Charming hotels, mountain chalets, inns and apartments: the complete guide to choosing where to stay in Switzerland by region and budget.
Deciding where to stay in Switzerland depends on your itinerary, the season and your budget. The country offers high-quality accommodation, from the Alpine palace to the family chalet, modern youth hostels and holiday apartments. This guide helps you pick the right type of lodging, region and time to book.
What types of accommodation in Switzerland?
- Hotels: from the legendary 5-star (Zermatt, St. Moritz, Lucerne) to comfortable 3-star city hotels.
- Chalets and apartments: ideal in the mountains and for families, often rented by the week.
- Youth hostels: the Swiss Youth Hostels offer excellent value for money, even for families.
- Bed & breakfast and farm stays: staying on a farm, "sleeping on straw" in rural regions.
- Mountain huts: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) cabins for hikers at altitude.
Where to stay depending on your trip?
In the city
To visit Switzerland's cities such as Geneva, Zurich, Bern or Lucerne, choose a hotel near the station: the rail network is so dense that you can get around easily without a car. City centres stay compact and walkable.
In the mountains
In Zermatt, Grindelwald, Verbier or St. Moritz, the chalet remains the ultimate experience. Expect higher rates in high season (December–February and July–August). Many villages are car-free (Zermatt, Wengen, Mürren) and reached by train.
By the lakes
Montreux, Lugano, Lucerne or Interlaken offer hotels with water views. It is the perfect option to combine relaxation and excursions, and to explore our most beautiful lakes in Switzerland.
What budget to plan?
Switzerland is a premium destination. As a guide, expect around 120 to 250 CHF a night for a 3-star hotel, 250 to 600 CHF for a 4-5 star, and 90 to 130 CHF in a youth hostel. Chalets and apartments become good value in a group or for a week-long stay. Book early for the ski season and holidays.
When to book?
Aim for 2 to 4 months ahead for the winter high season in ski resorts and for summer in mountain regions. Cities stay more flexible, except during major trade fairs and festivals. Spring and autumn offer the best rates.
Our practical tips
- Choose accommodation near a station to make the most of the train.
- Ask for the Guest Card: many regions offer free local transport to overnight guests.
- Check whether breakfast and the tourist tax are included.
- In the mountains, confirm access (some villages are pedestrian-only).
Plan your stay with TOP SUISSE
To round out your accommodation, find a good table in the dining category, book via the Reservation page and browse businesses by city. Also discover our guide on what to do in Switzerland and all the categories.
Frequently asked questions
Where to stay in Switzerland for a first trip?
For a first visit, choose a well-connected city like Lucerne, Zurich or Interlaken, near the station. From there you can reach lakes and mountains by train without needing a car.
How much does a hotel night cost in Switzerland?
Expect around 120 to 250 CHF a night for a 3-star hotel, 250 to 600 CHF for a 4-5 star, and 90 to 130 CHF in a youth hostel. Chalets and apartments are good value in a group.
Should you book accommodation in advance in Switzerland?
Yes, especially in winter in ski resorts and in summer in the mountains. Book 2 to 4 months ahead for those periods. Cities are more flexible outside major events.
Are there budget options in Switzerland?
Yes: Swiss Youth Hostels, bed & breakfasts, farm stays and Swiss Alpine Club hut dormitories offer good rates. Staying on the outskirts and travelling by train also lowers costs.
