HI
Where is a good area of Basel to stay over night that is close to the central train station (within 15 minutes walk), where I can walk around at night alone for dinner and to see some sights.

There are some nice locations on AirBnB:
https://www.airbnb.com/s/basel

I'd focus on this area:

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Les Trois Rois.
Hotel Merian am Rhein

How much were you looking to spend?

Maybe you should ask that before suggesting Les Trois Rois

This fits all your requirements I think

Fantastic accommodation in Basel

Basel isn't Compton. .. you can walk around alone anywhere. ibis is less than 5 mins walk to the station and 10 mins to the centre. But anywhere central will be about the same

Hehe.

Doesnt get any more complicated than that. You can walk from the rhine to the cinemas on the south side in less than 10 minutes. Or catch a tram.


Thats it.

Maybe the OP should say how much before asking for suggestions.

Hotel metropole right next to the SBB. It's not great, but very convenient. And Starbucks is next door so you can get your fix.
Avoid Basel Hilton. They are supposedly closing soon, so not putting any money into maintenance, etc.
Like another poster said, this ain't Jersey, so no worry about walking around.