Basel to Saarbrücken train

Basel is bordered by France to the west and Germany to the east, with the river Rhine running directly through the city. This culture-centric destination is known for containing Switzerland's highest concentration of museums. With over 40 museums, roughly one per square kilometer, you're guaranteed to find at least one museum that fits your interests. Of course, it's got classic art museums like the Fine Arts Museum and the Jean Tinguely Museum, but you'll write home about the niche ones like Basel Paper Mill (a museum about paper and printing) and Toys Worlds Museum.

Basel's Old Town area will give you a taste of the city's history, with its cobblestoned streets and medieval churches, as well as several beautiful fountains. In the Marktplatz, or market square, check out the bold red City Hall, as well as even more museums, these ones devoted to Basel's history.

Basel is also home to Switzerland's oldest zoo, founded in 1874. Conveniently located in the heart of Basel, the zoo lets you get up close and personal with animals from the tiniest insects to the grandest elephants. Plus, you can learn more about the zoo's conservation projects.

Basel is well-situated for easy travel to other countries due to its proximity to France and Germany, as well as its transportation options. The world's only tri-national airport, EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, is only 4km from Basel. This unique airport is located on both French and Swiss territory but also serves travelers to nearby Freiburg, Germany. Basel also welcomes national and international train routes, and many European bus services stop in the city.

Saarbrücken is the largest city in the German state, Saarland. Germany's border with France bounds Saarbrücken on the city's west side. The bulk of attractions, accommodations, and businesses are located along the river Saar, which gave the city its name.

One of its most iconic landmarks is the stone bridge over the river Saar, built in the 16th century. Nearby, you’ll see the Saarbrücken Castle, an imposing Baroque castle that now hosts the Historical Museum Saar. From the castle, cross the river to the right bank, where you can stroll around the historic old quarter of the city and visit the Old Town Hall.

When it comes to dining, Saarbrücken certainly will not disappoint. Since the city has frequently changed hands between France and Germany as borders were drawn and redrawn, the cuisine implements the best of both cultures. St. Johanner Markt is a lively area dotted with bars, restaurants, and bistros to experience the hearty fare of Saarland.

Saarbrücken offers plenty of ground transportation options to head east into Germany or west into France. FlixBus, Sindbad, and BlaBlaCarBus operate most intercity bus service from the city. Travelers can also access the efficient German rail network, Deutsche Bahn, for both short and long-haul train routes.