Start in Switzerland: A Basel Beer with a View

Begin your day in Basel’s Old Town, where charming cobbled streets, colourful architecture, and the beautiful Rhine river set the scene for your first drink. For a proper Swiss beer experience, head to a local craft brewery like Ueli Bier, or check out Volta Bräu for a more modern twist. Expect to pay around 6–7 CHF for a pint, not cheap, but it’s part of the experience.

Enjoy your drink along the Rhine promenade, a popular local hangout where people gather to relax by the river. You’ll be sipping your first beer of the day with views of the Basel Minster and ferries gliding across the water. And once you've had your Swiss fix, it’s time to hop borders, quite literally.

At Jarv Tours, we always look for ways to help travellers balance memorable experiences with clever cost-cutting. Starting your journey in Basel gives you just enough taste of Switzerland before you slip across the border to stretch your euros further.

Next Stop: Germany – Budget Brews in Weil am Rhein

From central Basel, hop on Tram 8 and ride it straight across the border into Weil am Rhein, Germany. The trip takes around 15 minutes and is fully covered by Basel’s excellent tram system. No passport checks, no ticket changes, just jump on, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a serious drop in beer prices.

In Weil am Rhein, head to a traditional German beer garden or a local supermarket for the ultimate value. A cold bottle of beer can cost as little as €1.50, and even bar prices are a relief after Swiss rates. One great local option is Brauhaus Lasser, known for its classic German beers served with hearty pub food.

This is where Jarv Tours really adds value. We know the local spots, the best transport routes, and where you can get the most out of your budget. Our itineraries don’t just list destinations, they guide you through them, step by step, with insider advice that saves you money and time.

Final Round: France – A Toast in Saint-Louis

For your final drink of the day, head west into France, to the border town of Saint-Louis. You can take a quick train from Basel SBB or grab a regional bus, either way, the journey is short, inexpensive, and easy to navigate. If you’re up for a walk, the distance from Basel to Saint-Louis is just under an hour on foot.

Once in France, you’ll find a range of local cafés and bars offering great beer and a relaxed atmosphere. Try Le Trianon or a similar bistro-style venue, where a pint will set you back about €3–4, far more manageable than Swiss prices. Enjoy your final drink of the day in true French fashion, maybe with some charcuterie or a warm baguette.

This stop also offers the perfect opportunity to grab a meal before heading back to Basel. France's prices make it an ideal place to dine on a budget, especially compared to Swiss standards. And of course, Jarv Tours can point you to the best-value spots, whether you want a sit-down meal or a grab-and-go picnic.

Tips for Your Tri-Nation Beer Tour

Doing three countries in a day sounds intense, but it’s actually very doable, especially with some planning. Basel’s efficient public transport makes it seamless, and the lack of hard borders between Switzerland, Germany, and France means less hassle and more time for enjoyment.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Use public transport wherever possible. Trams and trains are fast, reliable, and often cheaper than you’d expect. A Basel mobility pass or day ticket can cover most of your travel.

• Don’t forget your ID. While passport checks are rare, it's still smart to carry identification when crossing borders.

• Plan your meals smartly. Switzerland is pricey, but France and Germany offer great food for a fraction of the cost. Time your meals for when you're outside Swiss borders.

• Be responsible. This is a fun challenge, not a pub crawl. Enjoy your drinks slowly and stay hydrated throughout the day.

• Travel light. A small backpack with essentials will make crossing borders and jumping on trams much easier.

At Jarv Tours, we love helping travellers build smart, memorable itineraries like this. Whether you’re flying solo or travelling with friends, we can help you map out the logistics and make sure your tri-country beer tour runs smoothly, and stays affordable.

Let Jarv Tours Build Your Next Budget Adventure

Whether it’s Basel’s triple-country beer day, a football weekend in Germany, or a spontaneous escape somewhere unexpected, Jarv Tours is here to help you plan smarter, travel cheaper, and see more of the world. We specialise in budget-friendly European travel, and our personalised itineraries are crafted to give you the best value without cutting corners on experience.

If you're inspired to try this unique Basel beer challenge for yourself, get in touch today, we’ll show you how to do it comfortably, cleverly, and without overspending. Because travel should be about the memories, not the price tag.