Some of best areas to stay in Zurich are Altstadt and Enge. Let’s learn why tourists and residents prefer these neighborhoods of Zurich.

The best areas to stay in Zurich will be analyzed in this post, including the Old Town (Altstadt) and the rather calm Enge district. It also features a cost of travel analysis of the wealthiest city of Switzerland.

Even if Zurich is not the capital of Switzerland, it is the biggest city of Switzerland and also the financial center of this alpine country famous for its financial industry and also by its unique watchmaking tradition, fine chocolates and cheese.

The biggest airport in Switzerland is located in Kloten, and serves the Zurich urban agglomeration. Considering the fact that most tourists arriving in Switzerland by air tend to arrive via Zurich, it contributes a lot to the fact that Zurich is most visited city in this alpine country.

Zurich is also home to several international organizations, such as FIFA and the International Hockey Association. It also attracts companies like Google which has its biggest hub outside the US in the city. This highly international profile acquired by the city made of Zurich to be one of the most dynamic, but also one of the most expensive cities to visit in the world.

Choosing the best areas to stay in Zurich

Zurich is divided by the Limmat River which then flows into the Lake Zurich (Zurichsee). The city has a lot of interesting places, and the best area to stay in Zurich will also depend on your travel purposes.

The Altstadt (Kreis 1) area, which means old town translated to German is known as district one and will be more appealing to you if you like architecture, picturesque restaurants and centennial hotels.

Best Places to Stay in Zurich

Zurich – Altstadt

The old town (Altstadt) of Zurich is probably the best place to stay in Zurich if you are coming to this Swiss city for a short visit. Zurich currently has 12 districts and the District 1 (Altstadt) is centrally located has the highest number of accommodation offers in Zurich.

Zurich Altstadt is also the perfect area to stay if you are traveling to Zurich by train. The Zurich Main Station (Zürich Hauptbahnhof) is located in the District 1 (Kreis 1) and at a walking distance to all attractions of the city’s old town.

Budget Accommodation in Zurich Alstadt – €

Hotel Bristol Zurich – This great budget option is located 5 minutes from the Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Main Railway Station). It is a great option to enjoy the old town and also if you have an early train the next morning.

Hotel Arlette Beim Hauptbahnhof – This hotel is even closer to the main railway station. You will be in the very heart of Zurich meters away from the Limmat river.

Reasonably Priced Accommodation in Zurich Altstadt – €€

Sorell Hotel Rütli – A great accommodation option, located at a walking distance to the ETH University. This mid-sized property is ideal to enjoy all the aspects of the old town without worrying about transportation.

Hotel Kindli – Another great option in the old town of Zurich. This charming hotel allows its guests to enjoy the old town in Zurich to the fullest.

Luxurious Hotels in Zurich Altstadt – €€€

Hotel Storchen – With hundreds of years of hospitality tradition, the Hotel Storchen is one of the best options in the Swiss’ financial capital old town.

Baur au Lac – Another sumptuous accommodation option at the heart of Zurich. It features two restaurants and unique views to the Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps.

Zurich – Enge

The Enge quarter is an appealing quarter in the District 2 (Kreis 2) of Zurich. It is famous by its promenade on the shores of the Lake Zurich, and prehistorical sites, its jewish heritage as well as its various options of entertainment on its nightlife.

Budget Accommodation to stay in Zurich Enge – €

Youth Hostel Zurich – Possibly the one of the most affordable accommodation options to stay in Zurich, the Youth Hostel is a great option for backpackers.

Reasonably Priced Accommodation in Zurich Enge – €€

B2 Boutique Hotel + Spa – Located at a walking distance to the Zurich Enge station, this hotel is a great option to relax and enjoy one of the best areas to stay Zurich.

Luxurious Hotels in Zurich Enge – €€€

Alden Suite Hotel Splügenschloss Zurich – Enjoy the luxury of this property located between the old town and the Enge quarter.

The Old Town (Altstadt) and Enge, together with Seefeld, are some of the best areas to stay in Zurich.

Cost of Travel in Zurich

Switzerland is known for being one of the most expensive countries to travel in the world and Zurich is no exception. Expect to pay more than in other Western European countries for accommodation, transport and eating out.

Despite being pricy, you can also count on high quality of services, as the competition in the country is pretty high. The high salaries in Switzerland attract a huge influx of foreigners, from Europe and beyond. Switzerland and Zurich have some of the highest percent of foreign born population in Europe.

Best Months to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland has a temperate climate, with four well defined seasons. While winters can be harsh at times, summers have a few days of soaring heat. However, Zurich has plenty of attractions year round, not only in the city itself, but also in its surroundings.

Coming to Switzerland? Check also our page on where to stay in Geneva.