Switzerland, and particularly Zurich, is definitely not a cheap place to visit. The cost of living is higher than in many other European cities, and this naturally extends to the expenses tourists face.
If you’re planning a trip to Zurich, be prepared to spend a bit more and make sure to save up before you go. But don’t let this discourage you—just be smart and book your accommodation early.
Now, let’s dive into the 7 best areas out of the 12 districts (known as Kreis) that make up the city, along with some hotel recommendations, so you can find the perfect place to stay.
1. City Center, best area to stay in Zurich
Zurich city center is truly the beating heart of the city—vibrant, lively, and full of character. Spanning both sides of the Limmat River, it’s conveniently located just 6 km from Zurich Airport.
The center boasts stunning architecture, charming cafés and shops, historic streets, and cobblestone pathways. You’ll really feel the city’s essence as you wander through the Old Town, Altstadt, especially along its main street, Niederdorf.
From there, why not take a river cruise? It’s a wonderful way to admire the Old Town as you drift toward Lake Zurich. As night falls, the center comes alive with bustling bars and street performers, offering a taste of Zurich vibrant nightlife.
Sightseeing here is a treat—don’t miss the Fraumünster, a 9th-century church with beautiful stained glass windows, and the Grossmünster, the iconic cathedral with its twin towers, completed in 1230.
Chocolate lovers, you’re in for a real treat! The Lindt chocolate factory is located nearby, where you can take a tour and indulge in some delicious tastings.
Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s premier shopping street, is lined with luxury stores. Even if you’re just window shopping, it’s worth a stroll to soak in the atmosphere.
Staying in Zurich’s center is a fantastic choice—it’s safe, lively, and full of things to do. But be prepared; staying in such a prime location comes with a hefty price tag!
Tip: For a panoramic view of the city, hop on the UBS Polybahn, a funicular that climbs up to the Polyterrasse, a “balcony” at the university offering stunning views of Zurich from above.
Best Hotels in City Center
- (€€€) Sorell Hotel St. Peter: a 4-star hotel with breakfast, 350m from Grossmünster
- (€€) Altstadt Hotel: a 3-star hotel with breakfast and bar, close to Grossmünster
- (€€) Hotel Bristol Zurich: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 400m from Swiss National Museum
- (Hostel) Friendly Hostel Zürich: a cozy hostel 400m from Grossmünster
2. Enge, best area to stay in Zurich for families and kids
The Enge neighborhood is a green oasis, perfect if you’re looking to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Here, you’ll find locals swimming and sunbathing by the lake, or strolling along the scenic waterfront promenade.
The area is dotted with charming old villas, like the Rieterpark, the largest landscaped park in Zurich. Perched on a hilltop, it offers stunning views of the lake and the Alps—an ideal spot for a peaceful escape.
You’ll also come across Villa Schönberg, a royal residence now part of the Rietberg Museum, along with the beautiful gardens of Belvoirpark. The highlight of Enge is undoubtedly Seebad Enge, a lakeside resort with an open-air sauna and a bar on a wooden deck—perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
Enge is a very safe area, making it ideal for families with young children. Plus, it offers some great options for nightlife and entertainment.
Staying in Enge is slightly more affordable than the city center, but you should still expect to spend around €80 per night for a 3-star hotel.
Best Hotels in Enge
- (€€€) Park Hyatt Zurich – City Center Luxury: a 5-star hotel with spa, bar and breakfast, 100m from Stockerstrasse tram station
- (€€) B2 Boutique Hotel: a 4-star hotel with spa, swimming pool and breakfast, 7 minutes walk from Enge/Bederstrasse tram station
- (€) Residence Mutschellen: studios and apartments, 100m from Brunau/Mutschellenstrasse station
3. Langstrasse, best area to stay in Zurich for nightlife
Langstrasse wasn’t always the vibrant hub it is today. Once known as the red-light district, it was an area where tourists rarely ventured.
Its location is incredibly convenient, close to both the city center and Zurich Main Train Station (Zürich HB).
Nowadays, the atmosphere has transformed, and the area pulses with energy and entertainment. If you’re looking for unforgettable nights, Langstrasse is the place to be—dancing in clubs with top DJs and sipping on luxury cocktails.
The neighborhood also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants that offer exciting gastronomic experiences and plenty of vintage shops to explore. Europaallee, in particular, is a hotspot with a large venue filled with cafés and eateries catering to every taste.
Take a stroll to Kasernenareal to catch circuses, concerts, and live music performances.
In recent years, Langstrasse has become a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
Best Hotels in Langstrasse
- (€€) 25hours Hotel Langstrasse: a 4-star hotel with breakfast and bar, 1km from Swiss National Museum
- (€€) Trip Inn Zurich Hotel: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 1km from Swiss National Museum
- (€) Gasthaus zum Guten Glück: rooms with shared bathroom, 1.7km from Swiss National Museum
4. Riesbach - Seefeld, a picturesque area to stay in Zurich
Riesbach (District 8) is a picturesque residential area nestled near Lake Zurich and Zurich Opera House. It’s the perfect spot for outdoor activities, whether you’re looking to spend a few hours or an entire day.
One of the highlights of Riesbach is the Seefeld lakefront parks. As you stroll along the water, you can enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant and explore Zurich Chinese Garden (Chinagarten Zürich).
Another great walk takes you to Zurichorn Park and its outdoor cinema. Don’t miss the Pavillon Le Corbusier, an art museum showcasing modern works, architecture, and sculptures.
Since this area is mostly residential, you’ll find plenty of apartments available for rent. Of course, there are also a few hotels and hostels if that’s more your style.
Best Hotels in Riesbach-Seefeld
- (€€€) La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich: a 5-star hotel with restaurant and bar, 10 minutes walk from Bahnhofstrasse
- (€€) Hotel Seehof: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, close to Opera House
- (€) City Stay Furnished Apartments – Lindenstrasse: fully-equipped apartments, 900m from Opera House
5. Zurich West, best area to stay in Zurich on a budget
Zurich West, despite its industrial roots, has evolved into one of the city’s most trendy neighborhoods. The area is defined by its steel high-rises and railway arches, giving it a distinct urban charm.
This is Zurich cultural hub, buzzing with artistic energy and a vibrant culinary scene. Some of the city’s finest artworks are housed at the Löwenbräu complex, and the Kunsthalle Zurich is the city’s most renowned art museum.
Don’t miss the Museum of Design Zurich (Museum für Gestaltung Zürich), which offers an excellent exhibition and a delightful café!
Art lovers will find plenty to explore, with galleries like Galerie Francesca Pia and Galerie Bob van Orsouw, as well as upscale boutiques in the Viadukt for fashion enthusiasts.
Zurich West is an up-and-coming area, and its nightlife is on par with that of major European cities. It’s one of the top spots for a night out and conveniently close to Zurich’s Main Train Station.
Finding affordable accommodation in Zurich West shouldn’t be too difficult, though prices can vary depending on the season.
Best Hotels in Zurich West
- (€€€) 25hours Hotel Zürich West: a 4-star hotel with breakfast and bar, close to tram station
- (€€) ibis Zürich City West: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 100m from Technopark
- (€) Viktoria Budget Hostel: hostel with small dormitories, close to tram station
6. Wiedikon - Sihlfeld, a quiet area to stay in Zurich
Wiedikon (District 3) offers a peaceful, residential vibe on the quieter side of Zurich. But don’t let that fool you—there’s plenty of fun and entertainment to be found here.
This area includes the charming neighborhood of Sihlfeld, a true hidden gem, with the Sihl River flowing through it.
If shopping is your thing, Wiedikon is a great choice. You’ll find a massive shopping center, along with urban boutiques and vintage stores to explore.
What really makes this area stand out, though, are the outdoor and indoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking on Uetliberg Mountain to ice skating at the Sportzentrum Heuried or swimming at Freibad Heuried, there’s always something to do.
Wiedikon also shines when it comes to dining, nightlife, and accommodations. Plus, staying here tends to be a bit more affordable than in Zurich city center.
Best Hotels in Wiedikon
- (€€€) FIVE Zurich – Luxury City Resort: a 5-star hotel with breakfast, swimming pool and spa, 4.4km from Rietberg Museum
- (€€) Zurich Furnished Apartments: apartments with kitchen, 2.8km from Grossmünster
- (€) Hotel Neufeld: a 3-star hotel with breakfast, 50m from tram station
7. Zurich Airport
If you have an early morning flight or arrive late at night, staying near the airport is a smart choice—even if you plan to stay there for your entire visit.
From the airport, you can easily reach the city center thanks to the frequent train services from the airport station. Plus, you’ll have quick access to Bahnhofstrasse for some high-end shopping.
The area around Zurich Airport is primarily filled with hotels, offering reasonably priced options, as well as apartments available for rent.
Best Hotels in Zurich Airport
- (€€€) Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport Circle: a 4-star hotel with breakfast and bar, in Airport Circle
- (€€) Holiday Inn Express Zürich Airport, an IHG Hotel: a 3-star hotel with restaurant and bar, 5km from the airport
- (€) ibis budget Zurich Airport: a 2-star hotel with breakfast, 2km from the airport
