You know it’s a cosmopolitan financial capital, in a scenic, lakeside spot, close to the alps. And you probably also think it’s expensive and efficient. You’ve probably also heard it regularly living awards for being one of the most liveable cities on the planet, and it’s one of the wealthiest. But Zürich is also fast becoming a hip destination, and if you’re not sure how that all fits together, then you need to have a look at our recommendations for the best places to stay in Zürich and get-a-visiting.
We know that Zürich’s restaurant culture is well established, but that doesn’t mean it’s staid or always pricey, and with Zürich’s large, vibrant ex-pat and student population, it’s constantly evolving and expanding with new influences. The same can be said for Zürich’s art scene, which encompasses the best of the old masters, current masters and much choice when it comes to masters of the future. And the hotel scene is no different, with plenty of choice when it comes to grande dames and luxurious lake-view hotels, but also bijou B&Bs and fabulous contemporary conversions over-running the old industrial quarter.
There’s no bad time for Zürich either, in the summer there’s the lake, and in the winter this is the gateway to the alps. And with German, French and English all used on the street, and a clean, reliable and easy to use public transport system Zürich is a really, really easy city to love.
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Where to Stay — Which Neighbourhood?
- As with many great European cities, Zürich’s centre is one of the oldest and most historic parts of town, usually called the Old Town or Altstadt. The Old Town grew up a long time before people expected to own their own car, so its cosy and compact and some of the roads are cobbled and pedestrianised. Overlooked by the towering 'pepper pot' towers of the cathedral, this charming district is a realm of coffeehouses and chocolate shops. The benefit of staying in this part of Zürich is that you’re within a charming stroll of many of the city’s sightseeing highlights, and a slew of wonderful cafes, bars and restaurants, and you’re close to the lake.
- The other central part of town is District 1, which is on the west bank of the Limmet River. across from the Old Town, and another excellent choice if you want to be within walking distance of the majority of places you’d like to visit, which again, includes some excellent local restaurants. If you’re visiting Zürich for the first time, District 1 and the Old Town are where you’ll find the majority of the statues, monuments and fountains, the city’s largest churches, the Museum Strauhof and the toy museum, the botanical gardens, and a collection of boutique and galleries.
- There’s really no need to stay within walking distance of everything, though, Zürich has a really reliable public transport system made up of buses, trams, trains and boats. And if you like the idea of doing some of your travel by boat then District 2 might be a good choice for you. It's located south of District 1, along the west shore of the lake, in the opposite direction from the city. Leafy and spread out, our Gurus recommend District 2 as one of the best places to stay in Zürich for families and visitors wanting to stay somewhere peaceful or outdoors-y. It’s where you’ll find the new botanical gardens, the FIFA World Football Museum, the Museum Reitberg, and a hip eating and shopping precinct. District 2 is also where you’ll find Zürich’s only sandy beach!
- On the opposite shore of the lake to District 2 is District 8, which has lovely lake views and an excellent selection when it comes to hotels with larger rooms or apartments, great if you’re staying in Zürich for more than a few days. It’s well connected to the centre of town, and it’s got a greener, more spacious feel. It’s also got its own selection of museums and art museums, and a good choice of restaurants.
- Zürich’s old Industriequartier, or industrial Quarter, is now a hip part of town also called Züri-West, full of old warehouses and cool factories gentrified and converted into chic accommodation complete with the hip cafes and design boutiques to match. And it has some great restaurants. This is a great choice for arty visitors, or anyone planning to enjoy a bit of nightlife, or if you fancy seeing how the locals live.
- Between Züri-West and District 1 is District 4, which is another good choice for nightlife, and if you’re trying to have an experience that’s more like that of residents. Especially residents who like to dance all night.
Don't forget that this city is a busy year round destination with both business and leisure travellers. So if you want to be sure of a room in one of the best places to stay in Zurich, do your homework and book well ahead.