4 days in Basel, Zurich & Colmar Itinerary

Situated where the Swiss, German, and French borders meet, Basel is considered the hub of Dreilandereck, this "three countries corner." Its location makes Basel a center of culture and history, brimming with important theaters and museums.

On the 8th (Thu), take in the spiritual surroundings of Offene Kirche Elisabethen and then wander the streets of Basel's Old Town.

For photos, ratings, maps, and other tourist information, read our Basel trip planner.

Istanbul, Turkey to Basel is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of bus and train. The time zone difference moving from Turkey Time (TRT) to Central European Standard Time (CET) is minus 2 hours. Plan for little chillier nights when traveling from Istanbul in December since evenings lows in Basel dip to 0°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Fri) early enough to drive to Zurich.

The financial hub of Switzerland, Zurich is most often associated with money and banks.

Kick off your visit on the 9th (Fri): look for gifts at Maurice de Mauriac, then stop by Niederdorf, then see the interesting displays at Zoological Museum, and finally browse the different shops at Einkaufszentrum Glatt.

To find maps, more things to do, and tourist information, refer to the Zurich itinerary planner.

You can drive from Basel to Zurich in 1.5 hours. Other options are to take a train; or take a bus. In December in Zurich, expect temperatures between 5°C during the day and -1°C at night. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 10th (Sat) so you can go by car to Colmar.

Situated along the Alsatian Wine Route, Colmar is renowned for its German and French culture, well-preserved old town, numerous architectural landmarks, and its museums.

On the 10th (Sat), get to know the fascinating history of La Grand-Rue, learn about winemaking at Vin d'Alsace HORCHER, and then get to know the fascinating history of Vieille Ville de Turckheim.

For photos, maps, reviews, and tourist information, read Colmar trip itinerary app.

You can drive from Zurich to Colmar in 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In December in Colmar, expect temperatures between 9°C during the day and 1°C at night. On the 11th (Sun), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can travel back home.