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Where to Stay in Zurich

Accommodation Types

Zurich Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly dormitory beds and some exclusive rooms. Communal kitchens contribute to cost savings. Social areas are common.

  • Hotels

    Options from basic 1-2 star to opulent 5-star establishments. Varying amenities, from breakfast to fitness centers.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Unique and customized experiences with distinctive design elements and personalized service. Offer a cozy atmosphere.

  • Vacation Rentals/Apartments

    Apartments, studios, or entire houses for short-term stays. More space, privacy, and kitchen facilities.

More Options & Comparison

  • Guesthouses (Gasthaus/Pension)

    Family-run establishments offering a local and authentic experience. Cozy atmosphere, often with breakfast is provided.

  • Camping

    Available on the outskirts or near Lake Zurich. An outdoors experience and a very budget-friendly choice, especially in warmer months.

  • Unique Local Accommodation

    Hotels in beautifully refurbished historic buildings, blending old-world charm with modern comfort.

  • Price Ranges

    Hostels: CHF 30-80. Budget Hotel: CHF 100-180. Mid-range Hotel: CHF 180-300. Luxury Hotel: CHF 300-800+. Vacation Rental: CHF 150-400+.

Neighborhood Guide

Zurich's neighborhoods each have different characteristics and benefits for visitors.

Altstadt Old Town

Pros
  • Heart of and highly walkable.
  • Close to major attractions.
  • Historic charm.
  • Very safe.
Cons
  • Can be noisy in the evenings.
  • More expensive lodging prices.
  • Petty crime in crowded areas.

Bahnhofstrasse/City Center

Pros
  • Extremely central.
  • Excellent transport links.
  • High-end shopping.
  • Very safe.
Cons
  • Very expensive for lodging and dining.
  • Commercial ambiance.
  • Pickpockets in busy areas.

Seefeld & Enge

Pros
  • Scenic lakeside vistas.
  • Quieter ambiance.
  • Direct lake access.
  • Very safe.
Cons
  • Slightly further from Old Town core.
  • Requires tram connection.

Other Neighborhoods

Langstrasse (District 4 & 5)

Diverse and lively, with a bohemian, industrial-chic feel. Good transport links and more budget-friendly lodging. Can be noisy at night due to nightlife.

Oerlikon (District 11)

Mostly a business district. Excellent transport hub near Zurich Airport. More affordable lodging than central districts. Lacks historic charm.

Booking Strategies

Strategic booking for Zurich lodging can lead to better options and rates.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-Aug, Dec): Book 3-6 months in advance.
  • Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Book 1-3 months in advance.
  • Low Season (Jan-Mar, Nov): Book 2-4 weeks in advance.
  • Last-late deals are attainable during quieter periods.

Booking Platforms and Policies

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, Vrbo, Hostelworld.
  • Directly with Hotels: Check official websites for best rate guarantees or exclusive packages (e.g., IHG Hotels).
  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary. A lot of them have free cancellation with specific deadlines.
  • Seasonal price fluctuations are pronounced, highest in the summertime and during Christmas markets.

Additional Considerations

Negotiation Customs
  • Walk-in rates are generally fixed and non-negotiable in Zurich hotels.
House Sitting

Note on Peak Season

Popularity

Popular hotels and specific dates, especially around major festivals, book up rapidly.

Price Impact

Prices are generally higher during peak demand periods.

Recommendation

Early booking is highly recommended for best availability plus fares.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some recommendations for accommodations in Zurich, serving various different budgets and ways of traveling:

Budget-Friendly Options

Oldtown Hostel Otter

Located directly in the Old Town, offering dorms and private rooms.

  • Social atmosphere.
  • Good for solo travelers.
Hotel Marta

A basic but clean and central hotel.

  • Good value for location.

Mid-Range Choices

Hotel Adler Zurich

Situated in the Old Town, traditional Swiss charm.

  • Popular fondue restaurant.
Hotel St. Josef / Hotel Scheuble

Quiet, centrally located (St. Josef) or family-run (Scheuble), both comfortable.

  • Peaceful retreat.
  • Good exploration base.

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Baur au Lac

    Historic, iconic lakeside hotel. Impeccable service, gourmet dining, beautiful gardens.

  • Park Hyatt Zurich

    Contemporary luxury in the financial district. Roomy accommodations and excellent amenities.

  • The Dolder Grand

    Iconic hilltop hotel with panoramic views of the city, lake, and Alps. Renowned spa and fine dining.

  • Family/Solo/Long Stays

    Vacation rentals for families. Hostels for solo travelers seeking interaction. Serviced apartments for prolonged visits.

Culturally Significant Stays

  • Widder Hotel

    Luxury hotel combining nine medieval houses. Unique blend of historic buildings and contemporary design.

  • Hotel Storchen

    Historic hotel directly on the Limmat River in the Old Town. Beautiful views of the river and a rich past.

  • House/Pet Sitting

    Explore TrustedHousesitters for a unique accommodation experience.

  • Choosing Your Neighborhood

    Consider your desired experience when selecting your neighborhood for lodging.

Zurich Card Benefits

Public Transport

The Zurich Card often includes free use of public transport, which makes getting around easy.

  • Travel without limits on trams, buses, trains, boats, and cable cars.
Museum Admissions

Enjoy free or reduced admission to most museums in Zuabundant in the card.

  • Value for money if visiting multiple attractions.

General Tips for Zurich Accommodation

Check Locations

Verify your lodging's proximity to public transport stops plus main attractions.

Read Reviews

Consult recent guest feedback to understand the atmosphere and degree of service.

Consider Amenities

Choose properties with amenities that match your travel style, like kitchens or social areas.