Step into Markuskirche, where time seems to pause in a dreamy medieval embrace—gothic spires pierce the sky, and stained glass bathes the nave in golden light, each ray whispering centuries-old tales. More than a place of worship, it’s a sanctuary of art and quiet magic. One photo here feels like a scene from a film—pure, soul-stirring beauty.











Everything you need to know about Markuskirche
Hotel des Bains is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Markuskirche and offering stunning views of both the church and Lake Zurich. This boutique hotel blends modern elegance with historical charm, featuring spacious rooms with panoramic windows that frame the church’s silhouette. The rooftop bar provides a unique vantage point for enjoying the illuminated church at night, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Conveniently situated within a 15-minute walk of Zurich Main Station, it offers excellent access to public transit and city attractions.
After visiting Markuskirche, stroll through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) of Zurich, where medieval alleyways lead to hidden gems like artisan workshops and independent bookshops. Don’t miss Bühler & Co., a century-old antique watchmaker’s shop offering guided tours that explain how the church’s bell chimes once regulated daily life in the city. On weekends, local markets pop up along the streets, serving traditional Swiss treats such as cheese tarts and chocolate—perfect for savoring the authentic Zurich lifestyle while soaking in centuries-old ambiance.
From Zurich Main Station, walk west along Bahnhofstrasse for about 12 minutes to reach Markuskirche—a scenic route passing historic buildings and vibrant storefronts. For public transit, take trams 14 or 15 to the "Markusplatz" stop, then walk just 2 minutes. This route connects key sights including the Kunst Museum and Bahnhofstrasse, making it ideal for travelers seeking both efficiency and urban charm. The journey takes no more than 15 minutes, perfect for light-footed exploration.
The Markuskirche itself is a prime photo location, especially during golden hour when sunlight bathes its red-brick façade in warm hues. Head to Markusplatz, the square in front of the church, where black-and-white cobblestones, fountains, and ancient trees create a serene Renaissance-style backdrop. For panoramic shots, visit Hirschenplatz nearby—the elevated viewpoint offers a striking vista combining the church, rooftops, and Lake Zurich. On weekends, street performers often appear, adding lively motion to your photos. It’s an ideal spot to capture authentic moments of Swiss urban life.
Try Café Schönenberg, a cozy café tucked away in a quiet alley, renowned for its handcrafted coffee and freshly baked pastries. Their signature almond croissant is flaky on the outside, soft inside, paired perfectly with locally sourced jams. The interior blends industrial chic with warm wood tones, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Located just a 3-minute walk from Markuskirche, it’s ideal for morning visits where you can enjoy breakfast while watching the changing light on the church’s facade. Staff often share fascinating anecdotes about the church’s history, enriching the experience with cultural insight.
Yes, Markuskirche offers excellent guided tours. The interior features well-preserved Gothic vaults and stained-glass windows showcasing medieval religious art. Tours are led by professional historians covering the church’s origins in the 12th century, its reconstruction after wartime damage, and its symbolic role in Zurich civic life. Afterward, visitors may join a bell tower climb for panoramic views across the city. Tours last about 60 minutes and are available in English, German, and Chinese. HopeGoo in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
Near Markuskirche in Zurich, Hotel Schweizerhof stands out for its historic charm and proximity—just a 2-minute walk from the church. Its elegant rooms blend classical architecture with modern comforts, and some offer panoramic views of the church's spire. The hotel features an acclaimed restaurant serving authentic Swiss cuisine and is steps away from the Limmat River and Bahnhofstrasse shopping district.
Another top choice is Mövenpick Hotel Zurich City West, located just minutes from the city center with direct access to public transit, including trains to Zurich Airport. Both hotels excel in exceptional service and central location, offering travelers seamless access to Zurich’s cultural heart and historic landmarks.
The most convenient option from Zurich Airport to hotels near Markuskirche is the Zurich Airport Express, which takes just 10 minutes to reach Zürich HB (Central Station). From there, it's a 5-minute walk to nearby hotels like Hotel Schweizerhof or Mövenpick Hotel Zurich City West.
For more flexibility, take the S-Bahn S16 line directly to Zürich Enge or Zürich Altstetten, then transfer to a local bus or walk. All routes accept the ZVV regional ticket, allowing seamless travel without extra costs. Download the official ZVV app for real-time schedules and transfers.
With Zurich’s highly integrated transit system, reaching the city center and historic districts like Markuskirche is fast, efficient, and stress-free.
Near Markuskirche, daily guided tours at 10:00 AM offer deep insights into its Gothic architecture and religious history, revealing symbolic carvings hidden within the stonework. These sessions are led by expert guides and provide a fascinating narrative of the church’s legacy.
On weekends, the area hosts antique markets and artisan craft fairs featuring local artists specializing in woodwork, ceramics, and vintage jewelry—ideal for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Music lovers should not miss the Bach organ concerts held every Wednesday evening in the church’s chapel, where the acoustics amplify the power of Baroque masterpieces. These events create a deeply immersive atmosphere of art and spirituality.
Check the Zürich Tourismus website for updated schedules to plan a rich cultural journey through history, craftsmanship, and music in this serene historic setting.
Hotels near Markuskirche are well-equipped for families. Hotel Schweizerhof offers spacious family rooms and junior suites with child-safe amenities, including toiletries, safety gates, and a dedicated play area. They also partner with Zurich Zoo to offer family packages with tickets and breakfast discounts.
Mövenpick Hotel Zurich City West features large family rooms with kitchenettes and washing machines, ideal for extended stays. On-site facilities include an indoor pool, childcare services, and complimentary cribs and high chairs.
Both hotels are located in a pedestrian-friendly zone, close to parks, libraries, and children’s museums like the Zürcher Kindermuseum, enabling parents and kids to enjoy enriching activities together. Multilingual staff ensure personalized support, making the stay comfortable and stress-free for all family members.
See what other travelers say about Markuskirche

The location is absolutely perfect—just a 5-minute walk to the main train station, which makes getting around so convenient. Right next to the station is a Coop supermarket where we picked up groceries and cooked our own meals. The apartment came with a fridge, microwave, and kettle—all very practical. I didn’t quite figure out how to use the induction cooktop, so I brought my own electric pot instead. The microwave, however, was a lifesaver—perfect for roasting sweet potatoes that turned out incredibly delicious! We arrived from the bus terminal and took a shortcut through the Marriott hotel area, which made the walk much quicker. Bonus points for the front desk staff speaking Chinese—great for communication and added peace of mind. Overall, this place offers amazing value and comfort, making it a top pick for travelers who want convenience without the hassle.

Staying at Ibis Zurich Messe Airport was a delightful surprise. I’ve heard about this place through friends and finally had the chance to experience it myself—definitely worth the visit. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and surprisingly spacious for a budget-friendly hotel. The bed was comfortable, and the quiet atmosphere made for a restful night’s sleep. Breakfast was a classic European style—simple but satisfying: fresh bread, jam, coffee, and some local sausages. Not overly elaborate, but everything was fresh and tasty. What really stood out was the location. It’s just a short walk from the airport, with excellent public transport links to downtown Zurich. The surrounding area is peaceful and scenic, offering a nice balance between convenience and tranquility. If you’re traveling through Zurich or need a reliable base near the airport, this hotel delivers great value. I’ll definitely come back.

This is our go-to hotel whenever we visit Zurich. The majority of the rooms are beautifully designed—stylish, spacious, and full of character. It's situated in a quiet area, yet just a short walk from the tram stop, making it super convenient to explore the city. The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to help with anything you need. The on-site restaurant is exceptional—great food, thoughtful presentation, and a welcoming atmosphere. Every detail feels carefully curated. We’ve stayed here multiple times and each visit has been flawless. If you're looking for a charming, well-located hotel with top-notch service and a fantastic dining experience, this place is a must-try.

Staying at Hotel Alexander Zurich Old Town was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of the old town, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk to everything: charming cafés, local shops, and the vibrant city center. The room was clean, modern, and cozy, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, even upgraded my room without hesitation. I especially appreciated the well-designed bathroom with a smart dry/wet separation and excellent cleanliness. It’s clear the hotel takes pride in its details. Perfect for travelers who want a central location without compromising on comfort or quality. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it.

I’ve stayed in many hotels around Europe, but this one truly stood out. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming—so helpful from check-in to check-out. They even offered to store my luggage before check-in and after checkout, which made exploring Zurich’s attractions so much easier without dragging heavy bags around. Every front desk team member was polite, friendly, and genuinely attentive. The room was perfectly cool with excellent air conditioning, making it ideal for a restful night’s sleep. What really made the stay special was the unique chocolate-themed design—especially the chocolate-shaped bedside tables that added such a charming, whimsical touch. It’s modern, stylish, and full of character. I felt right at home, and slept like a baby. This is definitely a place I’d recommend to friends and would absolutely return to. A perfect blend of comfort, charm, and thoughtful service.

Staying at Boutique Hotel Josef was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and immaculately clean—so much better than expected for the price. Its location couldn’t be more convenient, just a short walk from the train station, making it easy to explore Zurich without hassle. There’s also a small convenience store nearby, perfect for grabbing snacks or essentials late at night. The staff were friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Everything about this hotel felt thoughtfully designed—from the modern decor to the quiet, comfortable ambiance. If you're looking for a peaceful yet central base in Zurich, this is the place. I’ll definitely book again on my next visit.

Staying at Livingtown AG was an absolute delight! The place is beautifully clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable—right from the moment you walk in, you feel at home. The kitchen is huge and fully equipped, making it easy to cook your own meals, which was a big plus for us. It’s also super convenient—just one bus ride to the central station, taking only about 15 minutes. Public transport access is excellent, and everything is well-connected. At first, I was a bit confused by the check-in process, but once I figured out how it works, it’s actually very smooth and efficient—everything can be handled through your phone, which is great for tech-savvy travelers. Overall, this is a top-tier stay with fantastic value. If you're looking for a modern, hassle-free, and well-located base in Zurich, this place is highly recommended!

Arriving from the airport by train was super quick and convenient—just a few stops and we were at Zürich Hauptbahnhof. The hotel is literally across the street, so getting there after stepping off the train took less than a minute. Check-in is self-service: you just scan a QR code at the entrance, fill in your details, and you're in. No waiting, no hassle. Breakfast is served at a nearby property just a 1-minute walk away—clean, well-organized, and with a good variety of options. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference. Overall, the location, convenience, and smooth experience made this stay stand out. Definitely my go-to choice for future trips to Zurich.

Staying at Hotel Arlette Beim Hauptbahnhof was an absolute delight. The front desk staff were warm and professional, making check-in a breeze with no waiting. The room was spotless, beautifully clean, and the bedding was soft and comfortable—perfect for a restful night's sleep. The bathroom felt modern and well-equipped, with all the essentials provided. What truly stood out was the location: just a short walk from the train station, which made getting around Zurich incredibly convenient. Whether heading to attractions or catching a train, everything was so easy and stress-free. This hotel offers fantastic value and comfort—definitely my top pick for future visits to Zurich.

The staff was extremely unfriendly and gave zero flexibility regarding early check-in. I arrived at 1 PM, but check-in wasn't until 4 PM. Instead of allowing me to wait in the common area or offering to store my bags, they just left my luggage sitting around the facility and told me to leave and come back later. This was one of the worst hostel experiences I've ever had. The place is cheap and clean, which is a plus, but the facilities are basic and nothing is done to encourage guest interaction or socializing. It felt very impersonal and unwelcoming—definitely not worth it for the price.

Perfectly located just steps from the tram stop and a quick ride to Zurich HB—ideal for exploring the city. The apartment was clean, well-maintained, and offered a comfortable stay with all essentials. I loved the contactless check-in; it was smooth and hassle-free. The neighborhood felt safe and convenient, with everything nearby. I’d definitely book again and recommend this place to anyone visiting Zurich.

Staying at EasyHotel Zürich West was a fantastic experience. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—right next to the train station, making it super convenient for getting around Zurich and beyond. Even though there's no front desk, self-check-in was smooth and hassle-free. The room was spacious with a great TV, and the beds were incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep. I’d highly recommend requesting a higher floor during booking; the views are much more pleasant from above, offering a nice outlook over the cityscape. Overall, this place delivers excellent value for money and comfort. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a simple, efficient, and well-located stay in Zurich.
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