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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
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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