“Everything you’d expect of a five-star, luxury hotel, the Bellevue Palace has in spades: vast rooms, marble bathrooms, richly decorated salons, smart dining and stunning views. But all mixed in with an unstuffy, easy-going atmosphere and flawless yet friendly service.”

Hotel review

This grande dame of a hotel hogs the best position in Bern for gazing at the iconic Alpine peaks of the Eiger, Münch and Jungfrau on the snow-capped skyline. Strategically built next to the Bundeshaus (Parliament building) - plenty of ministers and diplomats amongst the guests - and on the southern edge of the city’s rocky promontory, it also has glorious views down to the River Aare which loops the city. Its grand neoclassical façade does not disappoint when you step inside: acres of marble, pillars and pilasters, stained-glass atrium, richly coloured furnishings and huge chandeliers. Although grand, it’s light and airy, and the lobby’s fabulous gin bar - 80 different gins and counting - gives a nice modern alternative to its darkly clubby, American cocktail bar. Rooms are vast, softly carpeted and sleekly elegant, with creamy panelled walls, velvet headboards, a sprinkling of Louis XV furnishings, marble or granite bathrooms, and carefully chosen shots of rich colours. The feeling is smooth and uncluttered with just a simple piece of modern artwork and bowl of orchids as decoration. French windows open from the dining room to a perfect sun-trap, black-and-white-tiled terrace - one of the best places in town to enjoy breakfast; the coffee and bircher muesli are terrific. Food is ‘modern Swiss’ with a bit of an Asian twist - venison loin with rosehips, tempura crab. Not cheap, but a special treat. Service is flawless, the concierges spot-on and there are thoughtful touches throughout the hotel - bowls of help-yourself fruit, binoculars in the bedrooms, even stationary bikes on the terrace outside the rooftop gym to enjoy the views. All the city’s sites are walkable. A real spoil-me place.

Helen Pickles
Helen Pickles Review published: 26/02/2024

Recommended for

  • Other Activities

    • Bern's Bear Park is home to four adults and two cubs. A delightful visit for all ages!
  • Trekking

    • Ensconced by the Alps there are plenty of excellent walking trails and treks.
  • Learning

    • Home to Picassos and Monets, The Kunstmuseum has an impressive collection.
  • Local markets

    • Have a wander round Bern's old town, its antique shops and markets.
  • Designer Shopping

    • Bern's Old Town has some gorgeous boutiques.
  • Romantic Break

    • Sumptuous suites are great for couples.
  • Pet friendly

    • Allowed on request. Charges apply.
  • City Style

    • The best address in Bern.
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

  • Wedding license

  • Family Suites

  • Conference facilities

  • Romantic

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Opulent

  • Spa

  • Restaurant

  • Artworks

  • Landmark

  • Gym

  • Antiques

  • Child friendly

  • Business Hotel

  • Free wifi

  • 5* Luxury

  • Disabled access

  • Traditional

  • Luxury

Facilities

  • Rooms

    129 rooms in this hotel
  • Pet friendly

    Allowed on request. Charges apply.
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

  • Cots available

  • Wedding license

  • Bar

  • Family Suites

  • Parking

  • Safe

  • Conference facilities

  • Business Centre

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Outdoor dining

  • Sauna/Steam

  • Meeting Room

  • Private dining room

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Room service

  • Spa

  • Restaurant

  • Gym

  • Child friendly

  • Sitting Room

  • Free wifi

  • 24 Hour room service

  • Disabled access

  • Suites

  • Concierge

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Wifi

  • Air conditioning

Activities

  • Other Activities

    • Bern's Bear Park is home to four adults and two cubs. A delightful visit for all ages!
  • Trekking

    • Ensconced by the Alps there are plenty of excellent walking trails and treks.
  • Learning

    • Home to Picassos and Monets, The Kunstmuseum has an impressive collection.
  • Local markets

    • Have a wander round Bern's old town, its antique shops and markets.
  • Designer Shopping

    • Bern's Old Town has some gorgeous boutiques.

Map & Location

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