The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is set to take place in Basel, Switzerland, bringing music fans from all over the world to this vibrant and historic city. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, this guide provides all the essential details, travel tips, and recommendations to make the most of this spectacular event.
Key Event Details
Dates & Venue
- Opening Ceremony & Turquoise Carpet Parade: Sunday, 11 May 2025, starting at Basel Town Hall and running across the Middle Bridge to Messe Basel
- Eurovision Village (Messe Basel, Hall 1): 10–17 May 2025, daily from 12:00–midnight
- Semi-Final 1: Tuesday, 13 May 2025 at 21:00 CEST
- Semi-Final 2: Thursday, 15 May 2025 at 21:00 CEST
- Grand Final: Saturday, 17 May 2025 at 21:00 CEST
- Main Stage: St. Jakobshalle Basel, capacity ~12,400 seats
Hosts & Production
- Presenters: Hazel Brugger and Sandra Studer (all shows), Michelle Hunziker (final)
- Executive Producers: Reto Peritz, Moritz Stadler
- Directors: Robin Hofwander, Fredrik Bäcklund; Executive Supervisor: Martin Österdahl
- Host Broadcaster: Swiss Broadcasting Corporation (SRG SSR)
- Theme: United by Music
How to Get to Basel
Basel is well-connected internationally, making it easy for Eurovision fans to arrive from across Europe and beyond.
Basel sits at the junction of Switzerland, France, and Germany, with EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg serving major international routes, and Zurich Airport reachable by a 55-minute train ride. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) connects Basel SBB station to Zurich (55 min), Geneva (2 h 45 min), Paris (3 h), and beyond. If driving, Basel lies on the A2/A3 motorways—note event-time parking restrictions. River cruises also dock daily at Basel’s river terminals.
Once in Basel, nothing is far: trams and buses run frequently, and BaselCard holders enjoy free public transport and museum discounts. Taxis, rental bikes (Guest Bike Basel), and pedestrian ferries across the Rhine complete the network
Where to Stay
Basel offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options:
- Luxury: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
- Mid-range: Hotel Euler Basel
- Budget: Basel Backpack Hostel
- Alternative: Airbnb and guesthouses
Book your stay early, as hotels will fill up very quickly due to high demand!
My Pro-Tip as Front Office Manager: Book as early as possible but a “standard rate” instead of a so called “non-refundable”. So you can cancel in case you have to – without fees – and if you need the room, you’re on the safe spot 😉
Things to Do in Basel
Aside from the Eurovision excitement, Basel has much to offer:
Culture & Sightseeing
- Old Town & Rhine Promenade: Wander medieval lanes, cross the Mittlere Brücke for city-views and River Rhine swims with a Wickelfisch waterproof pouch.
- Art & Museums: Home to the Fondation Beyeler, Kunstmuseum Basel, Tinguely Museum, and Basel Paper Mill, reflecting world-class modern and classical art.
- Architecture: Discover Herzog & de Meuron landmarks like Roche Tower and the Basel StadtCasino.
Food & Nightlife
- Culinary Highlights: Swiss specialties—fondue, raclette, Basel’s famed Läckerli biscuits, plus riverside buvettes and the iconic Markthalle food hall (open until 2 a.m. on weekends).
- Bars & Clubs: From intimate cocktail spots (Herz, Amber) to late-night dance floors at Volkshaus and Nova Club.
Day Trips
- Black Forest (DE) and Alsace (FR): Both under an hour away by train or car, ideal for wine, hiking, and fairy-tale villages—perfect for a pre- or post-contest excursion.
Eurovision Fan Events & Parties
Throughout Eurovision week, Basel will be buzzing with fan events and parties:
- Eurovision Village: A public space for live performances and screenings.
- EuroClub: The official party venue for accredited fans and artists.
- EuroCafé: A casual meeting spot for Eurovision enthusiasts.
Tickets & Entry Requirements
- Ticket Sales: Available on the official Eurovision website (TBA).
- Visa Requirements: EU/Schengen visitors do not need a visa; check Switzerland’s entry regulations for other nationalities.
Useful Tips
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF); credit cards widely accepted.
- Language: German is the main language, but English is commonly spoken.
- Public Transport: Basel’s trams and buses are efficient; consider the BaselCard for discounts.
- Weather: Expect mild spring temperatures (15-22°C), but pack a light jacket for evenings.
Stay Updated
Follow the official Eurovision website and social media channels for announcements on ticket sales, contestants, and event schedules.
Conclusion
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel promises to be an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a dedicated Eurovision fan or a first-time visitor, Basel’s mix of music, culture, and history makes it the perfect host city. Get ready for a week full of music, celebration, and unforgettable moments!