Welcome to Centrepoint
a volunteer-run English-speaking community in the heart of Basel where people connect, join activities, and make friends
Advertisements
News & articles
Article
Summer by the Water: Basel’s Outdoor Pools
Now that summer has finally decided to pay us a visit, Basel offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors after a long, grey winter. And what could be better than a dip in one of the many outdoor pools in and around Basel?
Centrepoint news
Join the Wednesday Coffee-Morning of Centrepoint
Every third Wednesday of the month, including 20 May, Wendy hosts this friendly get-together where new and prospective members can learn what Centrepoint is all about. Current members are welcome too!
Basel news
ART BASEL – a Cultural Phenomenon
Next week the largest art fair in Switzerland and one of the most acclaimed in the world envelops the Basel region. Art Basel is a performance in itself where more than 300 galleries display the work of thousands of artists to collectors and art aficionados from near and far.
Basel news
Sinfonieorchester Basel and Stadtcasino Basel 1826-2026
The Sinfonieorchester Basel and the Stadtcasino Basel celebrate their centuries-old cooperation and foundation in 2026, generations before Paul Sacher founded the Chamber Orchestra (Kammerorchester) in 1926 (another milestone in Musikstadt Basel in 2026!).
Centrepoint news
Centrepoint’s Monthly Apéro on 18 June
Join us for a glass of wine and snacks and enjoy mingling up with our wonderful community. It's a chance to meet up with friends old and new and talk about anything that comes to mind.
Article
Elephants in Basel
For more than 130 years, elephants have been at the heart of Zoo Basel’s identity, reflecting the changing role of zoos in Europe from places of spectacle to institutions focused on conservation, breeding and animal welfare. Founded in 1874, Basel Zoo, known locally as the “Zolli,” initially focused on native European wildlife.
What our members say
“Finding Centrepoint was a turning point for me after leaving Ukraine. The supportive community here has helped me feel connected and at home in Switzerland.”
Viktoriya from Ukraine
"I enjoy teaching beginners’ bridge at Centrepoint because it blends problem-solving, fast feedback, and intuitive pattern-spotting into a game played with people, not just against them. Watching newcomers discover the pleasure of playing bridge — and even give me new insights — is genuinely rewarding."
Sev from Russia
“I really enjoy volunteering on the Front Desk, as the variety of tasks makes every shift engaging and helps me feel connected to the Centrepoint community. Volunteering with the Italian Conversation Group is also rewarding as it gives me pleasure to share my language and help others develop their skills."
Francesca from Italy
"Volunteering at Centrepoint gives me the chance to organise fun events like minigolf, summer meet-ups, and visits to interesting places. I also enjoy being part of the Photography Club, where we share our passion, meet new people, and work together to make the group a success."
Marcel from Switzerland
“I have found a truly welcoming, international community at Centrepoint. Participating in its diverse activities has strengthened my spoken English and given me a supportive space where I feel I belong.”
Sissi from Switzerland
“I’ve discovered Basel in new ways and learned about many different subjects through Centrepoint’s talks and trips. It’s also been rewarding to contribute by hosting a French discussion group.”
Jean-Christian from Canada
“I enjoy volunteering at the Welcome Desk during weekly Coffee Mornings, where I can greet members and offer new members and visitors a friendly introduction. It’s rewarding to help people settle into the Centrepoint community.”
Steffen from the Netherlands