Best Culinary Schools in Switzerland [2025]

Many individuals who are truly passionate about cooking eventually find themselves wanting to take their love for the culinary arts to the next level by turning it into a professional career. However, in order to succeed in this industry, it is absolutely essential to choose the right culinary school—one that not only provides top-tier education but also offers hands-on experience and valuable industry connections.

While there are countless prestigious culinary schools scattered across the globe, Switzerland has established itself as a true hub for hospitality and culinary excellence. Despite not having an overwhelming number of institutions dedicated to the craft, the country more than makes up for it with the exceptional quality of the schools it does have.

So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at some of the very best culinary schools Switzerland has to offer—where aspiring chefs can refine their skills and pave the way toward a successful career in the culinary world.

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

Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland

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

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.

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 its broad curriculum.

Another standout feature of CAAS is its international student community, with students from 64 different nationalities. This diverse environment allows students to gain a global perspective on cuisine, learning from different cultures while building a network that extends around the world.

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.

CAAS Admission Requirements

Like any prestigious institution, there are certain admission requirements that aspiring students need to meet in order to secure their spot. CAAS ensures that its admission process is straightforward yet selective, designed to welcome individuals who are truly committed to excellence in the culinary arts.

General admission requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:

• High school or university transcript/diploma/certificate
• Proof of English proficiency – TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
• Passport copy
• Curriculum vitae
• Motivation letter (500 words minimum)
• Reference letters (if applicable)

CAAS Tuition Fees

The Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland (CAAS) offers a range of programs with corresponding tuition fees. The Bachelor Program in Culinary, Pastry & Chocolate has a tuition fee of 171,100 CHF.

The Swiss Diploma Program in Culinary Arts and Pastry Arts requires a fee of 41,200 CHF, while the Swiss Certificate Program in Vegetarian and Plant-based Culinary Arts is set at 24,700 CHF. For those pursuing advanced studies, the Master’s Program has a tuition fee of 47,800 CHF.

B.H.M.S – Culinary Arts School

Business and Hotel Management School is one of the leading hospitality schools in the world. With its location in Lucerne’s vibrant and lively city, it’s an educational opportunity not to be missed. B.H.M.S is an educational institution that earned its accreditation from multiple agencies.

B.H.M.S Admission Requirements

B.H.M.S is open to all those who want to join this culinary school.

Students will have to fulfill different requirements for particular programs and study levels here. However, the entry-level requirements are to be no younger than 17, with a minimum of 11 years of secondary education, and English proficiency at IELTS 5.0 or equivalent. In case you haven’t taken any of the standardized English tests, you can still test your English at one of the websites with which B.H.M.S has partnered.

B.H.M.S Tuition Fees

The tuition and fees for the Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts at B.H.M.S. Business and Hotel Management School are structured over three years. Year 1 tuition is CHF 28,100, rising to CHF 29,100 in Year 2, and CHF 30,100 in Year 3. Operating costs remain consistent at CHF 2,500 annually, while living expenses are CHF 5,900 per year.

The application fee is CHF 1,000 each year (possible exceptions). Culinary operating expenses are fixed at CHF 500 annually. The total costs round up to CHF 38,000 for Year 1, CHF 39,000 for Year 2, and CHF 40,000 for Year 3.

ICI – International Culinary Institute

The International Culinary Arts School (ICI) is a distinguished branch of the renowned International Management Institute (IMI), nestled in the heart of the picturesque city of Lucerne. ICI offers a wide range of programs, from certificates to Bachelor’s degrees, providing students with world-class education in the culinary arts.

ICI holds certifications from leading accrediting bodies, ensuring its commitment to excellence. These include the British Accreditation Council (BAC), the Swiss Quality Label EduQua for adult learning providers, and the ISO 9001 certification for quality management.

ICI Admission Requirements

The only admission requirement of this culinary school is English language competence. The entry IELTS requirement is 4.5. The lucky students who will get admitted will get to be interns in some of the finest kitchens in Switzerland and Europe.

ICI Tuition Fees

If you include the housing and the meals, in total, your education at ICI will cost you CHF 31,850.

Swiss Education Academy – Swiss Culinary Club

The Swiss Culinary Camp, hosted by the Swiss Education Academy at their campus in Le Bouveret, offers an immersive summer program for aspiring chefs aged 16 to 20. Participants engage in comprehensive culinary classes that cover various global cuisines, including European and world dishes, as well as specialized sessions in chocolate and pastry.

The camp’s weekly structure includes four days of hands-on instruction, complemented by a mid-week excursion to explore the surrounding Swiss region. Evenings are reserved for relaxation and social activities by the picturesque Lake Geneva.

Swiss Culinary Club Admission Requirements

There are no academic requirements for prospective students. The classes are taught in English, so it is advised to have a working level of English comprehension to follow the culinary courses and general functions of camp.

Swiss Culinary Club Tuition Fees

Prices start from CHF 2,350 per week and vary according to the options you choose.

One-Day Cookery Courses

If a degree in culinary arts is not what you’re looking for, you can always sign up for one-day cooking classes. You can choose from three of these classes: La Cuisine, HILTL Akademie, and Chuchi Art. In those classes, you learn to cook different dishes, from vegetarian dishes to those of different ethnicities. The course fee depends on which cuisine you choose to learn about.

Here it is—the ultimate list of the top Swiss culinary schools, carefully curated to help you make the best choice for your future. We hope this guide serves as a valuable resource as you take the next step toward your culinary dreams. With so many exceptional programs to choose from, the decision may not be easy, but one thing is certain: your passion and dedication will pave the way for success. Wishing all aspiring chefs the best of luck on this exciting journey!