Basel
Narrative drawing & comics

Cartoonmuseum Basel

Your guide to Basel’s unique museum for graphic novels, caricature, and narrative drawing.

ArtDesignContemporary

This specialized museum presents temporary exhibitions focused on narrative art, comics, and graphic novels. Visitors can experience original drawings, thematic showcases, and interactive workshops with contemporary artists.

A unique museum dedicated to narrative art, showcasing comics, caricatures, and illustrations through rotating exhibitions and educational workshops.

Cartoonmuseum Basel
About Cartoonmuseum Basel

Located in Basel, the Cartoonmuseum Basel is a dedicated cultural space for narrative illustration, comic art, graphic novels, and caricature. The museum showcases changing exhibitions featuring works by contemporary Swiss and international artists. Through a curated program of exhibitions, workshops, and artist talks, it fosters a deep dialogue around sequential art forms.

Street view of the Cartoonmuseum Basel building facade with green shutters, white walls, and entrance signage on a narrow European street
Cartoonmuseum Basel opening hours in Basel

Check today’s opening status, weekly schedule, and special date changes for Cartoonmuseum Basel. Use these opening hours to plan your arrival and avoid closed times in Basel.

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
-
11:00-17:00
11:00-17:00
11:00-17:00
11:00-17:00
11:00-17:00
11:00-17:00
Admission and Ticket Information for Cartoonmuseum Basel

The Cartoonmuseum Basel operates with a paid admission structure for adults, while specific concessions are available for students and visitors with disabilities under the age of 25. Children aged 10 and under enjoy free access to the museum exhibitions. Additionally, various regional museum passes and discount cards may provide complimentary entry for visitors. Please check your eligibility for these programs before visiting.

Adult
Price not listed
Student / Disabled Visitor
CHF 7.00

Under 25 or entitled to disability insurance

Child
Free

Aged 10 or younger

Visitor amenities at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Cartoonmuseum Basel provides specific services to support the visitor experience, including guided exhibition tours. Regarding accessibility, wheelchair access is currently limited to the ground floor as the building does not feature a lift to the upper levels.

Wheelchair access limited to ground floor

Limited

Guided exhibition tours

Available
Family visits to Cartoonmuseum Basel

Cartoonmuseum Basel provides tailored exhibition tours and creative workshops designed for children and families. Visitors can engage with narrative art through interactive sessions like Cartoon Sunday or hands-on studio activities. Detailed information regarding age-appropriate programming and group workshop opportunities is available to help plan your visit.

Cartoonmuseum Basel offers age-appropriate exhibition tours and creative workshops for children, teens, and families.

Why families will enjoy it

  • Interactive guided tours for children and young people.
  • Hands-on drawing workshops for all ages.
  • Dedicated 'Cartoon Sunday' sessions for families.
  • Customizable birthday party workshop packages.

Activities and resources for children

Family program

Cartoon Sunday

120–120 min

A Sunday afternoon event for the whole family to discover the world of comics and animation.

Family program

Summer Workshops

180–180 min

Creative workshops for children staying in Basel over the summer to invent and create their own comics.

Cartoonmuseum Basel Location and Orientation

The Cartoonmuseum Basel is located on St. Alban-Vorstadt in the historic Vorstädte neighborhood of Basel. Situated in the Basel-Stadt region, this central setting makes the museum highly accessible for visitors exploring the city's vibrant museum scene. Its location within this cultural district offers an ideal starting point for discovering local narrative art, comics, and caricature exhibitions.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

St. Alban-Vorstadt 28

4052 Basel

Vorstädte, Basel-Stadt, CH

Planning Your Visit to Cartoonmuseum Basel

Located in the Vorstädte neighborhood of Basel, the Cartoonmuseum Basel dedicates its spaces to narrative drawings and satirical art. As the museum features regularly changing exhibitions of Swiss and international artists, visitors are encouraged to check current listings before arriving. Setting aside enough time to explore ensures a relaxed experience through the galleries.

Planning Your Visit to Cartoonmuseum Basel

Exploring Narrative Art and Comics at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Located in the Vorstädte neighborhood of Basel, Cartoonmuseum Basel is a dedicated center for narrative drawing, comics, and graphic novels. The museum presents rotating temporary exhibitions that showcase original works by international and Swiss artists. Visitors can explore diverse thematic showcases, solo retrospectives, and sequential illustration styles. Beyond the galleries, the visitor experience is enriched by educational programs, curator-led gallery tours, and interactive drawing workshops. This curated approach fosters a deep dialogue around contemporary visual storytelling.

White building facade with green shutters and windows, featuring a 'Cartoonmuseum Basel' sign at the bottom.
Top exhibition picks at Cartoonmuseum Basel
Curated museum program highlights and what to see now in Basel
Discover high-interest exhibitions at Cartoonmuseum Basel, selected to help you prioritize your route, compare show themes, and plan a more rewarding museum visit in Basel.
The Emil Ferris Graphic Novel Exhibition at Cartoonmuseum Basel

The Emil Ferris Graphic Novel Exhibition at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Explore original sketches and contemporary narrative art illustrations.

Experience a comprehensive showcase dedicated to the storytelling techniques of graphic novelist Emil Ferris. View original panels, preparatory drawings, and her unique illustrative style up close.

Emil Ferris Exhibition
Barbara Yelin Graphic Art Exhibition at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Barbara Yelin Graphic Art Exhibition at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Evocative graphic novels and illustrations by a celebrated comic artist.

Delve into the compelling graphic narratives of Barbara Yelin. This retrospective showcases original drawings and visual storytelling that address complex historical and contemporary themes.

Explore Exhibition

The History of Cartoonmuseum Basel

Established in 1979 by patron Dieter Burckhardt, the foundation behind Cartoonmuseum Basel launched its first public exhibition in Basel in 1980. The institution acquired a new building at St. Alban-Vorstadt 28 in 1991, which was expanded by architects Herzog & de Meuron and reopened in 1996. This development solidified its role as a **key cultural space** for graphic narrative, leading to its official renaming in 2009.

  • Foundation of the museum established in 1979

    1979Founding

    In 1979, the patron and benefactor Dieter Burckhardt established the Stiftung Sammlung Karikaturen & Cartoons foundation to make his private collection of cartoons and caricatures accessible to the public. The foundation has been managed by the Christoph Merian Stiftung since its inception.

  • First public exhibition opened in 1980

    1980Opening

    The institution held its first exhibition in 1980 at St. Alban-Vorstadt 9, operating under the original name Karikatur & Cartoon Museum Basel.

  • Purchase and renovation of St. Alban-Vorstadt 28

    1991-1996Construction

    In 1991, the foundation acquired the building at St. Alban-Vorstadt 28, which was subsequently restored and expanded by the renowned architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron to accommodate the growing museum.

  • Opening of the expanded museum in 1996

    1996Opening

    Following the restoration and extension of the site at St. Alban-Vorstadt 28, the new facility officially opened to the public in May 1996.

  • Renaming to Cartoonmuseum Basel in 2009

    2009Milestone

    The institution, originally known as the Karikatur & Cartoon Museum Basel, was officially renamed to Cartoonmuseum Basel in 2009.

Latest museum updates from Cartoonmuseum Basel
Recent announcements, stories, and institutional updates in Basel
Read the newest updates from Cartoonmuseum Basel, including exhibition announcements, program changes, and cultural stories that add context before your visit in Basel.
Exhibition Opening: Barbara Yelin at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Exhibition Opening: Barbara Yelin at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Join the Cartoonmuseum Basel for the opening vernissage of the new exhibition dedicated to the work of Barbara Yelin. The event takes place on November 27, 2026, offering visitors an exclusive first look at the artist's narrative illustrations. Admission is free, and no prior registration is required to attend.

ExhibitionVernissageEvents
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Curator-led tour of the Emil Ferris exhibition at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Curator-led tour of the Emil Ferris exhibition at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Join museum director Anette Gehrig for an exclusive curator-led tour exploring the intricate storytelling and expressive artwork of US artist Emil Ferris. This guided session offers a deep dive into the creative process behind the acclaimed graphic novel My Favorite Thing Is Monsters, providing context and insight into the artist's unique visual language.

Guided TourExhibitionEventGraphic Novel
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Special Exhibition Tour and Workshop at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Special Exhibition Tour and Workshop at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Join Cartoonmuseum Basel for an exclusive event on November 7, 2026, featuring an exhibition tour and a creative workshop at Druckwerk Basel. This session explores scale and perspective, inspired by the art of Emil Ferris, as part of the 'Weekend of Graphics' (Wochenende der Graphik).

ExhibitionWorkshopEventArt Tour
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Comic-Jam Workshop at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Comic-Jam Workshop at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Join local artists Luca Bartulović and Kooni for a creative afternoon at the Cartoonmuseum Basel. This collaborative drawing workshop is open to all enthusiasts, offering a space to experiment with colors, forms, and storytelling in a fun, shared environment.

WorkshopDrawingFamilyCreative
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Mittwoch Matinee: Exploring Masks and Identity at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Mittwoch Matinee: Exploring Masks and Identity at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Join Cartoonmuseum Basel for a special Wednesday morning session dedicated to the cultural significance of masks. Ethnologist Dr. Fiona Siegenthaler and curator Anette Gehrig will lead a fascinating discussion connecting Emil Ferris's work to broader themes in dance, theater, and history. No registration is required for this insightful event.

EventLectureComicsArt History
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Guided Tours in French at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Guided Tours in French at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Cartoonmuseum Basel offers exclusive guided tours in French, providing deeper insights into the museum's current exhibitions. These sessions invite visitors to explore the artistic methods and backstories of international graphic artists in a welcoming, conversational environment.

Guided TourFrenchExhibitionEvent
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Evening talk with comic reporter Joe Sacco at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Evening talk with comic reporter Joe Sacco at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Join renowned comic journalist Joe Sacco at the Cartoonmuseum Basel for an insightful conversation about his latest graphic reportage works. On September 17, 2026, the author will discuss 'Indien: Öl ins Feuer' and 'Requiem for Gaza' with scholar Christian Gasser, offering an in-depth look into his critical, documentary storytelling style.

TalkEventComicsGraphic Novel
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24-Hour Comics Marathon at Cartoonmuseum Basel

24-Hour Comics Marathon at Cartoonmuseum Basel

Cartoonmuseum Basel hosts the inaugural '24-Hour Comics' event, a creative marathon where artists challenge themselves to produce a 24-page comic within 24 hours. Organized by the Comic Crew Basel in collaboration with the museum and the Alte Kaserne Winterthur, this event celebrates narrative art. Visitors can see the results of this creative endeavor in an upcoming exhibition at the museum library.

EventComicsExhibitionDrawing
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Cartoonmuseum Basel FAQ & Curious Questions

Planning a trip to Cartoonmuseum Basel but wondering where to park your superhero mobile or how long to browse? While some logistical details are currently a bit of a mystery, our practical visitor FAQs are here to help guide your journey. Discover what you need to know before stepping into the colorful world of comic art.

What is the phone number for Cartoonmuseum Basel?

The official phone number for Cartoonmuseum Basel is currently not provided.

How can I contact Cartoonmuseum Basel?

Official contact details such as email addresses or online contact forms are currently not provided for Cartoonmuseum Basel.

Is parking available at Cartoonmuseum Basel?

Parking availability and rates for Cartoonmuseum Basel are currently not specified.

How do you get to Cartoonmuseum Basel by public transport?

Information regarding public transport directions to Cartoonmuseum Basel is currently not specified.

Practical tips for your Cartoonmuseum Basel visit

When planning a visit to the Cartoonmuseum Basel in the Grossbasel district, please note that the historic building does not feature an elevator. Consequently, only the ground floor is fully wheelchair-accessible for guests. Visitors requiring such access are encouraged to coordinate their arrival in advance via email to ensure a smooth experience. You can enjoy free admission to the galleries by presenting a valid Swiss Museum Pass, Museums-Pass-Musée, or a Raiffeisen card, which are also available for purchase at the museum shop.

Visitor Experience and Audience Fit at Cartoonmuseum Basel

The Cartoonmuseum Basel, located in the Vorstädte neighborhood of Basel, is well-suited for solo visitors, students, and families who share an interest in narrative drawing, comics, and graphic novels. Art and design enthusiasts will appreciate the specialized focus on contemporary illustration, caricatures, and sequential art forms. The venue’s rotating exhibitions and creative workshops offer engaging experiences for both casual comic readers and serious art students looking to explore visual storytelling. With its dedicated focus on illustration and caricature, it provides a unique cultural experience that appeals to those seeking a specialized, design-focused museum visit.

Inside the Cartoonmuseum Basel: A Visual Preview

The visual experience of Cartoonmuseum Basel begins with its architectural blend, combining a historic white facade with vibrant green shutters and a modern glass-fronted entrance. Through the transparent glass, visitors catch glimpses of bright interior galleries and rotating narrative art exhibitions. These photos capture the creative energy of the museum's comic, cartoon, and graphic novel galleries in Basel.

Exterior view of the Cartoonmuseum Basel building with green shutters and a sign reading 'Cartoonmuseum Basel' above the entrance
Glass facade entrance of Cartoonmuseum Basel with black-framed curtain walls, showing the Tom Tirabosco Wonderland exhibition text and interior gallery with orange walls and comic artworks visible through the glass.
White building facade with green shutters and windows, featuring a 'Cartoonmuseum Basel' sign at the bottom.
Street view of the Cartoonmuseum Basel building facade with green shutters, white walls, and entrance signage on a narrow European street
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