Kannenfeldpark

About

Kannenfeldpark is Basel’s largest urban park, a green world built on an unexpected foundation: it was once the city’s main cemetery. When the graves were relocated in the early 20th century, the area was transformed into a spacious public park, and its generous layout still reflects that origin—broad avenues, quiet corners, and long sightlines that feel almost ceremonial. Today, Kannenfeldpark is beloved for its mix of nature, recreation, and subtle historical traces. Inside, visitors find expansive lawns perfect for picnics, a rose garden that blooms spectacularly in summer, and one of Basel’s most charming tree collections, including rare species planted during early landscaping experiments. The park’s old cemetery wall still stands along parts of the perimeter, adding a touch of historical texture. Families gravitate toward the large playgrounds and the miniature traffic‑training area where children learn road rules on tiny bikes and scooters. Sports fields, shaded benches, and winding paths make the park ideal for long walks or quiet reading. In spring and autumn, the tree canopy becomes a highlight, turning the park into a natural colour show.

Basel Switzerland

Location

Kannenfeldpark lies between the St. Johann and Iselin districts in northwest Basel. It’s one of the city’s largest parks, created in 1951 on the site of a former cemetery. The park stretches between Burgfelderstrasse and Kannenfeldstrasse and is known for its old trees, large ponds, rose garden, and open lawns. You reach it by tram 1 or 3 to Kannenfeldplatz, then a short walk into the green space. From the park’s north side, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Novartis Campus. The campus has architecture by Frank Gehry, Sanaa, and David Chipperfield. While access requires a tour, you can see several buildings from the perimeter. Walk 8 minutes south to reach St. Paul’s Church on Steinenring. The neo-Romanesque church is now used as Kulturkirche Paulus for concerts and events. Right next door is the Basel Zoo, Switzerland’s oldest zoo, with its aquarium, elephants, and ape house. The Rhine at St. Johanns-Park is 12 minutes west. The riverside promenade leads toward the Old Town and the Johanniterbrücke. Cross the bridge to reach Peterskirche and the University of Basel area. For the Old Town, take tram 1 from Kannenfeldplatz to Marktplatz in about 10 minutes. From there you can explore the red Rathaus, Spalenberg’s boutiques, and the Basel Minster. The Minster’s Pfalz terrace overlooks the Rhine and Kleinbasel.