Where to Stay in Zurich: Best Hotels and Neighborhoods

How Do We Know Where to Stay in Zurich?

Planning a trip to Zurich and not sure where to book your stay? We’ve got you covered. As a couple who moved to Switzerland a few years ago, we’ve had plenty of opportunities to explore the best things to do in Zurich not just as visitors, but also as locals.

Between our own hotel stays, the experiences of family and friends who regularly visit us, and the hours of research we’ve already done to help them find the right hotel, we’ve built up a solid sense of which areas and accommodations are worth it and which might not be the best fit.

In this guide, we’ll share the neighborhoods we recommend, the best Zurich hotels we’ve tried or trust, and a few insider tips to help you choose the perfect base for your Zurich trip.

If Zurich is only one part of your trip, our Switzerland travel guide for first-time visitors also covers transport, costs, the best regions, and the practical details you need before booking the rest of your stay.

At a Glance – Best Areas to Stay in Zurich

• Best Area for First-Time Visitors: Altstadt (Old Town)
  • Top Pick: Storchen Zurich – historic luxury right on the river
• Best for Luxury Travelers: Enge & near Lake Zurich
  • Top Pick: Baur au Lac – Zurich’s iconic 5-star with lake views
• Best for Nightlife & Cool Vibes: Zurich West
  • Top Pick: 25hours Hotel Zurich West – appealing design with modern rooms
• Best for Budget Travelers: Oerlikon
  • Top Pick: Hotel Sternen Oerlikon – affordable, comfortable, well-connected
• Best for Business Travelers / Short Stays: Near Zurich Airport
  • Top Pick: Radisson Blu Zurich Airport – unbeatable convenience inside the terminal

Where to Stay in Zurich by Neighborhood

With Switzerland hitting a record 42.8 million overnight stays in 2024 and Zurich continuing to see steady growth in city tourism through 2025, it’s clear the city has never been more popular. That also means hotels fill up quickly, so choosing the right neighborhood and place to stay has never been more important.

Altstadt (Old Town) – Best for First-Time Visitors

If you’re planning your first trip to Zurich, there’s no better place to stay than the Zurich Old Town. When we show people around the city, we spend most of our time here. It corresponds to the Zurich city center.

Medieval churches, cozy cafés, and boutiques line the cobblestone streets. From here, you can walk to Bahnhofstrasse (Zurich’s main shopping street), Lake Zurich, and most of the city’s major museums, like the Swiss National Museum and other historic landmarks.

Since many of Zurich’s main attractions are close by, it’s also worth checking whether the Zurich Card is worth it before paying separately for transport and museums.

Staying in the Old Town also puts you close to many attractions that don’t require an entrance ticket. Our guide to the best free things to do in Zurich includes historic viewpoints, riverside walks, parks, museums, and lakeside spots that are easy to reach from here.

Why stay here:

• You’ll be centrally located with many of the tourist attractions within easy walking distance.
• It’s full of atmosphere, perfect if you love history and architecture.
• A large selection of restaurants within walking distance.
• It is close to Zurich’s Main Train Station.
• Great choice for short trips where time is limited.

Pros:

• Historic charm and postcard views
• Easy to explore on foot
• Wide choice of hotels and restaurants
• Prime location

Cons:

• Hotels here are pricier than in other districts
• Can be lively (and sometimes noisy) at night, especially in summer

Our Top Hotel Picks in Altstadt

• Storchen Zurich (Luxury) – Timeless 5-star hotel right on the Limmat River, with incredible views and impeccable service. Good breakfast buffet with a great atmosphere. The rooftop bar “The Nest” ensures an exclusive stay.
• Hotel Rössli (Mid-Range) – Charming boutique option with local flair in central Zurich.
• Oldtown Hostel Otter (Budget) – Affordable stay that puts you in the middle of the action.

Enge & Near Lake Zurich – Best for Luxury and Relaxation

If you’re looking for a quieter and more upscale stay, Enge and the areas along Lake Zurich are a fantastic choice.

This part of the city feels more residential, with leafy streets, elegant villas, and the sparkling lake just steps away. It’s still close to the center (about 10 minutes by tram or a lovely lakeside walk), but has a calmer, more refined atmosphere.

Museums such as the Lindt Factory and the FIFA World Football Museum are also not far from here. The area is home to some of the best hotels in the city.

We love the area around the lake and visit often. When the weather is clear, you can see the snow-capped Alps in the background. For us, as Zurich residents, it’s one of the best panoramic views.

Why stay here:

• Perfect for travelers who want a peaceful base with beautiful surroundings.
• Ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone who loves being close to the water.
• Many hotels here offer lake views, spacious rooms, and a more relaxed pace.

Pros:

• Stunning views over Lake Zurich
• Close to the Uetliberg
• Luxury hotels with top-class facilities
• Great for walking, jogging, or cycling along the promenade
• Also close to the Zurich main station

Cons:

• Hotels are generally more expensive
• Less nightlife compared to the city center

Our Top Hotel Picks in Enge & by the Lake

• Baur au Lac (Luxury) – Zurich’s most iconic five-star hotel, with its own private park and unbeatable service. Probably one of the best luxury hotels in the city.
• Park Hyatt Zurich (Luxury) -A sleek, contemporary 5-star in Enge with spacious rooms, excellent service, and an outstanding on-site restaurant.
• The Dolder Grand (Ultra-Luxury) – It is not located directly on the lake or in Enge, but in terms of category, it fits in best with the other luxury hotels. This hotel is unique and well-known for its outstanding luxury. The spa area is huge, and the entire structure of the hotel is impressive. So far, we have only been able to afford a few cocktails at the bar in the evening and have not yet stayed there ourselves. If it does not fit your budget, we still recommend that you take a look at the hotel and enjoy the view. Even if you are not a guest, you can still enjoy something from the bar.
• AMERON Zürich Bellerive au Lac (Mid-Range) – Boutique charm with lake views, offering good value for the location. Close to the Zurich Opera House
• Motel One Zürich (Mid-Range/Budget) -Modern, clean rooms; good design; very close to Enge; a good, inexpensive option if you’re okay with fewer luxury amenities.
• B2 Hotel Zürich (Mid-Range/Budget) – Very good rating for Enge; good value; likely fewer luxury extras, but solid service, location, comfort. Great balance.

Overall, it is tough to find truly affordable accommodations in the area.

Zurich West – Best for Trendy, Modern Vibes & Nightlife

Zurich West is one of the most dynamic, evolving parts of Zurich. What used to be industrial is now packed with modern architecture, artsy cafés, hip restaurants, art galleries, and nightlife. We are usually out and about in the area, eating the best kebab in town at mit&ohne.

If you enjoy places with character, a younger/local crowd, and want to be somewhere lively (but still well-connected), this neighborhood might be your favorite. Overall, it’s a cool area. We also often visit Frau Gerolds Garten here, a restaurant with an outdoor bar where you can serve yourself.

Overall, Zurich is considered a very safe city for visitors. If any unpleasant situations do arise, they’re more likely to happen late at night around busy nightlife areas such as Langstrasse. But don’t worry, even as a woman, you can walk alone through the streets at night and feel safe.

Why stay here:

• Lots of personality: modern design, converted industrial spaces, creative flair.
• Great food scenes, bars, music venues, and cool hangouts.
• Good transport links to the city center (trams and trains), so you can access the vibe.

Pros:

• Trendy hotels and modern atmosphere
• Best mid-range hotels with design flair
• Usually slightly cheaper than prime lakeside luxury, while still very comfortable

Cons:

• It can be noisier in the evenings, depending on how close you are to nightlife hubs
• Less “historic charm” compared to Old Town or lakeside areas
• Some of the newer parts are still under development (e.g., construction).

Our Top Hotel Picks in Zurich West:

• 25hours Hotel Zurich West – Excellent design & atmosphere, a mix of fun and comfort. Facilities like a sauna, a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and good restaurant options.
• Züri by Fassbind – Modern hotel located in Escher Wyss, with striking architecture and good guest reviews. It’s very walkable or tram-connected to many parts of Zurich.
• Novotel Zurich City-West – A solid mid-range option; decent amenities, comfortable, reliable; good choice for families or those who want something modern without breaking the bank.
• Ibis Budget Zurich City West – The hotel we stayed at during our first apartment viewing, back when we emigrated. Not luxurious, but it was sufficient for our purposes.

Oerlikon – Great Value & Well-Connected

Oerlikon is a smart choice if you want good value, strong transport links, and a somewhat more local, quieter feel compared to the center. Many of our friends actually live in Oerlikon.

Oerlikon works especially well if you’re comfortable using public transport in Switzerland, as frequent trains and trams make it easy to reach both the Old Town and the airport.

It’s especially good for business travelers, trade fair visitors (Hallenstadion / Messe area), or anyone who doesn’t mind being 10-15 mins by tram/S-train from Old Town. Most budget hotels are located in this area.

Choosing a less central neighborhood is one of the easiest ways to save money, but accommodation is only part of the calculation. Our complete guide to planning a budget trip to Zurich also covers food, transport, free activities, and the hidden costs visitors often overlook.

Why stay here:

• Very well connected by train, tram & buses (to airport & city centre).
• Lots of more affordable options compared to the Zurich Lake or the historic old town.
• Good amenities around: supermarkets, restaurants, etc.
• Often a quieter and less touristy vibe.

Pros:

• More pricing flexibility for good hotels.
• Clean, modern options; many are newer or recently renovated.
• Close to Messe Zurich and other event venues.

Cons:

• Slightly off from the picture-perfect “Zurich postcard” lake views vibe.
• Might need to use public transport more, especially if your hotel is further from a station.
• Less nightlife / more local than central touristic areas (though there are good restaurants & bars).

Our Top Hotel Picks in Oerlikon

• Hotel Sternen Oerlikon (Mid-Range) – Comfortable rooms, high cleanliness, friendly staff. Good balance between cost & quality. Very close to train and tram stations, which is a plus. Probably one of the best budget hotels in town
• Courtyard by Marriott Zurich North (Mid-Range) – Modern hotel, well-appointed rooms. Good for both business & leisure. Amenities are solid. Location is great for reaching the airport or the city centre.
• Acasa Suites Zurich Oerlikon (Mid-Range) – Apartment-style option, more space, good for longer stays or travellers who like kitchen facilities. Staff is highly praised.

Near Zurich Airport – Best for Short Stays & Convenience

If you have an early flight, late arrival, business meeting, or just prefer staying out of the city hustle, the area around Zurich Airport (Kloten / The Circle / Glattbrugg, etc.) offers excellent options. You get very close proximity to the terminals, frequent transport links, and sometimes better value than central Zurich (especially if you just need to rest or transit).

Why stay here:

• Very short commute to terminal(s) – ideal for airport arrivals/departures.
• Good for business travellers, day-use stays, or short stopovers.
• Many hotel amenities focus on convenience (shuttles, good transport access).
• Sometimes quieter and more affordable if you compare on a “price per comfort” basis, especially for short stays.

Pros:

• Easy access to the airport (some are inside The Circle or connected)
• Useful for layovers & business trips
• Some hotels offer park & fly packages

Cons:

• Fewer “sightseeing vibes”, not much lakeside charm or historic atmosphere
• More functional, less atmospheric, less likely to have boutique charm or local character
• Transport to the Zurich city centre is still needed if that’s your priority

Our Top Hotel Picks close to the Airport

• Radisson Blu Zurich Airport (Luxury) -This hotel is directly connected to the terminal. Modern style, soundproof rooms, two restaurants, and a large conference/event space. Ideal if you want maximum convenience.
• Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport The Circle (Luxury) – Just steps from airport terminals, part of The Airport Circle complex. Strong facilities, comfort, and premium service. Great if price is less of a concern and you want a high-end stay.
• Hilton Zurich Airport (Mid-Range) – 5 minutes by car from the airport, offers runway views, shuttle service, and good facilities. Good mix of convenience and comfort.
• Ibis Budget Zurich Airport (Budget) – A simpler, more basic option, but very affordable. Good if your priority is proximity and cost over luxury.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Zurich?

The right number of days in Zurich really depends on your travel style and whether you want to use the city as a base for day trips. We’ve written an entire article on how many days you need to spend in Zurich.

Since we’ve lived here for a few years, we’ve had the chance to see Zurich both as locals and through the eyes of our visiting family and friends. Here’s what we usually recommend:

• 1-2 days – Enough for a quick city break. You can explore the Old Town, walk along Bahnhofstrasse, enjoy Lake Zurich, and visit a museum or two. It also works well as a short first stop when planning a longer Switzerland itinerary.
• 3-4 days – Ideal for seeing the city at a more relaxed pace and adding one easy excursion. Our guide to the best day trips from Zurich compares the options we regularly do ourselves.
• 5+ days – A good choice if you want to use Zurich as a base while exploring more of the country. Thanks to excellent train connections, you can easily reach other parts of Switzerland while still coming “home” to a comfortable base in the city.

Zurich Hotel Prices: What to Expect

Zurich is known for being a pricey city when it comes to lodging, and accommodation will usually take up a large part of your budget. For a broader cost breakdown, our guide to planning your overall Switzerland budget covers transport, food, hotels, and activities.

Based on recent data and hotel listings, here are typical nightly rates (for 2 adults, 1 room) in CHF or equivalent:

Tier	Approx Pricing (Off-Peak)	Approx Pricing (Peak / Demand Times)	What You Get / Trade-Offs
Budget / Lower End (2- to 3-star hotels, hostels)	~ CHF 80-150 ($ 101-189)	CHF 150-250 ($ 189-315) or more	More comfort, better decor, nicer bathrooms, more amenities (breakfast included, nicer lounges/restaurants). Closer to the city center or lake.
Mid-Range (3.5- to 4-star)	CHF 150-250 ($ 189-315)	CHF 250-350+ ($ 315-440+)	CHF 800-1200+ or much more for suites/specialty hotels
Luxury / High-End (5-star, boutique, premium views)	CHF 500-800+ ($ 630-1007+)	Exceptional locations, high-quality service, top amenities (spa, views, restaurants). For many, these are “splurge” stays.	More comfort, better decor, nicer bathrooms, more amenities (breakfast included, nicer lounges/restaurants). Closer to the city center or the lake.

Tips to Save Money

• Booking in the low season (late autumn, winter outside holidays) can deliver much better rates.
• Avoiding major event / trade fair dates helps; prices surge then.
• Booking well in advance, especially for mid-range & luxury hotels, can save you significant money.
• Checking hotels slightly outside the most central or lakeside areas (but still well connected) often gets you better value.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Zurich

Choosing where to stay in Zurich really depends on your style of travel, whether you want to be in the heart of the Old Town near the Zurich HB train station, relaxing by the lake in Enge, soaking up the nightlife of Zurich West, or finding more budget-friendly hotels in Oerlikon or near the airport.

The easy transport connections are also part of what makes Zurich worth visiting: wherever you stay, you’re never far from a tram, bus, or short train ride.

And don’t forget, many of the hotels in Zurich come with little surprises, from historic charm to a modern rooftop terrace with views over this fantastic city.

It’s one of the reasons we’re always excited when friends and family come to visit Zurich; we know there’s a perfect option waiting for them, whether it’s a chic design hotel or something more practical and ideally located.

As Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich can be both lively and laid-back, luxurious and simple, and we hope this guide helps you find the right base to experience it your way.

FAQs About Where to Stay in Zurich

What is the best area to stay in Zurich for first-time visitors?
The Old Town (Altstadt) is ideal for first-timers. It’s central, walkable, and full of historic charm. You’ll be close to the main sights, the Bahnhofstrasse, and the lake.

Is Zurich expensive for hotels?
Yes, Zurich is one of the most expensive European cities. Budget travelers should look at areas like Oerlikon or airport hotels for better deals, while the Old Town and lakefront are usually pricier.

Where should I stay if I have an early flight?
Hotels at Zurich Airport are your best option. The Radisson Blu is connected directly to the terminal, while Hyatt Regency The Circle is just steps away.

What area is best for nightlife?
Zurich West is the city’s trendiest district, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. It’s well-connected by tram to the city center, so you get both nightlife and convenience.

Is Zurich safe at night?
Yes, Zurich is very safe by international standards. Normal city precautions apply, but all major districts (Old Town, Enge, Zurich West, Oerlikon) are safe for visitors.

How many days should I stay in Zurich?
Plan for at least 3 days to enjoy the main sights and add a day trip. If you only have 1–2 days, focus on the Old Town, the lake, and a couple of museums. With 5+ days, Zurich makes an excellent base for exploring more of Switzerland.

Is Zurich, Switzerland, a walkable city?
Yes, Zurich is very walkable. Most attractions in the Old Town and along Lake Zurich are within easy walking distance. The city also has excellent public transport for when you want to reach neighborhoods further out.

What is the most beautiful neighborhood in Zurich?
Beauty is subjective, but many visitors love Altstadt for its cobblestone streets and medieval charm. For lake views and elegant villas, Enge and the Seefeld area are also considered among the most beautiful parts of Zurich.