Hilton Basel

Hilton Basel is a large, modern hotel on the ring of streets that circles the old town, in the Aeschenvorstadt area between the main railway station and the centre. It is a dependable choice for travellers who like the consistency of an international brand, and it caters well to business travellers, conference visitors and families. The location is practical, with trams stopping nearby and the shopping streets and the old town only a short walk away. Guests arrive by train at the main station, and the hotel is reachable on foot or by a short tram ride from there. The Kunstmuseum, the minster and the Marktplatz are within a fifteen to twenty minute walk, and the Rhine is a little further. The airport bus and the trams make onward travel simple.

Rooms are spacious by Swiss standards, with modern furnishings, large work desks, air conditioning and good soundproofing. Some floors offer city views, and executive rooms and suites usually add a lounge with breakfast and drinks. Family rooms and connecting rooms are available on request. As in most Basel hotels, you should check about the mobility ticket for free local transport.

Dining options usually include a restaurant serving international and Swiss dishes, a bar and a breakfast buffet with a wide range of hot and cold dishes. The hotel is a good place to eat when you arrive late or want a quiet meal, and the neighbourhood has a range of restaurants and cafes within a short walk.

The hotel is popular with trade fair visitors, since Basel hosts major events at the Messe throughout the year. At these times, rates rise and rooms sell out, so book early if your dates coincide with a big event. Outside fair periods, you can find reasonable rates, and weekends are often cheaper than weekdays because the business trade falls away.

For leisure travellers, it makes an easy base for museums, the old town and day trips, with train services to Zurich, Bern, Lucerne and Alsace from the main station. Staff are used to helping international visitors, and the hotel can arrange taxis and transfers.

Choose it if you value predictability, a central but practical location and a full service hotel. It is less atmospheric than the boutique and historic options on the river, but it offers comfort, size and good connections at a fair price for Switzerland.

Check the rate type when you book. Breakfast is often sold as an extra, and flexible rates cost more than advance purchase ones. Members of the brand loyalty scheme may receive upgrades or late check out, so it is worth asking at the desk, particularly on quiet weekends.