Best Hospitality Schools in Switzerland [2025]

Switzerland is a synonym for graceful style and quality. The Swiss are known for their appreciation for hospitality, and the work that goes into it is impressive. When you count in the show-stopping landscape and Swiss politeness, it’s hard to think of a reason why Switzerland wouldn’t have been the go-to tourist spot for many centuries.

Switzerland’s dedication to excellence also extends to education. Given the country’s deep-rooted history in tourism, it’s no surprise that Switzerland has become a global leader in hospitality studies. With internationally acclaimed schools and world-class education, it’s the perfect place to master the art of hospitality. 

We know Switzerland is a beloved destination for travelers today, but how did it earn that reputation, and what makes it such a great choice for students? Let’s take a closer look.

How Switzerland Became a Hospitality Hotspot

Switzerland’s journey to becoming a global hospitality hotspot is deeply intertwined with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and evolving infrastructure. Over the years, the country’s highly efficient transportation system has made it easier than ever for travelers from all around the world to visit. As accessibility improved, so did the demand for accommodation, leading to a surge in the number of Swiss hotels.

According to History Today, the combination of exceptional quality and an increasing number of hotels positioned Switzerland as a top choice for travelers, particularly as the 20th century drew to a close.

The fast expansion of the hospitality industry also paved the way for the creation of the world’s first dedicated hotel management school, which was established in Lausanne in 1983. When it first opened its doors, the school had a modest enrollment of just over 20 students and a relatively limited curriculum. However, over the years, it has grown into a world-renowned institution.

Looking back at Switzerland’s deep-rooted history in hospitality, it’s easy to see why the country has become the ultimate destination for those studying hotel management. The Swiss have had a long-standing passion for providing world-class service, and their early interest in hotels and tourism played a crucial role in shaping this reputation. 

Beyond just history, several other key factors have contributed to the worldwide recognition of Swiss hotel management schools, making them a top choice for aspiring hospitality professionals.

Benefits of Attending A Swiss Hotel School

There are so many incredible perks to studying hospitality in Switzerland, and while the most obvious might be indulging in their world-famous chocolate and delicious fondue, there’s so much more to it than just the food. Beyond the culinary delights, Switzerland offers a truly unique experience when it comes to diversity, culture, career opportunities, and everything else that makes studying abroad such an enriching and eye-opening adventure.

For starters, Switzerland is a country with decades of expertise and has built an entire reputation around excellence in service, tourism, and world-class education. According to Grad-Dreams, Switzerland has one of the most effective systems for studying hospitality anywhere in the world, which is exactly why its schools are held in such high regard and are considered some of the best globally.

But beyond the academics, there’s also an incredibly valuable social aspect to studying here because you’ll be surrounded by and working alongside people from all over the world, giving you exposure to different cultures, ways of thinking, and approaches to hospitality that can truly shape you into a well-rounded, culturally aware, and socially skilled professional in the long run.

On top of that, one of the biggest advantages of pursuing hospitality education in Switzerland is the sheer number of internship opportunities available, and what makes it even better is that these internships aren’t just limited to Switzerland itself.

In fact, they could take you to some of the most exciting and prestigious hotels, resorts, and hospitality businesses across the globe, meaning that not only will you get hands-on experience in the industry, but you’ll also have the chance to travel, explore new countries, and immerse yourself in different professional environments—all of which will contribute tremendously to your cultural awareness, career prospects, and personal growth in ways that go far beyond the classroom.

Best Swiss Management Schools

We’ve already touched on the rich history and the oldest institutions that laid the foundation for hospitality education in Switzerland, but that’s only part of the story when it comes to why Swiss hospitality schools consistently rank among the best in the world.

While it’s true that hospitality is deeply ingrained in Swiss culture, giving them a natural edge, their real strength lies in their ability to constantly evolve, stay ahead of industry trends, and reshape their programs to align with modern learning methods and the ever-changing demands of the global hospitality scene.

In addition, what makes Swiss hospitality schools even more adaptable and innovative is that most of them are private institutions, meaning they’re not bound by strict government regulations when it comes to modifying and updating their curricula. This allows them to refine their programs whenever necessary, integrating new industry trends, technological advancements, and cutting-edge management strategies without unnecessary red tape slowing them down.

Beyond their academic excellence and industry relevance, another major reason why students from all over the world choose to study in Switzerland is the diversity of the student body and the availability of programs taught entirely in English, making them accessible to international students from different backgrounds. However, because English is such a key component of the programs, most schools do require students to meet a certain level of English proficiency before enrolling, ensuring that everyone can fully engage with the curriculum and make the most out of their experience in one of the most prestigious hospitality education hubs in the world.

Disclaim: The following list of higher education does not represent a ranking.

César Ritz Colleges Switzerland

César Ritz Colleges Switzerland, a distinguished member of Swiss Education Group, has been a global leader in hospitality, business, and culinary arts education since 1982. Known for its excellence in hospitality business, the institution continues to set the standard for hospitality education worldwide.

The college has earned impressive global recognition, ranking 3rd among the best hospitality schools in the world according to the QS University World Rankings. It also holds the 3rd spot for academic reputation and 4th for employer reputation, making it a top choice for aspiring hospitality professionals.

Additionally, César Ritz Colleges has been acknowledged for its outstanding student experience, ranking 1st globally for communication with tutors, communication with students, and access to on-campus facilities in the THE-ICE 2022 Student Satisfaction Global Index.

César Ritz Colleges offers a range of programs designed to equip students with both hands-on experience and a future-focused entrepreneurial mindset. These include:

• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business Management
• Master of Science in Leadership
• WSET Wine Certificate – Wine Business Management Certificate Program

Located in Brig, a charming Swiss town known for its breathtaking alpine scenery and rich cultural heritage, César Ritz Colleges offers state-of-the-art facilities that foster a dynamic and engaging atmosphere where students can develop the skills needed to succeed in the global hospitality industry.

• Duration of Study (Bachelor) – 4 years
• Requirements–
  • Completed secondary school education
  • Swiss Maturité or Swiss commercial vocational baccalaureate or any Vocational Educational Training (VET) equivalent qualification
  • IELTS academic module 5.5 or TOEFL iBT 55
  • Industry Immersion Year (included in the 4-year program)
• Yearly Fee – CHF 158,700

Swiss Hotel Management School

Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) has firmly established itself as a global leader in hospitality education. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, SHMS was recognized as a top institution worldwide for Hospitality and Leisure Management, taking the number 2 position.

The school’s stellar reputation is built upon a harmonious blend of Switzerland’s hotelier history and forward-thinking educational practices. The school offers a comprehensive range of programs, including but not limited to Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in International Hospitality Management, all designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

In this forward-thinking approach, SHMS is recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, reflecting its commitment to integrating technology and innovative learning experiences into its curriculum.

Furthermore, SHMS’s strong academic partnerships, notably with the University of Derby in the UK, ensure that its programs are of the highest quality and internationally recognized.

• Duration of Study (Bachelor) – 3 years
• Requirements –
  • Minimum age of 17
  • Completed secondary school education
  • English language proficiency of IELTS academic module 5.5 or TOEFL iBT 46 or equivalent.
• Yearly Fee (Bachelor) – CHF 178,000

HIM Business School

Source: Hotel Institute Montreux on Facebook

HIM is a business school with a Swiss hospitality legacy designed to prepare students for lifelong success. According to the prestigious QS World University Rankings, HIM is ranked as the sixth-best school in the world, a testament to the institution’s dedication to providing a high-quality education. Additionally, the school has also secured the sixth position for both academic reputation and employer reputation.

Students have the opportunity to tailor their Bachelor of Business Administration by selecting a focus in Business or Hospitality Management and a specialization in either Luxury Brand Management, Talent Management or Finance, to acquire expertise that aligns with their career aspirations.

One of the defining characteristics of HIM is its vibrant and multicultural student community of over 100 nationalities, creating an enriching environment where diverse perspectives, cultures, and traditions come together.

• Duration of Study – 3 years
• Requirements –
  • Completed secondary school education
  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • English language proficiency
• Yearly Fee -CHF 124,600

Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne

EHL Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne is an ambassador for traditional Swiss hospitality and has been a pioneer in hospitality education since 1893, with over 25,000 alumni worldwide and over 120 nationalities among its students.

EHL is a hospitality management school that provides undergraduate and graduate programs at its campuses in Lausanne, Singapore, and Passugg, as well as online learning solutions.

For an impressive six consecutive years—spanning 2019 to 2024—EHL has held the prestigious title of the world’s top-ranked hospitality management university, according to the QS World University Rankings.

• Duration of Study (The Bachelor program) – 4 years, including the Preparatory Year
• Requirements –
  • Diplomas & Transcripts
  • Essay
  • Language certificates
• Average Yearly Fee – CHF 177,050 for International Students. CHF 86,150 for Swiss citizens and HES-SO-eligible students.

Glion Institute of Higher Education

Founded in 1962, Glion Institute of Higher Education is alive and well today and continues to be one of Switzerland’s best hospitality schools. Glion’s staff are mostly from the hospitality industry, typically former business owners, managers, and teachers.

The Glion campus is a practical learning center with two functional fine-dining restaurants. They have campuses in Glion and Bulle in Switzerland and London in the UK.

• Duration of Study: Bachelor Programs – 3 years +
• Experiential Year
• Requirements–
  • IELTS 5.5,
  • TOEFL 525
• Yearly Fee (academic expenses only) – CHF 196,900

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education

Founded in Switzerland in 1954, Les Roches Global Hospitality Education offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in the fields of hospitality, tourism, and event management. They have campuses in Switzerland, Spain, and Abu Dhabi, providing a unique learning environment to a culturally diverse student body in which more than 100 different nationalities are represented.

The institution follows the Swiss model of hospitality education, with experiential, hands-on learning built into the fabric of the study programs they offer. Les Roches is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditation agency.

• Duration of Study (Bachelor) – 4 years
• Requirements (undergraduates) –
  • Senior high school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum wage of 17 years and 6 months by program entry date
  • TOEFL: 70 (internet-based), IELTS: Average 5.5, minimum 5.0 in each component, CAMBRIDGE: FCE Grade C (minimum 160 points), CAE minimum 160 points, Duolingo: Score of 110
• Yearly Fee (Crans-Montana, Switzerland campus) – CHF 173,495 (Global Hospitality Management)

Business and Hotel Management School, Lucerne

Business and Hotel Management School was founded in 1998, and it is located in Lucerne’s heart. BHMS promises skill and personal development alongside opportunities for internships and achieving career goals.

This school is an eduQua-certified private institution that is in compliance with Swiss federal and state law. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs in Hotel Management, Culinary Arts, and Masters in Hospitality and Global Management.

• Duration of Study (Undergraduate Programs) – 36 months
• Requirements–
  • Minimum 17 years of age
  • Highschool Diploma or equivalent
  • IELTS 5.0 level or equivalent
• Yearly Fee – CHF 38,500

EHL Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality

EHL Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality (the school belongs to EHL Group just as the Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne) delivers Swiss-accredited federal diplomas of vocational education and training and of higher education to Swiss and international students from 30 different nationalities.

Students who complete the Swiss Professional Degree at EHL Swiss School of Tourism & Hospitality have the opportunity to further their education by pursuing a Bachelor’s degree with just three additional semesters of study. The program is designed to provide a seamless transition, with the first semester taking place at EHL Campus Passugg, followed by the final two semesters at the renowned EHL Campus Lausanne.

• Duration of Study (the Swiss Professional Degree) – 3 Years, including 1 year of work experience.
• Requirements–
  • Diplomas & Transcripts
  • Academic requirements
  • Language certificates
• Average Yearly Fee – CHF 53,820 for Swiss citizens & permanent residents, CHF 81, 820 for International students

Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland

Though known as the best culinary school in Switzerland, Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland (CAAS) is a premier institution for students who seek world-class training in the culinary and hospitality industries.

Recognized for its well-rounded education, CAAS has earned a unique place among the top 10 hospitality and leisure management schools in the world, ranking #7 globally according to the QS World University Rankings. CAAS is proud to be the only culinary school to rank in the QS Rankings, underscoring the breadth of its programs.

The academy’s curriculum is designed to offer a perfect balance between culinary artistry and business acumen, making it an ideal choice for those who want to master both cooking techniques and the operational aspects of running a restaurant or hospitality business.

For those looking for a culinary school in Switzerland that combines prestige, excellence, and career-focused education, the Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland is undoubtedly a top contender.

IMI University Centre

IMI University Centre is located on Luzerne’s shores, offering their students academic success with a great view. Plus, if you’re looking to spend less time at school, they fall on a shorter program period, with an average of two and a half years.

The small classes and a wide range of courses provide knowledge and practical training for students’ future careers. In 2024, IMI was ranked the 17th best hospitality school globally in QS rankings.

• Duration of Study – Under 3 years
• Requirements –
  • IMI Certificate/High School/IB/A Levels or equivalent
  • 18 years of age
  • IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent)
• Yearly Fee – CHF 28,300

 

Sources:

historytoday.com/miscellanies/switzerland%E2%80%99s-nation-hoteliers

gdx.in/blog/which-are-top-countries-to-study-hospitality-management