Discover Zurich – lakeside city living with medieval charm and Alpine views
Choose a hotelin Zurich to put you beside a glittering lake, cobbled Old Town lanes, and world class shopping on Bahnhofstrasse. Expect everything from five star grande dames and chic boutiques to smart family friendly stays near parks and promenades. Couples come for riverside walks and museums, families for easy trams and lakeside baths, and everyone for relaxed Swiss style.
Book your Zurich hotel with easyStay and enjoy secure booking, competitive prices, and thousands of verified reviews.
Looking towards the Fraumünster Church, Zurich
Where to Stay in Zurich
Zurich is compact, so choosing the right district is about vibe and convenience. Pick Old Town for history, the centre for shopping, Seefeld for the lake, or Zurich West for nightlife, then hop on frequent trams between sights.
- Old Town, Altstadt and Niederdorf – Medieval lanes thread between Grossmünster and Fraumünster, with cafés and boutiques at every turn. It suits couples and culture loving families who want atmospheric streets, museums, and evening buzz within minutes on foot.
- City Centre, Bahnhofstrasse and Paradeplatz – The polished heart of Zurich where luxury stores and department shops line the boulevard. Stay here for maximum convenience, two minute tram links, and easy strolls to the lake and Old Town.
- Seefeld, District 8 – A stylish lakeside strip of promenades, the Opera House, and destination restaurants. It works well for couples and families who want sunset walks, playgrounds by the water, and calm nights.
- Enge, District 2 – Leafy parks, the Arboretum, and Alpine views meet quiet streets near the lakeshore. This is a gentle base for families and anyone who prefers green space, with the centre just a short tram ride away.
- Zürich-West, Kreis 5 – Warehouses turned into galleries, bars, and inventive dining, plus Europaallee shopping by the tracks. Younger travellers and friends love the creative scene and late nights, with fast trains from the main station.
Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich
Best Hotels in Zurich
Zurich’s hotel scene spans palace luxury, contemporary design, intimate boutiques, and great value family bases. Choose by mood and setting, then build your city break around lake time, galleries, and easy tram hops.
Best Luxury Hotels in Zurich
Baur au Lac (5-star) – A historic grand hotel in its own park beside the lake, with elegant rooms and a renowned restaurant. Couples love the romantic gardens, attentive service, and quick walks to Bahnhofstrasse and boat piers.
The Dolder Grand (5-star) – A landmark hilltop resort with a vast spa, panoramic city and Alpine views, and multiple fine dining options. It is perfect for spa weekends and special occasions, with a funicular and courtesy cars easing trips downtown.
Widder Hotel, Luxury Boutique (5-star) – Nine stitched together townhouses create one of Zurich’s most characterful luxury stays. Individually designed rooms, serious art, and standout dining make it ideal for design lovers who want Old Town doorstep access.
Best Boutique Hotels in Zurich
Altstadt Hotel (3-star) – A cosy, art led hideaway between the river and Grossmünster with individually styled rooms. Its intimate bar and prime Old Town location suit couples who plan to explore on foot and linger in cafés.
Boutique Hotel Wellenberg (3-star) – Family run and relaxed in the historical centre, with a lounge, small library, and courtyard for quiet moments. Guests rate the friendly service and handy setting for evening strolls and tram links.
Hotel Europe, Seefeld (4-star) – Classic rooms steps from the Opera House and the lake promenade keep things charming and convenient. It is a good fit for couples chasing lakeside sunsets without central hustle.
Best Romantic Hotels in Zurich
Park Hyatt Zurich (5-star) – Sleek and modern near Bahnhofstrasse, with spacious rooms, a calm spa, and an open kitchen restaurant. Honeymooners enjoy stylish bars and short walks to galleries, lake boats, and luxury shopping.
Storchen Zurich, on the Limmat (5-star) – Riverside rooms and terraces gaze across the Old Town in a hotel welcoming guests for centuries. The intimate setting and rooftop bar make riverside evenings feel special.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Zurich
Hotel Felix (3-star) – Bright rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a short walk to the Swiss National Museum keep family days simple. Parents like 24 hour reception and quick tram connections across town.
citizenM Zurich (4-star) – Cleverly designed rooms with super fast Wi Fi and a lively 24/7 canteen make city breaks easy. Families and teens enjoy the playful lobby, while major sights sit a short stroll away.
Ibis Zurich Adliswil (3-star) – Great for drivers, with free parking and straightforward rooms at good value. It is around five kilometres to the centre by bus, which suits road trips and late arrivals.
Top Things to Do in Zurich
- Lake Zurich – Stroll promenades, hop on a boat, or swim at lakeside baths on sunny days. Bürkliterrasse frames Alpine views, while grassy banks and playgrounds make easy family hours by the water.
- Old Town, Altstadt and Niederdorf – Wander cobbled streets between church towers, hidden courtyards, and café terraces. Pair Grossmünster and Fraumünster with a slow lunch, then browse indie shops into the evening.
- Swiss National Museum – Next to the main station, this story packed museum spans medieval armour to folk traditions. It is a strong pick for families and a smart rainy day plan before a riverside walk.
- Bahnhofstrasse Shopping – Window shop or indulge along Zurich’s headline boulevard of chocolatiers, watchmakers, and designer flagships. Detour to side streets for cafés and quieter galleries.
- Lindenhof Hill – A leafy viewpoint above the river for chess players, picnics, and city panoramas. It is a peaceful pause between Old Town lanes and the station.
- Uetliberg Day Trip – Ride the train in about twenty minutes to Zurich’s home mountain for forest walks, views, and winter sledging. Return for lakeside aperitifs at sunset.
Stunning views from Uetliberg, Zurich
Getting to and Around Zurich
- By Train or Bus: Zürich HB is Switzerland’s busiest hub with fast links across the country and to Munich, Milan, and Paris. S Bahn trains, trams, and buses knit the centre to suburbs, with airport trains every few minutes.
- By Air: Zurich Airport sits about fifteen minutes by train from the city centre, with frequent SBB services and tram line 10. Taxis and ride shares take around twenty minutes depending on traffic.
- By Car: Motorways A1 and A4 serve the city, and Swiss highways require a CHF 40 vignette. Central parking is limited and costly, so consider a hotel garage or park and ride.
- Getting Around: The ZVV network covers trams, buses, S Bahn, and lake boats on integrated tickets. The Zurich Card offers unlimited rides and attraction discounts, while the compact centre rewards walking.
When to Visit Zurich
Spring – Gardens bloom and café terraces reopen, with the Sechseläuten parade bringing local colour in April. Mild days and cool evenings make riverside walks and museum stops effortless.
Summer – Warm, lively, and perfect for swimming in the lake or rivers, boat cruises, and outdoor festivals. Expect longer days, busy weekends, and prime time for open air dining.
Autumn – Golden foliage and crisp air suit hikes on Uetliberg and vineyard walks around the lake. Crowds thin, museums feel calmer, and restaurant reservations get easier.
Winter – Christmas markets sparkle and fondue nights warm up cold evenings, with snow possible. Low season deals appear outside holidays, and nearby mountains invite easy ski or sledging day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Zurich hotel rooms air conditioned
Many upscale hotels offer AC, but some boutiques use natural ventilation. If summer comfort matters, filter for air conditioning before you book.
Do Zurich hotels include breakfast
Often yes at mid and high end hotels, sometimes optional at budget stays. Check your Easystay rate type if a buffet breakfast is important to you.
Is the Zurich Card good value for families
Usually, it covers unlimited public transport plus museum discounts. If you plan two or more rides a day and a couple of sights, it pays for itself.
Can I swim in Lake Zurich near the city
Yes, public baths and beaches line the shore, with changing rooms and lifeguards in season. Hotels in Seefeld and Enge place you close to popular spots.
Is tipping expected in hotels and restaurants
Service is included, so tipping is optional. Rounding up or adding five to ten percent for great service is appreciated.
Book Your Stay in Zurich Today
From lakefront sunsets and Old Town strolls to gallery mornings and chocolate stops, a hotel in Zurich sets up an easy Swiss city break.
Browse thousands of verified hotels and book with confidence via our trusted partner Booking.com.