Where to Stay in Switzerland – Best Areas & Hotels for Every Type of Trip

Switzerland is one of those destinations that feels almost unreal — snow-covered peaks, crystal-clear lakes and postcard-perfect towns at every turn.

When considering where to stay in Switzerland, you’ll find a variety of options that cater to every traveller’s needs.

But deciding where to stay in Switzerland can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this guide will help you navigate where to stay in Switzerland, including insights on the best regions and accommodations.

To help you with your decision on where to stay in Switzerland, we’ve compiled a list of the best areas for different types of trips.

If you’re still unsure about where to stay in Switzerland, consider the unique offerings of each region.

Each region offers something completely different. Some areas are perfect for first-time visitors, while others are better for luxury stays, scenic train journeys or mountain experiences.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best places to stay in Switzerland, the top areas for different types of trips, and carefully selected hotels — so you can plan your trip with confidence.

🏨 Where to Stay in Swizerland: Key Considerations

– Interlaken → best for first-time visitors
– Lucerne → best for scenery & lakes
– Zermatt → best for luxury
– Zurich → best for city stays

🏔️ 1. INTERLAKEN – BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Interlaken is often considered the best place to stay in Switzerland for a reason.

Interlaken is not only centrally located, but also one of the most practical bases for exploring Switzerland without constantly changing hotels. From here, you can easily take day trips to some of the country’s most iconic places, including Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen Valley and Grindelwald, all within short travel times.

As you plan, think about where to stay in Switzerland and how it fits into your travel itinerary.

The town itself has a relaxed atmosphere, with a mix of traditional Swiss charm and modern туристическа инфраструктура, which makes it very удобен както за първо посещение, така и за по-дълъг престой. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as easy access to both lakes for boat trips and scenic walks.

Ultimately, choosing where to stay in Switzerland will enhance your travel experience by connecting you with the beauty of the Swiss landscape.

Each choice of where to stay in Switzerland brings its own charm, whether you’re near the lakes or the mountains.

Another big advantage is the excellent train connectivity — Interlaken is one of the main transport hubs in the region, which means you can reach most attractions without needing a car. This saves time, money and unnecessary planning, especially if it’s your first trip to Switzerland.

Because of its location between two lakes and surrounded by mountains, the views here are impressive in every season — from green landscapes in summer to snow-covered peaks in winter. It’s also one of the best places if you want to combine relaxation with activities like hiking, paragliding or scenic train journeys.

Overall, Interlaken offers the best balance between convenience, accessibility and natural beauty, which is exactly why it’s often recommended as the top place to stay in Switzerland for first-time visitors.

Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, it offers easy access to some of the most famous destinations in the country, including Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.

📍 Why stay here:

• Central location in the Swiss Alps
• Easy train connections
• Close to top attractions

🚆 How to get there:

Interlaken is around 2 hours by train from Zurich Airport, making it one of the most convenient routes for international travellers. From Geneva Airport, the journey takes approximately 3 hours, while from Basel Airport it’s around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the connection.

All routes are well served by Switzerland’s efficient train network, with frequent departures throughout the day and easy transfers.

A luxurious experience awaits in Zermatt, which is considered one of the best places to stay in Switzerland.

🏨 Recommended hotels in Interlaken

Luxury:

Grand Hotel Beau Rivage Interlaken

Located along the Aare River, this hotel offers panoramic views of the Alps and is within walking distance of Interlaken Ost station (around 5 minutes). It’s a great option if you plan day trips to Jungfraujoch or Lauterbrunnen. The rooms are spacious, and many have mountain views.

The hotel is located right by the river, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere just a few minutes from the main attractions. It’s also very close to Interlaken Ost station, which makes it a convenient base for day trips in the region.

A thriving city experience awaits those who choose to stay in Zurich, making it a fantastic option for where to stay in Switzerland.

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Switzerland, located in the heart of Interlaken with direct views towards the Jungfrau massif. The hotel has over 150 years of history and combines classic Belle Époque elegance with modern comfort
It’s set just a short walk from Interlaken Ost station, making it a very convenient base for day trips to Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald. The property features more than 200 rooms and suites, several restaurants and one of the largest spa areas in Switzerland (over 5,500 m²), including pools, wellness treatments and fitness facilities.

This hotel is ideal if you want a premium experience with everything in one place — location, views and high-end service. It’s not just a place to stay, but a destination in itself, especially for a more relaxed and luxurious trip.
👉 Check availability and prices →

Mid-range:
Hotel Interlaken

This hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the region, with a history dating back to the 14th century, which gives it a unique and authentic atmosphere.

It’s located in a quiet but central area, just a few minutes’ walk from Interlaken Ost station, which makes it extremely convenient for exploring the Jungfrau region. The hotel combines traditional Swiss style with modern amenities, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxed garden area that feels more private compared to larger hotels.

One of its biggest advantages is the balance between location and price — you’re close to everything without paying luxury hotel rates. It’s a great option if you want something more atmospheric than a standard hotel, but still practical for day trips and transport.

Hotel Du Nord Interlaken

A very central hotel just a few minutes from Interlaken Ost station. It’s a practical choice if you want easy access to trains and excursions. Rooms are modern, and many offer views of the Jungfrau.

Many rooms offer direct views of the Jungfrau, which adds a real alpine feel to the stay. Its central location makes it easy to reach restaurants, shops and transport connections within a short walk.

Budget:
Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof

One of the best-rated budget options in Interlaken, offering a relaxed and social atmosphere without compromising on location. It’s centrally located, within walking distance of both Interlaken West and Ost stations, making it easy to explore the entire region.

The hostel offers a mix of private rooms and dormitories, all clean and well-maintained, with access to shared kitchens, common areas and a large garden with mountain views. Guests also benefit from extras like free breakfast, access to local transport and nearby pools, which adds a lot of value for the price.

It’s especially popular with solo travellers and younger visitors, but also works well for budget-conscious couples who want to stay in a central location. If you plan to spend most of your time exploring and just need a comfortable base, this is one of the smartest choices in Interlaken.

Hotel Lötschberg

A simple but very well-rated budget hotel close to Interlaken West station. Ideal for travellers who want a clean and comfortable stay without spending too much. Breakfast is included and the location is quiet.
The property also has a large outdoor garden area, which is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet other travellers.

🌄 2. LUCERNE – BEST FOR SCENERY & LAKE VIEWS

Lucerne is one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland, combining mountains, lakes and historic architecture.

Lucerne is one of the most picturesque places to stay in Switzerland, combining dramatic mountain scenery with a beautiful lakefront setting and a well-preserved historic centre. It offers a slightly more relaxed and refined atmosphere compared to Interlaken, making it ideal for travellers who want to enjoy Switzerland at a slower pace.

The town is built around Lake Lucerne, with stunning views in every direction — from the water to the surrounding peaks like Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. Walking through the old town feels like stepping into a postcard, with colorful buildings, narrow streets and iconic landmarks like the Chapel Bridge.

Lucerne is also a great base if you want a mix of nature and culture. You can easily take scenic boat trips on the lake, ride cable cars into the mountains or simply enjoy the atmosphere without rushing between destinations.

Another advantage is its central location in the country, which allows for easy travel to other major cities while still feeling more peaceful and less туристически натоварен than some alpine hotspots.

Overall, Lucerne is perfect if you’re looking for a balance between stunning scenery, комфорт and accessibility, without the more adventurous or busy vibe of Interlaken.

It’s quieter than Interlaken but still very well connected.

📍 Why stay here:

• Stunning lake views
• Close to Mount Pilatus & Rigi
• Charming old town

🚆 How To Get There:

Lucerne is very easy to reach from Switzerland’s main airports. From Zurich Airport, it takes around 1 hour by direct train, making it one of the most convenient destinations in the country. From Basel Airport, the journey is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, while from Geneva Airport, it takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes by train.

Connections are frequent, reliable and well-organised, making Lucerne a great starting point for exploring Switzerland without needing a car.

🏨 Hotels in Lucerne

Luxury

Mandarin Oriental Palace Lucerne

Located directly on the shores of Lake Lucerne, this hotel offers breathtaking lake views and a peaceful, high-end atmosphere. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the old town and close to the main train station, making it both scenic and convenient. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with many featuring private balconies overlooking the water.

Bürgenstock Hotel

The vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences in Zurich make it another great choice for where to stay in Switzerland.

Bürgenstock Hotel is part of a large luxury resort set high above Lake Lucerne, offering some of the most impressive panoramic views in Switzerland. The complex includes multiple restaurants, a world-class spa and a range of leisure facilities, all spread across a scenic mountain ridge.

The hotel is located about 20 minutes from Lucerne and can be reached via a combination of boat and funicular, which makes the arrival experience unique. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a more exclusive, resort-style stay with everything in one place — perfect for relaxation, luxury and unforgettable views.

Mid-range

AMERON Luzern Hotel Flora

This hotel is one of the best options if you want to stay right in the center, just steps from Chapel Bridge and a few minutes from Lucerne train station. It offers modern, comfortable rooms and excellent value for its location. You’ll have easy access to restaurants, shops and transport connections

Hotel des Balances

Hotel des Balances is located in the heart of Lucerne’s old town, right on the banks of the Reuss River, offering beautiful views of Chapel Bridge and the surrounding historic buildings.

The hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort, offering stylish rooms — some with balconies overlooking the river. Its central location means you’re within walking distance of all major attractions, restaurants and the train station, making it one of the most convenient places to stay in Lucerne.

Budget

ibis budget Luzern City

A practical and affordable choice located around 10–15 minutes from the old town. Rooms are simple but clean and functional, making it a good option if you plan to spend most of your time exploring. Public transport connections nearby make it easy to reach the center.

🏔️ 3. ZERMATT – BEST FOR LUXURY & MATTERHORN

Zermatt is one of the most iconic destinations in Switzerland, famous for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and its exclusive, car-free atmosphere. This mountain resort offers a premium experience year-round, whether you’re visiting for skiing in winter or hiking and scenic views in summer.

Unlike many other destinations, Zermatt feels more refined and peaceful, making it ideal for travelers looking for a luxury escape. The village itself is charming, with traditional chalets, high-end boutiques, and world-class restaurants.

Zermatt is also one of the best bases for exploring the Swiss Alps, with direct access to some of the most scenic train routes and mountain excursions in the country.

It’s car-free, peaceful and ideal for a more premium experience.

📍 Why stay here:

• Incredible views of the Matterhorn
• Skiing, hiking, and outdoor activities year-round
• Exclusive, car-free village atmosphere

🚆 Distance from Major Airports

Zermatt is not directly accessible by car, but it is very well connected by train.

• Zurich Airport → Zermatt: ~3h 30min by train
• Geneva Airport → Zermatt: ~3h 45min by train
• Basel Airport → Zermatt: ~3h 30–4h by train

👉 You’ll need to travel to Täsch and then take a short shuttle train (12 minutes) to Zermatt.

🚆 Important:

You can only reach Zermatt by train (no cars allowed).

🏨 Hotels in Zermatt

💎 Luxury Hotels

Mont Cervin Palace

One of the most famous luxury hotels in Zermatt, located right in the village center. It offers spacious rooms, a large spa area, and exceptional service. The hotel combines traditional Alpine charm with modern luxury, making it ideal for a premium stay within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and ski lifts.

This property offers transfers from the airport.

The Omnia

A unique boutique luxury hotel built into the rock above Zermatt, offering panoramic views over the village and the Matterhorn. Guests arrive via a private tunnel and elevator, which adds to the exclusive experience. The design is modern and minimalistic, and the spa area is one of the highlights of the property.

💰 Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Butterfly

A very solid mid-range option located close to Zermatt train station. It offers comfortable rooms, a cozy Alpine design, and excellent value for the location. Perfect if you want convenience without paying luxury prices.

Alpenhotel Fleurs de Zermatt

A stylish and modern hotel just a short walk from the center and train station. It features spacious rooms, a wellness area with pool and sauna, and a good breakfast. Great balance between comfort, location, and price.

💸 Budget Hotels

Hotel Bahnhof

One of the most affordable options in Zermatt, ideal for budget travelers and backpackers. It offers both private rooms and dorm-style accommodation. The location is excellent, just next to the train station.

Youth Hostel Zermatt

A clean and well-maintained hostel with great views over Zermatt. It’s slightly uphill, but offers very good value for money, especially in such an expensive destination. Ideal for younger travelers or those on a tighter budget.

⚠️ Important

Zermatt is a car-free destination, which means you cannot drive directly into the village. You’ll need to park in Täsch and continue by train. This is part of what makes the destination so peaceful and unique.

🏙️ 4. ZURICH – BEST FOR CITY EXPERIENCE

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and often the main entry point.

While it’s not as scenic as alpine towns, it’s very convenient.

📍 Why stay here:

• International airport
• Great transport connections
• Restaurants & shopping

🏨 Hotels in Zurich

Luxury:
Baur au Lac
👉 Check availability →

Mid-range:
Hotel Adler
👉 See prices →

🏡 WHICH AREA SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

If it’s your first time in Switzerland:

👉 choose Interlaken

If you want something more relaxed:

👉 choose Lucerne

If you’re looking for luxury:

👉 choose Zermatt

If you want convenience:

👉 choose Zurich

💡 TRAVEL TIPS

• Switzerland is expensive — book hotels in advance
• Trains are the easiest way to get around
• Staying central saves time and transport costs

📌 FINAL CTA

Planning your trip?

👉 Check the best hotels in Switzerland here
👉 Explore top tours and experiences

Choosing to stay in Zermatt offers exclusive access to the breathtaking Matterhorn, giving you a luxurious feel for where to stay in Switzerland.

Make your choice wisely about where to stay in Switzerland to maximise your adventure and create unforgettable memories.

With all these options, you’ll have a fulfilling experience deciding where to stay in Switzerland.