Zurich is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Switzerland. Period. The city’s got its own unique charm that rubs off on almost every traveller.

If you plan to visit anytime soon, booking an accommodation in Zurich is a must. But which area do you choose to shack up in? That’s the million-dollar question indeed! Of course, factors like your preferences, proximity to your chosen attractions, and transportation/connectivity also come into play. 

Best Places to Stay in Zurich: Top Areas and Neighborhoods

Let’s take a look at some of the best places to stay in Zurich that are suited to almost every type of traveller. 

Altstadt (Old Town) – Best for First-Time Visitors & History Lovers

Why Stay Here?

Altstadt is one of the best places to stay in Zurich, especially for first-time visitors. It’s packed with history, charming streets, and top attractions, offering an authentic Zurich experience.

Highlights of Altstadt

• Iconic Landmarks:
  • Bahnhofstrasse: A famous shopping street with 19th-century buildings and the Rebekka-Brunnen Fountain.
  • Grossmünster Church: A historic Protestant church believed to be founded by Charlemagne.
  • Fraumünster: A former convent known for its stunning Marc Chagall stained-glass windows.
  • Peterskirche: Home to the largest clock face in Europe.
• Cultural & Historical Attractions:
  • Limmatquai: A lively shopping and dining hub with Baroque-style buildings.
  • Swiss National Museum & Kunsthaus: Must-visit museums showcasing Swiss art and history.
  • Guild Houses & Bridges: Renaissance-era structures reflecting Zurich’s rich past.
• Dining & Shopping:
  • Numerous boutiques, bars, cafés, and restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
• Breathtaking Views:
  • Lindenhof Viewpoint: Enjoy stunning cityscapes from this peaceful hilltop spot.

Accommodation Options

Altstadt offers a variety of places to stay, including luxury hotels and serviced apartments, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay in Zurich.

Bahnhofstrasse – Best for Luxury Travelers & Shopping

Why Stay Here?

Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s most exclusive shopping street, making it the ideal place to stay for luxury travelers. It also offers convenient access to corporate hubs, top hotels, and serviced apartments.

Highlights of Bahnhofstrasse

•  World-Class Shopping:
  • Home to high-end boutiques from brands like Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Burberry.
  • Several Swiss specialty brands offer premium watches, chocolates, and fashion.
  • Department stores and luxury retail outlets spread across a 1.4 km stretch.
• Business & Financial Hub:
  • The Paradeplatz square is a key financial district housing major Swiss banks and institutions.
  • Proximity to corporate offices and business centers, making it perfect for business travelers.
• Dining & Leisure:
  • Numerous cafés and fine-dining restaurants along the street.
  • Galleries and public sculptures add an artistic touch to the district.
• Prime Location & Connectivity:
  • Easy access to Lake Zurich for a relaxing stroll.
  • Close to Zurich’s main train station, ensuring seamless travel across the city.

Accommodation Options

Bahnhofstrasse features luxury hotels and serviced apartments, providing a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of Zurich.

Zurich West – Best for Trendy Travelers & Nightlife Seekers

Why Stay Here?

Zurich West is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking vibrant nightlife, artsy vibes, and creative spaces. Once an industrial district, it has transformed into a trendy hotspot with unique attractions, bars, and cultural venues.

Highlights of Zurich West

• Hip & Lively Atmosphere:
  • Converted industrial buildings now house boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.
  • A hub for artists, designers, and creative minds.
• Nightlife & Entertainment:
  • Numerous trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  • Frau Gerolds Garten is a cool outdoor spot with eateries, bars, and relaxing green spaces.
• Cultural Landmarks:
  • The Freitag Tower is a unique shipping container structure housing a concept store.
  • The Prime Tower is Zurich’s tallest skyscraper at 126 meters.
  • Museums like the Kunsthalle Zurich in the Lowenbrau-Areal complex.

Accommodation Options

A mix of stylish hotels and serviced apartments perfect for travelers who love modern design and nightlife.

Seefeld – Best for Relaxation & Lakeside Views

Why Stay Here?

Seefeld offers serene lakeside views, green spaces, and a relaxed ambiance, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Highlights of Seefeld

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting:
  • Lake Zurich’s scenic waterfront is ideal for strolling, picnicking, or boat rides.
  • Seefeld Park and other green spaces are perfect for unwinding.
• Charming Local Vibe:
  • A welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong community feel.
  • Numerous restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops offer a laid-back experience.
• Convenient Location:
  • Close to Old Town and Zurich’s city center for easy exploration.
  • Nearby cultural attractions include the Swiss National Museum.

Accommodation Options

Plenty of serviced apartments with lake views and boutique hotels offering a tranquil stay.

Langstrasse – Best for Budget Travelers & Nightlife

Why Stay Here?

Langstrasse is Zurich’s budget-friendly hub, packed with affordable accommodation, buzzing nightlife, and a diverse cultural scene. Once a red-light district, it has evolved into a cosmopolitan hotspot known for its energy, diversity, and unique attractions.

Highlights of Langstrasse

• Budget-Friendly Stays:
  • Numerous affordable serviced apartments and hostels, ideal for travelers on a budget.
• Dynamic Nightlife & Food Scene:
  • A variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  • Authentic Swiss cuisine and international food options at local restaurants.
• Eclectic & Cultural Attractions:
  • Home to fashion studios, art galleries, and 24-hour shops.
  • Kriminalmuseum, Switzerland’s first crime museum, offers an intriguing glimpse into the country’s law enforcement history.
• Urban Green Spaces:
  • Several parks and green areas for relaxation away from the city’s hustle.

Accommodation Options

Budget-friendly serviced apartments, hostels, and guesthouses with easy access to Zurich’s main attractions.

Best Neighborhood to Stay in Zurich for Different Travelers

So, where to stay in Zurich, Switzerland? Here are some recommendations based on the traveler type, requirements, and so on. 

Best Place to Stay in Zurich for One Night

The best place to stay in Zurich for one night is ideally somewhere which is near the main train station and Zurich airport to help you make the most of layovers or even access these transit points quickly on business trips. Some recommendations include: 

• Old Town (very well connected to almost everywhere)
• Bahnhof (near the train station) 
• Langstrasse (central location)
• Kloten, Rumlang, Winkel, Oberglatt, or Opfikon (near the airport) 

Where to Stay in Zurich for First-Time Visitors

If you’re wondering where to stay in Zurich for the first time, the following areas are top recommendations: 

• Old Town- First-timers should stay here since it’s got all the main historical sites, medieval landmarks, and plenty of other attractions. You’ll find the Town Hall, Opera House, St. Peter’s Church, Grossmunster, and many other sights here, along with accommodation options for every budget and plenty of restaurants. 
• District 2- This is a family-friendly green area; you’ll like the FIFA World Football Museum and botanical gardens here. It’s easy to get around due to the transportation network, and you can easily access the Old Town and all its landmarks here while enjoying proximity to Lake Zurich as well. 

Concluding Notes

As you can see, there are plenty of places to stay in Zurich on your next trip. Of course, if you’re a first-timer, then it makes sense to stay in the Old Town, where most of the historical and cultural landmarks are present.If you’re here on business and want connectivity and cutting-edge recreation, then Zurich West or Bahnhofstrasse work best.

The latter is also ideal for shopping lovers, while Langstrasse is for nightlife lovers and budget travelers. Seefeld is also ideal if you’re into a more peaceful vibe. There are thus options suited to almost every budget and preference here in Zurich. 

So, without further ado, check out the best serviced apartments in Zurich at reasonable rates in advance to avoid the last-minute rush. They are great accommodation choices since they offer more space, privacy, and home-like comfort than regular hotels. At the same time, they’re more affordable for extended stays, come with great amenities, and have flexible short/long-term leases.