visit accordingly.

Can I join the tour without a guide?
No, the tour features a live guide providing commentary, but small group sizes allow for a more personal experience.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family, or just someone curious about Basel’s past, this vintage tram tour offers a charming, easy way to see the city with a touch of nostalgia. It’s simple, authentic, and perfect for a summer day, giving you a fresh perspective on Basel that you’ll remember long after the ride ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby