
Zurich/Riverboats Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
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.

This is the ultimate urban retreat, blending historic charm with modern luxury. Featuring 175 lavish rooms and suites, plus a 4,000-square-meter spa for ultimate relaxation. Art lovers will adore the collection of over 100 artworks, including originals by Takashi Murakami and Dalí. Whether you prefer a stroll in the forest or a quick trip to downtown Zurich, it’s all within easy reach. Families will love the kids’ club and playroom, while business travelers can take advantage of the meeting rooms and business center.

This hotel is the perfect choice for both families and business travelers! The 24-hour restaurant and bar serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine made with local ingredients, satisfying your cravings anytime. Kids can have fun in the play area and game room, while adults can relax by the pool or workout at the fitness center. The rooms feature Scandinavian-style design, simple yet cozy, with a comfortable work desk to help you stay productive. Whether for family vacations or business trips, this place has got you covered!

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 hotel is a perfect blend of family-friendly and business-ready! With a 24-hour fitness club and kids' play area, both parents and children will have a great time. Enjoy free WiFi and a game room to keep everyone entertained. The two on-site restaurants serve delicious local dishes, and the bar is perfect for unwinding. Located just minutes from Bahnhofstrasse and the Swiss National Museum, it's super convenient. Plus, the heated floors are a cozy touch in winter!

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 The Dolder Grand in Zurich felt like stepping into a timeless masterpiece. From the moment we arrived, the service was exceptional—attentive, warm, and genuinely thoughtful without being overbearing. The breakfast spread was outstanding, with fresh local delicacies that made every morning feel special. The indoor pool area is serene and beautifully designed, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the city. Our room had a private balcony overlooking lush greenery—ideal for sipping coffee in the morning light. What truly sets this hotel apart is its unique blend of heritage and modernity: originally a historic castle, it’s been reimagined with contemporary elegance, yet the fusion feels seamless. Every corner tells a story—rich artwork, antique furnishings, and carefully curated details make you want to wander the halls just to take it all in. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. For such high quality, attention to detail, and genuine luxury, this hotel absolutely lives up to its reputation. I’d return in a heartbeat—and highly recommend giving it a full visit, even if just to appreciate the art and architecture.

The hotel is conveniently located just a short ride from downtown Zurich, making it easy to explore the city without spending too much time commuting. The room was spacious and comfortable, offering a great stay overall. My only minor disappointment was leaving behind a blue hoodie in the fitness center—unfortunately, it wasn’t found. That said, this small issue didn’t take away from the excellent experience. With its great location, clean rooms, and friendly staff, I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to travelers looking for a quiet yet central base in Zurich.

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.

Staying at the Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle Zurich was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable—perfectly suited for three guests without feeling cramped at all. The view from the window was stunning, offering a peaceful glimpse of the cityscape and surrounding greenery that instantly lifted my mood. Located just minutes away from public transit, getting around Zurich was effortless. The hotel’s modern, thoughtfully designed interiors added a real sense of style and sophistication. It’s rare to find such a high-quality stay with such great value. I’d definitely return and highly recommend this gem to anyone 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!

The hotel has a great vibe and is perfectly located for exploring Zurich—just a short walk to the subway and downtown. I did have a small issue when requesting an invoice, but both the platform and the hotel staff responded quickly and resolved it without any hassle. Their customer service was prompt and professional. The room design is modern and stylish, with thoughtful touches that make the stay feel luxurious yet comfortable. It’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend for travelers who appreciate design and efficiency.

The room was only 18 sqm, but surprisingly spacious and well-designed—no sense of crowding at all. The bed was comfortable, the amenities were complete, and cleanliness stood out: everything felt fresh and spotless, even the bathroom. I brought two large 28-inch suitcases in, and still had plenty of room to move around without feeling cramped. Breakfast was an absolute highlight—huge variety, fresh ingredients, made-to-order items, and local favorites like pastries and fresh fruit platters. It felt like a proper meal, not just a buffet. For the price and quality, this was one of the best value stays I’ve had in Switzerland. Highly recommend for travelers heading to the Zurich Messe area—great location, great comfort, and an unforgettable experience.

Staying at Sorell Boutique-Hotel Zürichberg was one of the best experiences we’ve had in Zurich. The location is peaceful yet convenient—just a short walk or quick transit ride from the city center, making it perfect for exploring without the noise and crowds. The hotel itself is beautifully designed with a modern yet cozy vibe; every room feels spacious and thoughtfully furnished. Breakfast was exceptional—fresh, diverse, and packed with local flavors that truly made our mornings special. Our family loved the warm, personalized service, and the staff went out of their way to help us plan our days. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a home away from home. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for comfort, charm, and a touch of Swiss elegance.

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 was lucky to find a room here since all the hotels near my company were fully booked. The location is quiet and safe, with minimal noise from the surrounding area—perfect for a peaceful night’s sleep. While there aren’t many dining options nearby, the calm atmosphere more than makes up for it. It’s also well-connected by public transit, making it easy to get into the city center. A solid choice for business travelers looking for comfort and value without the hassle.

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.
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