Even though Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and trendsetter, visitors will find it surprisingly compact to explore. Or you may prefer to pull on the hiking boots and use Zurich simply as a base for excursions into the surrounding countryside and wealth of nearby mountains. However, there is plenty to discover within the city limits too. Our hotel is not far from Paradeplatz, a square lined with banks and luxury boutiques where the city’s prosperity is on full display.

Carrying on down Poststrasse, you can’t miss the Fraumünster Church. One of three churches in the Old Town, the Fraumünster looks back over the centuries next to the equally imposing Stadthaus.

A visit to the Zurich-West district shows why trend scouts and travel guides alike have listed Zurich as a destination not to be missed. Once humming with industry, the area is now a focal point of the bar and art scenes, hosting experimental cuisine, artistic fancies and the sort of mad creativity that no-one would have thought possible in the Zurich of only a few years ago – or anywhere in Switzerland, in fact. What makes the place perhaps so special is the fact that this transformation is still ongoing, and subcultural influences are still to be seen with all the appurtenant charm and chaos.

Lake Zurich, the Opera House and the Swiss National Museum

When you’re ready to take a break from the bustle of the city, head for the shores of lovely Lake Zurich. Even though it’s right by the town (and our affordable Design Hotel too), it’s a place of leafy tranquillity. Spread out on the grass or sample the local cuisine in a lakeside café or restaurant.

The renowned Opera House is also found right by the lakeside. It houses audience of over a thousand, and has its own ballet company of 50 or so dancers. Zurich really does have something for everyone. Our Design Hotel staff can gladly advise you on what to see, whether you want to do it all, keep it minimal, concentrate on the old or focus on the new.