The best hotels in Switzerland
Switzerland—a land synonymous with dramatic Alpine scenery, world-class chocolate and cheese, precision watches, and efficient public transportation—is also a sanctuary for luxury hotel enthusiasts. While the country dazzles with its natural beauty, it matches that splendor with impeccable hospitality and service. From opulent mountain resorts to classic boutique hotels nestled in historic cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva, Switzerland offers an unmatched lodging experience. Here’s a curated list of the finest hotels in the country, each a testament to Swiss excellence in service, location, and amenities.
1. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – St. Moritz
An icon of Swiss luxury since 1896, Badrutt’s Palace sits majestically in the heart of St. Moritz, seamlessly blending into the breathtaking landscape of the Engadin Alps and the serene St. Moritz Lake. Its architecture echoes a classic castle style enhanced by elegant detailing. Every room offers panoramic views of either the majestic mountains or the charming village below.
With over 150 rooms and suites, Badrutt’s Palace attracts royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers from across the globe. The hotel boasts an exclusive spa, an indoor pool with mountain views, Michelin-starred dining, and personal butler services. Situated in one of the world’s top ski regions, it’s a haven for winter sports lovers. Its combination of historic charm, bespoke service, and scenic surroundings makes Badrutt’s Palace a legendary stay in the Swiss Alps.
2. The Dolder Grand – Zurich
Perched high above the city, The Dolder Grand offers sweeping vistas of Zurich and Lake Zurich from its hilltop perch. A seamless blend of art, heritage, and modern architecture, the hotel originally opened in the 19th century and was later renovated by renowned architect Lord Norman Foster, incorporating sleek, futuristic elements.
Home to 175 elegant rooms and suites, The Dolder Grand doubles as an art gallery with masterpieces from artists like Salvador Dalí and Takashi Murakami on display throughout its halls. The 4,000-square-meter spa is a global destination in itself, while its Michelin-starred restaurants and proximity to Zurich’s cultural hubs further elevate the experience. It’s the ideal retreat for travelers seeking a luxurious city escape with serene, scenic surroundings.
3. Kulm Hotel – St. Moritz
A cornerstone of St. Moritz's tourism since 1856, Kulm Hotel blends tradition with innovation to deliver a timeless hospitality experience. Centrally located, the hotel overlooks both Lake St. Moritz and the surrounding Alpine peaks.
With over 170 classically styled rooms and suites, Kulm Hotel offers amenities such as a private golf course, a lavish spa, and direct access to world-renowned ski slopes and hiking trails. What truly sets Kulm apart is its warm, home-like ambiance combined with top-tier personalized service. For those in search of tranquility paired with elegant comfort, Kulm Hotel stands as a quintessential Alpine destination.
4. Beau-Rivage Palace – Lausanne
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne is a paragon of classical European elegance. Since its opening in 1861, the hotel has hosted world leaders, royals, and dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth and numerous heads of state. With manicured gardens and views stretching across the lake to the French Alps, the ambiance is both romantic and exclusive.
The property features over 160 Belle Époque-inspired rooms and suites, a cutting-edge spa, and multiple world-renowned restaurants—including the two-Michelin-starred Anne-Sophie Pic. Lavish ballrooms and lakeside terraces make it a favorite for weddings, diplomatic events, and high-end corporate gatherings. Beau-Rivage is ideal for those seeking refined luxury and old-world charm in a picture-perfect setting.
5. Hotel Villa Honegg – Ennetbürgen
Tucked 914 meters above sea level, Hotel Villa Honegg is a five-star boutique hotel offering unparalleled exclusivity and privacy. With only 23 rooms, guests enjoy ultra-personalized service in a serene and intimate setting. The hotel’s infinity pool overlooking Lake Lucerne has achieved viral fame, often cited as one of the world’s most breathtaking.
Originally built in the early 1900s, the villa has been fully renovated to incorporate modern luxury amenities. Highlights include a private cinema, gourmet restaurant, full-service spa, and even a private helipad. For travelers seeking a secluded, luxurious alpine escape with unmatched views, Villa Honegg is a hidden gem in the Swiss mountains.
6. Gstaad Palace – Gstaad
Standing tall since 1913, Gstaad Palace is an emblem of Swiss prestige. Designed like a fairy-tale castle, the hotel dominates the elite ski town of Gstaad—a favorite among royalty, Hollywood stars, and high-profile entrepreneurs. With jaw-dropping mountain views and an air of exclusivity, the Palace has become a symbol of traditional elegance.
Boasting over 100 spacious rooms and suites—including a penthouse with its own private elevator—the hotel features an Alpine-style spa, private nightclub, tennis courts, and a collection of fine dining restaurants. Gstaad Palace is the perfect destination for those who appreciate sophistication, heritage, and a subtle touch of grandeur.
7. The Chedi Andermatt – Andermatt
For a fusion of Eastern philosophy and Alpine serenity, look no further than The Chedi Andermatt. Opened in 2013, this contemporary hotel brings Asian design sensibilities to the Swiss Alps. Located in the heart of the Uri Alps, it caters to ski aficionados and wellness seekers alike.
With over 100 spacious rooms and suites, each includes a private fireplace, automated controls, and a balcony. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor heated pools, a holistic spa with Asian treatments, and a high-end Japanese restaurant that has earned global acclaim. The Chedi stands out for its architectural flair, serene ambiance, and modern take on mountain luxury.
8. Grand Hotel Kronenhof – Pontresina
Just a short drive from St. Moritz, Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina is a stately 19th-century hotel steeped in history and grandeur. Surrounded by the natural splendor of the Engadin Valley, the Kronenhof retains much of its original architecture, including frescoed ceilings, palatial staircases, and a grand ballroom.
Its 100+ rooms are classically decorated with all the comforts of modern luxury. The hotel’s wellness area features a stunning grotto-style indoor pool and saunas with panoramic mountain views. Kronenhof regularly hosts classical music concerts and cultural events, making it a hub for lovers of the arts and refined living.
Switzerland’s top hotels go beyond providing a place to rest—they craft memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you’re drawn to grand historical properties or contemporary design-led resorts, each hotel combines personal service with world-class amenities, all set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Alps.
For travelers who value attention to detail, peace, and the beauty of nature accompanied by flawless hospitality, Switzerland offers a portfolio of accommodations that are as diverse as they are luxurious. These hotels are not just lodgings—they are cultural institutions, architectural marvels, and lifestyle statements in their own right.