If you’re planning your first trip and wondering where to stay in Switzerland for first-timers, choosing the right base is crucial. With so many breathtaking destinations to visit, it might be tempting to move from one hotel to another throughout your trip. However, Switzerland is a vast country, and constantly changing accommodations will only lead to wasted time and energy on packing and unpacking instead of truly enjoying the experience.
When I was planning my first trip to Switzerland, I wanted to make sure I chose the best base possible. After a lot of research, I discovered that there are three main areas travelers often consider: Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Bern. Each has its own advantages, and depending on your travel style, one may suit you better than the others.
The Most Popular Base: Interlaken
Interlaken is one of the most popular places to stay in Switzerland for first-timers. If you look at a map, you’ll notice that Interlaken is right in the center of the country. Thanks to Switzerland’s efficient train system, it’s possible to reach most of the famous tourist destinations within two hours from here. This central location is one of the biggest reasons many travelers choose to stay in Interlaken.
Beyond convenience, Interlaken offers a wide range of activities that make it a great base. Jungfraujoch, often called the “Top of Europe,” is one of the must-visit destinations for first-time travelers. Many people also visit Interlaken for paragliding, as the view from above is simply breathtaking. Grindelwald First, just 30 minutes away, is another hotspot where visitors can enjoy activities like the First Cliff Walk, zip-lining, and alpine karting. If you love hiking, you’ll be spoiled for choice with scenic trails all around the region. And if you’re visiting in the summer, you can even try canyoning, which is an exciting way to explore Switzerland’s natural beauty.
Little more details on Interlaken
Interlaken has two main train stations: Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost (East). Most of the mountain trains heading to Jungfraujoch, First, and Lucerne depart from Interlaken Ost. However, many hotels are located near Interlaken West. The two stations are only 5 minutes apart by train or a 20-minute walk, so no matter where you stay, transportation won’t be an issue. With all these advantages, it’s easy to see why Interlaken is the most popular place to stay in Switzerland for first-timers.
But, Did i choose Interlaken? No. For my personal reason, I decided not to stay here. Follow me, then you will get to know why!
A Little Less Convenient but Totally Worth It: Grindelwald
Must consider the definite pros and cons
For me, one of the biggest reasons I wanted to visit Switzerland was to be surrounded by breathtaking nature. While Interlaken certainly offers beautiful landscapes, I wanted something even more immersive. That’s why I chose to stay in Grindelwald, a picturesque alpine village just 30 minutes away from Interlaken.
Of course, staying in Grindelwald meant spending an extra hour commuting every day (round trip) and more energy spending on train transfer. But in return, I was rewarded with incredible views, peaceful surroundings, and a true Swiss mountain experience. Every morning, I woke up to the sound of cows mooing, and the stunning Eiger North Face was right outside my window. If you book accommodation with a balcony or a front yard, you can enjoy breakfast or lunch with a view that looks straight out of a postcard. That being said, choosing to stay in Grindelwald does come with some trade-offs. Since it’s a bit more remote, transportation options are slightly less convenient compared to Interlaken.
Additionally, if you spend too much time relaxing at your accommodation, you might not have as much time to explore other parts of Switzerland. However, I never regretted my decision for even a second. Waking up to the breathtaking alpine scenery every morning was an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.
A City Base for Convenience: Bern
For travelers who prioritize transportation convenience above all else, Bern is one of the best places to stay in Switzerland. As the capital of Switzerland, Bern is extremely well-connected to other major cities and tourist destinations. This makes it an excellent choice if you want a central base without the hassle of staying in a smaller town.
But Bern isn’t just about convenience. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with charming streets, medieval architecture, and a beautiful riverside setting. Unlike smaller towns like Interlaken or Grindelwald, Bern offers a wider range of restaurants, larger supermarkets, and plenty of cultural attractions. One of my colleagues at work actually chose Bern as their base for a Switzerland trip, and it worked out perfectly. Since Bern is a large city, there were plenty of options for dining, shopping, and sightseeing, making it an ideal choice for travelers who prefer a mix of urban life and easy access to nature.
How to Choose the Right Accommodation Type in Switzerland
Another important decision when planning where to stay in Switzerland is choosing the right type of accommodation. While hotels and Airbnbs are common choices, Switzerland also has a unique lodging option called a “chalet”.
A chalet is a traditional Swiss alpine house, usually built from wood with a sloped roof. Many chalets have private gardens or terraces, offering stunning mountain views. Unlike hotels, chalets are often run by local families, and it’s common to have a host—usually an elderly Swiss man or woman—who takes care of the house and guests. This gives the stay a cozy, homely atmosphere, and chalets are often more affordable than hotels. However, most chalets require direct email communication for booking, and rooms with Eiger North Face views are in high demand, so you’ll need to book far in advance.
Initially, I was set on booking a chalet because I loved the idea of staying in a storybook-like wooden house. But after exchanging several emails with chalet owners and reading reviews, I decided that Airbnb was a better fit for me. It offered a balance between comfort, privacy, and an authentic Swiss experience.
Final Thoughts:
Where Should You Stay in Switzerland?
Choosing where to stay in Switzerland for first-timers depends on your personal travel style. No matter where you decide to stay, Switzerland will leave you in awe with its breathtaking landscapes, efficient transportation, and unforgettable experiences. Please feel free to share your opinions or experience to share with others 🙂
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