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7-Day Milan and Basel Itinerary for Shoestring Budget Travel

Friday, September 15: Milan Arrival

Welcome to Milan! Start your trip by exploring the magnificent Milan Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Milano. In the morning, marvel at the impressive Gothic architecture and climb to the rooftop for panoramic views. In the afternoon, visit the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning shopping arcade. As the evening sets in, explore the trendy Navigli district, known for its vibrant nightlife.

  • Milan Cathedral: Entrance fee - €3-4, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Navigli District: Free to explore, Time spent - Evening
Saturday, September 16: Milan

Start your day by visiting Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Book your timed entry ticket in advance to secure a spot. In the afternoon, explore Sforza Castle and its beautiful gardens. Later, wander through Brera district, known for its art galleries and charming streets.

  • Santa Maria delle Grazie: Entrance fee - €12, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Sforza Castle: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Brera District: Free to explore, Time spent - Afternoon
Sunday, September 17: Basel Arrival

Travel to Basel, Switzerland by train. Upon arrival, discover the historic Old Town. Start your morning at Basel Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral with panoramic views from its tower. In the afternoon, visit the Basel Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the Rhine River.

  • Basel Minster: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Basel Historical Museum: Entrance fee - €10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Rhine River Walk: Free to explore, Time spent - Evening
Monday, September 18: Basel

Start your day by exploring the Kunstmuseum Basel, one of Switzerland's oldest and largest art museums. In the afternoon, visit the Tinguely Museum, dedicated to the works of the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. Take a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, followed by a visit to the Basel Zoo.

  • Kunstmuseum Basel: Entrance fee - €20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tinguely Museum: Entrance fee - €15, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Botanical Gardens: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Basel Zoo: Entrance fee - €20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Basel and Day Trip to Colmar

Embark on a day trip from Basel to the charming French town of Colmar. In the morning, explore the well-preserved old town with its colorful half-timbered houses. Visit the Unterlinden Museum, home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece. Enjoy local cuisine at a traditional Alsatian restaurant. Return to Basel in the evening.

  • Day trip to Colmar: Train fare - €30-40 (round trip), Time spent - Full day
  • Unterlinden Museum: Entrance fee - €15, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 20: Basel

Spend the day exploring Basel's modern architecture and art scene. Start with a visit to the Vitra Design Museum in nearby Weil am Rhein, Germany. In the afternoon, explore the Fondation Beyeler, an art museum located in a beautiful park. End your day with a stroll through the St. Alban district, known for its charming streets and local boutiques.

  • Vitra Design Museum: Entrance fee - €18, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Fondation Beyeler: Entrance fee - €25, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • St. Alban District: Free to explore, Time spent - Afternoon/Evening
Thursday, September 21: Departure

Enjoy your last morning in Basel by exploring the Basel Paper Mill Museum, dedicated to the history of papermaking. Take a leisurely walk along the Rhine promenade and soak in the beautiful views. Depart from Basel and head back home with wonderful memories of your shoestring budget trip to Milan and Basel.

  • Basel Paper Mill Museum: Entrance fee - €10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Rhine Promenade: Free to explore, Time spent - Morning

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Milan and Basel on a shoestring budget, don't miss the hidden gems loved by locals. In Milan, visit the peaceful and picturesque district of Porta Ticinese, known for its charming canals and bohemian atmosphere. In Basel, take a stroll through the quaint neighborhood of St. Johann, filled with small cafes, local shops, and a lively market on weekends. These off the beaten path attractions offer an authentic local experience without breaking the bank.

For hotel and flight prices, check here.

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