ibis Basel Bahnhof

ibis Basel Bahnhof is a straightforward, good value hotel close to the main railway station, in the Gundeli district on the south side of the tracks. It offers the standard comforts of the brand, with clean, modern rooms and a reliable breakfast, at a price that is lower than most of the city centre. It is well suited to travellers on a budget, short stays and those who simply need a convenient bed near the train. The station is a few minutes on foot, and from there trams and buses run to the old town, the museums and the Messe. The old town is about a twenty minute walk, or a short tram ride, and the Rhine is a little further. Gundeli has a mix of bakeries, cafes and small restaurants, with a more local feel than the tourist centre.

Rooms are compact and functional, with comfortable beds, air conditioning, a desk and a small bathroom with shower. Sizes are modest, and family rooms may be limited, so check the layout. Rooms on higher floors are usually quieter, and rooms facing away from the railway lines are preferable for sound.

Breakfast is offered as a buffet, and the hotel has a bar that serves snacks and drinks. There is no spa or large restaurant, but that is not the point. For dinner, you can eat in the nearby restaurants or take a short tram ride to the old town, where the choice is much wider.

The hotel is a smart option for travellers using Basel as a base for day trips. Trains to Zurich, Bern, Lucerne and Alsace leave from the station, and the S Bahn serves nearby towns. Early departures are easy, since you can walk to the platform in minutes, and the airport bus leaves from the station area.

Prices in Basel can be high, so the value here is attractive, particularly outside fair periods. During major events at the Messe, rates rise even for budget hotels, so book early. Weekends are often better priced than weekdays, because business travel falls off.

The trade offs are clear. You give up old town atmosphere and extras, but you gain a good location for transport, a low price and a quiet night. For many visitors, especially those who plan to be out all day, that is an excellent bargain in an expensive country.

Compare the cost of a stay here with a stay in the old town, then add the price of a tram ticket. Since many hotels provide a free mobility ticket for local transport, the transport costs are usually zero, which makes the saving real. Pack earplugs if you are a light sleeper near the tracks.