Where to stay in Zurich: which area to choose?

In short: for a first visit, stay in the old town (Niederdorf) or near the main station, ideal for train day trips. For bars and a creative vibe, Zurich West and Langstrasse; for peace by the lake, Seefeld. The city is compact and very well connected: trams, buses, trains and boats all run on the same ticket.

Zurich in two minutes

The Limmat river runs through the city into Lake Zurich. The old town spreads along both banks, with the Niederdorf on the east side. The main station is north of the centre, at the end of Bahnhofstrasse. To the west, Zurich West, a former industrial district; to the south-east, Seefeld, by the lake.

The right area for your trip

First visit and evenings out: the old town (Niederdorf)

Medieval lanes, the Grossmünster and the Fraumünster, restaurants and bars on both sides of the Limmat. Everything is within walking distance.

Train day trips: around the main station

The most practical choice for a short stay or for touring Switzerland by train: the airport is minutes away, the old town and Bahnhofstrasse are on foot, and the Swiss National Museum is next door.

Creative vibe: Zurich West and Langstrasse

Converted industrial sites, shops under the Viadukt arches, bars and restaurants. Ideal for solo travellers or nights out; Langstrasse is very lively after dark.

Peace and the lake: Seefeld

An elegant, quiet area by the lake, with promenades and swimming in summer. Perfect for couples, a few minutes from the centre by tram.

Getting to Zurich

Trains link the airport to the main station in 10 to 13 minutes, several times an hour. From Paris, the TGV Lyria reaches Zurich in about 4 hours.

Our booking tips

1. Stay near a tram stop or the station: you will get everywhere easily.
2. Compare dates: some trade fairs and big events drive up demand.
3. Do the maths on passes: the ZürichCARD (transport and museum discounts) or a Swiss travel pass can pay off if you move around a lot.
4. Think about plugs: Switzerland has its own sockets, so bring an adapter.
5. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you are there

Wander the old town, see the Chagall windows at the Fraumünster, take a boat trip on the lake and ride up to the Uetliberg for the view. All our ideas in Things to do in Zurich, and our tips for the country in Travel in Switzerland. Useful services are on our Zurich page.