Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a vibrant blend of historical charm and modern sophistication. My recent trip to this beautiful city was highlighted by a stay at one of Zurich’s well-regarded hotels, which I’m excited to share with you. I’ll also introduce five more excellent hotels that, while I didn’t have the chance to experience firsthand, come highly recommended for various reasons.
My Stay at The Zurich Marriott Hotel
Location and Booking
During my visit to Zurich, I stayed at The Zurich Marriott Hotel, which is conveniently located in the heart of the city. Situated at 360 Absolute Avenue, this hotel boasts an ideal location near Zurich’s central business district and a short walk from major attractions like Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets.
Booking was a breeze through the hotel’s official website. The site is user-friendly, providing clear information on room types, rates, and available dates. I opted for a deluxe room with a city view, which was available at a competitive rate for Zurich standards. The booking process was straightforward, and I received a confirmation email immediately, along with details about check-in procedures and amenities.
How to Arrive
Arriving at The Zurich Marriott Hotel was simple thanks to its prime location. From Zurich Airport, I took a direct train to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich HB), the city’s main train station. The journey took about 10 minutes, and from there, it was just a short 15-minute walk to the hotel. The route was well-signposted and safe, making the walk pleasant and straightforward.
For those who prefer not to walk, taxis are readily available outside the train station, or you can take tram number 6 or 10, which stops nearby. The hotel also offers airport shuttle services for a fee, which can be arranged in advance.
Environment and Facilities
Upon arrival, I was immediately impressed by the hotel’s modern and elegant exterior. The lobby was spacious and welcoming, adorned with contemporary art and comfortable seating areas. The check-in process was efficient and friendly, with the staff offering a warm welcome and providing detailed information about the hotel’s amenities.
The Zurich Marriott Hotel features a range of facilities designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. The well-equipped fitness center was a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the city. I also enjoyed the hotel’s on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of Swiss and international dishes. The highlight for me was the breakfast buffet, which offered an extensive selection of fresh and delicious options, including local cheeses, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee.
My room was spacious and impeccably clean, featuring modern furnishings and large windows that provided a lovely view of the city. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the room was equipped with all the amenities one could need, including a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a well-stocked coffee station. The bathroom was equally impressive, with a large walk-in shower and high-quality toiletries.
One of the standout features of my stay was the hotel’s free Wi-Fi, which was fast and reliable, allowing me to stay connected with ease. The hotel’s concierge service was also helpful in providing recommendations and assisting with reservations for local attractions and dining options.
My Rating
Overall, my experience at The Zurich Marriott Hotel was excellent. The combination of its central location, top-notch facilities, and attentive service made it a memorable stay. I would rate this hotel 4.5 out of 5 stars. The only minor drawback was the slightly higher cost compared to other hotels in the area, but the quality and convenience made it worth the price.
Recommended Hotels in Zurich
While I had a fantastic stay at The Zurich Marriott Hotel, Zurich offers a range of other excellent hotels. Here are five highly recommended options that cater to different preferences and budgets:
1. Hotel Glockenhof Zurich
Hotel Glockenhof Zurich is a charming boutique hotel located at 17 Glockenhofstrasse, just a short stroll from Bahnhofstrasse and Lake Zurich. This 4-star hotel combines modern comfort with traditional Swiss hospitality.
Location and Accessibility: Situated in a prime location, the hotel is within walking distance of key attractions and shopping areas. It is easily accessible by public transport, with several tram stops nearby.
Facilities: The hotel features elegantly designed rooms with contemporary furnishings and luxurious amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of services, including a gourmet restaurant serving Swiss and international cuisine, a bar, and well-equipped meeting rooms. The garden terrace provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Experience: Guests have praised the hotel for its warm and attentive service, as well as its excellent location. The on-site restaurant is particularly noted for its high-quality food and pleasant ambiance.
2. Baur Au Lac
Baur Au Lac is a historic luxury hotel located at 8 Talstrasse, offering stunning views of Lake Zurich and the Alps. This 5-star hotel is renowned for its elegance and exceptional service.
Location and Accessibility: Positioned on the shores of Lake Zurich, the hotel is within walking distance of the city center and major attractions. The location is ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
Facilities: Baur Au Lac features opulent rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants. The hotel’s extensive gardens and terraces provide a serene setting for relaxation.
Experience: Guests appreciate the hotel’s timeless luxury and attentive service. The restaurant and bar are highly regarded for their fine dining experiences, and the overall ambiance of the hotel is described as sophisticated and welcoming.
3. 25hours Hotel Zurich West
Located at Pfingstweidstrasse 102, 25hours Hotel Zurich West offers a modern and quirky stay in the vibrant Zurich West district. This 4-star hotel is known for its unique design and lively atmosphere.
Location and Accessibility: The hotel is situated in a trendy area with plenty of dining and entertainment options. It is well-connected by public transport, with tram and bus stops nearby.
Facilities: The hotel boasts colorful and eclectic rooms, a rooftop bar with panoramic city views, a trendy restaurant, and a wellness area with a sauna. The design and decor reflect the hotel’s playful and artistic character.
Experience: Guests enjoy the hotel’s distinctive style and energetic vibe. The rooftop bar and restaurant are popular highlights, offering a lively atmosphere and stunning views of Zurich.
4. Hotel St. Gotthard
Hotel St. Gotthard, located at 87 Bahnhofstrasse, is a classic 4-star hotel situated on Zurich’s premier shopping street. This hotel combines traditional Swiss hospitality with modern amenities.
Location and Accessibility: The hotel’s central location makes it a convenient choice for exploring Zurich’s shopping and cultural attractions. It is easily accessible by tram and train.
Facilities: The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms, a stylish restaurant, and a bar. The central location also means that guests are close to a variety of dining and shopping options.
Experience: Guests appreciate the hotel’s prime location and comfortable accommodations. The restaurant and bar offer a pleasant dining experience, and the staff is known for their friendly and helpful service.
5. Hotel Widder
Hotel Widder is a boutique hotel located at 6 Widdergasse, in the heart of Zurich’s Old Town. This 5-star hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
Location and Accessibility: Situated in Zurich’s historic center, the hotel is within walking distance of major attractions, including the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches. It is also well-connected by public transport.
Facilities: Hotel Widder features individually designed rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant, and a stylish bar. The hotel’s unique architecture and decor reflect its rich history and heritage.
Experience: Guests rave about the hotel’s distinctive design and luxurious accommodations. The restaurant is highly recommended for its exquisite cuisine, and the overall ambiance is described as elegant and refined.
Zurich is a city that offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxury stays at iconic hotels like Baur Au Lac to quirky and modern options such as 25hours Hotel Zurich West, there’s something for everyone in this captivating city. My experience at The Zurich Marriott Hotel was a memorable one, marked by its excellent location, top-notch facilities, and outstanding service.
Whether you’re visiting Zurich for business, leisure, or a bit of both, these hotels provide excellent options for making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.
