Private Trip – Zurich to Basel in Switzerland & Colmar in France

A Private Journey from Zurich to Basel and Colmar: An Experience of Two Countries in One Day

Imagine stepping into a world of vibrant Swiss architecture, historic Old Towns, and picturesque French canals—all in just one day. This private tour from Zurich to Basel and Colmar offers a tailor-made adventure that balances discovery, comfort, and authenticity. For around $1,492 per group, you get a full day of culture with a personal driver-guide, a private vehicle, and the freedom to focus on what interests you most.

What we really love about this experience is the personalized service—no big bus with a crowd—meaning you can ask questions, take your time, and explore at your own pace. Plus, the combination of two countries in one trip adds a sense of adventure and variety that’s hard to match. The stunning architecture of Colmar’s colorful half-timbered houses and Basel’s iconic Minster are highlights you won’t forget.

On the downside, this is a long day, about 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and some travel fatigue. If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, flexibility, and the chance to see a lot without feeling rushed, this tour could be just right for you.

This trip is perfect if you’re eager to experience authentic cityscapes, learn from a knowledgeable guide, and enjoy a smooth, private journey. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a customized experience, avoid large crowds, and enjoy cultural richness in a manageable, well-organized day.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private driver-guide and flexible itinerary.
• Visits to Basel and Colmar, two cities with distinct character and stunning architecture.
• Cultural highlights, including museums, historic buildings, and scenic river views.
• Comfortable private vehicle with Wi-Fi, door-to-door hotel pickup, and drop-off.
• Ideal for travelers seeking intimacy, flexibility, and authentic experiences.
• Cost per group offers good value for those wanting exclusive access and a tailored day.

Exploring Basel: Switzerland’s Cultural Gem

Your day begins with a door-to-door pickup in Zurich, making the start hassle-free. From there, your guide, perhaps someone like Paul, will explain the sights and history during the drive, helping you appreciate the journey just as much as the destinations.

In Basel, you’ll have about two hours to explore on foot. The Old Town is a visual feast, with narrow alleys, medieval buildings, and a lively atmosphere. Key stops include the Rathaus (Town Hall) with its vibrant red façade, the Basel Minster with its impressive Gothic architecture, and the Tinguely Fountain, a playful tribute to the artist Jean Tinguely.

A highlight for many visitors is a visit to the Congress Hall and the Pfalz observation terrace, where you’ll get sweeping views over the Rhine River—a perfect spot to snap photos and soak in the city’s charm. Don’t forget to try Basler Leckerli, the famous local biscuit, which is a sweet treat and a taste of Basel’s culinary tradition.

One thing that sets this tour apart is the flexibility. Your guide might suggest a museum visit, such as the Kunstmuseum, or advise a scenic cruise on the Rhine, depending on your interests. This personal touch ensures that your experience aligns with what you most want to see and do.

Authenticity is key here, and our review mentions that the guide was extremely knowledgeable and accommodating, making the tour not just educational but also fun. As one traveler put it, “Paul was friendly and informative, making the city come alive.”

Discovering Colmar: A French Fairy Tale

After your time in Basel, you’ll head south into France to visit Colmar, typically for about two hours. This picture-perfect town feels like a scene from a fairy tale, with its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and colorful facades.

The walk through Colmar’s Old Town is truly one of the most charming parts of the trip. You’ll stroll along tiny alleys, visit Petite Venise, known for its canal-side houses, and see historic sites like the Adolf House—one of the oldest buildings—and the Pfister House, renowned for its medieval facade paintings.

Here, the focus is on architecture and atmosphere. Many travelers enjoy relaxing at a local café, savoring French pastries or a hearty coffee, feeling the slow pace of this quaint town. It’s a stark contrast to Basel’s more urban vibe but equally captivating.

The colorful houses along the canal and the medieval architecture resonate strongly with visitors, as one reviewer noted, “The architecture in Colmar was so colorful and impressive, it felt like stepping into a storybook.” The pedestrian-only streets add to the relaxed, intimate experience, perfect for photo-taking and soaking in the scenery.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

This 8-hour adventure is crafted for those who want to maximize their day without feeling rushed. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of finding your way around, especially if you’re staying centrally in Zurich. The private vehicle with Wi-Fi makes the journey comfortable and allows you to stay connected or share your photos with friends.

While the tour price doesn’t include museum tickets or a river cruise, the flexibility is a big plus. You might find the museum recommendations valuable if you’re into art and history, and the option to cruise on the Rhine adds a scenic element that many travelers find worthwhile.

The small group size (up to 16 people) ensures you don’t feel like just another face in the crowd—though the typical booking is for up to 3 people, making it more personal and intimate.

One potential consideration is the long day; if you’re not used to hours of travel or walking, it might be tiring. However, the comfort of a private vehicle and the ability to customize stops can help break up the day.

Authentic Experiences and Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides as a standout feature. Sharon from her review mentions, “Paul was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating,” which speaks volumes about the personal service. She also appreciated the local food and treats, which add a special touch to the day.

Another aspect praised is the stunning views and architecture—from Basel’s historic buildings to Colmar’s colorful houses—and how these make the trip memorable. The flexibility to choose what to focus on is a big advantage, especially for those who have specific interests or want to avoid overly structured tours.

Summary of the Value

Taking this private tour from Zurich offers a comfortable, enriching, and flexible way to experience two of Europe’s most charming towns. It’s a good investment if you value personalized attention, want to avoid large-group tours, and enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos, browsing, and tasting local specialties.

Given the high praise for the knowledgeable guides and the scenic beauty of Basel and Colmar, this tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate architecture, local culture, and scenic views. It’s ideal for those who want a mistake-proof, well-organized day that combines cultural highlights with the ease of private transportation.

FAQ

What is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, making it a full but manageable day.

Does the price include museum tickets or river cruises?
No, museum tickets and the Rhine River boat ride are not included, but you can choose to add these if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a full day of travel.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, driver-guide services, a private modern vehicle with Wi-Fi, and a tailored itinerary.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the guide is flexible and can recommend sights or activities based on your interests, such as museums or scenic cruises.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 55 days ahead, so early booking is recommended for preferred dates.

What is the group size?
It’s a private experience for up to 3 people, but the tour can accommodate up to 16 travelers overall, depending on the booking.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with your camera and any personal essentials. Weather-appropriate clothing is advisable since parts of the tour are outdoors.

All in all, this private Zurich to Basel and Colmar tour offers a fantastic way to see two towns with very different but equally captivating atmospheres. With expert guides and the comfort of private transport, you’ll enjoy a day that’s both relaxing and full of discovery—perfect for travelers who want an authentic experience without the crowds.