🏙️ Zurich — Best for City Convenience
Switzerland's largest city and main international gateway, with a genuinely charming old town alongside its financial-capital reputation. The best base if you're starting or ending your trip here, or want a city-and-mountains combination without switching bases too often.
🏔️ Interlaken — Best for the Mountains
The natural base for the Bernese Oberland — Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen are all easily reached from here. If mountain access is your priority, this is the obvious choice over Zurich.
🛶 Lucerne — Best Scenic Middle Ground
Roughly between Zurich and Interlaken, Lucerne offers its own genuine charm — a well-preserved medieval old town on Lake Lucerne, with Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Titlis both accessible nearby. A good stop if splitting your trip across multiple bases.
💶 Hotels by Budget
Budget (€70–90/night): Hostels and budget hotels in Zurich or Interlaken — genuinely expensive even at this end, a reality of Swiss pricing.
Mid-range (€160–220/night): Well-located hotels in central Zurich or Interlaken — the sweet spot for comfort and convenience.
Luxury (€300+/night): Lakefront and mountain-view properties.
✈️ Near the Airport
Zurich Airport connects directly into the city centre by train in under 15 minutes — staying near the airport itself only makes sense for a very early or late flight, since central Zurich is close enough not to matter much either way.
❓ FAQs
Should I stay in Zurich or Interlaken?
Zurich for city convenience and international flights; Interlaken if mountain access (Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald) is your priority.
Is Switzerland expensive for accommodation?
Yes, genuinely — one of the most expensive countries in Europe for hotels, even at the budget end.
Can I base myself in one place for the whole trip?
You can, but splitting time between Zurich and Interlaken (or adding Lucerne) generally gives a fuller picture of what Switzerland offers.