EuroAirport Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg

Overview

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is a unique international airport that serves three countries: France, Switzerland, and Germany. Situated near the city of Basel in Switzerland, the town of Mulhouse in France, and the city of Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany, this airport is a key hub for travellers in the Upper Rhine region. It is operated as a binational airport under a Franco-Swiss treaty, making it one of the few airports in the world jointly managed by two countries. The airport is used by both leisure and business travellers, connecting the region to major European destinations and beyond.

Location & Access

The airport is located in Saint-Louis, France, just 6 kilometres northwest of Basel city centre. Despite being on French soil, the airport has a Swiss customs area, allowing passengers to freely cross between the French and Swiss sectors. Access by road is straightforward via the A35 motorway in France and the A2 or A3 in Switzerland. For those travelling by train, the nearest main station is Basel SBB, with a connecting bus service (Bus 50) from the airport to the station. Alternatively, the Mulhouse train station is about 30 minutes away by car. The airport also serves Freiburg, which is approximately 70 kilometres to the north-east, with shuttle bus connections available. For drivers, paid parking lots are available on-site, with short-term and long-term options. The airport is well-served by taxis and rideshares, and bicycle parking is also provided for eco-conscious travellers.

Facilities

EuroAirport offers a range of facilities designed to make the passenger experience comfortable and efficient. The entire terminal is wheelchair-accessible, with designated parking spaces, accessible entrances, and accessible toilets throughout. Baggage storage is available for those who wish to explore the region without their luggage. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge in the terminal, allowing travellers to stay connected. There are changing tables in the restrooms, which is helpful for families with young children. The airport also features a variety of shops and eateries, although specific brand names are not listed here. Toilets are well-maintained and located throughout the terminal. For those needing assistance, the airport staff can provide help upon request.

About the Region

The Upper Rhine region, straddling France, Switzerland, and Germany, is renowned for its cultural diversity, picturesque landscapes, and economic vitality. Basel is a major hub for the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, home to global companies like Novartis and Roche. The city boasts a vibrant art scene, with over 40 museums, including the Kunstmuseum and the Fondation Beyeler. Nearby, the Black Forest in Germany offers hiking, skiing, and charming villages, while the Alsace region in France is famous for its wine routes and medieval towns like Colmar and Strasbourg. The Swiss Alps are also within a few hours' drive, making the airport a convenient starting point for mountain adventures. Travellers pass through EuroAirport for business conferences, medical tourism (Basel has several world-class hospitals), skiing holidays, and cultural getaways.

Practical Information

The airport is open daily, though some services may have limited hours outside of peak times. Peak hours are typically around 10 am and 1 pm, so travellers should expect longer queues during these periods. For the most up-to-date information on flight schedules, security wait times, and any temporary closures, visitors should consult the official website: https://www.euroairport.com/fr/. The airport's phone number is +33 3 89 90 31 11. Note that the airport is not open 24 hours; check the website for exact opening and closing times. It is advisable to arrive at least two hours before a short-haul flight and three hours for long-haul. For currency exchange, ATMs are available in the terminal. Travellers heading to Switzerland can use Swiss francs at some outlets, but euros are widely accepted in the French sector.