Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois
Basel, Switzerland
Altstadt Grossbasel
Vibe
Gilded chandeliers and neoclassical columns frame Rhine views, where tuxedoed staff move between riverfront terraces and the lively historic lobby.
“Grand riverside tableau”
Attentive tuxedoed staff, thoughtful evening turndowns with fresh fruit, and three-Michelin-starred gastronomy overlooking the Rhine.
Centuries of Rhine trade and hospitality anchored in an 1844 palace that has welcomed emperors, artists, and dignitaries.
A beloved Basel institution where generations gather for afternoon tea, fireside drinks, and milestone celebrations.
On the Rhine in Basel Old Town, steps from the historic river crossing at Schifflände.
“Incredibly it doesn’t really show its age, its 19th-century furnishings looking as new as the day they were made…”
Rooms
Classic rooms feature antique furnishings and ornate ceiling stucco, while the modern annex suites offer flowing open layouts with deep red accents.
“The 101-room hotel isn’t an exact restoration but rather a tribute to the sumptuousness of Belle Epoque grand hotels, with heavy wooden doors…”
Wellness
Tucked beneath the mansard roof, the Japanese-inspired spa offers fragrant cedar walls, a bio-sauna, steam bath, and an icy plunge bath.
“The hotel’s new extension offers a rare opportunity to spend the night in a space they helped shape.”
Backstory
Welcoming river travelers since 1681, the legendary inn hosted Napoleon Bonaparte before architect Amadeus Merian built the grand 1844 palace.
“Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, which once hosted Napoleon, is a Belle Époque beauty perched on the banks of the Rhine…”
Eat & drink
Chef Peter Knogl helms three-Michelin-starred Cheval Blanc, while the river terrace bar serves craft cocktails alongside live piano music.
The neighborhood
Perched above the Schifflände river landing, the hotel sits a short walk from Old Town galleries and the Kunstmuseum Basel.
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Lively
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.