Where to Stay in Zürich: Best Areas & Hotels

Zürich, the vibrant Swiss metropolis, is known for its pristine lakeside setting and majestic Alps backdrop. Often affectionately called “Züri” by locals, it’s a city where tradition meets innovation. With a history that stretches back to Roman times, Zürich has grown into Switzerland’s financial powerhouse. Beyond banks and chocolate, the city’s diverse culture, lively arts scene, and impeccable public transport system make it unique. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Zürich, you’re in for a treat.

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Accommodation Options in Zürich

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Zürich boasts an interesting historical background that continues to shape it today. The Old Town (Altstadt) has charming medieval buildings and winding alleys. Landmarks such as Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches provide glimpses into its rich past. The city’s tourist industry is huge, welcoming millions each year eager to explore its history and attractions. Many luxury hotels, mixed with budget-friendly options dot the city.

Beyond the well-known landmarks, Zürich offers a treasure trove of attractions to discover. The tranquil shores of Lake Zürich invite you to relax or enjoy water sports while Uetliberg Mountain provides panoramic views of the cityscape. Art lovers will appreciate Kunsthaus Zürich, home to an impressive collection of modern art, while science enthusiasts will marvel at the Swiss National Museum’s exhibitions on cultural history. Whether it’s exploring nature or diving into culture, there’s something to pique interest.

A blend of business savvy and cultural wealth defines Zürich’s atmosphere. By day, its efficient trams whisk people through bustling streets filled with world-class shopping opportunities along Bahnhofstrasse; by night, trendy bars and clubs thrive in districts like Langstrasse. The city’s character effortlessly shifts from workweek buzz to weekend relaxation without missing a beat.

To find out more about where you should base yourself during this exciting adventure in Switzerland’s largest city, keep reading for insights into the best areas to stay in Zürich!

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What’s the best area to stay in Zürich?

The best area to stay in Zürich is the city center. Comprising the centermost quarters of Altstadt, Lindenhof, and Rathaus, this area is characterized by its charming medieval streets and historical landmarks. The narrow lanes of Altstadt offer glimpses into Zürich’s past with buildings dating back to the Renaissance and medieval periods. Lindenhof is known for its Roman history and offers a peaceful park area. Rathaus features the town hall’s 17th-century architecture and is adjacent to the Limmat River.

Find available accommodation in Zürich City Center.

Best Hotels in Zürich City Center

• Best five-star hotel: Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich
• Best four-star hotel: Sorell Hotel St. Peter
• Best three-star hotel: Hotel Hirschen
• Best budget hotel: Hotel Kindli

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Where to Stay in Zürich for Sightseeing, Business & Shopping

As mentioned above, Zürich’s Central City is the best location to stay in the Swiss town. That said, each neighborhood has a distinct atmosphere and different attractions. These are some of the nicest quarters to stay in Zürich:

• Lindenhof & Rathaus lie in the city’s central area, historically significant as the site of a former Roman castle and, later, a medieval fortification. This area views the Limmat River and offers quiet spaces amidst its cobbled streets.
• The City district represents Zürich’s business and financial core. It features Paradeplatz, known for its concentration of major banks. Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues, runs through it.
• The area around Hauptbahnhof Zürich is home to the city’s main train station, a crucial transportation hub in Switzerland. This location connects numerous European train services and features shopping centers and dining options.
• Niederdorf is an area of the Old Town (Altstadt) known for its narrow streets filled with small shops and traditional Swiss restaurants. Due to its lively nightlife, it has become a popular spot in the evenings.
• Seefeld is found along Lake Zürich’s eastern shore and is noted for its lakeside promenades and recreational areas. It offers calm waterside spots alongside residential streets.
• Enge is located on the west shore of Lake Zürich and has several parks that provide scenic views. It’s primarily known for residential areas but also features cultural sites like the Museum Rietberg.
• Zürich Nord includes regions like Oerlikon, which is notable for modern developments such as office buildings and apartment complexes. Additionally, it has event venues like Hallenstadion.
• Flughafen Zürich (ZRH) is situated in Kloten to the north of Zürich city. As Switzerland’s largest international airport, it is convenient for short stays in the city.

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The Best Areas to Stay in Zürich: Quarter by Quarter

Lindenhof & Rathaus are part of the Old Town (Altstadt) and are known for its historic monuments and architecture.

Why is this the best area to stay in Zurich:
• Heart of Zürich’s old town
• Historic sites and architecture
• Proximity to the Limmat River
• Lindenhof Hill’s panoramic views
• Charming cobblestone streets
• Swiss National Museum nearby
• Boutiques and artisanal shops
• Quaint cafes and restaurants
• Easy access to public transport

Lindenhof and Rathaus in Zürich offer a historical side to the Swiss city. Situated in the city’s central part, Lindenhof is known for its elevated position, which provides panoramic views of the cityscape and the Limmat River. This site has been important since Roman times, with its history reaching as far back as a Roman fort erected around the 4th century AD. Additionally, it served as one of Zürich’s strategic locations during medieval times.

Lindenhof itself is a renowned green space cherished for its tranquility and historical relevance. In the 9th century, it was here that the grandson of Charlemagne placed an imperial palatine. Today, Lindenhof remains a peaceful refuge from the city’s hustle.

Nearby, the Rathaus area features significant cultural and historical attractions. The Zürich Town Hall, built between 1694 and 1698, is an example of Baroque architecture along the Limmat River. Although still serving governmental functions, those interested in its intricate architectural design can tour the building.

A stone’s throw away, St. Peter’s Church is famous for having Europe’s largest clock face clock tower. It has been a site of religious importance since before the Middle Ages.

The night scene in this area mainly consists of local restaurants and bars serving regional dishes, as well as small artisan bakers.

Zurich’s Old Town has excellent public transportation links. Key tram lines include numbers 4 and 15, which stop at Rathaus; meanwhile, tram numbers 6, 7, 10, and 13 serve other segments accessible on foot from Lindenhof.

Best Hotels in Lindenhof and Rathaus, Zürich

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The City area refers to central Zürich and is home to financial institutions and corporate headquarters.

Why is this the best area to stay in Zurich:
• Financial heart of Zürich
• Central location
• Proximity to Zürich HB
• Luxury shopping options
• Iconic Bahnhofstrasse
• Renowned financial institutions
• Vibrant dining scene
• Stunning architectural landmarks
• Modern skyscrapers with views

Located in central Zürich, the City or Financial District is a prominent area known for its economic significance. At its core lies Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, stretching about 1.4 kilometers from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Lake Zürich. This area is recognized for its high-end boutiques and luxury brands.

Zürich’s Financial District’s importance grew in the 19th century with the establishment of banks with headquarters along Bahnhofstrasse. UBS and Credit Suisse are two notable financial institutions that contribute to Zürich’s reputation as an international banking hub. Historic bank buildings alongside modern structures characterize the district’s landscape.

In terms of attractions, aside from Bahnhofstrasse’s retail appeal, visitors will find cultural spots like the Swiss National Museum and Kunsthaus Zürich, housing extensive art collections. This district also offers several galleries and theaters that reflect Zürich’s cultural diversity.

The nightlife in the Financial District maintains an understated yet refined charm. Numerous bars and restaurants provide a mix of international cuisines. The area tends to quiet down after business hours.

Public transportation is highly efficient in this district. Zürich Hauptbahnhof serves as a major hub with trains connecting throughout Switzerland and beyond. Multiple tram lines, such as lines 4, 6, and 10, run along or near Bahnhofstrasse, facilitating easy access across the city.

Accommodation options range from upscale hotels to business establishments catering primarily to corporate travelers.

Best Hotels in the Financial District, Zürich

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Hauptbahnhof Zürich serves as a key hub for both domestic and international travel

Why is this the best area to stay in Zurich:
• Central location
• Easy transport access
• Bahnhofstrasse shopping
• Diverse dining options
• Vibrant nightlife

The HB Zürich area, situated in the center of Zürich, Switzerland, is defined by convenience and accessibility. Known for its main railway hub, Zürich Hauptbahnhof (HB), this zone is an important transit point within the city and the broader European rail network. The station opened in 1847 and has grown into one of Europe’s busiest transport centers, supporting more than 3,000 train arrivals and departures daily.

The station offers high-speed rail services to important European cities such as Paris (in about four hours via TGV), Berlin and Munich (through the ICE network), and Vienna (via Railjet). Domestic destinations include Geneva, Basel, and Bern.

Besides being a transport nexus, the Hauptbahnhof area provides access to several attractions, such as Bahnhofstrasse, a globally renowned shopping avenue, and the Swiss National Museum. Established in 1898, this cultural institution showcases Swiss heritage and history.

As for nightlife, nearby Langstrasse provides a notable scene known for lively bars and nightclubs.

Regarding public transport within the city, HB Zürich connects with trams, buses, and regional trains, facilitating efficient transit across Zürich. The area is well-served by public transportation with direct connections via tram lines 4, 6, 10, and 13 and numerous S-Bahn lines such as S2, S6, and S16 that transit through the station.

Best Hotels near Hauptbahnhof Zürich

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Niederdorf is recognized for its lively pedestrian-friendly streets and is an entertainment district with pubs and shops

Why is this the best area to stay in Zurich:
• Historical charm
• Quaint cobblestone streets
• Stunning medieval architecture
• Vibrant nightlife
• Grossmünster Church
• Picturesque cafés and restaurants
• Easy access to public transportation
• Lively cultural scene

Niederdorf lies on the east bank of the Limmat River and is part of the city’s historic Old Town. Known locally as “Dörfli,” this area is rich with medieval charm, featuring narrow alleys and picturesque lanes.

The district is well-known for its vibrant nightlife. Numerous bars and clubs line the streets, making it a social hub in the evenings. During the day, Niederdorf is a bustling pedestrian zone perfect for exploring unique shops and enjoying street performances.

Historically, Niederdorf has been a central point since the Middle Ages. The architecture of its old guild houses reminds us of its past significance. In addition to its historical landscape, significant landmarks include Grossmünster Church, an iconic twin-towered structure dating back to the 12th century, and the Cabaret Voltaire, the birthplace of the Dada art movement in 1916.

Niederdorf is well connected by public transport. Tram lines 4 and 15 run frequently toward Bellevue or Hauptbahnhof (Zurich’s central station), making it convenient to explore other city areas quickly.

Best Hotels in Niederdorf, Zürich

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Seefeld is located along Lake Zürich’s eastern shore just outside of downtown and offers scenic waterfront views.

Seefeld is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Zurich and blends natural beauty and lovely architecture. Historically, it has been an area of transformation, evolving from its origins as a rural expanse in the 19th century.

The district’s proximity to Lake Zurich provides stunning lakeside vistas and opportunities for recreational activities like walking and cycling along Seefeldquai. Seefeld also hosts a variety of cultural attractions, including the Chinese Garden, gifted by Zürich’s sister city Kunming, it has meticulously crafted landscapes.

Seefeld’s nightlife and dining scene cater to those seeking traditional Swiss gastronomy and international cuisine. The area is renowned for its theaters and live music venues, which offer diverse entertainment options.

Transportation within Seefeld is efficient, with tram lines such as number 2 and number 4 connecting the district to central Zürich and beyond.

Best Hotels in Seefeld, Zürich

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Located south of the city center near Lake Zürich, Enge is notable for its green spaces like the Rieterpark and cultural sites such as the Museum Rietberg.

Enge offers a peaceful residential environment with excellent connectivity to the bustling city center.

Historically, Enge was incorporated into the city of Zürich in 1893. It has since developed into an upscale district characterized by tree-lined streets and scenic views of the lake and surrounding hills. The area showcases a mix of traditional Swiss architecture alongside more modern buildings.

Visitors to Enge can enjoy numerous attractions. The Rietberg Museum, set within beautiful gardens, features an extensive collection of Asian, African, and American art. Nearby, the Arboretum provides a tranquil retreat with diverse plant species and walking paths. For those interested in architecture, the Church of Enge is noteworthy for its Neo-Romanesque style.

The district offers an understated nightlife, with several local bars and restaurants catering to those seeking an enjoyable evening without venturing far from home. Enge’s proximity to the lake makes it a popular spot for sports and activities such as jogging or picnicking along the waterfront.

Transportation in Enge is efficient and convenient. It is well-served by tram lines 5, 6, 7, and 13 and various bus routes connecting the district to other parts of Zürich. Additionally, the Zürich Enge railway station offers regular links to major destinations in Switzerland.

Best Hotels in Enge, Zürich

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Zürich Nord encompasses modern business developments and is home to the University of Zürich’s Irchel Campus.

Zürich-Nord is located, as its name implies, in the northern part of Switzerland’s largest city and offers a distinct experience and a contemporary setting. It is renowned for its modern architecture and thriving business districts. Zurich Oerlikon, a hub for events and exhibitions, is located here.

Historically, with industrial expansion, Zürich-Nord experienced substantial growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, shaping its current character. Now, the area features attractions such as the Hallenstadion Arena, which has been hosting concerts and sporting events since 1939, and the MFO-Park, known for its unique steel structure and green spaces.

Zürich-Nord is well-connected via public transportation. Major transport lines include tram lines like 10 and 14 and various S-Bahn routes stopping at Oerlikon station. This makes reaching central Zurich and Zurich Airport easy.

Hotel accommodations here vary from large international chains to smaller hotels.

Best Hotels in Zürich-Nord

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Flughafen Zürich (ZRH) is Zurich’s international airport. It’s a great area to find accommodation during a long layover o short trip.

Zürich International Airport, located approximately 13 kilometers north of Zürich’s city center, serves as the main gateway to Switzerland. Since its inauguration in 1948, the airport has evolved to become a major hub for Swiss Airlines. It offers connections across Europe and extends its reach to intercontinental destinations.

Travelers at Zürich International Airport can take advantage of the efficient Swiss transport system. The airport is directly linked to Zürich Hauptbahnhof through the S-Bahn service, lines S2 and S16 typically provide a swift journey of around 10 minutes into downtown Zürich. Additionally, the tram line 10 connects the airport to numerous parts of the city.

The airport area is especially convenient for those with long layovers or brief stays, as it offers essential amenities without venturing far. Within the terminal are shopping complexes, restaurants, and even a few attractions, such as observation decks.

Accommodation near Zürich International Airport ranges from international hotel chains offering business centers to mid-tier hotels catering primarily to transit passengers.

Best Hotels near Zurich Airport

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Finding Accommodation in Zürich: A Personal Take

Finding good accommodation in Zürich can be a bit challenging given the city’s notorious price tag. However, during my recent visit, I discovered that staying in the City Center is well worth it. This area keeps you within easy walking distance of many major attractions, shops, and eateries. Opting for central lodging makes it convenient to explore and saves on transportation costs. Plus, Zürich’s public transport network is stellar if you need to travel further out.

During my stay, I chose the three-star Swiss Chocolate by Fassbind Zurich. This newer boutique option might just be one of the best accommodations I’ve experienced in town. Located in the lively City Center, this hotel makes getting around hassle-free, as almost everything worthwhile is nearby. The hotel itself is charming with its modern yet cozy feel. For budget-conscious travelers like me, it’s a solid option that doesn’t compromise on comfort or location convenience.

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Where to Look for Accommodation in Zurich: Useful Info

Zurich, located in Switzerland, offers convenience when it comes to getting there. Most international travelers land at Zurich Airport, just a 15-minute train ride from the city center. If you are arriving by train from within Switzerland or nearby countries, Zurich’s Hauptbahnhof (main station) is centrally located and well-connected.

Despite being the largest city in Switzerland, Zurich’s layout is compact and easy to manage. The city center can be explored on foot without much difficulty. Public transportation in Zurich is highly efficient and includes trams, buses, and trains. Tourists will often use main lines like tram number 4 or bus number 31 to get around the inner city areas.

When it comes to local food, make sure to try Zurich’s version of sliced veal in cream sauce, called Zürcher Geschnetzeltes. Pair it with Rösti, a popular Swiss potato dish.

Zurich experiences a moderate climate throughout the year. Winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from -1°C (30°F) to 5°C (41°F). Spring sees mild weather with temperatures between 8°C (46°F) and 15°C (59°F). Summers are pleasant and warm with temperatures between 18°C (64°F) and 24°C (75°F), while fall tends to cool down again to temperatures of around 10°C (50°F) on average.

Don’t miss visiting Lake Zurich; it’s a phenomenal relaxing spot or taking a boat ride. Three more places worth visiting are the Swiss National Museum for its insights into culture and history, Kunsthaus Zurich for its impressive art collection, and Bahnhofstrasse for upscale shopping.

I’m not going to lie—Zurich is an expensive city by every measure, including hotels. For accommodation, consider staying in the Niederdorf area, where you’ll find many boutiques and restaurants. Other good choices include Langstrasse for nightlife enthusiasts or Seefeld for its calm atmosphere close to nature.

Traveling on a budget? Look into staying at hostels or budget hotels outside the city center that are still well-connected by public transport.

To find the best accommodation deals, book early, especially if your visit coincides with major events like festivals or international conferences held in Zurich.

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