Switzerland is a lot more than just a neutral country known for its chocolate production and cuckoo clocks. Firstly, the alpine landscape is truly spectacular. The peaks pointed and snow-capped, the alpine meadows, where you might see a cow wearing a cowbell, as green as any muesli advert and it's all reflected in still, clear glacial lakes... Then there are the clean, lively cities known for their high standards of living.
Switzerland is glamorous too, full of financial institutions, multi-linguists, and wonderful fusion cuisine drawn from influences all around Europe. Many of the best places to stay in Switzerland will be sure to impress anyone who visits!
Zürich today is much more than a sleek, cosmopolitan financial capital that enjoys the finer things. The lakeside position is beautiful with plenty of ways to enjoy the water in the summer and is a gateway to the Alps in winter. With a large expat and student population it is also arty, vibrant and possibly even 'happening'.
Geneva is a wealthy cosmopolitan city full of pretty spots, good restaurants and interesting museums. The views over the lake, the Alps and the Jura are a truly spectacular backdrop to any activity. So it deserves more than just a stop off on the way to the high peaks. The old town is where the Roman's settled, now at the highest part of the city and totally Heritage Listed. This area is full of small bars, cafes and boutiques lining winding, cobbled streets.
If you're looking for peace in an almost divine setting then visit Lake Geneva, the glittering beauty on the border of Switzerland and France. Surrounded by mountains, rows of neat vineyards, pretty chateaux and charming little resort towns. On a clear day you can see the wonderful views of the Alps reflected in the water. Largely French speaking, the Lake Geneva region has a real European flavour.
Many visitors to Switzerland are here for the winter sports, but just because you know why you're travelling, it doesn't necessarily make the choice of where to stay any easier! Switzerland's chocolate box alpine villages, welcoming traditional chalets and modern resort towns are all tempting.
At the foot of the dramatically pointed Matterhorn you'll find the village of Zermatt, with year-round glacial skiing (the highest skiing in the Alps) and guaranteed snow. Verbier is further south, connected to one of the best and most extensive ski resorts in the Alps, with more than 400kms of pistes and runs for all abilities. Wengen is another high altitude resort, on a plateau below both the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau it is one of the most charming, and traditional, ski resorts in Switzerland. Saas Fee was inaccessible until the 1950s, the beautiful amphitheatre of thirteen peaks and nine glaciers which surround the tiny resort kept out all but locals and their mules - it's still quieter, but the extended ski season, and the views, mean it's worth the effort.
If you know which part of Switzerland you'll be exploring skip through to our Swiss Destination Guides:
The best places to stay in Switzerland will vary according to the reason for your visit, but we think that we've covered most angles from chic city pads, to stunning alpine retreats. Use our guide and start to plan your trip!
If you've decided that you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner Booking.com.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Grisons (Grisons)
An historic hotel in the heart of Poschiavo. It charms with a blend of rustic elegance and modern comforts, featuring city-view rooms equipped with essential amenities. Beyond stylish stays, guests enjoy a lively bar scene and have access to the great outdoors with cycling and hiking. Picturesque.
Grisons (Grisons)
A charming historic B&B in Bever. Ancient stucco walls and hefty beams meet modern art, creating a cosy yet eclectic atmosphere. Candlelit dinners are served from a Gault-Millau acclaimed kitchen, and there are terraces and gardens to soak up the views by day. Rustic Alpine elegance in spades.
Saas Fee (Saas-Fee)
A homely hotel in Saas Fee, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The warm and alpine-chic rooms come with en suites and balconies. The on site restaurant serves excellent Swiss cuisine, with four course meals and a wide selection of wines. Perfect for a special family getaway.
Saas Fee
A family-run hotel with a relaxed feel. Contemporary design throughout with simple clean style yet cleverly designed to keep the building's cosy charm. The restaurant serves up homely cuisine. Well located to access the ski-lifts. An excellent choice for families.
Bern Canton (Bern Canton)
An historic gem perched above Lake Grimsel in the Swiss Alps. A fusion of chic, alpine decor invites guests into a world of refined comfort and elegant simplicity. There's a traditional restaurant, an impressive wine cellar, and state-of-the-art facilities for events. The complete package.
Bern Canton (Bernese Oberland)
An alpine retreat blending classic spa heritage with cutting-edge design, in Bernese Oberland. Expect sleek natural wood, stone accents, and panoramic mountain views. Indulge in gourmet dining, luxe spa treatments, and year-round adventures. Relaxation perfected.
Morges
A modern interior is combined with a 18th century fascade at this hotel in Morges. The contemporary rooms are sleek and spacious with tasteful decor. Perfectly placed for exploring the beautiful area around Lake Geneva. Relax in the french garden or unwind in the spa and wellness centre.
Geneva (Acacias)
A luxury inn, dating back to the 20th century, in a hip part of town. Contemporary rooms with light parquet flooring, large windows and sink-into beds. A pretty garden to relax with a tipple and a trendy tapas bar for evening entertainment. Minutes from the shops and restaurants. Very chic.
Eglisau
A hotel brimming with history and charm at the centre of a rural Swiss town. Its rooms are elegantly adorned with antique furniture from the 17th to 19th century, giving Gasthof Hirschen an appealing authenticity. Explore the delightful streets of Eglisau or hike in the nearby Rehberge mountains.
Zürich
With a superb location close to the lake, station and Old Town, yet out of the touristy bustle in a quiet neighbourhood. This contemporary hotel has a bright and breezy, nautical, minimalist style with compact bathrooms still offering luxury touches. The surprising Japanese restaurant is a treat.
Zürich
With a superb location close to the lake, station and Old Town, yet out of the touristy bustle in a quiet neighbourhood. This contemporary hotel has a bright and breezy, nautical, minimalist style with compact bathrooms still offering luxury touches. The surprising Japanese restaurant is a treat.
Zürich
Clean and chic city hotel in central Zurich. Art nouveau rooms and apartments, modern Swiss cuisine, and popular lively bar. A very cool spot for a weekend in Zurich, in an unbeatable location, and ideal for business or leisure.
Zermatt (Switzerland)
A stylish contemporary hotel - both functional and characterful, rustic and peaceful. Deluxe rooms overlook the Matterhorn. Enjoy an apres ski drink in the attractive bar with quarrystone, rustic wood, and lots of natural light. Great value for money.
Zermatt
Friendly family-run hotel with stunning views of Matterhorn. Warm and homely, wood clad rooms with crisp white linen and cosy living areas. Exceptional value for money and flexible accommodation options, including a two bedroom apartment, makes this an ideal choice for families and groups.
