Basel Trams - Switzerland - Brian Garrett Photography

Basel Tram Network

It's hard to find the words to describe the transport system in the city of Basel, using the typical efficacy we have all come to expect from the Swiss, the country has built a reliable, extensive, integrated, affordable, efficient network which links not only the city of Basel with its outlying districts, but also with France, Germany and the rest of Europe. The system boasts integrated light rail and bus routes, and consults with its customers on the design and future of the 'their' trams! Residents of Switzerland can enjoy half price travel by purchaseing the special 'Halbtax' card for CHF 165 per year and then get half-price tickets. Visitors to the city who book hotels are gifted with a free travel pass for the duration of their stay. I can't think of many other cities which offer such a welcome to its tourists. Free Travel extends to the use of the No.50 Airport Bus from Basel Airport to the city by means of showing your hotel reservation. It's is no wonder that Trams, Bikes and Buses replace the majority of cars in the city and surrounding area proving that the investment in an integrated system will allow the movement of people quickly and without delay. The system also hosts two operators BVB and BLT, both of which who have services which converge at Basel SBB Hauptbahnhof. The extensive route network can be downloaded from the BVB and BLT websites, but is also provided below for reference.

While Basel has a large fleet of modern Citidas Trams, the overall fleet comprises of trams dating back to 1967. The older trams operate alongside their modern derivatives throughout the city and are kept in immaculate condition for their age. Some older trams have also been modified by having specialy built centre cars added to provide low floor access. The city also has a small fleet of heritage trams which date back to the 1900's, these heritage vehicles can often found operating circular dining trips around the city.

Basel has a wealth of historic buildings and streets which can all be explored either on foot, or by tram (or a combination of both) the networks are extensive and cover a vast area. The historic buildings are complimented by the modern trams passing quietly through the narrow and winding streets of the city. I certainly recommend taking a couple of days to explore this amazing city as there are plenty of things to see and do along the way!