Top 5 Popular Attractions between Basel and Salzburg

Are you planning a trip between Basel and Salzburg and looking for unique and thrilling experiences? Look no further! Here are the top 5 attractions to add to your itinerary.

The Route and Halfway Point: Memmingen, BY

Basel in Switzerland and Salzburg in Austria are two of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Europe. The road trip between Basel and Salzburg is approximately 430 km and would take approximately 4 hours by car. The picturesque route passes through small towns and scenic countryside, with plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes.

The halfway point of the journey, Memmingen, Bavaria (BY), is a charming town with roots dating back to the Roman era. Visitors can stroll through the town’s cobbled streets and admire the beautiful timber-framed buildings, including the Baroque City Hall and the imposing St. Martin's Church. The town’s central square, the Marktplatz, is home to a bustling weekly market, where you can sample traditional Bavarian foods and drinks.

Top Five Places to See

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

No trip to Southern Germany is complete without visiting the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle. Built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, this 19th-century palace sits atop a hill overlooking the Hohenschwangau valley. The castle's stunning architecture, lavish interior, and breathtaking views combine to create a magical experience for visitors. Take a guided tour to learn about the murals, tapestries, and carpentry work that went into creating this masterpiece.

2. Rheinfall

The Rhine Falls, one of Europe's largest waterfalls, is a natural masterpiece and is located near the town of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Visitors can take boat rides to the basin of the waterfall or walk across the nearby bridges to appreciate the roaring waters, rainbows, and the enviable vistas. The Rheinfall is only an hour’s drive from Basel and can be incorporated into a day trip to the northern Swiss-German border.

3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Located in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town, the Mirabell Palace is a must-visit attraction. Built-in 1606, the palace is a perfect example of Baroque architecture and houses the Palace Museum with collections of ancient and contemporary art. The gardens surrounding the palace were named after the beloved wife of an archbishop and feature fountains, statues, and a hedge maze. This attraction is perfect for those wanting to explore the architectural and historical heritage of Salzburg.

4. Thun Castle

Thun Castle overlooks a small Swiss town of the same name, on the banks of Lake Thun, and is a 13th-century fortress with a singular history worth exploring. Explore the castle’s narrow corridors, enjoy the birds-eye view of the town and the lake from the top of the castle tower, and learn about the castle’s significance in Swiss history at the ‘Hall of the Knights’ exhibit.

5. Melk Abbey

Located on a hilltop overlooking the Danube river in Austria, Melk Abbey’s impressive baroque architecture is a sight to behold. The complex includes a library and an impressive church built-in 1736. Visitors can embark on guided tours and hear about the abbey's extensive history and its place as a spiritual and intellectual center in Europe. The adjacent onsite restaurant has fantastic views of the surrounding hills that dominate the area.

Conclusion

The journey between Basel and Salzburg promises to be one of the most memorable road trips you’ll ever embark upon. It will take you through breathtaking countryside scenes, rich historic towns, and scenic vistas along the way. If you take the time, you'll want to explore the top five attractions that are on offer, including the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle, Rheinfall, Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Thun Castle, and the historic Melk Abbey. Happy travels!