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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
Storchen Hotel is an exceptional choice for anyone visiting Zurich. Located just a short walk from the city center, it offers unbeatable convenience—everything you need is within easy reach. The moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm hospitality and attention to detail. My stay here spans over ten years, and every visit has been consistently excellent. The staff go above and beyond to make sure your experience is memorable, from personalized service to thoughtful touches throughout the room. Clean, elegant, and incredibly comfortable, this hotel truly delivers on its promise of excellence. If you're looking for a perfect blend of comfort, location, and service in Zurich, this is the place to stay.
Staying at The Flag Zürich was an absolute highlight of my trip to Zurich! From the moment I walked in, the warm and welcoming staff made me feel right at home. The front desk team was incredibly helpful—offering local tips and even assisting with transit options. My room was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully designed with modern touches. The bed was wonderfully comfortable, the heating worked perfectly during chilly evenings, and the Wi-Fi was lightning fast—ideal for staying connected or streaming shows. Best of all, the hotel is located right next to a bus stop (line 31), which makes getting around the city effortless. Whether you're heading to Bahnhofstrasse, Lake Zurich, or the old town, everything is just a short ride away. This place offers incredible value and a fantastic experience—highly recommended for any traveler looking for comfort, convenience, and charm in Zurich!
I've stayed at this hotel multiple times and will definitely return. The rooms are immaculate, spotlessly clean, and impeccably furnished with every modern amenity you could want—complete with an umbrella and universal power adapter. The warm welcome and genuine hospitality from the staff are truly unmatched. I was especially touched by the thoughtful little surprise upon checkout—it made my stay feel extra special. From the comfort to the attention to detail, this place exceeds expectations. If you're looking for a cozy, well-run aparthotel in Zurich, this is it. Highly recommend!
Staying at this charming hotel was an absolute delight. The room exuded authentic European elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring Zurich. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making me feel valued throughout my visit. Located in a vibrant area, the hotel is surrounded by fantastic restaurants, convenience stores, supermarkets, and lively bars, so everything I needed was just steps away. I was especially impressed by the excellent soundproofing—perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. I’d absolutely stay here again on my next trip and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Staying at Alexander Guesthouse in Zurich Old Town was a fantastic experience. The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from the train station, and all major attractions are within easy reach. The staff were incredibly friendly and always ready to help with any request. The rooms are simple but spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and include everything you need for a comfortable stay. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are top priorities. For its location, cleanliness, and warm hospitality, this place offers excellent value. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Zurich.
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 Ibis Budget Zurich City West was a great experience overall. The room was clean, well-maintained, and met standard expectations—compact but comfortable, with a kettle and microwave provided, which came in handy for preparing simple meals or hot drinks. Breakfast was reasonably priced, though the variety wasn't extensive. Still, it offered the basics: fresh bread, jams, coffee, and some cold cuts—perfect for a quick morning start. What really stood out was the location; it's just a short metro ride from the city center, making it super convenient for exploring Zurich. For budget-conscious travelers who value cleanliness, convenience, and a solid base to explore the city, this hotel delivers excellent value. I’d definitely stay here again.
The location of Hotel Limmathof is simply unbeatable. Just a short walk from the cable car station, you can catch breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over Zurich in minutes. Nearby, you'll find supermarkets, multiple transport stops, and a peaceful morning stroll along Lake Zurich that’s truly relaxing and unforgettable. The main train station is only a 10-minute walk away, making day trips to other cities effortless. With convenience, comfort, and charm all in one spot, this hotel offers an exceptional stay—perfect for travelers who value both tranquility and accessibility.
The staff at Hotel Marta were incredibly friendly and welcoming—such a warm touch that made our stay even better. I was especially delighted by the complimentary ice cream offered on-site; it’s such a thoughtful little treat that added a sweet highlight to our trip. Plus, the location is unbeatable—less than a 10-minute walk to the main train station and just steps away from the tram stop. Getting around Zurich was effortless, whether we were heading into the city center or catching a connecting train. This hotel truly combines comfort, convenience, and charm in one perfect package.
The room was incredibly clean and comfortable, making our stay truly enjoyable. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the train station, which made getting around Zurich super convenient. While the area can get a bit noisy on weekends, it’s such a small trade-off for the unbeatable access to public transport and city attractions. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers visiting Zurich.
I’ve seen this place recommended on the platform, and I have to say, I wasn’t disappointed at all. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment we walked in. Breakfast was a real highlight—plenty of options including granola, omelettes, and pancakes. The pancake with bacon and a fried egg in the photo? Absolutely delicious—perfectly cooked, fluffy, and packed with flavor. The coffee was excellent too, with a wide range of hot and cold drinks to choose from. We loved sitting out on the outdoor patio, but the cozy indoor space was just as charming. Even though it’s a bit off the beaten path—located toward the western side of town—it’s well worth the short trip. A hidden gem with a warm, homely vibe that makes you feel right at home.
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.
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