The land of four languages, Switzerland has been immortalized in books, movies, and songs. Whether you’re a history buff, culture vulture, or adventurer, Switzerland has something for everyone. Go boating on the Rhine Falls, paddleboarding and kayaking in Lake Geneva, skydiving at Interlaken, and skiing in Grindelwald. If you want something less heart-stopping, go wine tasting on Lake Geneva and eat Swiss chocolates in Zurich. Do you want a little bit of fun? You can go sledging. Just like the importance they give to these activities, the Swiss are also attentive about preserving old and antique buildings, many of which are historic hotels today. These places are great for immersing yourself in history and enjoying the ambience of times gone by. To that end, check out this list of the top historic hotels in Switzerland.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, St. Moritz (from USD 541)
In the heart of St. Moritz sits Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, where you’ll be rubbing shoulders with international celebrities. St Moritz’s oldest and largest 5-star property, this 19th-century hotel sits on a natural spring that’s famed for its healing qualities. While the rooms and the rest of the hotel is modern, history comes alive in the Enoteca Restaurant. It boasts original features such as a wood-panelled cigar room, porcelain fireplace, and frescoed ceiling.
Besides that, the hotel has two more restaurants, a decadent spa, and hundreds of miles of pristine slopes.
Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski
Address: Via Mezdi 27
141.63 km (88.1 mi) from Jungfraujoch
2. Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, Montreux (from USD 454)
With a gorgeous Belle Époque façade accented by yellow awnings, this five-star hotel on the shores of Lake Geneva is unmissable. The 1906 hotel offered cold and hot running water, a heating system, and electricity at a time few hotels did. Today, it’s a cultural property of national importance. What’s more, it’s seen guests such as Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, and even Michael Jackson.
Besides a lakeside spa and restaurants with spectacular views, the hotel boasts 236 rooms and suites featuring classic décor and balconies with sweeping views of the lake or Alps.
Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Address: Avenue Claude Nobs 2
83.44 km (51.9 mi) from Jungfraujoch
3. Hotel Adler Zürich (from USD 404)
Are you an art aficionado? Then, you have to stay at Hotel Adler in Zurich, whose history goes back to the 1830s. This three-star hotel has artwork done by the well-known Swiss painter Rudolf Koller. The paintings on display are inspired by his childhood when his father ran the hotel. Add to that the painted glass windows and the famous cow Heidi in the upper-floor balcony, and you have a storied hotel indeed.
While the rooms are modern, they feature 52 murals of the old town. Rounding up the historic features is the dog fountain for your four-legged friends.
Hotel Adler Zürich
Address: Rosengasse 10, Am Hirschenplatz
101.13 km (62.9 mi) from Jungfraujoch
4. Historic Hotel Falken, Wengen (from USD 197)
Established in 1895, Historic Hotel Falken lures travellers with stunning vistas of the Jungfrau and Lauterbrunnen valleys. This three-star property has been managed by the Cova-Allmen family and continues to do so until this day. In fact, the original founder of the hotel was responsible for the Jungfrau–Aletsch–Bietschhorn area being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Rooms and suites are decked out in rural-alpine style. Most of the units come with a balcony overlooking the town or valley. With chandeliers and antique furnishings, the restaurant and bar hark back to the 19th century and serve delicious meals and drinks.
Historic Hotel Falken
Address: Gruebi
7.94 km (5.0 mi) from Jungfraujoch
5. Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich (from USD 398)
Great value for money with complimentary breakfast and attentive staff.
Convenient location near Zurich Main Railway Station and shops on Banhoffstrasse.
Centrally located in downtown Zurich with easy access to attractions.
Excellent breakfast with freshly squeezed orange juice and made-to-order options.
The 140-year-old Hotel Schweizerhof in Zurich has lived many lives before becoming what it is today. Initially opened with 130 rooms and a cafe-restaurant, the hotel assumed its current identity in 1918. The striking Art Nouveau sandstone façade has been under a preservation order since 1978. It became Zurich’s leading 4-star hotel in the late 20th-century.
Rooms and suites are modern while preserving the original structure and come with a champagne breakfast. Two restaurants and the delightful Schweizerhof bar complete this place.
Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
Address: Bahnhofplatz 7
101.38 km (63.0 mi) from Jungfraujoch
6. Historic Hotel Crusch Alva, Zuoz (from USD 186)
High pricing for basic room facilities, but justified by the prime location in Engadine.
Historic alpine-style building, cozy rooms, convenient storage for bicycles, and easy access to RhB trains.
Picturesque village in Engadine, short walk from the train station, and a central car park with a lift to the village.
Excellent traditional Swiss dishes, top-notch evening meals, and a fine breakfast in the downstairs bar/stubl.
Established in the 1500 AD, Hotel Crusch Alva boasts a rich history. Originally, it was where judicial verdicts were passed in the Engadin valley. Over the centuries, many people, including Albert Einstein, have stayed here in a bid to escape the hectic life. Not only is the building listed, but it boasts an imposing heritage facade.
Both restaurants have original elements — Stuva has antique furniture and wood panelling, while Cruschetta has a typical stone pine interior. Rooms and suites come with modern conveniences such as a TV and free wireless internet access. Do note that this hotel doesn’t have a lift.
Historic Hotel Crusch Alva
Address: Via Stradun 88
151.02 km (93.9 mi) from Jungfraujoch
7. Art Deco Hotel Montana, Luzern (from USD 420)
Art Deco Hotel Montana Luzern is often called the “best four-star city hotel in Switzerland - and it’s true. Perched high above Lake Lucerne, the hotel sees Art Deco flair meet 21st-century luxury. Built between 1909-10, it was one of Lucerne’s last classical-style hotels.
The hotel has a lot of its original character — the mosaic tiling, creaking parquet floors, and a spiral staircase. Meanwhile, the rooms, restaurants, and spa are utterly modern, making this place the best blend of history and modernity.
Art Deco Hotel Montana
Address: Adligenswilerstrasse 22
62.07 km (38.6 mi) from Jungfraujoch
8. Hôtel Des Trois Couronnes & Spa - The Leading Hotels of the World, Vevey (from USD 398)
In 1842, this 5-star hotel was built on the ruins of the Belles Truches Castle, which itself dates back to the 14th century. What’s more, its former guests include King William III of the Netherlands and Queen Olga of Greece. Rooms and suites are utterly modern, with the best ones featuring a wrought-iron balcony with scenic views.
The hotel isn’t short on amenities either. It boasts the Puressens Spa, a massive indoor pool, a steam room, sauna, hot tub, and a private terrace with views of both Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Hôtel Des Trois Couronnes & Spa - The Leading Hotels of the World
Address: 49, Rue D'Italie
87.61 km (54.5 mi) from Jungfraujoch
9. Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne (from USD 2050)
Tucked on the banks of Lake Geneva, Beau-Rivage Palace is considered one of Europe’s best hotels. The 2 structures it lies in are connected via the 1908-built La Rotonde. Owned and operated by the Mayer family to date, the hotel has a storied history. The country of Czechoslovakia was created with an official signing here. In 2001, when L’Atrium bar was renovated, there were some fragments of Pompeii-styled frescoes found here.
Today, the hotel has a modern look and feel. The guest rooms offer stunning views of the lake and Alps. The in-house restaurants serve delicious French and international fare. Its warm hospitality and well-preserved design have made it one of the best hotels to stay in all of Europe.
Beau-Rivage Palace
Address: Place du Port 17-19
103.73 km (64.5 mi) from Jungfraujoch
10. Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus, Arolla (from USD 199)
Reasonable pricing with stunning views and historical charm.
Modern amenities in a traditional setting, ski-in ski-out access, and afternoon tea.
Idyllic location at the end of a valley, surrounded by forests and near hiking trails.
Excellent restaurant with innovative dishes, good breakfast, and accommodating staff.
Built way back in 1896, the Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus is a testament to the stately charm of the days of yore. This historic hotel has retained many original elements, such as the old-world library, a magnificent ski collection, and antique furnishings.
The rooms and suites use a lot of wood, just like a mountain lodge, and some even have a balcony with breathtaking views of the forest. A noteworthy historic feature is a salon or library, which has hosted big names, such as Josephine Baker.
Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus
Address: Chemin de la forêt
69.98 km (43.5 mi) from Jungfraujoch
'Swish' hotels in Switzerland
Switzerland is known for its abundant natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. These historic hotels are a testament to Switzerland’s storied past and are some of the most luxurious digs in the country. So, choose one of these top historic hotels in Switzerland for a splurge-worthy and memorable vacation.
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