Riverside Hotel Merian Basel Exterior photoRiverside Hotel Merian Basel Exterior photoRiverside Hotel Merian Basel Exterior photo
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From230US$ /night
Check-in
01Jun2026Select date
Check-out
02Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Rheingasse 2, Basel, Switzerland, 4056
-
Steps from the Rhine
Very good
7.6
6.3
/10
2.3
/5

Rooms with Amenities

Sorell Hotel Merian has 65 guestrooms, each with a minibar, a flat-screen television, and sound-insulated walls. Rooms include a private bathroom with a bath or shower. Amenities feature free WiFi and a safe. Room options offer city, landmark, or river views. Each room is equipped with heating, a carpeted floor, and a desk. Options include single rooms with one bed, double rooms with two beds, and suites with up to four beds. Bathrooms provide free toiletries and a hairdryer.

Dining at Brasserie Spitz

The hotel restaurant, Brasserie Cafe Spitz, serves lunch and dinner. The hotel restaurant serves fish. Brasserie Spitz's breakfast buffet is open to external guests. The hotel boasts a terrace with views of the cathedral.

Location and Surroundings

Sorell Hotel Merian is in the heart of Basel, in a relatively traffic-free zone by the Middle Bridge and 1 km from Middle Bridge. The hotel provides access to the market square in the middle of the old town. The Novartis Campus in Basel is nearby. Guests can reach museums, bars, and cinemas on foot. The hotel is near the Rhine River. The hotel is 1.5 km from Badischer Bahnhof and 90 km from Kloten.

Services and Features

Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. The hotel provides concierge services and a 24-hour reception desk with currency exchange. There are two conference rooms. A lounge with a daily newspaper, a caf, a kiosk, a small supermarket, a hairdresser's salon, a bar, a nightclub, a theatre hall, a casino and a games room are all in this hotel. Public Internet access, as well as room and laundry services are available. The BaselCard grants free public transport from the train station or the airport to the hotel. Safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.

Leisure and Excursions

Sorell Hotel Merian features a terrace and a hair salon. Guests receive a BaselCard upon check in. Guests can visit the Southern Black Forest Nature Park and Aargau Jura Park. Popular destinations for excursions are Alsace, the border triangle, the Swiss Jura and the Markgräflerland region.

“This riverside property has a prime location, though recent reports suggest a decline in service and dated accommodations, particularly concerning during peak seasons and warmer months. While the views of the Rhine remain exceptional and balcony rooms offer a premium experience, potential guests should weigh these factors against concerns about the overall quality of their stay.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

Riverside Hotel Merian offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
River Double Room Balcony
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Heating
Bathtub
Small Single Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
River Double Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Heating
Bathtub
River Junior Suite
2 persons
485 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Riverside Hotel Merian offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.3/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking property
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Lift
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Services

  • Housekeeping

Room features

  • Heating
  • In-room desk

Bathroom

  • Private bathroom
  • Bath/ Shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels
  • Toilet

Bedroom

  • Bed linen
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Riverside Hotel Merian Location

Rheingasse 2, Basel, Switzerland, 4056
Map view
Rheingasse 2, Basel, Switzerland, 4056
Nearby
Museum
Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel
500 ft
Museum
Museum Klingental
800 ft
Public Building
Rathaus
1600 ft
Museum
Natural History Museum of Basel
1800 ft
Unterer Rheinweg 10
Helvetia on a journey
300 ft
Event hall
Ausstellungsraum Klingental
500 ft
Museum
Museum of Cultures
1300 ft
Clarapl. 6
Clarakirche Basel
900 ft
Pfalz
Pfalz
1500 ft
Marktplatz
Altstadt-Spaziergange durch Basel
1700 ft
Church
Martinskirche
1000 ft
Restaurants
Ufer7 Basel
400 ft
Untere Rheingasse 11
East-West Hotel Restaurant
200 ft
Rheingasse 8
Apawi
200 ft
Rheingasse 8
Acero Eiscafe
300 ft
Rheingasse 13
Grenzwert Bar
300 ft
Rheingasse 17
Lily's
900 ft
Rebgasse 1 Am Claraplatz
Roter Baren
600 ft
Ochsengasse 17 4058 Basel
Sapori del Sud 2
300 ft
Rheingasse 23
Explore Basel
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Basel Historical Museum
Basel Historical Museum
12 minutes' walk
A showcase of Basel's history with exhibitions in a stunning palace. Guided tours available for deeper insights.
Basler Munster
Basler Munster
10 minutes' walk
The iconic cathedral of Basel known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views from the tower.
Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel
Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel
2 minutes' walk
A fascinating look at the history of pharmacy with unique artifacts. Ideal for those intrigued by science.
Fine Arts Museum Basel
Fine Arts Museum Basel
13 minutes' walk
Home to an impressive collection of art from the Renaissance to contemporary works. Regular exhibitions are held.
Zoo Basel
Zoo Basel
25 minutes' walk
An extensive zoo featuring diverse species. Family-friendly, with dining options inside the park.
Birskopfli Park
14 minutes' walk
A peaceful park with walking trails and picnic spots-great for relaxation and enjoying nature.
Jean Tinguely Museum
Jean Tinguely Museum
20 minutes' walk
Dedicated to the works of artist Jean Tinguely, with outdoor sculptures and a serene riverside setting.
East-West Hotel Restaurant
East-West Hotel Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Casual dining offering Asian and Swiss fusion dishes. Known for its cozy atmosphere and accommodating staff.
Apawi
Apawi
1 minute' walk
A vibrant spot for Middle Eastern cuisine, featuring flavorful dishes and vegetarian options.
Ufer7 Basel
Ufer7 Basel
2 minutes' walk
Riverside eatery specializing in seasonal dishes with local ingredients. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Grenzwert Bar
Grenzwert Bar
1 minute' walk
A vibrant bar known for creative cocktails and regular live music events. Ideal for a fun night out.
Muensterplatz
Muensterplatz
9 minutes' walk
A lively square often hosting markets and events. Great for families with a mix of culture and local life.
Getting around
City Centre
Basel5 min  ·  1400 ft
Airports
Kloten (ZRH)135 min  ·  55.8 mi
Belp (BRN)165 min  ·  68.1 mi
Train
Badischer Bahnhof18 min  ·  5000 ft
Basel SBB18 min  ·  5000 ft
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets allowed on request at the price of .
Languages
English, German
Number of floors:
7
Number of rooms:
61
Former name
merian am rhein

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Riverside Hotel Merian from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Merian Am Rhein enjoys a convenient location near the Rhine, with easy access to tram stops for exploring Basel. Guests appreciate the complimentary coffee, croissants, and Basel Card for public transport. Some found the self-check-in process a bit challenging. The rooms are practical, and some offer balconies with stunning views.
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Review score
Based on 1538 verified reviews
6.9/10
Nice
64%
Recommend
Location
9.3/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.4/10
Staff
6.9/10
Pros
Ideal location
Clean room
Good bed
Free coffee/tea
Straightforward check-in
Cons
No front desk
No aircon
Guest reviews
based on 1538 reviews
6.9/10
based on 358 reviews
3.5/5
based on 3862 reviews
7.6/10
Henry from United Kingdom
Single
Single Room Standard
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 27, 2025
7/10

acceptable stay NEAR THE rhine

convenient locationtravel passuncomfortable bedambiguous instruction
the location was very convenient near public transport. Free coffee and croissants WERE available each morning. i also appreciated the included travel pass. staff promptly returned a lost wallet.
the self-check-in process presented challenges. i found some instructions ambiguous. the BED was too uncomfortable. i did not get good sleep .
0 Helpful
Nick from Australia
Single
Double Room Superior Riverview
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 06, 2025
9.0/10

river views and convenient access

balcony accessriver viewgreat locationclean room
I specifically requested a balcony overlooking the river and called ahead to ask for the best room number. room 303 fit the bill perfectly. Rooms on floors one, two, and four also feature balconies, however the fifth floor does not. the view was beautiful at all hours (a real highlight!). the location was fantastic and the room was immaculate.
the self check-in process was a little slow, but i figured it out eventually.
Service
9/10
the staff responded quickly to my email inquiries before my stay. i found the team helpful and very attentive. it was easy to arrange an early check-in upon my arrival.
Location
10/10
the location is superb, right by the river and within walking distance of many attractions. tram 8 is a short walk and provides easy access to the main train station. the hotel provides a free pass for public transport (such a bonus!).
Dining
8/10
A simple self-service breakfast is available with coffee and pastries. the breakfast area overlooks the river. It has wonderful views. several restaurants are steps from the hotel.
0 Helpful
|
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Brian from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room Superior Riverview
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 04, 2025
9/10

Convenient Location

complimentary coffeeeasy accessluggage storage
The hotel provided complimentary coffee and a croissant in the lounge. The location allowed easy access to public transportation. I found luggage storage lockers available in the hallway..
0 Helpful
Kathleen from Ireland
Single
Double Room Superior Riverview
4 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:October 26, 2025
6/10
acceptable locationfaulty tabletpoor assistance
the location was acceptable it was near transport links
the self check-in was a problem the lobby tablet did not work i tried for thirty minutes without success there was nobody to assist me that is not my idea of a hotel i was not the only guest with complaints
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Riverside Hotel Merian - Opening 2026
Can the twin beds be combined into a single setup in the deluxe double room with a river view? Also, how far is the hotel from the Viking River Cruise dock?
22 January 2025
The twin beds can be placed together, although they remain distinct beds and not a full double bed. The Viking River Cruise dock is approximately a 30-minute walk from the hotel.
Is it correct that children are not permitted at the hotel, including those aged 16 and over?
10 March 2025
Children are welcome at the hotel, including those who are 16 years old.
We're planning a romantic anniversary getaway; can the beds be adjusted for our stay? Is breakfast part of the room rate?
18 February 2025
The beds can be arranged to fit your preference; however, they will be two separate beds. Breakfast is included in your stay.
Can you clarify if dogs are allowed at the property and if there are any associated costs?
05 April 2025
Dogs are permitted at the hotel with an additional charge of CHF 20.00 per dog per night, and it's best to inform the hotel in advance.
Is late checkout an option at the hotel? If so, how can I arrange it?
02 May 2025
Late checkout is dependent on availability; please inquire at the front desk upon arrival.
I would like to check in before the standard time; is this possible today?
27 June 2025
Early check-in is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. It's recommended to check at the time of your arrival.
Is there a facility for storing luggage at the hotel while guests explore the area?
15 August 2025
The hotel does not provide luggage storage facilities.
Are there accessible rooms available for guests with mobility needs?
12 September 2025
Unfortunately, there are no wheelchair-accessible rooms or bathrooms at this hotel.
Do you offer any special winter packages or promotions for guests planning a stay during that season?
30 October 2024
Yes, there are winter special offers available, including unique dining experiences like fondue at Chalet Züriberg, perfect for the winter season.
What can guests expect regarding breakfast options, and are there any specialties featured?
19 November 2024
Breakfast is renowned for its quality, featuring handmade pastries and locally sourced products, including jams made in-house.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room