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Hop on a riverboat cruise and glide across Lake Zurich, where snow-capped mountains mirror the city skyline in a dreamy, ever-shifting canvas—breezes whispering through your hair, time slowing down. You’re not just visiting Switzerland; you’re living its soul.
Everything you need to know about Riverboats
Hotel des Bains is a top choice for riverboat enthusiasts, located just a 5-minute walk from the lake dock. Its lake-view rooms and private pier offer uninterrupted views of passing riverboats, especially magical at sunrise. The hotel blends Swiss craftsmanship with modern design, plus offers complimentary bicycles to explore the scenic lakeside trails.
For luxury options, consider Baur au Lac or The Dolder Grand, both within easy reach of riverboat routes and providing exclusive shuttle services to and from downtown. For a unique experience, try the Floating Hotel Zurich, an innovative floating boutique hotel with panoramic glass domes offering 360-degree lake views. At night, the twinkling lights of riverboats create a dreamlike ambiance.
Public transport is highly convenient: Zurich’s S-Bahn lines 1 and 2 stop at "Lake Zurich" station, just 15 minutes from the city center. Multiple riverboat lines dock here, making access seamless for travelers seeking both comfort and scenic charm.
The most convenient option is taking the S-Bahn lines 1 or 2, which stop at "Lake Zurich" station—just a 15-minute ride from the city center. The station is directly adjacent to the riverboat docks, with a short walk to the boarding area.
Alternatively, Zürichsee-Schifffahrt operates electric-powered boats with frequent departures and clear timetables. Their routes include scenic circular tours and sightseeing cruises, available via official website or mobile app. Many vessels feature audio guides and wheelchair accessibility, ideal for families and elderly travelers.
For a more active journey, rent a bicycle and follow the well-marked lakeside cycle paths. You’ll enjoy stunning views of riverboats gliding across the water while stopping at charming lakeside cafés along the way. Zurich’s extensive greenway network ensures safe, scenic rides perfect for combining nature, culture, and local flavor.
Must-try experiences include sunset cruises, where you glide across Lake Zurich as golden hour paints the sky, often accompanied by live music. During winter, the light festival cruises illuminate the boats with festive lights, paired with seasonal music and fireworks displays.
Themed gourmet voyages are also popular—such as "Swiss Cheese & Wine Night," featuring local cheese platters, artisan chocolates, and premium wines, with expert commentary on Swiss culinary traditions. Some tours even offer Chinese-language narration for Asian visitors.
Families will love the kids’ interactive cruises, which include storytelling, games, and small gifts to engage young explorers. For photography enthusiasts, photo-focused excursions provide professional photographers and tripod-friendly spaces to capture perfect shots.
All tours can be booked online in advance—highly recommended during peak season and holidays for guaranteed spots.
Hidden gems near riverboat zones include Lido Beach, a secluded lakeside sandy cove accessible only to hotel guests—perfect for sunbathing and swimming in tranquil waters. Nearby, Hirschenplatz Garden offers a peaceful urban oasis with century-old oaks and a classic fountain, ideal for quiet photography.
Don’t miss the Kunsthaus Zürich Lakeside Pavilion, a free-entry branch of the Art and History Museum showcasing Swiss masterpieces, just a 10-minute walk from the dock. Nature lovers should explore the Utoquai Promenade, a winding lakeside path connecting small jetties, where you might spot wild birds or chat with local boat crew.
Lastly, Café am See is a tucked-away café famed for homemade pastries and specialty coffee. With live guitar performances in the evenings, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and savor lakefront serenity.
Hotel Schweizerhof is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the Riverboat docks along Lake Zurich. Its lake-view rooms offer stunning vistas of passing riverboats, while its rooftop restaurant, Berggasthaus, serves authentic Swiss cuisine with a scenic backdrop. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to downtown Zurich via tram or a 10-minute walk.
Alternatively, consider Hotel Baur au Lac, a luxury landmark just a 15-minute stroll from the riverboat stop. Renowned for its private dock, elegant interiors, and exceptional service, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a refined experience. Both properties provide seamless access to riverboat tours and the vibrant lakeside atmosphere.
From hotels like Hotel Schweizerhof or Lakefront Boutique Hotel, it's a mere 10- to 15-minute walk to the Lake Zurich Riverboat Docks. For public transit, take Tram Line 12 or Bus 36 from nearby stops—just a 7-minute ride to the "Lake Zurich Dock" station. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services, especially during peak season; advance HopeGoo is recommended.
Additionally, consider the ZVV Travel Pass, which grants unlimited rides on trams, buses, trains, and riverboats across Zurich, making travel seamless and cost-effective.
Don’t miss the sunset cruise—enjoy warm drinks and snacks while gazing at the city skyline and distant Alps mirrored in the lake. Some routes include guided commentary highlighting landmarks like Zurich Cathedral and the Old Town.
Family-friendly themed boats feature interactive games and children’s activities. For cultural immersion, opt for live music cruises or gourmet food tours, sampling Swiss cheese, chocolate, and regional wines. These experiences blend scenic beauty with authentic local flavor.
Yes, several hotels near the Riverboat docks offer comprehensive travel packages. For example, the Lakefront Getaway Package includes riverboat tickets, hotel stay, and breakfast, with add-ons like city hop-on-hop-off bus passes or onboard photography sessions.
Hotel Baur au Lac’s "Zurich Waterfront Experience" bundle features private dock transfers, a couples’ dinner, and an evening river cruise—ideal for travelers seeking a seamless, all-inclusive journey. These packages are available through hotel websites or major travel platforms, often with flexible date changes for added convenience.
See what other travelers say about Riverboats
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 Hotel Uto Kulm was an absolute delight. Nestled in a quiet, car-free zone just minutes from the heart of Zurich, it offers a peaceful retreat without sacrificing convenience—trains to the city center are quick and easy. The views from the room are breathtaking, especially at sunrise when the Alps glow against the sky. A short 5-minute walk uphill leads you through lush greenery, making the journey feel like a mini adventure. The wellness area is exceptional and absolutely worth reserving ahead of time—it’s that popular. Rooms are beautifully designed with modern Swiss touches, clean and cozy. Breakfast costs 30 CHF but is totally worth it: fresh pastries, local jams, handmade bread, and excellent coffee. Every detail feels thoughtfully curated. I’d give it 10/10 without hesitation—this is one of those rare stays that truly stands out.
Staying at Opera Hotel Zürich was a delightful experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the city center, theaters, and shopping areas, making everything super accessible. The hotel itself felt warm and welcoming, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any request. Breakfast was outstanding—fresh, abundant, and delicious. The only minor downside was some noise from construction work on a nearby street during nighttime, but honestly, it’s something the hotel can’t really control. Overall, the stay was seamless and enjoyable. With its prime location, excellent service, and charming ambiance, this place offers incredible value. I’d definitely come back.
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.
My family and I had an absolutely delightful 10-day stay at Residence Mutschellen. My sister and I shared a twin room, while our parents stayed in a separate one—both were cozy, spotlessly clean every day, and came with tea and coffee supplies, which was a nice touch. The compact kitchenette in each room, complete with a fridge and freezer, made cooking our own meals easy and budget-friendly—definitely saved us a lot on dining out. We even enjoyed a few meals outdoors in the small garden area, which added to the relaxed vibe. The sauna was a real highlight—perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. Location-wise, it’s excellent: just a 15-minute walk to the lake and swimming spots, about 10 minutes to a local supermarket, and both the Brunau train station (less than 5 minutes away) and a bus stop right outside the hotel make getting around Zurich super convenient. We were actually in town for the Euros, and it was fun to learn that one of the staff members is a fan of England—great conversation starter! Everyone at the property was warm, helpful, and genuinely friendly. If you're looking for a comfortable, well-located, and homely stay in Zurich, this place is a top recommendation.
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!
I was really happy with my stay at this place. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the city center and super easy to get around by public transit. The room was spotless, the bed was incredibly comfortable, and I loved having a small balcony to enjoy a morning coffee or unwind in the evening. Everything you’d need for a short trip was included—kitchenette, fridge, microwave, and even good Wi-Fi. One thing to note: parking in the underground garage needs to be arranged and paid for separately, so it’s not part of the base rate. That said, it’s a minor detail considering how well the whole package comes together. Great value, great vibe, and definitely a place I’d recommend to travelers looking for comfort and convenience without the hassle.
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.
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