Review of Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa

Set in the heart of Bern’s historic quarter, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa stands as a beacon of refined hospitality since its debut in 1859. Renowned for its elegant heritage and a legacy of accolades, the hotel today boasts 99 sophisticated rooms, including 21 suites that blend Parisian chic with subtle British classicism. The pinnacle is the Presidential Suite, offering over 120 square meters of exquisite living space, ideal for discerning travelers seeking privacy and indulgence. 

For culinary delights and crafted drinks, guests can savor the renowned Wiener schnitzel at Jack’s Brasserie, enjoy artisanal cocktails in the Lobby Lounge, or take in sweeping city and mountain vistas from the Sky Terrace, which features a seasonal menu. Wellness aficionados will find a sanctuary in the expansive 500-square-meter urban spa, featuring a hydrotherapy pool with bubble beds, invigorating massage jets, a Finnish sauna, steam bath, ice fountain, experiential showers, and a tranquil relaxation area with waterbeds. Five private treatment rooms offer therapies using only the finest natural products, ensuring an unparalleled spa experience. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment for both cardio and strength training, rounding out a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Perfectly positioned on Bahnhofplatz, mere steps from Bern’s central train station, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa is an emblem of Swiss heritage and convenience. In under ten minutes, guests can wander into the UNESCO-listed medieval Marktgasse or reach iconic attractions like the Federal Palace, Zytglogge Clock Tower, and the Bear Park. Art lovers will appreciate the hotel’s proximity—just three kilometers—to the celebrated Zentrum Paul Klee museum.

For international travelers, Bern Airport (BRN) is a short 10-kilometer drive, while Zurich International Airport (ZRH) is reachable within 90 minutes by car or direct train. The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base to explore Switzerland’s diverse landscapes, from the dramatic peaks of the Jungfrau region (Interlaken, Jungfraujoch, Grindelwald, Schilthorn) to culinary excursions at the Emmentaler Cheese Dairy and La Maison du Gruyère. 

Bern’s famed arcades house boutique shops, while local breweries offer immersive beer-tasting tours. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike up Gurten mountain for panoramic views, and the hotel’s complimentary Bern Ticket provides unlimited public transport throughout the city, a thoughtful Swiss touch appreciated by every guest.

Guest accommodations at Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa are divided into three entry-level categories: the Charming Queen Room, Charming King Room, and Deluxe Boutique Room, each ranging from 28 to 38 square meters and exuding an urban, cosmopolitan aesthetic. Following a comprehensive restoration in 2011, the hotel seamlessly fuses historic ambiance with modern tranquility, enhanced by exceptional soundproofing that cocoons guests from the city’s bustle. 

Interiors, curated by Maria Katsarou Vafiadis of MKV Design London, feature herringbone wood floors, spa-inspired bathrooms with rainforest showers, and custom furnishings. In-room amenities encompass advanced entertainment systems, individually controlled climate, Nespresso machines, pillow menus, premium Bulgari bath products, personal safes with integrated charging, and complimentary bottled water. The Deluxe Boutique Room includes unlimited national calls—ideal for business travelers or those wishing to share their Swiss adventures.

Families are well catered for with spacious Two-Bedroom (66 sqm) and Three-Bedroom (99 sqm) Family Suites, which provide separate living and sleeping zones, dedicated MediaHubs, and entertainment systems, creating a true home-away-from-home. Baby amenities are available upon request, ensuring a seamless stay for guests of all ages. 

The hotel’s five suite categories begin with the 48-square-meter Boutique Junior Suite, while the Luxury Living Studios offer kitchenettes for extended visits. Boutique One Bedroom Suites (60 sqm) deliver the feel of a private apartment with distinct living, dining, and bedroom spaces. Signature Suites, nestled beneath the eaves on the top floor, evoke a contemporary loft feel, adorned with curated antiques, books, chaise longues, and vibrant artwork personally selected by the designer.

For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the Presidential Suite spans 120 square meters, featuring a marble-clad bathroom with rainforest shower, standalone Japanese soaking tub, television, walk-in wardrobe, fully equipped kitchenette, and guest powder room. Room 411, famously featured in the James Bond film "On Her Majesty’s Secret Service" (1969), remains a guest favorite for its cinematic heritage and elegant interiors.

Pets are warmly welcomed, with tailored amenities available to ensure your four-legged companions are as pampered as you are.

Our experience at the Schweizerhof Spa revealed one of Bern’s premier urban wellness destinations. Spanning 500 square meters, this sanctuary is equipped with a hydrotherapy pool featuring bubble loungers, powerful massage jets, a Finnish sauna, cold plunge pool, steam bath, ice fountain, and immersive experience showers. Guests can relax in a serene waterbed lounge or choose from five dedicated treatment and beauty rooms.

The spa menu is curated with natural, Swiss-sourced products and includes signature treatments such as the Sky Deluxe honey massage, using honey harvested from the hotel’s own rooftop bees, and the Gold Relaxation Ritual, which incorporates 24-carat gold for a rejuvenating glow. The Venus Clam massage, utilizing warm Pacific shells, is a highlight for those seeking something unique. Beauty services range from bespoke facials to professional waxing and nail care. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the modern gym, featuring Technogym equipment and the option for personal training sessions.

Jack’s Brasserie sets the standard for culinary excellence at Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa. The restaurant’s Belle Époque interiors—complete with elegant lighting, sparkling chandeliers, and crisp linens—provide an inviting backdrop for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu, awarded 14 Gault Millau points, features classic French brasserie dishes alongside inventive seasonal creations. The Wiener schnitzel, a signature specialty, attracts both locals and guests, with over 20,000 served annually. The beetroot salad is a must-try for its vibrant flavors. 

The Lobby Lounge and Bar is a lively social hub, offering expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, and a wide selection of teas. The menu includes international favorites—salads, soups, burgers, club sandwiches—as well as Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, perfect for a casual meal or after-work drinks.

During our visit, the Sky Terrace proved to be Bern’s premier rooftop destination, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Bernese Alps. In summer, it’s the perfect spot for Champagne and small plates; in winter, guests gather for fondue and hot chocolate in a cozy alpine ambiance. The terrace can host private events for up to 50 guests, making it ideal for celebrations and gatherings throughout the year.

The Schweizerhof Bern & Spa is a proud member of the Hôtel Royal Savoy Lausanne and Bürgenstock Hotels & Resort family, a hallmark of Swiss luxury hospitality.

Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa is a true jewel in Bern’s hospitality scene, ideally nestled between the city’s main station and the Old Town. The hotel upholds its legacy with contemporary venues like the Sky Terrace, ensuring each stay feels current and curated for today’s luxury traveler. Behind the historic façade and charming Juliet balconies, guests discover tranquil interiors and attentive, personalized service. 

The spa, widely respected among both hotel guests and locals, is celebrated for its innovative treatments and tranquil ambiance. Private spa bookings are available for those seeking an exclusive, tailormade wellness retreat—an exceptional offering that sets the Schweizerhof apart as a destination for couples, families, or friends seeking a shared, restorative experience.

Environmental stewardship is woven into the ethos of Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa. The in-house ‘Green Busters’ team, established in 2016, continues to drive innovative sustainability initiatives, earning the property recognition as a MyClimate Award recipient for holistic sustainability in hotel management. Participation in Swisstainable, Switzerland’s national tourism sustainability program, underscores the hotel’s ongoing commitment.

As an active member of MyClimate since 2017, the hotel sets ambitious annual CO2 reduction targets and implements guest-facing programs such as ‘Cause We Care’, which allows visitors to contribute to climate projects—matched by the hotel and reinvested into both local and global environmental measures.

The property’s social responsibility extends beyond ecology. Staff regularly participate in community charity events, including Swiss Paralympics, food rescue banquets, and women’s sports runs. Collaborations with organizations like Diaconis and Intact support professional integration, reflecting a holistic approach to sustainability that encompasses both people and planet.

• Boutique Exclusivity: With only 99 rooms and suites, the Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa offers an intimate, boutique experience in the heart of Switzerland’s capital. Each room boasts unique design elements that honor the building’s storied past while embracing modern luxury—an inspiring blend for any traveler.
• Unbeatable Location: Steps from Bern’s top attractions, luxury shopping, fine dining, and world-renowned chocolatiers, the hotel is a superb base for both business and leisure. Don’t miss the vibrant Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and a visit to Casa Nobile for artisanal chocolates. The rooftop Sky Terrace is a must for summer evenings, where guests can toast with Champagne while gazing over Bern’s rooftops.
• World-Class Spa: The spa’s compact yet comprehensive facilities include high-tech gym equipment, a therapeutic hydrotherapy pool, and a revitalizing cold plunge beside a traditional sauna. Starting the day here is truly invigorating.Varun SharmaEditor-In-ChiefBusinessclass

• Culinary Variety: The hotel excels in gastronomy, offering everything from the refined French-inspired Jack's Brasserie and the stylish Lobby Lounge Bar, to the exclusive Cigar Lounge and the Sky Terrace rooftop with breathtaking 360° views of Bern’s old town.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Sustainability is a cornerstone of the guest experience. Initiatives such as donating surplus soap to charitable organizations, and a dynamic on-site sustainability team dedicated to ongoing improvements, set the property apart.
• Passionate Staff: The team is composed of enthusiastic, youthful professionals who are deeply committed to delivering exceptional service and creating memorable stays for every guest.Maximilian von RedenGeneral ManagerHotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa