Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel: A Comprehensive Guide for Visitors
Basel, Switzerland, is set to host the 69th Eurovision Song Contest in May 2025, marking a significant event in the city’s cultural calendar. Whether you’re a die-hard Eurovision fan or a curious traveler, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Event Details
Venue: St. Jakobshalle, Basel
Address: Brüglingerstrasse 19–21, 4052 Basel, Switzerland
- First Semi-Final: Tuesday, 13 May 2025
- Second Semi-Final: Thursday, 15 May 2025
- Grand Final: Saturday, 17 May 2025
Opening Ceremony: Sunday, 11 May 2025, featuring the longest turquoise carpet in ESC history, starting at Basel Town Hall and ending at Messe Basel
Tickets
Tickets for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 went on sale on 29 January 2025 via ticketcorner.ch. Prices range from €11 to €372, covering three live shows and six rehearsals. If you missed the initial sale, keep an eye on the official resale platform, TicketCorner fanSALE, for legitimate ticket resales .
Accommodation Tips
Basel offers a variety of accommodations, from boutique hotels to hostels. However, due to the high demand during Eurovision week (10–18 May 2025), availability may be limited . Consider the following tips:
- Book Early: Secure your accommodation as soon as possible to avoid inflated prices and limited options.
- Explore Nearby Cities: If Basel is fully booked, consider staying in nearby cities like Zurich, Lucerne, or Olten. These cities are well-connected to Basel via public transportation, with travel times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes.
- Alternative Lodging: Look into private accommodations or vacation rentals in the Basel region. Platforms like Airbnb or local tourism websites may offer additional options .
Transportation
During Eurovision week, Basel’s public transportation will operate with extended hours and increased frequency:
- Tram and Bus Lines: Lines 10, 11, 14, 36, 47, and 50 will run more frequently and for longer hours from 12 to 18 May 2025.
- Night Services: ESC Night Lines will operate from 11 to 17 May 2025, providing all-night connections to various districts and neighboring areas .
Additional Events and Attractions
Beyond the main Eurovision shows, the city of Basel transforms into a vibrant hub full of life, music, and shared excitement. Several themed locations across the city will offer fans and visitors an unforgettable atmosphere throughout the week. At the Eurovision Village, located at Messe Basel, guests can enjoy live performances, large-screen screenings of the shows, and cultural programs that celebrate diversity and creativity. It’s the beating heart of the public festivities.
For those seeking nightlife and exclusive experiences, the EuroClub will host official after-parties and intimate performances by Eurovision artists — a hotspot for superfans and insiders alike. Meanwhile, the EuroCafé provides a more laid-back setting, perfect for casual meetups, themed activities, or just relaxing with fellow Eurovision lovers. And at Eurovision Square, you’ll find an open-air zone filled with food stalls, music, entertainment, and spontaneous celebrations that carry the Eurovision spirit into the streets.
Important Considerations
However, it’s important to plan ahead. Basel is expected to be very crowded during Eurovision week, especially around the main event days. If you’re not attending the contest itself, it may be worth considering visiting the city at a quieter time. For visitors struggling to find accommodation in Basel, overnight stays in nearby cities like Zurich, Lucerne, or even Olten are excellent alternatives — all of them well connected by Swiss public transport. Just make sure to check the train schedules in advance to ensure a smooth commute.
Whether you’re coming for the show or just soaking in the atmosphere, Eurovision week in Basel promises to be a unique experience — full of music, movement, and magical moments.
