Best Luxury Hotels in Switzerland
This mountainous country may be diminutive but ranks as one of the most innovative nations on earth. In addition to its stunning Alpine towns and villages, cities like Zurich, Geneva and Vienna boast incredible architecture and a consistently high standard of living. The home of Heidi and birthplace of the Red Cross is also famed for its lavish chocolatiers and expert horologists. Whether you enjoy bijou boutique hotels, majestic properties frequented by celebrities, or glitzy spa resorts, we have the lowdown on the finest Swiss accommodation.
Canton of Basel-Stadt, Basel, Vorstädte
Radisson Blu Hotel, Basel
The Radisson Blu Hotel is open to guests from across the globe and welcome’s them with excellent service and first-class facilities to the beautiful city of Basel. The hotel boasts 206 contemporary and luminous guestrooms and suites with expansive windows and brand new, state-of-the-art amenities. Guests should be sure to stop by the wonderful REIN Bar & Restaurant serving delightful Swiss cuisine made with the finest and freshest local produce and catering to vegetarian and vegan palates. There is also a breakfast restaurant on site. The hotel’s stunning indoor swimming pool was crafted in 1974 by Verner Panton, a celebrated Danish designer. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre for guests to make use of as well as a relaxing sauna. The hotel is well connected and centrally located near the city’s main train station and directly in front of the Heuwaage Tram Stop.
Canton of Geneva, Geneva, Grottes - Saint-Gervais
Mandarin Oriental, Geneva
Overlooking the Rhône river and within walking distance of the city’s main attractions such as the Lake, Jet D’eau and St. Peter’s Cathedral, Mandarin Oriental, Geneva is a five-star hotel with contemporary Swiss hospitality offering supreme views of the Old Town and the snow-capped mountains. The 178 rooms and suites are designed with a contemporary and refined style, inspired by nature, mountains, and water. The hotel’s outstanding restaurants and vibrant bar have made a significant contribution to Geneva’s dining scene, while visitors can rejuvenate and unwind with Swiss expertise at the hotel’s wellness facilities. Combining luxury, style and unbeatable service, it is the perfect city retreat.
Canton of Zurich, Zürich
Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich
This building has a long history having been first founded in 1838. French interior designer Tristan Auer is leading on the makeover which will see the hotel paired down from 104 bedrooms to 80, creating more of a boutique feel. These will be joined by three drinking and dining venues: the Italian ORSINI (directed by Consultant Chef Antonio Guida who brings his experience from the two-Michelin-starred Seta restaurant at the brand’s Milan property); the all-day French-style Savoy Brasserie and Bar; and a rooftop bar, 1838, whose name nods to the building’s heritage. A grand ballroom and guild hall are also in the process of being restored to their former grandeur.
Canton of Basel-Stadt, Basel, Vorstädte
ART HOUSE Basel – Member of Design Hotels
The lavish ART HOUSE Basel is a Member of Design Hotels and is located in the centre of Basel, in the Steinenvorstadt district, within close proximity to some of the city’s main attractions. The hotel houses 33 luxurious guestrooms and suites and features the Arthouse Club Suite with its excellent amenities and spacious terrace. On-site dining is made possible by Amigos Tapas and the exquisite Spanish culinary offerings including traditional dishes and regional wines. The hotel’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge is ideal for every situation, serving early morning breakfast to late night cocktails inside the inviting indoor seating areas or on either of the two terraces overlooking the city. A stay at the hotel provides guests with a complimentary BaselCard to be used on the city’s public transport and exclusive discounts on leisure and cultural activities.
Engadine Valley, St. Moritz
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz
With over 165 years of hospitality, the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, is synonymous with excellence – where detail, discretion, a connected concierge and impeccable service is what makes guests feel at home. The iconic luxury ski hotel boasts a stunning location in the heart of St. Moritz. Comprising 164 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, featuring sophisticated décor, spacious layouts, and private balconies that provide panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. The hotel presents multiple dining venues, including a gourmet restaurant led by Michelin-starred Chef Mauro Colagreco, with dishes each prepared over elements of fire, alongside casual dining options, where guests can indulge in exquisite cuisine inspired by local and international flavours, complemented by an extensive wine selection. Guests can enjoy the state-of-the-art 2000m2 Kulm Spa St. featuring a spa, sauna, steam room, heated indoor pool, heated outdoor pool, salt water grotto and more – the perfect oasis for relaxation after a day on the slopes.For non-slope activity, there is a gym, 9-hole golf course and tennis courts too. With ski-in/ski-out facilities and a dedicated ski concierge to assist with equipment rentals and lessons The Kulm Hotel St. Moritz is a perfect destination for those seeking an exceptional luxury ski experience, where timeless elegance meets outstanding service.
Canton of Lucerne, Lucerne
Grand Hotel National Luzern
Another lakeside option, this castle-like hotel fully lives up to its ‘grand’ title. 41 regency-style bedrooms have 19th-century chandeliers, lashings of gilt, coffered ceilings, panelled walls, four-poster beds, modern art and antique Empire furniture. But they also have plenty of mod cons, such as Nespresso coffee machines, SuitePad digital guest folders, state-of-the-art entertainment systems and Molton Brown toiletries. Experience an old-world atmosphere at the National Bar, or dine at one of the hotel’s five other restaurants, serving Mediterranean, Chinese, French, Swiss and Viennese specialities. Visit the pool floor to swim, sauna, book massages, and to sun yourself on the terrace.
Canton of Valais, Zermatt
Grand Hotel Zermatterhof
Arrive at this hotel in your choice of a horse-drawn carriage or electric bus. The multi-award-winning Grand Hotel Zermatterhof first opened its doors in 1879. Much of its original charm can still be enjoyed today, alongside the contemporary touches. The Alpine Wellness Spa incorporates an indoor pool with a waterfall. Dine on French-Italian cuisine at its Prato Borni restaurant, Mediterranean food at the Brasserie Lusi and a decadent fondue at Saycheese! Drinks can be taken by the fireside at the Ruden Bar, or to piano accompaniment at Stars. Many of the 78 rooms have their own balconies, while the fancier suites have fireplaces and jacuzzis.
Canton of Geneva, Geneva
Fairmont Grand Hotel Geneva
In the year 1855, the Hotel des Bergues first opened its doors. Nowadays, following several renovations and expansions, it is known as the Fairmont Grand and remains the biggest five-star hotel in the city, with a total of 412 bedrooms and 13 meeting venues catering for up to 1300 delegates. Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, many of the hotel’s sites offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Three restaurants, a cosy lounge, a bar and summer concept dining are available to guests, along with the Spa Valmont, boasting the largest private indoor swimming pool in Geneva.
Canton of Zurich, Zürich
The Dolder Grand
A city break in Zurich is made all the more enticing, with a stay at this turreted, Belle Époque, landmark hotel. Overlooking the lake and surrounded by woodland, it’s a ten-minute shuttle ride into the heart of the action. The decor is ornate and classy – an 11-metre Andy Warhol artwork adorns the lobby, along with grand columns and glittering chandeliers. Facilities in the complex include a tennis court, golf course, ballroom, enormous spa and even an ice rink during the winter months. Past patrons have included the likes of Roger Moore, Sofia Loren, Nelson Mandela and Elizabeth Taylor. So you’ll be in good company when you book a room here.
Canton of Ticino, Lugano
Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola
Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola Lugano is synonymous with serenity. There are 72 luxurious guestrooms to choose from including 30 spacious suites and guest suites and 3 two-bedroom suites. Each of the accommodation options offer sensational views over the Lake of Lugano or the verdant park from balconies, terraces, or porches. Fit for any occasion, the hotel offers an array of sophisticated event spaces and divine banquet rooms. There are plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind in tranquil indoor and outdoor settings with the Lido Club boasting a splendid private terrace on the lake where guests can sunbathe and enjoy indulgent dishes and beverages from the hotel restaurants. Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola also features a host of sports, leisure, and wellness facilities including a clay tennis court and hydro pool. Guests are invited to embark on a gastronomic adventure in one of the exquisite fine dining establishments on offer – Restaurant La Rucula, Le Relais, and Arté al Lago.
Canton of Valais, Verbier
Cordee des Alpes
This 4-star boutique hotel is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World organisation. It houses 32 luxe suites and 17 apartments – the latter offering ample space and a home from home for lengthy stays. The soothing design by Berlin-based Christina van Baal and Carolin Scheffold, is a fusion of vintage Alpine and contemporary chic, with features pieces such as aged wood floors and hand-knotted carpets from Nepal. Set across two floors, it also has a toasty indoor pool and spa area for supreme relaxation after a day on the snow, a programme of events and a brasserie serving hearty dishes emphasising local produce. Celebrate a special occasion by booking La table du chef, showcasing the art and intensity of Cordee des Alpes’ cooking.
Canton of Bern, Gstaad
The Alpina Gstaad
One of Gstaad’s newer hotels, having opened in 2012, The Alpina has just 57 rooms. This gives it more of a boutique feel than some of its imposing neighbours. But it still packs a punch when it comes to facilities. Its Six Senses Spa boasts a range of thermal rooms, an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a gym and a juice bar. There’s also a ski shop, a Graff diamond boutique, a hair salon and a cinema. When it comes to food, the options are plentiful too – Megu, a fine dining Japanese restaurant, a Swiss Stübli, French cuisine at Sommetand and a casual lounge bar.