Where to Stay in Switzerland: Best Hotels & Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Switzerland often begins with one big question: where to stay in Switzerland. From snow-covered Alpine resorts to luxury lakeside hotels and budget-friendly city stays, this country offers a wide range of choices. Whether you’re traveling for skiing, hiking, or sightseeing, picking the right base makes all the difference in your Swiss adventure.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best cities, regions, and hotels in Switzerland, including luxury escapes, mid-range gems, and budget-friendly options.

Why Choosing the Right Place to Stay in Switzerland Matters

Switzerland is a small country, but its landscapes vary dramatically. Staying in Zurich offers urban sophistication and nightlife, while Zermatt puts you at the foot of the Matterhorn. Interlaken is perfect for adventure seekers, and Lucerne combines history with stunning lake views. If you’re planning your trip around the weather Switzerland in February, keep in mind that snowy alpine resorts are in full swing, making it ideal for skiing, while cities like Zurich or Lucerne offer a cozier cultural vibe. By carefully choosing your accommodation, you save travel time and maximize your Swiss experience.

Best Cities and Regions to Stay in Switzerland

1. Zurich – The Financial Hub with Style

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city, known for its luxury shopping, nightlife, and proximity to the Alps. It’s a fantastic base if you want a mix of culture, food, and day trips.

• Best for: Luxury travelers, business trips, nightlife, shopping.

Where to Stay in Zurich

• Baur au Lac – Overlooking Lake Zurich, this five-star hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort. Guests love its Michelin-starred restaurant and private park.

2. Lucerne – Fairytale City on the Lake

Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most photographed cities, famous for the Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, and its dreamy location on Lake Lucerne surrounded by mountains.

• Best for: First-time visitors, families, history lovers.

Where to Stay in Lucerne

Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern – A legendary hotel that has hosted royalty and celebrities. It offers spacious suites and direct lake views.

3. Interlaken – Adventure Capital of Switzerland

Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau region. Known for paragliding, hiking, and extreme sports, it’s ideal for adrenaline seekers.

• Best for: Adventure travelers, backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

• Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – A luxury escape offering spa facilities and incredible views of the Jungfrau massif.

4. Zermatt – Home of the Matterhorn

Zermatt is a car-free Alpine resort that attracts skiers, hikers, and nature lovers. The Matterhorn dominates the skyline, making this one of the most iconic places to stay in Switzerland.

• Best for: Skiing, hiking, romantic getaways.

Where to Stay in Zermatt

• The Omnia – A design-forward hotel built into a rock, offering luxurious rooms, fine dining, and direct views of the Matterhorn.

5. Geneva – A Cosmopolitan Lakeside City

Located on the banks of Lake Geneva, this city is famous for the United Nations, luxury watches, and fine dining. It’s a global hub but also close to ski resorts.

• Best for: Diplomats, luxury travelers, lake views.

Where to Stay in Geneva

• Beau-Rivage Geneva – A lakeside property known for its historic charm, Michelin dining, and discreet luxury.

6. Bern – The Underrated Capital

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is often overlooked but offers a beautiful medieval Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage). It’s relaxed, historic, and charming.

• Best for: History lovers, families, slower travel.

Where to Stay in Bern

• Hotel Bellevue Palace – The only grand hotel in Bern, offering views of the Alps and the River Aare, with classic elegance.

7. St. Moritz – Glamorous Alpine Escape

If you want luxury skiing and glamorous après-ski, St. Moritz is the place. Known for its world-class slopes and upscale lifestyle, it attracts celebrities and royals.

• Best for: Luxury skiers, winter sports, high-end travel.

Where to Stay in St. Moritz

• Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – Legendary luxury, complete with private butlers, Rolls Royce transfers, and lakefront views.

8. Basel – Art, Culture, and Architecture

Basel is Switzerland’s cultural capital, famous for Art Basel fair, modern architecture, and its location on the Rhine River near Germany and France.

• Best for: Art lovers, cultural tourism, border-hopping.

Where to Stay in Basel

• Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois – One of Europe’s oldest city hotels, offering riverside luxury with Michelin dining.

Table: Best Places to Stay in Switzerland by Traveler Type

Travel Tips for Choosing Hotels in Switzerland

• Book Early in Ski Season: Resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz sell out quickly in winter.
• Use Swiss Travel Pass: Staying near major train stations makes traveling between cities much easier.
• Budget Wisely: Switzerland is expensive; balance luxury stays with mid-range or budget options in other cities.
• Consider Season: Summer is ideal for hiking in Interlaken, while winter is perfect for skiing in St. Moritz.

Final Thoughts:

Deciding where to stay in Switzerland depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you want luxury, head to St. Moritz or Geneva. For adventure, Interlaken is unbeatable. If it’s your first visit, Lucerne strikes the perfect balance of scenery and culture. Switzerland’s world-class hotels, efficient transport, and stunning landscapes ensure that wherever you stay, your trip will be unforgettable. Thanks to the Swiss train timetable, it’s also incredibly easy to move between cities and mountain resorts, allowing you to experience multiple destinations without the stress of long travel planning.

FAQs on Where to Stay in Switzerland