Out of Zurich’s 12 districts, there’s bound to be one that fits your needs.
Zurich is split into twelve districts, and each one has its own unique vibe. While you may want to choose one based on your specific travel needs, it’s important to note that you can easily reach to the other districts by walking or taking the city’s excellent public transportation. To make your choice simpler, here is a list of the top five best neighborhoods to stay in Zurich for every type of traveler.
Old Town
District 1, or Old Town, is Zurich’s city center and a great place to stay if you like a little bit of everything when you travel. There’s no shortage of things to do and see here, with plenty of clubs, shops, and restaurants to keep you busy all day (and night) long. Old Town is home to several notable Swiss landmarks such as the Grossmünster and Peterskirche, making it a very popular destination among all kinds of travelers. Despite being the city center, however, district 1 maintains a laidback environment, including: a pedestrian-only area and medieval-style architecture.
District 2
Located on the West side of Lake Zurich lies district 2, a trendy area full of culture and classic Swiss beauty. Perhaps the most popular street in the district is Bahnhofstrasse, known for designer shops and architectural opulence. On the cultural side, you can tour your choice of museum with ETH Zurich, Museum Rietberg, and the FIFA World Football Museum all close by. As for a taste of those quintessentially green views Switzerland is known for, take a hike up Mount Rigi and bask in the breathtaking sight with a coffee from one of the many cafés at the top. Zoo Zurich is also located in the district and is definitely worth a visit with nearly 400 different species and countless unique animal experiences available.
Wiedikon
The former farming village Wiedikon is Zurich’s 3rd district and perfect for those who prefer to stay in quiet areas when traveling. Just because it’s quiet, however, doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Wiedikon is home to many trendy cafés, bars, and shops. It also sits at the foot of Uetliberg mountain, giving it easy access to the trails that take you to the top. The district’s urban Sihlfeld neighborhood has a large shopping mall as well, for any retail therapy needs you may have.
Aussersihl
District 4, or Aussersihl, is a great option for those looking for nightlife. It has many clubs and bars to choose from to keep the party going all night long. While the district might be a nighttime hub, there is still much to do and see in the daytime, such as strolling through a local market or having a picnic in the beautifully green Bäckeranlage Park. A refreshing contrast to the luxury of Bahnhofstrasse, Aussersihl is home to a wide range of second hand shops to find the perfect look suited for a night on the town.
District 10
District 10 is located next to the Limmat River and a fantastic place to stay during the summer months. There are several public swimming areas such as the Unterer Letten, where locals and tourists alike gather to wade in the Limmat River and suntan on the deck. With an abundance of hiking and swimming opportunities, this district is the ultimate summer destination in Zurich.
