Rieterpark is more than a park—it’s Zurich’s green heartbeat. Wander through centuries-old trees, past whispering fountains and playful ducks, and let the rhythm of nature slow your pace. Ideal for picnics, strolls, or reading under the shade, this lush oasis feels like stepping into a Swiss fairytale.








Everything you need to know about Rieterpark
Hotel Zürich is a top choice just a 5-minute walk from Rieterpark, offering modern rooms with panoramic views of the park’s lush greenery. The hotel provides free parking and airport transfers, ensuring convenient access. Nearby attractions like Lake Zurich's walking trails and the Zurich Museum of Art are within a 10-minute drive, perfect for day trips. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s summer open-air concerts for a taste of local culture.
For a quieter retreat, consider Parkhotel Zurich, a boutique hotel blending nature and design. It features an indoor pool, eco-friendly gardens, and a serene atmosphere—ideal for families or couples seeking relaxation.
The most convenient option is taking Zurich’s U-Bahn Line 1 from downtown to the "Rieterpark" station, a 12-minute ride with frequent departures. The station is directly outside the park entrance, just a 3-minute walk away. Alternatively, Bus Line 79 serves the area, ideal for travelers coming from eastern or suburban zones. For a scenic and active journey, rent an electric bike through SUISSPASS at various city hubs and cycle along the Lake Zurich waterfront to reach the park—offering beautiful views and a healthy adventure.
Must-try experiences at Rieterpark include its unique botanical garden and historic sculpture exhibition, featuring over 600 rare plant species and a 19th-century European sculpture promenade blending nature and art. Seasonal events like the Spring Tulip Festival and Autumn Chrysanthemum Exhibition draw photography enthusiasts. The open-air theater hosts summer outdoor performances and concerts—check schedules in advance. Strolling along the artificial lake path early in the morning offers peaceful moments with wild ducks and waterfowl. Some areas also feature interactive children’s discovery zones, making it ideal for family visits.
Yes, both Hotel Zürich and Parkhotel Zurich provide complimentary continental breakfast including fresh bread, jams, coffee, and juice. Some room types offer upgrades to a full buffet breakfast with ham, cheese, and hot dishes. Breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM in the ground-floor dining area, which features spacious seating and park views. Special dietary requests (gluten-free, vegetarian) can be accommodated upon prior notice. Both hotels also offer 24-hour room service for late-night snacks or light meals.
Yes, Rieterpark features a dedicated children’s discovery zone with climbing structures, sand pits, and nature trail markers promoting ecological learning. Multiple gentle slopes are stroller- and bike-friendly, ideal for parents accompanying young kids. Weekly family workshops on Saturdays include hands-on activities like botanical specimen crafting and nature sketching, led by trained guides. Just a 10-minute walk away, Zoo Zurich offers additional entertainment. The park also has picnic areas with shaded pavilions, perfect for family gatherings or school outings.
Hotel des Bains is an excellent choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Rieterpark and overlooking Lake Zurich. The hotel features spacious family rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and modern Swiss-inspired interiors that blend seamlessly with nature. Many rooms offer views of the park’s lush greenery and shimmering lake. The park itself hosts children’s playgrounds, walking paths along the lake, and summer open-air concerts—perfect for family outings. Public transport is convenient: trams 10 or 12 from Zurich HB take only 15 minutes to reach the park, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and accessibility.
Hotel Storchen Zurich stands out for its prime location just west of Rieterpark, offering a 15-minute walk to downtown Zurich. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, 24-hour concierge service, and a direct shuttle bus to Zurich HB station. Its central position allows guests to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park while easily accessing major shopping districts, museums, and cultural attractions. Additionally, the hotel houses a fine-dining restaurant specializing in seasonal Swiss cuisine made with local ingredients—ideal for authentic culinary experiences.
Visitors to Rieterpark can enjoy a range of unique outdoor experiences: spring brings cherry blossom guided tours, summer features lakeside picnics and open-air cinema nights, autumn offers walks through golden maple groves, and winter includes ice skating sessions at designated areas. The park also hosts a children’s nature discovery center with ecological tours and hands-on workshops, perfect for family engagement. Scenic trails along the lake are popular for jogging and cycling, offering panoramic views of Zurich’s skyline and the winding Limmat River, blending recreation with breathtaking scenery.
Guests staying near Rieterpark can take tram lines 10 or 12 to Museumstrasse Station, a 5-minute walk from the Kunst Museum Zurich—a journey of just 12 minutes. For those preferring to walk, follow the scenic Limmat River promenade, passing through Bahnhofstrasse, which takes about 25 minutes and offers views of historic architecture and river landscapes. This route combines culture and nature. Opt for hotels close to tram stops, such as Hotel des Bains, to maximize convenience and flexibility in your travel plans.
Yes, Rieterpark boasts several hidden gems for photographers: the historic fountain sculpture area, especially stunning during early morning light; the oak tree path in the northeast corner, ideal for forest ambiance shots; and the low stone steps by the lake, perfect for reflections and natural lighting. During spring’s garden exhibition season, themed flower beds and illuminated installations create exceptional opportunities for floral and night photography. Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and optimal lighting conditions to capture truly magical moments.
Yes, many hotels near Rieterpark provide bicycle rental services, including Hotel des Bains and Hotel Storchen Zurich, which feature dedicated rental counters offering electric bikes and child safety seats. Rental rates range from CHF 10 to 15 per hour, with daily discounts available. After renting, guests can ride along the Limmat River cycle path all the way to Lake Zurich, passing landmarks like Zürich Castle Hill and Bretziger Bridge—a perfect way to experience urban and natural harmony. Some hotels also supply maps and safety guides, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey.
See what other travelers say about Rieterpark

Staying at Alma Hotel felt like coming home, even though I was far from it. From the moment I walked in, the warmth and thoughtfulness of the space were immediately apparent—the reception area is cozy with inviting nooks perfect for sipping tea or coffee, which are kindly included as part of the welcome. My room was spacious, comfortable, and impeccably clean, with a bathroom that felt luxurious and well-maintained. The rooftop terrace is a real highlight—perfect for relaxing with a drink while enjoying views of Zurich’s skyline. I also appreciated the guest kitchen, which made self-catering easy and convenient. What truly sets this place apart is the wellness area exclusively for women—peaceful, private, and thoughtfully designed. The staff, all women, were consistently kind, attentive, and genuinely invested in ensuring a memorable stay. They went out of their way to make each guest feel seen and valued. A couple of small notes: there’s no air conditioning, so guests looking for cooling should plan accordingly, and while the rooms are quiet overall, some internal sounds (like footsteps from upstairs) can be noticeable. But these minor points don’t take away from the overall experience. Alma isn’t just a hotel—it’s a sanctuary. If you’re seeking a peaceful, welcoming, and beautifully curated retreat in Zurich, this is the place.

Staying at Josephine's Guesthouse was an absolute delight—especially as a women-only space, which made me feel incredibly safe and comfortable. The room was spacious with two windows that let in plenty of natural light, and despite some street noise, they kindly provided earplugs, which worked perfectly. The beds—one large, one slightly smaller—were both super comfy, and the two radiators kept the room warm and cozy throughout the night. I slept like a baby! The cleanliness was outstanding—every corner felt spotless, no complaints at all. Located just steps away from the train station, it’s ideal for overnight stays or quick transfers. There are also tons of great restaurants nearby, so dinner options were never a problem. One quirky detail: the elevator requires you to open the door manually—something I’d never seen before, but honestly, it added a bit of charm. Check-in and check-out weren’t staffed on Saturday, so we had to figure things out ourselves. While the check-out instructions weren’t clearly mentioned in the email, I found them posted inside the elevator—just drop your key into the white mailbox on the right side of the first floor. It was a little tricky at first, but everything worked smoothly. Overall, this place offers excellent value, safety, and comfort. Highly recommend for solo female travelers looking for a peaceful, well-located stay in Zurich!

Staying at this luxury apartment in the heart of Zurich was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—just steps away from public transit, shopping streets, and local cafes. Everything I needed for a short trip was right there in the apartment, from kitchen essentials to cozy bedding. It was quite hot during my visit (35°C), so I would’ve appreciated a fan, but the management team quickly helped improve airflow and ensured a comfortable night’s sleep. Their responsiveness and warm hospitality made all the difference. This place feels like home—spacious, stylish, and thoughtfully designed. Highly recommend for travelers who value convenience, comfort, and a personal touch.

This family-friendly hotel in a safe, modern neighborhood is absolutely fantastic. Just a few minutes by S-Bahn from the main train station—right in the heart of Zurich—and only a short ride away from the Sihlcity shopping center. The location makes exploring the city so convenient. The family rooms are spacious, clean, and stylishly modern, perfect for travelers with kids. Our children still talk about the pancake machine at breakfast—it was like magic! The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to help. This place offers unbeatable value and a truly welcoming atmosphere. A top pick for families visiting Zurich.

The apartment was absolutely fantastic—spacious, clean, and well-designed with a modern touch. Located just minutes from the city center, it's incredibly convenient for exploring Zurich by public transit. The contactless check-in was a huge plus, making our arrival stress-free and efficient. While we appreciated the privacy and independence, we did notice that housekeeping wasn’t scheduled during longer stays, so we had to manage cleaning duties ourselves. That said, the overall experience was outstanding—great value, excellent location, and a comfortable home away from home. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend this place to travelers who prefer self-sufficient stays.

Our experience at Viadukt Apartments was extremely disappointing. We had trouble picking up the key upon arrival and called the emergency number listed. The manager answered, we explained our situation, but she hung up on us multiple times and insisted on communicating via message. After sending our booking details, she finally replied with a code—but it didn’t work. We tried calling back, but got no response. Then, out of nowhere, she stormed in angrily without saying hello. She entered the code she’d sent us, only to discover it still didn’t work—turns out she’d made a typo in one digit, yet offered not even a single apology. Unbelievable for a hospitality setting. The entire interaction was rude and unprofessional. Honestly, I’ve never encountered such poor service in my travels. The only redeeming factor is the convenient location—easy access to Letzigrund—but that’s really all there is to say.

The rooms at this hostel are spacious and comfortable, though it did get a bit warm during my stay. The location is absolutely perfect—just steps away from the city center with countless attractions within walking distance. I’d definitely stay here again. The lockers are generously sized, making storage easy and secure. While there seem to be only a few bathrooms and showers, I never had to wait—everything ran smoothly throughout my visit. My only suggestion would be adding another fan to improve airflow, but honestly, that’s not enough to take away from the excellent experience. Overall, a fantastic value for money and highly recommended.

Staying at Stay2Night City Center Hostel in Zurich was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center and minutes away from the subway, making it super easy to explore everything. What truly stood out was the owner—so friendly, welcoming, and genuinely helpful with any questions or recommendations. The dorm room was clean, well-maintained, and came with great amenities: a fully functional kitchen, two separate lockers for personal belongings, and even a refrigerator—perfect for storing snacks or drinks. I appreciated the thoughtfulness behind these little touches. The vibe among guests was relaxed and friendly, creating a cozy, homey atmosphere. For such a central location and the quality of service, the value for money is outstanding. I’d happily come back and highly recommend this hostel to anyone visiting Zurich.

Staying at the Cosmopolitan Apartments Zürich Seefeld was an absolute highlight of my trip to Zurich. Nestled in a quiet residential area near the lake, it’s surprisingly close to the city center—just a short walk or quick transit ride away. The neighborhood feels peaceful and safe, yet everything I needed was within easy reach: a Migros supermarket and a Coop grocery store just a few minutes’ walk. The studio is around 30 square meters—compact but thoughtfully designed. It includes a comfortable bed, a small dining table, a cozy sofa with coffee table, a TV, a well-equipped kitchenette, and a modern bathroom with shower. What stood out? The little touches: Nespresso capsules waiting upon arrival, a bottle of mineral water in the fridge, and tasteful, minimalist decor that made the space feel both welcoming and stylish. Check-in is completely self-service via code—no front desk hassle—and the hosts regularly check in to see how you’re doing. It’s perfect for solo travelers who value independence but still want attentive care. I’d book here again in a heartbeat.

The location is excellent—just a short walk from the city center and well-connected by public transit. The apartment itself has plenty of space, which was a plus. However, the overall experience was disappointing. The furnishings are extremely low quality—some cabinet doors were missing, and it felt like a student dorm with all IKEA furniture. Basic supplies like soap and shampoo were barely enough. We had to pay upfront, and communication was mostly via email, which made things difficult since the key was left in a 'secret' spot with no clear instructions. To make matters worse, we were told at checkout that we needed to vacuum and clean the entire place thoroughly—so we even filmed ourselves doing it, just in case they tried to charge us later. This is exactly what some reviews warned about: unexpected fees after check-out. While the location is great, the poor quality, lack of service, and unnecessary hassle aren’t worth it. Definitely not staying here again.

Staying at Lamira - Serviced Apartments in Zurich was an absolute highlight of my trip. The apartment itself is incredibly well-designed and offers excellent value for money—definitely one of the best deals I’ve found. The room is spacious and clean, though the bed is a bit soft and slightly shorter than expected; two women were comfortable, but it might feel tight for taller guests. What really stands out is the fully equipped kitchen with a built-in oven—perfect for preparing meals from groceries picked up at the nearby supermarket. I cooked several dinners during my stay, which saved me a lot of money and gave me a real homey feel. The bathroom is large and modern, and there’s a washer and dryer on-site, which made laundry stress-free. My unit even had a private balcony where I enjoyed morning coffee while watching the city come alive. The location is unbeatable—just a 500-meter walk left from the building to the train station, making travel around Zurich effortless. With great amenities, top-tier convenience, and a cozy atmosphere, this place is perfect for both short stays and longer visits. Highly recommended!

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.
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