Bern, Switzerland
Grand historic hotel overlooking Bern’s Old Town and the Alps, renowned for fine dining and refined Swiss hospitality
Our review
The capital city’s state guesthouse, is how the hotel terms itself. Anyone who is anyone and visiting Bern stays here. In the historic centre, many of its rooms have views over the River Aare to the mountains beyond. Just a few steps from the hotel are the shops, restaurants and attractions of the old town.
The hotel celebrated its centenary in 2013. A huge lobby with sweeping grand staircase leads onto a large salon with unusual stained glass cupola. The hotel has several grand rooms making it suitable for weddings. Although the historic features have been preserved, the hotel has kept up with the times; a modern gin bar with 27 tantalising options is a case in point. The Rest Vue restaurant, scoring 16 on the Gault Millau scale, manages to be comfortable and grand at the same time. A special feature is an i-Pad on each table connected to the kitchen, so you may watch your main dish being prepared and communicate with the chefs.
Guest rooms are arranged over five floors. Entry-level rooms are spacious and have a separate area for luggage. All rooms have Molton Brown toiletries. Of particular mention are the gorgeous single rooms, with lake views – some with small balconies – well worth considering if travelling on your own.
Our room:
We were fortunate to have a comfortable suite – 320 – overlooking the river. A guest toilet is situated opposite a coffee station with the mini bar. In the main salon are almost floor length windows with views over the river. A large sofa, coffee table with books and magazines, large TV, and binoculars to view the mountains in the near distance are other features.
Our bedroom had a comfortable bed with cosy separate single duvets, soft pillows, a large desk (where I was working when typing this), large television and a small table with two chairs. Black out blinds at night and triple glazed windows (that open if you want fresh air) meant we had no noise or unwanted light at all. Air conditioning is quiet and efficient and can be adjusted in each main room. Back to the desk, there are USB points and international plug sockets, so no need for adaptors. Wi-Fi is free and easy to connect by using your phone to get a password.
Just before the bathroom is a small dressing/wardrobe area. The bathroom is marble with heated floor. The separate deep bath has a grab rail. The shower is a small step down with bath mat supplied; controls are easy to operate. An adjustable (up and down) magnifying mirror means both men and women can use it comfortably. I appreciated the little aluminium stool, covering with terry towelling. The hairdryer had a long cord. Good lighting in here meant there were no shadows when looking in the mirror, so perfect for applying make-up.
Breakfast is in a traditional salon with views over the river: linen cloths, a red rose on each table and well-spaced tables. Staff were friendly and attentive. The buffet offered a nice selection including some more unusual cheeses, breads and cold meats. Champagne or fresh fruit juice was also available. Selections of egg dishes were cooked to order. Coffee is served in a silver pot and is the real deal. I liked the little stool for my handbag. I’ve seen that at dinner, but not breakfast before. My omelette was overcooked; everything else was perfect.
This hotel would make a magnificent choice for a comfortable stay in Bern.
Rooms
Bellevue Palace offers around 130 rooms and suites, ranging from classic guest rooms to spacious suites with panoramic views. Many rooms feature balconies overlooking the River Aare, the Federal Palace or the Bernese Alps. Interiors combine traditional elegance with modern comfort, including marble bathrooms and high‑quality furnishings.
Food and Drink
Dining options include the Brasserie VUE, which has received Michelin recognition for its contemporary interpretation of classic cuisine. Restaurant VUE Palace offers refined international dishes in a more formal setting, while the Bellevue Bar provides a relaxed atmosphere for cocktails, wines and light meals.
The hotel is also known for its extensive wine selection and terrace dining, offering views across Bern’s historic skyline and surrounding countryside.
Wellness
Wellness facilities include a fitness centre equipped with modern exercise equipment. Massage and beauty treatments can be arranged on request, allowing guests to relax within the hotel setting.
Facilities
- Restaurants and bar
- Terrace dining with panoramic views
- Fitness centre
- Concierge service
- Valet parking
- Meeting and conference facilities
- Event and banquet spaces
- Free Wi‑Fi
- Room service
Location
Bellevue Palace is located in the centre of Bern, overlooking the River Aare and the UNESCO‑listed Old Town. Nearby attractions include the Federal Palace, Bern Cathedral, Rose Garden and the city’s arcaded shopping streets, all within easy walking distance.
Getting there
Address: Kochergasse 3-5, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
Arriving by air: Bern Airport – 6miles (9km) – 20 minutes by carZurich Airport – 80 miles (127km) – 90 minutes by carGeneva Airport – 96 miles (155km) – 100 minutes by car
More information
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Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.