Der Teufelhof is a Basel original. It occupies a cluster of historic buildings on the Leonhardsgraben in the old town, a few minutes’ walk from the Barfüsserplatz and the Marktplatz, and for decades it has been known as a place where the hotel itself is part of the art scene. The idea is that guests do not just sleep in a room, they stay inside a creative work: rooms have traditionally been conceived by artists, and the house combines accommodation with a small theatre, a wine bar and restaurants, which makes the evening programme as interesting as the stay itself. In a city full of museums, it is the natural choice for travellers who love culture and want a distinctive, independent hotel that tells a story about Basel’s creative character, rather than a standard business hotel.
Location and getting around
The hotel stands in the old town, on the slope above the Birsig valley and close to the Leonhardskirche and the university district. From here the Barfüsserplatz, the Marktplatz with the red town hall and the Münster on its hill above the Rhine are all within a ten-to-fifteen-minute walk, and Basel’s tram network covers the rest.
The Kunstmuseum and the Kunsthalle are reachable on foot or with a short tram ride, and the Rhine promenade is down the hill. Basel SBB station is a tram ride away. Check the route and walking times for your own plans when you book.
Rooms
Expect individual rooms rather than a uniform chain standard, with a mix of historic and contemporary features. Because rooms differ widely in style, size and view, read the room descriptions carefully before you choose, and ask about quieter rooms if you are a light sleeper. Facilities such as the restaurants, the wine bar and the theatre are central to the concept, but opening days and programmes change, so check when you book what is included in your rate and whether breakfast is part of it.
Who it suits
Couples, art and theatre lovers, travellers who prefer independent hotels, and visitors to the art fairs and museums who want a base with personality. It is less suited to guests who want a large lobby, a fitness suite or identical rooms, and families with young children may prefer a more conventional hotel.
Good to know
Basel fills up very quickly during the big art fair and trade events, and prices rise sharply then, so book as early as possible if your dates coincide. As a rule, hotels in Basel offer a visitor card for free public transport on the city network, so ask when you check in what is included. The old town has hills and cobbles, so pack comfortable shoes. Always read the cancellation terms before you pay.
Why stay here
- ✓Art-led old town hotel
- ✓Individually designed rooms
- ✓Theatre and wine bar on site
- ✓Walk to the Marktplatz and Münster
- ✓Tram network nearby
- ✓Free WiFi
- ✓Close to the Leonhardskirche
- ✓Check dining and breakfast options when you book
Good questions
What is Der Teufelhof Basel known for?+
It is known as an art hotel in the old town, with individually designed rooms and a theatre, wine bar and restaurants in the same group of buildings.
Can I walk to the sights from Der Teufelhof?+
Yes. The Barfüsserplatz, the Marktplatz and the Münster are within a short walk. Check the route for your own plans when you book.
Is Der Teufelhof good during the art fair?+
It is popular with art visitors, so book very early. Prices rise sharply when the big fairs are on.
