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.
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 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 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.
We stayed at Gästehaus Hunziker for two nights and, to be honest, we didn’t realize how far it was from the center of Zurich at first. But despite our initial concerns, getting there by Switzerland’s incredibly efficient and frequent public transport was surprisingly quick and stress-free. Breakfast is served at a small local café connected directly to the hotel, just in front of reception—simple setup, not buffet-style with limited options, but still satisfying. That said, considering Zurich’s high prices, this place offers solid value for money. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and refreshingly TV-free—perfect if you want to disconnect. And the staff? Absolutely wonderful—always smiling, helpful, and genuinely warm. Their hospitality made a big difference. Even though it’s a bit outside the city center, we’d definitely consider returning. Great choice for travelers who prioritize comfort, cleanliness, and a friendly vibe.
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 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.
Staying at EasyHotel Zürich West was a fantastic experience. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—right next to the train station, making it super convenient for getting around Zurich and beyond. Even though there's no front desk, self-check-in was smooth and hassle-free. The room was spacious with a great TV, and the beds were incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep. I’d highly recommend requesting a higher floor during booking; the views are much more pleasant from above, offering a nice outlook over the cityscape. Overall, this place delivers excellent value for money and comfort. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a simple, efficient, and well-located stay in Zurich.
I was really satisfied with the service at this apartment and would definitely recommend it to friends. The location is excellent—just a short walk from public transit and surrounded by great cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores. The unit itself was spotless, well-equipped, and had a modern, clean vibe. I especially appreciated the contactless check-in; using the app to unlock the door was seamless and gave me a sense of privacy and independence. The bed was super comfortable, and I slept really well. It’s rare to find such a high-quality stay at this price point. If you’re visiting Zurich, this is a top pick—I’ll be recommending it to everyone who asks.
Explore more amazing destinations