Zurich Hotels

Zurich, the financial and cultural hub of Switzerland is a city that is sure to inspire all who visit. From its stunning architecture and rich history, Zurich welcomes everyone with open arms and makes sure that they have a great time there. When you arrive in Zurich, you'll be greeted by the wide streets and breathtaking architecture of the city center, which is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also with its world-class bars, Michelin-guide eateries, and traditional Swiss restaurants, the city has something for every taste and budget. And thanks to its location in the heart of Switzerland, Zurich is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. From the stunning lakes and mountains to the charming towns and villages, there is plenty to see and do in the area. Looking for a combination of nature, history, high-end shopping, and lots of scenes? Stay in one of the Zurich hotels and you’ll experience the time of your life!

Things To Know Before Going To Zurich

• Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation and train tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
• Transportation: The most efficient way to get from the airport to the city center is by train. You can purchase tickets at the airport station or via the SBB mobile app.
• Etiquette: Swiss people are known for their punctuality, so arrive on time for appointments and reservations. Also, use formal titles and last names when greeting someone.
• Dress Code: Dress smart casual, but feel free to wear more casual attire in the summer.
• Budget: Zurich can be expensive, so track your budget carefully and consider staying in nearby towns or areas to save money.
• Sunday Closures: Many establishments in Zurich are closed on Sundays, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Cash: Although most places accept credit cards, it's still a good idea to have some Swiss Francs on hand.
• Comfortable Shoes: You'll walk a lot while exploring Zurich, so wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
• Swiss Travel Pass: If you're a non-EU citizen or resident, consider purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on Swiss trains, boats, and buses.
• Health and Safety: Zurich is generally a safe city, but take precautions against petty crime and keep valuables close.

Where is Zurich?

Zurich is located in Switzerland, a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is the largest city and the capital of Switzerland. The city is located in the north-central part of Switzerland, bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Within Switzerland, Zurich is in the northeastern region of the country, on the northern shores of Lake Zurich, and it is the largest city in Switzerland by population.

The city is a financial hub with approximately 82 of Switzerland's 208 banking institutions headquartered there. Zurich is also known for its high quality of life, excellent public transport, and a variety of shopping experiences. 

Where To Stay In Zurich?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Zurich are great for tourists:

Best Hotels in Zurich

Click here to find all the hotels in Zurich! 

Places To Visit In Zurich

No matter what time you visit Zurich, its both historical and modern wonders will surely catch your interest. From high-end shopping places to lakes and rivers, you can enjoy sightseeing all of these Zurich attractions within just a few days. Here’s the list of some must-see Zurich attractions to see:

• Bahnhofstrasse: One of the world's most expensive shopping streets, Bahnhofstrasse is a must-visit for those who love luxury shopping.
• Lake Zurich: Set alongside alpine mountains, Lake Zurich offers breathtaking views.
• Old Town (Altstadt): Home to many historic buildings, museums, and green spaces.
• Grossmünster: This church is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Zurich, with its twin towers visible from many parts of the city.
• Fraumünster Church: Another famous church in Zurich, known for its stunning stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.
• Swiss National Museum: Learn about Swiss history and culture at this museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts.
• Uetliberg Mountain: For the best views of Zurich, take a train up to Uetliberg Mountain and enjoy the city beneath your feet!
• Zurich Zoo: Home to over 400 species of animals, Zurich Zoo is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers.
• Lindenhof Hill: This historic hilltop park offers stunning views of the city and is a great spot for a picnic or a stroll.
• Kunsthaus Zurich: Art lovers won't want to miss Kunsthaus Zurich, which houses an impressive collection of masterpieces from Swiss and international artists.

Is Zurich Safe?

Zurich is famous for its high-standard safety measures. The crime rates are low and it’s considered safe to walk alone at night. So, if you’re wondering if Zurich is safe for solo travelers, the answer is yes.

Is Zurich Expensive To Visit?

Zurich is tied with Singapore at the top when it comes to expensiveness. Yes, unfortunately, Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world to visit. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t visit Zurich on a budget! Still, Zurich's budget hotel options can be more expensive than budget hotels in other parts of Europe. If you’re okay with staying outside of the city center, you can find lots of affordable options. Some budget hotels in Zurich cost less than €100 per night, while others can be found for as low as $45 per night. It is recommended to use hotel booking sites like Kayak to compare prices and find the best deals.

Zurich Currency

The currency used in Zurich, Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF). While Switzerland is not part of the European Union, many prices are in euros so that visitors may compare prices. Some places in popular areas or local places may accept euros but are not obliged to do so, and the change given back to the client will most likely be in Swiss francs.

Zurich Language

The official language of Zurich, Switzerland is German. However, the main spoken language in Zurich is a local variant of the Alemannic Swiss German dialect called Zurich German. English is also widely spoken in Zurich, especially among younger generations. French and Italian are also spoken by some parts of the population. Other languages spoken in Zurich include Bosnian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Albanian.

Zurich Time Zone

The time zone in Zurich is Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1. Starting on March 31, 2024, the time zone becomes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2 hours.

How Many Days To Visit Zurich?

Zurich is not that a big city, so two to three days will be enough for you to see all the main attractions. However, if you’d like to see more of Zurich and want to explore the streets or participate in local activities, staying there for a week won’t hurt. However, we’d like to remind you that Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world. This means that if you’re looking for budget-friendly travel overall, Zurich is not the ideal place to stay for a long time.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Zurich?

Generally, the peak season of Zurich is summer with its hot weather and outdoor festivals. Winter can also be considered one of the best times to visit Zurich for its Christmas markets and the joy of the new year. Other than that, spring and fall can be said to be better for budget travelers to visit the city. Here’s the breakdown of all seasons in Zurich:

• Summer (June to August): The peak season in Zurich with warm weather. Hotel and flight prices are generally higher during this time. Has a rich cultural scene with festivals and outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 14 to 24°C, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors and enjoying Lake Zurich. However, it is also the wettest season of the year.
• Winter (December to February): The ideal time to discover Christmas markets and easy access to ski resorts with a unique winter atmosphere. For that reason, hotel and flight prices can be higher during this time. Average temperatures range from -5 to 8°C, with heavy snowfall.
• Spring (March to May): The scene of looming flowers and warmer temperatures makes it a great time to explore the city without the summer crowds. Rates in both hotel and flight prices will be lower than in summer and winter. Average temperatures range from 4 to 20°C, with increasing warmth as the season progresses.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers a slower pace with fewer tourists, providing opportunities for great bargains and enjoyable weather. This means that rates will be lower for an affordable Zurich stay. Average temperatures range from 8 to 18°C, with changing leaves and occasional rainfall.

What To Pack For Your Visit To Zurich?

For the summer months (June-August), pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Don't forget to bring sun protection items such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you'll want to explore the city's many landmarks and outdoor attractions. A light sweater or shawl can also be useful for indoor places with air conditioning.

• For spring (March-May), prepare for a mix of cool and warm weather by packing layers. A raincoat or water-resistant jacket is a good idea, as unexpected showers can occur. Bring along a denim jacket or light sweater for cooler evenings, and don't forget comfortable walking shoes. Scarves and hats can add both style and warmth.
• For fall (September-November), be prepared for changing temperatures with extra layers. A waterproof jacket and umbrella will help you stay dry during autumn rains. If you're heading to higher elevation areas, don't forget to pack a beanie and gloves. Water-resistant boots with scarves and gloves will also keep you warm.
• For winter (December-February), pack thermal undergarments to keep warm in chilly weather. A wool coat or parka is a good choice for staying cozy outdoors, while fashionable vests or heavy wraps can add extra warmth. Don't forget to pack a scarf, hat, and gloves, and wear snow boots.

Zurich Food

Swiss cuisine is a combination of German, French, and North Italian influences. For this reason, you will find lots of meats, cheese, and pastries during your Zurich trip. Here are some of the best Zurich food you should try during your visit:

• Rösti: Grated potatoes fried into a pancake shape with various additions like cheese or bacon.
• Zürcher Geschnetzelte (Zürich-style minced meat): Sliced veal sautéed with mushrooms, white wine, cream, and sometimes served over rösti.
• Zürigerschnitzel: Thinly pounded veal cutlet breaded and pan-fried, often accompanied by a side salad and potato rosti.
• Brätflegel: Pork tenderloin stuffed with ground pork, herbs, and spices, then breaded and deep-fried.
• Sbrinzkäse mit Birnen (Sbrinz cheese with quince): A combination of hard Swiss cheese and sweetened quince paste, enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
• Chügelipastetten: Small pastries filled with beef, vegetables, and spices, generally eaten during Christmas time but available year-round at some establishments.
• Flädle: Thin crepes made with buckwheat flour, which can be savory or sweet depending on fillings such as spinach, cheese, or jam.
• Vögelin mit Kartoffeln und Rösti (Baby chicken with potatoes and rösti): Baby chickens cooked with vegetables and served alongside rösti.
• Zuger Kirschti: Sweet rice pudding flavored with cherry liqueur, originating from the nearby town of Zug.

Zurich Nightlife

Zurich stands out among Swiss cities for its unending nightlife, with the highest concentration of nightclubs nationwide. Thanks to the various musical genres and club styles available, Zurich wants you to join the party. Famous clubs like Aura and Jade attract the city's elite crowd, emphasizing dress codes and expensive drinks alongside large-scale electronic dance music (EDM). For those seeking a less polished vibe, Zurich West offers underground experiences, including the intimate basement setting of Zukunft and its edgy electro sound. Additionally, Plaza provides a unique combination of ambiance, social interaction, fashionable decor, and well-known DJ performances.