BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND: A GUIDE TO EACH REGION

Switzerland is one of the most scenic places to visit on earth and travelers from far-flung places come to this beautiful country to witness before their eyes the tantalizing views of the Alps. There are a lot of distinctively different regions to stay in Switzerland so this guide should help you consider which is the best area in Switzerland for you to visit during your stay. The article is broken up into the ten most popular regions of Switzerland and for each region, the best luxury, value, and budget accommodations are listed.

QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND

Don’t have time to read my detailed breakdown of all the best places to stay in Switzerland? No worries! These are my three top picks. If you book one of these three, you are guaranteed to have a great stay in a great location!

WHERE TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND COMPARISON TABLE

Accommodation	Rate/night
Zurich
The Dolder Grand Hotel	$672
Motel One Zurich	$140
Zurich Youth Hostel	$80
Bern
Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & The Spa	$406
Hotel Allegro Bern	$150
Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke	$36
Interlaken
Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa	$771
Hotel Interlaken	$188
Interlaken Youth Hostel	$44
Grindelwald
Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof	$331
Eiger Selfness Hotel	$221
Downtown Lodge Hostel	$50
Zermatt
The Omnia	$649
Hotel Walliserhof Zermatt 1896	$237
Zermatt Youth Hostel	$39
Geneva
Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva	$918
Ibis budget Geneve Palexpo Aeroport	$183
Geneva Hostel	$37
Appenzell
Romantik Hotel Santis	$241
Hotel Hecht Appenzell	$181
Guesthouse Forrenhusli	$50
Engelberg
H+ Hotel & Spa Engelberg	$229
Alpenclub	$135
Engelberg Trail Hostel	$64
Lauterbrunnen
Hotel Staubbach	$259
Hotel Silberhorn	$127
Valley Hostel	$35
Chur
ABC Swiss Quality Hotel	$184
Central Hotel Post	$123
VIVA Hostel	$58

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SWITZERLAND

I’ve created this blog for you to help you figure out the best places to stay in Switzerland. In this article, I have selected ten popular regions. And in each region, I have included some reasons why you might be interested to stay in that region of Switzerland.

Depending on which area you would stay in, I’ve listed at least three places to stay in each region.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ZURICH FOR EVERY BUDGET

If you are into nightlife, awesome food scene, culture, and arts, then Zurich is the ideal place for you! Zurich is a mix of notable state-of-the-art and medieval landmarks like the Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is visited by many holiday goers each year. Whether you want to check out galleries and museums or shop until you drop, sure there are tons of things to see and do in Zurich. 

THE DOLDER GRAND HOTEL

The Dolder Grand Hotel (Luxury): Feeling fancy and you want to get that once-in-a-lifetime grand luxury retreat? Then stay in The Dolder Grand Hotel. This 5-star hotel is the epitome of luxury and it’s a mixture of past and modern epochs.

This city-resort hotel is perched above Zurich city and it offers 173 lavish rooms ranging from single, double to suite rooms. This is an ideal hotel for couples searching for the best luxury hotel for a romantic honeymoon in Zurich. The big indoor swimming pool and the changing facilities will WOW you in a heartbeat. This is my best pick among the best luxury hotels in Zurich.

MOTEL ONE ZURICH

Motel One Zurich (Value): If you’re looking for a hotel that is a great value for money plus in an excellent location, Motel One Zurich is perhaps your best choice. It’s a modern hotel positioned along the road between Lake Zurich, the Botanical Garden, and the station.

Motel One Zurich is a popular 3-star hotel that offers vintage yet exquisite amenities. In a blink of an eye, you’ll have everything you need from free Wi-Fi to a healthy breakfast. If you are traveling with kids, they also offer a free stay for your young ones. With Lake Zurich’s view and the Swiss Alps which can be seen from the property, Motel One Zurich is sure a perfect place to stay in Switzerland.

ZURICH YOUTH HOSTEL

Zurich Youth Hostel (Budget): If you are traveling on a budget, check out Zurich Youth Hostel. With a delicious breakfast included in the price, you can’t beat Zurich Youth Hostel. Though the location of the hostel is a tad remote, it is clean and has ample amenities for guests to have a comfortable stay.

It is also a family-friendly hostel as they offer not just only dorm-style rooms but also quadruple rooms with private bathrooms. I highly recommend this hostel in Zurich as a great place to stay in Switzerland on a budget.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BERN

Despite its small size, it is considered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and you’ll know why when you visit Bern. If you are looking for where to stay in Bern, check out my three recommendations for best places to stay.

HOTEL SCHWEIZERHOF BERN & THE SPA

Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & The Spa (Luxury): This boutique luxury hotel is strategically located in the heart of the action offering a wide range of rooms and suites with a contemporary and classy touch. I like this hotel due to its proximity to the University of Bern and the Parliament House of Bern. There’s nothing better than enjoying wine and cheese at the fairy-tale-like Sky Terrace with a panoramic view of the city.

The luxurious and refined restaurant on site is quite popular with celebrities. There is a broad range of food to choose from plus it’s vegan-friendly. With its excellent location and impeccable service, no wonder why it is one of the best places to stay in Switzerland

HOTEL ALLEGRO BERN

Hotel Allegro Bern (Value): If you’re looking for a hotel that gives a spectacular view of the city bridge and Old Town Bern, look no further, as Hotel Allegro Bern is the right place for you! Each room is equipped with modern amenities including a super comfy bed, an iPod docking station, and a balcony. The balcony gives an insane view of the city as well as the massive church in the center of Bern so it’s perfect for a photo opportunity.

Among the amenities are three restaurants, a bar, a casino, and a fitness center.  Undoubtedly, Hotel Allegro Bern is the bestseller accommodation and in my opinion, the best value place to stay in Bern and one of the top places to stay in Switzerland.

BERN BACKPACKERS HOTEL GLOCKE

Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke (Budget): Located in the heart of Old Town Bern, Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke is one of the most popular budget hostels among backpackers or solo globetrotters. From this hostel, you can easily view the renowned Zytglogge Clock tower. The property is only ten minutes away from the train station so location-wise, it’s quite handy.

The hostel is clean, cozy, and safe to make sure every guest enjoys their stay. It offers rooms ranging from single rooms up to 6-bed rooms. Whether you stroll throughout the old city or join a tour of the clock tower, Bern Backpackers Hotel Glocke is a great place to stay in Switzerland.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN INTERLAKEN FOR ALL BUDGETS

Interlaken, nestled between two lakes (Thun and Brienz) in the center of Switzerland, is encompassed by natural beauty and stunning scenery. It is the adventure capital of Europe making it a popular area for adrenaline junkies and excursionists alike.

I actually based in Interlaken for two weeks as I found it less touristy than Grindelwald and Murren but I still had access to both of those towns within 1-hour on the train for any hikes or visits I wanted to make. Interlaken is the most practical base in all of Switzerland.

VICTORIA JUNGFRAU GRAND HOTEL & SPA

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa (Luxury): This 5-star hotel in Interlaken is by far the best among all places to stay in Switzerland. It offers 216 lavish and elegant suites blended with modern and traditional interior furnishings. The location is ideally set between two lakes making the place serene and relaxing. You literally open your balcony and can see the glacial mountains in the distance.

It also features a huge swimming pool and an enticing spa with various health treatments. There are two restaurants on-site, one of which offers delicious French cuisines. This is definitely the top luxury hotel in Interlaken and one of the best luxury places to stay in Switzerland.

HOTEL INTERLAKEN

Hotel Interlaken (Value): Since 1941, Hotel Interlaken has taken pride in providing the best service to its guests. This 4-star hotel has been renovated offering modern-style rooms with a Swiss charm. The highlight is the location as it is in the core of Interlaken and only six mutes away from the railway station on foot. Hotel Interlaken is a perfect Switzerland accommodation for families, couples, and even solo travelers.  

INTERLAKEN YOUTH HOSTEL

Interlaken Youth Hostel (Budget): Interlaken Youth Hostel is the most popular budget accommodation in Interlaken. Due to its proximity to the train station and reasonable rate, guests will fall in love with this property.

This hostel is an excellent base for budget-conscious who want to explore Interlaken and trust me there is a lot to explore! In the summer, guests can enjoy activities including hiking and paragliding whereas skiing can be enjoyed in the wintertime.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GRINDELWALD FOR ALL BUDGETS

Grindelwald is one of the most picturesque and paradisaical villages in Switzerland. It’s quintessential Switzerland. Think chalets with flower boxes with epic mountain backdrops. Set approximately 20 kilometers away from Interlaken, this tiny village is home to the North Face of Eiger, scenic mountain lookouts, glaciers, and lakes so it is a can’t miss destination in Switzerland.

Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof

Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof (Luxury): How would you like to stay in a luxury chalet? Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof is a 5-star resort composed of three separate architecture such as the main hotel building, the Residence Suites, and the exclusive luxury chalets “Rotstocki”, “Mittellegi”, and “Ostegg”. Some of the rooms have living rooms in the residential suites and the rooms in luxury chalets can accommodate from 2 to 8 guests with a terrace offering the best view of the North Face Eiger.

There is also a romantic private bath on-site, delightful restaurants, an indoor pool, wellness & spa, and a garden and terrace. With personable staff and unrivaled amenities, I highly recommend this luxury place to stay in Switzerland.

EIGER SELFNESS HOTEL

Eiger Selfness Hotel (Value): Set in the heart of Grindelwald, Eiger Selfness Hotel is within proximity to everything including the cable car station, shops, and restaurants. I personally love the view of the glaciers from the hotel balcony. It is very stunning, especially in the morning.

The price of your stay will also give you access to the nearby sports center for free. The hotel serves delicious continental breakfast to kick-start your day in Grindelwald. What’s more? The hotel offers free activities such as yoga and a spa. I’d say the staff here went above and beyond to make my stay comfortable. Undoubtedly, one of the best staycations is at Eiger Selfness Hotel in Grindelwald!

DOWNTOWN LODGE HOSTEL

Downtown Lodge Hostel (Budget): Downtown Lodge Hostel is properly managed and the attention to detail is fantastic. The hostel is composed of several lodges with tons of rooms to accommodate travelers and backpackers. The location is fantastic! It is just a walking distance to the train station and within easy access to popular attractions.

 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ZERMATT FOR ALL BUDGETS

Zermatt is located in the Southwestern part of Switzerland in the Canton of Valais. It’s a popular ski town that is a haven for hikers, mountaineers, and ski lovers due to its proximity to the Matterhorn, one of Switzerland’s most photographed mountains.

Many of these gigantic peaks can be reached by cable cars or by hiking. I spent 8 days in Zermatt and it’s just a wonderful vibe. If you are keen to spend a few nights exploring Zermatt, here are my three favorite accommodations in town.

The Omnia

The Omnia (Luxury): How would you like to wake up in the morning and see the best Matterhorn view just straight from your room? Perched at the mountainside near the infamous Matterhorn, The Omnia is a five-star hotel boasting 30 sleek rooms including 12 suites.

The private balconies show spectacular views of the peaks. If you want to escape from the crowds and enjoy being close to nature, the Omnia is the right place for you. This hotel has been operating since 2006 and has received global recognition as the best-designed hotel in Switzerland. Among the amenities are the plush restaurant and a cozy library with a fireplace, a lounge bar, a cavern, a boardroom, and a wellness center. It’s up there as one of the best places to stay in Switzerland

HOTEL WALLISERHOF ZERMATT 1896

Hotel Walliserhof Zermatt 1896 (Value): Hotel Walliserhof Zermatt is a popular chalet-style hotel set in the heart of Zermatt. This 3-star hotel has comfortable double rooms and suites including the romantic sky suite. The rooms and suites are equipped with necessities such as a private bathroom, a balcony, a TV, a safe, and free WiFi.

The stand-alone bathtub on the upper floor offers a view of the starry sky. How romantic! The receptionist was very helpful and the hotel serves a simple yet delicious breakfast which is included in the price so it guarantees great value for money.

ZERMATT YOUTH HOSTEL

Zermatt Youth Hostel (Budget): This property is well-known to many budget travelers and backpackers. The property has the best view of the Matterhorn and a cozy atmosphere. Breakfast is included in the price of your stay and it’s only a 15-minute walk uphill from the train station. Considering that accommodation in Zermatt is expensive, many backpackers opt to stay at Zermatt Youth Hostel.

I stayed here for two nights and found it a pretty good base for my hikes. I can confirm that you do have a Matterhorn view from the hostel, which is a pretty impressive thing to say about a hostel. I could literally see the Matterhorn while laying on my bed.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GENEVA

The city of Geneva is famous for shopping, museums, vineyards, lakes, and ancient castles. One of the most renowned sights in the city is the gigantic water fountain called Jet d’Eau. Not only that, Geneva has some of the best five-star hotels in the world. The most expensive suite in the world,  the Royal Penthouse Suite at Hotel President Wilson, can be found here.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DES BERGUES GENEVA

Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva (Luxury): There’s hardly a more refined place to spend the night than Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva. Location-wise, it’s perfect! This luxury hotel has been a landmark for Lake Geneva for many years. It’s the first hotel in Geneva and it has excellent amenities including the restaurant overlooking the iconic Jet d’Eau, Lake Geneva, and the Old Town. The rooftop Spa and its indoor pool are perfect spots to relax and chill.

The gym is huge and pets are allowed on site. If you come to Geneva for business, the Four Seasons has a wide range of business services such as spacious meeting rooms and access to 20 golf courses in Geneva. It’s guaranteed that you’ll be treated like royalty here and this hotel is a perfect example of a luxury vacation. I highly recommend this luxury hotel in Geneva as one of the best places to stay in Switzerland.

IBIS BUDGET GENEVE PALEXPO AEROPORT

Ibis Budget Geneve Palexpo Aeroport (Value): If convenience, affordable, and good facilities are what you are looking for, then Ibis Budget Geneve Palexpo Aeroport is the ideal place for you. I love the proximity to the airport because it’s only ten minutes away.

There is a bistro downstairs if you feel hungry although breakfast is included during your stay. Another thing I like is the hotel offers free tickets for public transportation in Geneva to save guests’ money. With easy access to the city center and public transport, this hotel is ideal for those traveling for leisure and business.

GENEVA HOSTEL

Geneva Hostel (Budget): Perhaps you’re not feeling fancy this time and you’re looking for a popular budget accommodation while backpacking in Geneva, then you might want to check out Geneva Hostel. This is the bestseller hostel in Geneva due to its prime location and a broad range of budget rooms. It’s only a quick walk to the train station.

Also if you don’t mind sharing a room with other backpackers, you can get a single bed in a male or female dormitory room for only $37 a night. Plus a locker is included which is handy.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN APPENZELL FOR EVERY BUDGET

For all history buffs, there’s nothing better than visiting a destination that takes you back in time. The most traditional village in Switzerland is Appenzell. Picture a fairy-tale-like setting with colorful facades and archaic architecture, you’ll see what Switzerland looked like a very long time ago.

I actually stayed in Appenzell for more than a week because the Alpstein region is just two stops away by train and Appenzell is the biggest town nearby. Alpstein, in my opinion, is the best hiking loop in Switzerland. There are a few good bakeries and pizza joints in Appenzell to cure your hunger before and after hiking. Other than that, it is a pretty quiet, quaint Swiss town.

ROMANTIK HOTEL SANTIS

Romantik Hotel Santis (Luxury): This 4-star hotel has everything you need to have a comfortable stay. It is run by the Heeb family for ages ago and they really do a great job in taking care of their guests. The hotel has 36 well-appointed rooms highlighting the junior suites.

A free buffet breakfast is included in the price with good selections of food. And the bar/lounge is a perfect place to chill and the atmosphere is very cozy. It’s also conveniently set near the railway station so you don’t worry about catching a train to your next destination. The property also offers some activities depending on which season you visit Appenzell. This is by far the best accommodation in the village and the only 4-star hotel.

HOTEL HECHT APPENZELL

Hotel Hecht Appenzell (Value): Like Romantik, this is a family business hotel. And when it comes to location, it is very convenient– just within close proximity to the train station. Hotel Hecht is a value-for-money option, especially for families traveling with pets because it is pet-friendly and family rooms are quite spacious. Breakfast has a good selection of Swiss cheese.

Also, all guests can access their sauna where you can relax after a long day of hiking. If you stay here for more than three nights, you can receive an Appenzell card that can be used for transportation and entry to museums. Each room features a TV and a bathroom. I can’t recommend this hotel enough!

GUESTHOUSE FORRENHUSLI

Guesthouse Forrenhusli (Budget): Built more than a hundred years ago, Guesthouse Forrenhusli is a traditional chalet-style accommodation in Appenzell. If you are looking for a cheap room whilst exploring the town of Appenzell, I’d suggest you stay in this guesthouse.

It is about 2 kilometers from the center of the town. The location is in a quiet place surrounded by farmlands and mountains. Staying here will make you appreciate the beauty of nature. Hiking and cycling are the most popular activities on site. It’s also possible to bring your pet and there is a parking space available.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ENGELBERG FOR ALL BUDGETS

I stayed twice in Engelberg and it is a bit of a hidden gem. It is a ski haven in the winter and an unsung hero in the summer with great hikes all around. Engelberg is home to some captivating landscapes and numerous peaks, charming ski spots, and delicious cheese. But the best of Engelberg is in the winter when skiing enthusiasts from around the world ski or snowboard over Mt. Titlis and explore Titlis Glacier Cave.

H+ HOTEL & SPA ENGELBERG

H+ Hotel & Spa Engelberg (Luxury): This 4-star hotel is popular with all sorts of travelers. This has been revamped with a mix of traditional and modern furnishings. The hotel features 128 rooms fitted with free Wi-Fi and balconies. Personally, there’s nothing happier than seeing the best view of nature in the morning so for me, balconies are a must on every staycation.

The spa tub and the huge indoor pool are also perfect spots for relaxation after a long day of skiing in the mountains. A free shuttle service is included in the price. It is a very elegant hotel with beautiful panoramic mountain views and clean amenities.

ALPENCLUB

Alpenclub (Value): Alpenclub Hotel is a great value for money situated in the center of Engelberg. This chic hotel has modern amenities with nice woodwork and charming architecture giving it a rustic mountainous vibe.

This hotel is used to be a restaurant and the owner has kept a mountain inn vibe of the place with a modern touch. Apart from its stunning furnishings, I also loved the breakfast and location. The rooms are super comfy and cozy with an alpine feel.

Don’t miss the Gada Bar on site, it’s very unique and they have a good selection of wines on display. The warm greeting of the staff and the friendly atmosphere make me want to stay longer in this place. I love everything about this Chalet-style hotel.

ENGELBERG TRAIL HOSTEL

Engelberg Trail Hostel (Budget): Looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Engelberg? Then check out Engelberg Trail Hostel. This property is strategically located in the heart of Engelberg so it’s very close to everything including the Titlis cable car station.

Rooms are basic but are equipped with comfy beds and free Wi-Fi. Not to mention breakfast is included in the price. There is a shared lounge on the property which is perfect to meet fellow foreign and local travelers. If you are looking for a place to stay in Switzerland that doesn’t hurt your wallet, I highly recommend staying in this hostel.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LAUTERBRUNNEN FOR EACH BUDGET

If you want to see the world-famous Staubbach waterfalls in Switzerland, then head to the village of Lauterbrunnen! Seriously, this is one of the most iconic places to stay in Switzerland. You are literally in a valley with huge cliffs on either side and massive waterfalls flowing down into the valley. Definitely an iconic spot in Switzerland. It’s home to 72 waterfalls, and this village is the portal to Jungfrau Region so yes it’s pretty close to the resort town of Interlaken and Murren.

HOTEL STAUBBACH

Hotel Staubbach (Mid-range): Imagine yourself waking up with a waterfall view– how enchanting! This family-run hotel offers stunning views of Staubbach Falls and the valley in the heart of Lauterbrunnen.  The hotel rooms are immaculately spotless with comfy beds and private and shared bathrooms.

Apart from the spectacular views, another thing that I love about this place is the staff as they are super helpful and when it comes to breakfast, it’s heavenly, especially the coffee. Definitely the best hotel in Lauterbrunnen and one of the best places to stay in Switzerland.

HOTEL SILBERHORN

Hotel Silberhorn (Value): For me, the Hotel Silberhorn is actually more luxurious than the luxury hotels but it is priced lower for some reason. This is by far my number one pick for where to stay in Lauterbrunnen.

As you can see in the photos below, it is super modern, has epic natural light and views from the room and all the amenities are new. It is set next to the train station, this family-run hotel offers cozy rooms and a sun terrace where you can chill and unwind after a long day of exploring numerous waterfalls.  There is a cable car that runs past the hotel and it’s just a stone’s throw away from the train station. recommended!

VALLEY HOSTEL

Valley Hostel (Budget): Let your adventures begin at this budget accommodation in Lauterbrunnen! Not only this hostel gives you budget-saving rooms but also it’s very handy when it comes to location– very near to the train station.

From the balcony, you can enjoy the best view of the waterfall and valley while having your morning coffee. The hostel also has a garden, a ski storage room, and laundry facilities. If you want to save your money for your adventures, cook your meal in their communal kitchen. This is by far the best hostel in Lauterbrunnen! 

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHUR FOR EVERY TYPE OF BUDGET

Chur is the oldest town in Switzerland. This small region is just a lovely little day trip from the hustle and bustle of Zurich; just 1.5 hours away by train. It is a jumping point of the Glacier Express and rides onwards to Zermatt as well as the legendary and scenic Bernina Express to Tirano.

ABC SWISS QUALITY HOTEL

ABC Swiss Quality Hotel (Luxury): This 4-star hotel offers 48 clean and modern rooms equipped with a relatively good Wi-Fi connection, a minibar, and a Nespresso coffee machine. For $184, you can get a private single room with a complimentary extensive breakfast.

Indulge in their sauna and take advantage of the 24-hour fitness center and free private parking. This hotel is popular due to its central location which is close to the railway station, shopping district, and the old town for sightseeing. 

CENTRAL HOTEL POST

Central Hotel Post (Value): If you are looking for a spotless hotel that is good value for money, then you might want to check out Central Hotel Post. This hotel is set in the heart of Chur which means it’s very close to the railway station, museums, cafes, and restaurants. The highlight of the Central Hotel Post is the buffet breakfast.

VIVA HOSTEL

VIVA Hostel (Budget): This hostel is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and party lovers as they have budget rooms and a dance club on site. The hostel rooms are clean and functional with private and shared bathrooms plus free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

It’s pretty basic but I think this place is perfect if you don’t want to spend more on accommodation and if you only stay for a couple of nights. There are nearby restaurants and shops for you to have your meal after a long day of exploring the town. Budget-wise, I’d certainly recommend this hostel.