Known as the economic center of one of the most picturesque countries in the world, Zurich is a must-visit city in Switzerland. It serves as the cultural, industrial, and financial capital of the country and is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe.
From parks and lakes to museums and landmarks, Zurich will fill you up with rich Swiss history (and chocolate). So, before you visit the Alps and go on that famous pilgrimage visiting pivotal locations from Crash Landing On You (K-drama lovers will know what we're talking about), here are the essentials for your upcoming trip to Zurich and our recommendations for finding the best Zurich hotels.
Zurich Travel Essentials
Photo Credit: Ambassador Hotel Zurich
While you prepare your Swiss itinerary, be sure to also do your research about the places you're visiting and how to go about things. Check the weather, look up local customs and currency exchange rates, and most importantly, find out about the necessary travel requirements. We're covering the Zurich essentials right here so you can spend more time deciding which restaurants and landmarks to visit on your trip instead of worrying about the little things.
Weather and what to wear
Photo credit Kristin Vogt on Pexels
July is the "hottest" month in Switzerland which is still at a cool 66.2°F, which means you can opt to bring jeans or even shorts if you enjoy the breeze on your legs. For those who get cold easily, you'll probably want to pack a light sweater. In the winter, temperatures drop to 0°F so bring out those down jackets and layer up because it can get quite windy too. It's also a good idea to pack thermals for wearing underneath your clothes because it can get chilly, especially at night.
Currency exchange and tipping
Photo credit: Karolina Grabowska on Pexels
The local currency in Switzerland is called the Swiss franc and abbreviated as CHF. As of writing, 1 CHF is about the same as 1 USD so that should help when preparing to convert cash. Switzerland is known to be an expensive country and while you can exchange currency at Swiss banks or credit unions, it's recommended to do so at your local bank beforehand to avoid higher fees.
Klook tip: Major businesses and stores in Zurich accept euros as payment, however, change will be given in Swiss francs.
Tipping is not expected at restaurants as there's usually a service charge. However, if you do decide to tip, 10% is the customary amount.
Staying Connected in Switzerland
As one of the most advanced countries in the West, it's easy to get access to the internet in Zurich. You can opt for a pocket wifi device which is great for groups or purchase an eSIM if you're solo traveling to help you stay connected while you're abroad. They're readily available for purchase before your trip or at airports.
Travel Requirements
Before you go looking for the best deals for flights, be sure to check whether or not you need a visa to enter Switzerland or any other documents for travel. As part of the European Union, a Schengen visa will be required for nationals from certain countries. You can check here for requirements that apply to you.
Transportation and How to Get Around in Zurich
Got everything you need for your trip to Zurich? Good! Our next step is figuring out what’s the best way for you and your travel troupe to move around and get from point A to point B while you’re in the city.
Airport Transfer Options
Photo credit: zuerich.com
First thing’s first – once you’ve landed at Zurich Airport, the most important thing to do to kick off your Zurich trip is to find the best possible way to get to your hotel or lodging. The two easiest and most reliable ways that you can get to your hotel with minimal stress or hassle would be through using the Zurich railway system or by chartering a private car.
The quickest way to get to your hotel from the airport would be by taking the trains or S-Bahn lines that will get you to Zurich Main Station in just 10 minutes. From the city center, you should be able to easily find the way to your hotel whether by train, tram, or cab.
Photo credit: zuerich.com
You can also take the tram from the airport if you don’t mind going slower (taking 35 minutes to get to the city center) so that you can enjoy a more scenic route.
Klook tip: The trains that run from the Zurich Airport to the city proper close at midnight and start again at 5AM. Luckily, the Zurich Airport houses Europe’s largest capsule hotel in case you need to spend the night at the airport
Too tired to try out the subway? You can also just book a private airport transfer to pick you up from the airport straight to your hotel! Just fill out your information, book your car, and enjoy the ride!
Photo credit: zuerich.com
Public Transportation
Zurich boasts one of the most efficient and reliable public transportation systems in the world, which makes it the most popular and easiest way to get around the city. As already mentioned, subways and the tram make for the fastest and cheapest way to move around Zurich.
If you want to soak in more of Zurich’s beautiful sights, then you can also commute by boat! They function a lot like the buses and trains in the area- simply book the correct ticket and enjoy Zurich from a very different perspective!
If you’re into biking, then Zurich is the city for you! Biking (along with just walking, of course) is one of the more popular and active ways to get around the city, and it makes sense! You get to appreciate the beauty of Zurich and enjoy its great atmosphere while getting some exercise in.
Hotels will often have their own bikes or will point you in the direction of a bike-renting service so that you can find your own set of wheels!
Exploring the rest of Sweden
If you want to step out of the city (maybe a quick trip to Geneva is in your itinerary), then we can’t recommend using the Swiss Travel Pass enough! You can read our quick guide to the travel pass here.
Is Switzerland just one of the stops on your epic Euro trip? Check out the other Eurail Passes that you can use to make traveling between countries easier!
Finding the Right Zurich Hotel
Photo Credit: 25hours Hotel Zurich West
A city like Zurich has so many incredible options for lodgings, so it can get pretty overwhelming to pick one. We’ve shortlisted 10 of our favorite hotels in the city so that you can come to a more informed decision for which hotel is the best one for you!
1. Ambassador Hotel Zürich
Found just a short walk away from Zurich's famous Bahnhofstrasse street, the Ambassador Hotel Zurich provides a luxury experience right in the heart of the city. Renovated in the distinguished Belle Epoque style, you'll find yourself enamored with the timeless elegance and grace of every room that you'll find yourself in.
On a work trip? They have a dedicated space called the COCOON Library Lounge where you can hold meetings for up to 12 people, giving you exclusive access to one of the most charming boardrooms in Zurich!
The Ambassador Hotel Zurich also holds yoga, qigong, and meditation sessions on their scenic rooftop terrace every Saturday from June to August where you can find your inner Zen while enjoying an incredible panoramic view of the city.
Prices start at: USD$ 443.32
Address: Falkenstrasse 6, 8008
2. Boutique Hotel Helmhaus Zurich
Photo Credit: Gallery from Helmhaus website
Looking for a more personal and friendly stay in Zurich? Hotel Helmhaus might be the accommodation for you! Named after the nearby Helmhaus museum, this boutique hotel has dedicated itself to promoting Zurich's local art and culture, along with its own worldclass service and friendly attitude.
Photo Credit: Helmhaus Hotel website
Hotel Helmhaus is conveniently located just minutes away from some of Zurich's landmarks such as Cabaret Voltaire (the birthplace of the Dada art movement), the Zurich Opera House, and Grossmünster Abbey.
Photo Credit: Helmhaus Hotel website
Choose from 24 elegant rooms designed with a warmly modern ambiance, perfect for getting a chance to truly unwind, relax, and enjoy. Each room guarantees a full bathroom with a walk-in shower or bathtub, best-quality beds, and free internet access.
Prices start at: USD$ 446.75
Address: Schifflaende 30, 8001
3. Glärnischhof by Trinity
From single travelers who only plan to stay for a short period of time to large groups or families that require a lot of space for their extended vacation, you're sure to find the best accommodation for your needs at Glärnischhof by Trinity!
Aside from offering modern-day amenities that you can expect out of any top-notch hotel, Glärnischhof by Trinity also proudly makes use of unique Air Sleeping System mattresses that they use in every room. This system ensures an ergonomic and body-compatible sleep that adapts to all different sleeping positions. You can even adjust their firmness level depending on your personal preferences or injury considerations!
Prices start at: USD$ 296.28
Address: Claridenstrasse 30, 8002
4. Glockenhof Zürich
Experience traditional Swiss hospitality that's been reinterpreted for today at Glockenhof Zürich. A leader in private hospitality and restaurant management, Glockenhof Zürich offers a must-try experience especially if you're into immersing yourself in authentic Swiss cuisine.
You'll have the option of dining at two different restaurants that offer a wide range of Swiss and international dishes. If you're visiting Zurich in the summer, you have even more of a reason to choose Glockenhof Zürich as their own garden transforms into one of the city's most beautiful and picturesque garden restaurants!
One stay here and you'll find out why their motto is "only a satisfied guest will return".
Prices start at: USD$ 628.03
Address: Sihlstrasse 31, 8001
5. 25hours Hotel Zurich West
Part of a neighborhood that was once merely an industrial spot but has now grown to become the home of many museums, clubs, and global offices, 25hours Hotel Zurich West is regarded as a welcome splash of color that the area deserved. Designed with a philosophy of change in mind, the interior design of 25hours Hotel Zurich West features a combination of many contemporary and classic elements, creating a world of expressive color and juxtaposition.
From trending restaurants to chic conference rooms and Instagram-worthy lobbies to a gift shop that offers original Swiss products along with products created by hotel designer Alfredo Häberli, you won't run out of things to fall in love with at 25hours Hotel Zurich West!
Prices start at: USD$ 175.00
Address: Pfingstweidstrasse 102, 8005
6. 25hours Hotel Zurich Langstrasse
When it comes to Switzerland hotels, there might be none that are like the 25hours Hotel Zurich Langstrasse! Inspired by the contrasting nature of the lively Langstrasse and the ultra-modern Europaallee areas, the design behind 25hours Hotel Zurich Langstrasse offers a stunning combination of art and capitalism, aesthetic and function, Bohemian and business that will surely leave a mark on anyone who visits.
The heart of the hotel is its studio on the ground floor. Designated as a workshop for local and international artists, it has been the driving force of the hotel's creative energy. Artists who take residency in this studio leave one artwork behind at the end of their stay and guests can view all of the art free of charge.
That's not all that 25hours Hotel Zurich Langstrasse has in store! It's also a functioning pawnshop where you could possibly pawn your own pieces of art, furniture, and technology among other things to pay for your stay.
Prices start at: USD$ 205.36
Address: Langstrasse 150, 8004
7. Storchen Zurich
Be immersed in Zurich's rich history when you become a guest at the Storchen Hotel! Found in the old city center of Zurich and along the romantic river Lammat, the Storchen Hotel has had a continuous history of service and hospitality for over 660 years.
Today, guests at the Storchen Hotel can enjoy the benefits of being a City & Lake Resort guest. The City & Lake Resort is an alliance of 3 luxury hotels, connected through Lake Zurich and the Limmat, that have combined their resources and connections to provide their guests the ultimate Zurich experience. Just ask the concierge at Storchen Hotel and get an inside track on memorable activities like water sports, lake boat trips, city tours, and even culinary masterclasses!
Prices start at: USD$ 911.45
Address: Weinplatz 2, 8001
8. THE FLAG Zürich
Find the ideal home base for your Zurich adventure at THE FLAG Zurich! Situated within walking distance of the Altstetten station, you'll be able to explore Zurich and have fun nights out, do fun recreational activities, and easily access the business center in the city.
Designed by a dynamic combination of local and international artists, the rooms in THE FLAG Zurich are less "stuffy hotel room" and more "your personal space and temporary apartment" where you can enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own home while still being able to experience the friendly and effective service of the hotel staff.
Prices start at: USD$ 171.31
Address: Baslerstrasse 100, 8048
9. St Gotthard Hotel
A traditional, family-owned hotel that's been in business since 1889, Hotel St. Gotthard is steeped in not only Switzerland's history but even the world's! Chosen as the meeting place between General Eisenhower and Field Marshal Montgomery back in the Second World War, today Hotel St. Gotthard is the perfect spot for history buffs and those who want to experience a more romantic and classic Zurich hotel stay.
Some nearby landmarks include the famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping area and the historic old town Bellevue Square. Hotel St. Gotthard is also conveniently located within walking distance from the city's main railway station which gives you a direct train connection to and from Zurich Airport.
Prices start at: USD$ 332.53
Address: Bahnhofstrasse 87, 8001
10. Sheraton Zurich Hotel
Enjoy a fresh and international take on the classic Switzerland hotel at Sheraton Zurich Hotel! Strategically situated within walking distance from many trendy shops, bars, and restaurants in the area, Sheraton Zurich Hotel provides world-class comfort in the lively West Zurich area.
Too tired to look for a restaurant? No need to fret, you can simply visit Sheraton Zurich Hotel's own NUOVO bar or Route 26 Steakhouse for a dining experience that you'll no doubt enjoy!
This hotel is also a great choice for business trips as they have up to 8 meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 230 people.
Prices start at: USD$ 335.22
Address: Pfingstweidstrasse 100, 8005
Things To Do in Zurich
From foodies to art lovers to adrenaline junkies to shopaholics and more, Zurich has something in store for everyone! You never know, maybe one of these last-minute additions to your itinerary could be the highlight of the whole trip.
Traverse Lake Zurich and the Limmat River
Photo Credit: zuerich.com
While it’s easy to assume that Zurich is only just a metropolitan city without much to offer when it comes to the outdoors, it will pleasantly surprise many to find out that Zurich actually has its own thriving and active water sports scene.
Photo Credit: zuerich.com
Zurich is home to a major lake (aptly named Lake Zurich), as well as to the river Limmat, making it an unexpected hub for cruise tours, boating, and other water-based sports and activities. You probably didn’t think to pack your swimsuit on your trip to Switzerland but maybe you should reconsider!
And if the Limmat River isn’t enough for you, you can easily take a day trip out of the city to explore the many breathtaking mountains, rivers, and landscapes just outside of Zurich like Mount Titlis, Jungfraujoch, and more!
Visit Zurich’s many museums
Photo credit: zuerich.com
Zurich is home to a large number of museums, all showcasing different genres and mediums of creativity and art. With the city's emphasis on art appreciation and education, it's easy to see how so many artists from Europe and all over the world flock to Zurich to learn, create, and be inspired. Here are some of our recommended museums to visit:
Kunsthaus Zürich - the largest art museum in Switzerland, this art haven features art from the old masters to contemporary pieces
Photo credit: zuerich.com
Museum Rietberg - if you'd like to see art from all over the world, you'll find it here! Be exposed to art from all over the world and enjoy pieces from Asia, Africa, America, and Oceania
Musée Visionnaire - highlighting artists who do not fit in with the "traditional" molds and definitions of artistry, Musée Visionnaire features art that will encourage people to think outside the box and adapt different perspectives
Photo credit: zuerich.com
Go on guided tours
With all that Zurich has to offer, it can get really overwhelming to decide what to do with your limited days in the city. If you don't want to miss out on the culture and history of the place, we recommend going on a guided tour!
There are many different kinds of tours available in Zurich with some of them taking place on foot, by cruise, on a bike, and so much more so the key is finding the tour that appeals the most to you. Regardless of which you actually pick, we're sure that Zurich's friendly and expert guides will provide you with a taste of Zurich that's educational and fun!
Ready to take on Zurich? Don't forget your travel essentials from flights, hotels, activities, and more - all on Klook!
