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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.
Located in the heart of Zurich, this hotel is perfect for families and business travelers! With child-friendly amenities like a play area and kids' meals, parents can relax and enjoy their stay. The hotel also offers laundry and dry-cleaning services, making travel hassle-free. Guests can unwind at the bar with a coffee or cocktail, soaking in the elegant atmosphere. Its prime location puts you close to attractions like Zürcher Spielagoge Museum and top-rated restaurants. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it’s a must-try for your next trip!
This hotel is a perfect choice for families! Located in the heart of Zurich, just steps away from Bahnhofstrasse, it offers bowling alleys, kids' playgrounds, and tennis courts to keep the little ones entertained. Adults can unwind at the bar or rent bikes to explore the city. Rooms are equipped with iPod docks and minibars, plus free WiFi for your convenience. Don’t miss the daily free reception to mingle with other guests. With a 4.6-star rating, it’s a stay you won’t regret!
This boutique hotel is the perfect choice for your stay in Zurich! Located just 2 minutes’ drive from Bahnhofstrasse, it offers free WiFi and a complimentary European breakfast daily from 07:00 to 10:00. The hotel features a fitness center, business center, and a children’s playground, making it ideal for both business and family trips. After a busy day, unwind at the bar/lounge or enjoy 24-hour room service. Rooms are equipped with minibars and espresso machines, along with laundry and ironing services to meet all your needs. Whether for work or leisure, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay!
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
Staying at Hotel Seidenhof in Zurich was an absolute delight. The front desk staff were incredibly helpful and friendly, answering every question with warmth and attention to detail. The room itself was well-equipped, comfortable, and practical—perfect for a relaxing night’s sleep. Breakfast was a highlight: a wide variety of options, thoughtfully balanced between sweet and savory, satisfying even the pickiest appetite. Best of all, the hotel’s location is unbeatable—just a 10-minute walk from Zurich HB train station, making it easy to explore major attractions by foot or public transport. It's convenient, peaceful, and perfectly situated for travelers who value both comfort and accessibility. Would highly recommend and definitely returning.
St. Peter Hotel is an absolutely delightful stay with a prime location in Zurich. We explored most of the city on foot, and when we needed public transit, the tram stop was just a short walk away—super convenient. The breakfast spread was impressive: fresh, well-presented, and abundant. Room amenities were top-notch, from the cozy bedding to the modern touches. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated. This hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, charm, and accessibility—truly a standout choice for any traveler visiting Zurich.
The hotel was a delightful surprise! Just a 30-minute walk along the scenic riverside from the train station, or only 10 minutes by tram line 4—super convenient. The room was compact but cozy, with thoughtful touches like a kettle, coffee machine, yoga mat, backpack, ironing board, and iron—everything you’d need for a comfortable stay. Breakfast was excellent: a generous buffet featuring scrambled eggs, fresh veggies, fruits, muesli, baked goods, fresh juice, and dried fruit. The only downside? The coffee wasn’t up to par—it lacked flavor. But honestly, the overall experience was fantastic. Umbrellas are available at the entrance, which is a nice extra. I’m so glad we chose this place—highly recommend for anyone visiting Zurich!
Staying at Rigiblick Spa Suites & Studios was an absolute delight, especially for the second time. The self-check-in process was smooth and hassle-free, and getting our room key was quick and easy. The room itself is beautifully designed with a small kitchenette—perfect for light meals or snacks. The bathroom features both a shower and a bathtub, which was a nice touch after a long day. The bed, however, is on the narrower side at 160 cm wide—slightly tight for two guests sharing it. That said, the views over Lake Zurich are absolutely stunning, especially in the evening when the sun dips behind the hills. The hotel’s location is ideal—quiet yet well-connected by public transport. Plus, the fridge and complimentary beverages are generously stocked and included in the room rate, which adds great value. The theater nearby is a bonus for culture lovers. Overall, this stay was exceptional and I’d definitely return.
Staying at Hotel Rutli was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right across from the main train station and a large supermarket, making it super convenient for getting around Zurich. There's a great Chinese restaurant just downstairs, and nearby is the tram stop leading directly to ETH Zurich—perfect for students or professionals. I especially loved the free mini-bar with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot drinks, which made winter stays even more cozy. The hotel itself is clean, welcoming, and well-maintained. It’s rare to find such a high-quality stay with so much convenience and comfort in one place. Definitely going back.
I stayed at Hotel Rex during my business trip to Zurich, and overall it was a solid choice. The hotel offers self-check-in, but since the booking reference from Ctrip didn’t start with a '4', I had to contact the front desk directly to complete the check-in process—slightly inconvenient, but staff were helpful and patient. The location isn’t right next to the train station; it’s about a 10-minute walk or a short tram ride away, so if you’re arriving with luggage, you’ll want to plan for that. That said, considering the price point in Zurich, options are quite limited, and this hotel stands out. The room was clean, well-maintained, and perfect for a quick business stay. Minimalist but functional design, good Wi-Fi, and quiet surroundings made it easy to get some rest after long days. For the value offered, I’d definitely recommend it—especially if you're looking for something reliable and budget-friendly in the city.
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.
Staying at Luxury Residences by Widder Hotel in Zurich was an absolute delight. The breakfast spread was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and varied, with local specialties that truly stood out. Location-wise, it's unbeatable: just a short walk to the city center, making it easy to explore everything Zurich has to offer, from shopping to museums and dining. The whole experience felt luxurious yet comfortable, and I’d definitely book here again on my next visit. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a home away from home with top-tier service and charm.
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.
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