Last year, Switzerland's Nemo broke The Code and won gold at the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) in Malmö. After a 36-year hiatus, the largest music event in the world has returned to Switzerland and will be hosted this week in the vibrant city of Basel, with the ESC Final taking place on Saturday 17 May. This week, Basel has turned into the Eurovision capital, with themed activities, events, exhibitions and parties happening all around the city.

The Eurovision Song Contest is more than a music competition; it unites and inspires across borders, so where better to welcome it than Basel, the Swiss city which lies at the confluence of three different countries at the heart of Europe? This year's contest will showcase the region's everyday harmony among languages and cultures, showcasing the values of openness, inclusion, and cultural diversity. Basel has long built bridges, connecting people across the Rhine and beyond. This week, the city has transformed into an international hub for ESC lovers from around the world, with decorations, market stalls and a vast programme of events and activities.

St. Jakobshalle and Arena Plus
Meanwhile at the St. Jakobshalle in Basel, live performances by all the different artists will take place on 13-17 May. On 17 May, the day of the final, the adjacent St. Jakob Park football stadium will transform into the 'Arena Plus', hosting a pre-show starring national and international artists, ESC stars and much more. The Arena Plus will also broadcast the ESC final on giant screens.

Eurovision Village (Messe Basel)
The Messe Basel (Hall 1) will be hosting concerts, public viewings, food stalls and other Eurovision-themed activities throughout the week.

Eurovision Boulevard and Eurovision Street
Stretching from Basel SBB railway station to Basel Bad railway station, Eurovision Boulevard and Eurovision Street connect Basel's two main train stations and multiple ESC venues with food trucks, stages, seating areas and colourful decorations.

Eurovision Square (Barfüsseplatz)
The epicentre of all things Eurovision, this square will host over 50 outdoor concerts, including performances by Michael van der Heide, Anna Rossinelli and Les Touristes.

EuroCafé and EuroClub (Messe Basel)
EuroCafé is the perfect spot to meet other fans and locals, or just relax and people-watch in the lead-up to the big night. After 11pm, visitors can head to the EuroClub and dance the night away.

Basel: Welcome home
To enjoy the full potential of the city, visitors to the ESC this week are recommended to download the free Basel 'Welcome Home' app, which features an interactive map, real-time event updates, recommendations and helpful tips. The city of Basel has also organised extended transport services throughout this week, with shuttle services and additional trains to other cities in Switzerland and to the border areas of neighbouring countries (France and Germany).

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Links and photos

• Click here to download photos of Basel (please display the © for any photos you use)
• Basel Tourism website: com/en/esc/esc-2025
• Eurovision 2025 website: tv/event/basel-2025

About Switzerland Tourism
Switzerland Tourism is the Swiss national tourist board responsible for promoting Switzerland as a premier holiday and business destination. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland Tourism is present in 23 markets worldwide, employing around 270 people. Its UK and Ireland office is in Holborn, London. switzerland.com