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If you’re planning on heading to the chic Swiss city of Zurich, you’ll want to read my guide to the best hostels in the city. Cosmopolitan, creative and charming, the centre for Swiss economy and education has a whole lot to offer visitors.
Known to be a beautiful city, surrounded by mountains and the famous Lake Zurich it’s also well known that it’s a pretty (VERY) expensive place.
But, don’t you fret. Even in the high-cost city centre, some places are affordable. Take a look at my selection of the best hostels in Zurich. I’ve thrown in some of the best budget hotels in Zurich too so you can enjoy your trip without worrying too much about money.
What’s important is that you find accommodation that suits you… Whether you’re here for business, travelling solo or shooting through on your European party tour… I’ve got you covered with my selection of the best hostels in Zurich.
There’s more than big banks and a big lake to be seen in Zurich, the Swiss countryside surrounding the lake is full of hidden treasures. And then there’s the cobblestone streets of the Old Town…
Let’s get into it so you can find out for yourself!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Zurich
- Best Overall Hostel in Zurich – Youth Hostel Zurich
- Best Hostel in Zurich for Solo Travelers – Green Marmot Capsule Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Zurich – Oldtown Hostel Otter
- Best Party Hostel in Zurich – Meininger Zurich Greencity
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Zurich – Alpine Garden Zurich Capsule Hotel
The 5 Best Hostels in Zurich
Zurich is well worth a stop when you’re backpacking Switzerland, this city is amazing and Switzerland’s largest. From the historic buildings to the wonderful forest around Lake Zurich, there are so many pockets of beauty.
1. Youth Hostel Zurich – Best Overall Hostel in Zurich
- Dorm (mixed): From $73
- Private Room: From $290
- Address: Mutschellenstr. 114, Zurich, Switzerland
It doesn’t get much better than this when it comes to cool hostels in Zurich. Located in a historic area of the city, the hostel’s communal areas are all popping colours and dark wood, with simple, bright, modern and clean rooms. With this at the top of the list, you’re pretty much sussed and – now it’s time to get planning your Zurich itinerary.
Jokes – I’ve got heaps more to say; there’s a great free breakfast served up every morning – always a plus for me! Plus there’s also a hostel bar for when you want a drink or two in the evening. It’s really simple to get around the city using the tram network from here so you can venture further afield too.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Breakfast
- Free Wifi
- Free City Maps
The huge amount of beds on offer makes this the best overall hostel in Zurich and one of my fave hostels in Switzerland. There are plenty of comfortable beds in the rooms but a variety of rooms too – whether you want a seminar room or a sunny courtyard… There’s room!
The grounds at Youth Hostel Zurich are magical and inspire Swiss fairy garden dreams making me want to frolic around eating holy cheese. Old Town is just a train ride away from this Zurich hostel so enjoy the change of scenery on the western side of Lake Zurich. Knowing you’re within easy access of the city centre and tourist traps.
2. Green Marmot Capsule Hostel – Best Hostel in Zurich for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $98
- Address: Schifflände 26, Zurich, Switzerland
If you’re travelling solo through Zurich, Green Marmot Capsule Hostel is my top pick for you, it’s got all the basic amenities you could wish for. From comfortable beds to a great location, this Zurich hostel is an epic choice for a stay in the city centre. When I’m travelling solo, I like to feel tucked up and secure when I’m sleeping so capsule beds are a big tick for me.
Staying at Green Marmot Capsule Hostel, you’re a couple of blocks from the train station and the river and surrounded by bars and restaurants. This city centre hostel is in a really sweet spot to walk along the river to Lake Zurich and enjoy the Swiss Old Town air. Within walking distance of the hub of Old Town, you’re in the perfect position to frequent the local bars and make friends if you wanna.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Average Price
- Capsule Beds
- Chic, Clean Zurich Hostel
This Zurich hostel is renowned for its cleanliness and considerate, basic amenities. Whatever you may need (shower gel, bath mats), they’ve thought of it and as far as Zurch hostels go, you get bang for your buck. There aren’t many hostels in Zurich full stop and the prices exceed your average hostel prices but they deliver on cleanliness and privacy here.
Travelling solo is a rite of passage, and when you’re pushing your social limits, comfortable beds to come home to and your own space are priceless. Staying in Switzerland’s largest city and making the most of the culture here can be both invigorating and tiring but ultimately unforgettable.
Green Marmot Capsule Hostel is a great place to base yourself if you plan on making the most of the city. It’s basic but comfortable and has everything you need but none of the fun frilly backpacker bits you might want. Zurich hostels don’t bring that but there are vibey bars and you’ll just have to get out and mingle if you want to get social.
3. Oldtown Hostel Otter – Best Cheap Hostel in Zurich
- Dorm (mixed): From $81
- Private Room: From $163
- Address: Oberdorfstrasse 7, Zurich, Switzerland
This cool Zurich hostel was recently a hotel, but in recent years it’s had a bit of a changeup and decided to become a funky little hostel. The cheapest Zurich hostel, it is still a big vibe, downstairs is a vibrant cafe where you can hang out with some cool kids. Oldtown Hostel Otter is doing it for budget backpackers who want to explore the world.
Upstairs are the dorm rooms which are quaint and tidy and most of which have lovely windows with city views. Wueste Bar is the bar downstairs and guests of Oldtown Hostel Otter get a discount until 10pm – WOOHOO! So you really can have it all in Zurich, comfortable beds with below-average prices AND a vibe – sign me up.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Location in the City Centre
- Private Rooms
- Walking Distance to Everything
There’s a small kitchen you can use to cook meals and save cash and free tea and coffee all day at Oldtown Hostel Otter. Great if you’re on a broke-ass liquid diet (been there!) and also just delicious and lovely. In the heart of Old Town though, you won’t be short for cafe and restaurant options.
Make the most of being within walking distance of everything wonderful and peruse the cobblestone streets of Old Town. There are so many wonderful sights and scenes you can enjoy for free in this spendy city. Oldtown Hostel Otter is here to bring together the broke backpacking community and you’ll meet beautiful people to spend time and share tips with.
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View on Osprey4. Meininger Zurich Greencity – Best Party Hostel in Zurich
- Dorm (mixed): From $60
- Private Room: From $167
- Address: Maneggstrasse BF C1 West, Zurich, Switzerland
Disclaimer – This isn’t really a party hostel but there’s an on-site bar and plenty of space to socialise and make friends to party with. Another draw card for this Zurich hostel is the breakfast available (for a small cost) for those dusty days when leaving the hostel seems too hard. Aaaaaand, there’s also a late checkout available so if you really can’t get out of bed, mellow, stay awhile.
24-hour reception means you’ll never be locked out no matter what bar you leave your hostel key in. If you tend to get lost, there are free city maps and even daily housekeeping to keep the place feeling fresh. There’s even a game zone to keep things fun and entertaining – what more could you want?!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- 300m to the Train Station
- Epic Public Transportation access in general
- Epic Basic Amenities
Meninger Hotel Zurich is in the sustainable Greencity district and close to the train station so you can pop to the city centre easily. When you return you return to an adapted hotel which means the rooms are spacious with fewer people in them than typical hostels. There are also bathrooms en suite and plenty of charging points and towels provided.
You can choose to stay in one of the private rooms if you need your own space – the average price here beats hotel prices. If you’re a party animal looking to live it up large in the largest city in Switzerland you’ll love saving money on your stay. More beer money – yes, please!
5. Alpine Garden Zurich Capsule Hotel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Zurich
- Dorm (mixed): From $120
- Address: Prime Center A11 Zürich Flughafen, G01, Zurich, Switzerland
Alpine Garden Zurich Capsule Hotel is the place to be my dear fellow digital nomads! This capsule hotel has an abundance of workspaces and attracts like-minded people so you’ll be in business (pun intended). Another bonus of Alpine Garden Zurich Capsule Hotel is its proximity to the Zurich airport (it’s IN the airport).
Public transportation into the city centre is easy and you can be in town in 10 minutes. At the same time, you’re far enough away to be able to dig into work and get shit done without distractions. Except for the croissants in the cafe on site – they might get ya!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Epic Amenities
- Epic Public Transportation
- Epic workspaces
The rooms at this capsule hotel are all dorm rooms (despite the hotel name) and sleep between 26 and 28. There’s the option for female-only or mixed-bed dorms and this Zurich hostel is exceptionally clean, chic and considerate. There’s mood lighting, there are mirrors, charging ports and bathrooms in the rooms which make it easy to say awhile.
Even if you are here on business, make sure to get into the city to see the sights, and wander along Lake Zurich… Maybe even take a boat tour, all work and no play is sad and Zurich has lots to offer, especially in Old Town! Get in there and make the most of the things to do with whatever time you have!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Zurich Hostels
Sometimes there isn’t always a hostel that suits you and your travel needs… Or maybe you want to stay somewhere with a little more privacy than a hostel with a dorm, but still want that vibrant hostel atmosphere. That’s why I’ve rounded up the best cheap hotels in town so you really can find the best place to stay in Zurich for your trip.
6. Olympia Hotel Zurich
- Private Room: From $119
- Address: Badenerstrasse 324, Aussersihl, 8004 Zürich, Switzerland
This place might be a little away from the main sights, but there’s a tram stop just up the road. So if you’re looking for a slice of luxury this might be the hotel for you. A top Zurich hotel, the rooms here are large and – as it’s an old building – there are some cool historic design elements.
You can enjoy the huge free breakfast that’s dished up every morning and then take a walk around the area’s many parks. I think this is one of the best budget hotels in Zurich for couples.
7. ibis Zurich Adliswil
- Private Room: From $150
- Address: Zürichstrasse 105, 8134 Zürich, Switzerland
The well-known hotel chain offers some great rooms at a low cost. A recommended budget hotel in Zurich, when staying in a hotel like this you can expect a certain level of service and cleanliness. And an average price…
The hotel is across the road from a tram stop which means it’s simple to travel anywhere in Zurich. Rooms come in a selection of sizes, so if you’re with a group of mates you can all stay together. Plus, enjoy the free breakfast in the morning too.
8. Gasthaus zum Guten Glück
- Private Room: From $147
- Address: Stationsstrasse 7, Wiedikon, 8003 Zürich, Switzerland
Well, this place is so cool that I just want to live there. Decorated with trendy parquet floors, stylish lamps, cool armchairs and retro mirrors, staying here is like an Instagram dream… but it’s a budget hotel!
One of the coolest budget hotels in Zurich, the rooms are airy, light and comfy. Plus, with the restaurant and bar downstairs, there’s no losing out on a funky Zurich hostel vibe at this top budget hotel in Zurich.
9. Easy Hotel Zurich
- Private Room: From $164
- Address: Zwinglistrasse 14, Aussersihl, 8004 Zürich, Switzerland
With small, compact rooms, this hotel isn’t going to be winning any awards for luxury. But if you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable stay in the city, this is a top budget hotel in Zurich.
Rooms are clean and tidy and come in a selection of sizes – all of which come with private bathrooms (a big plus). The auto check-in service means no hassle and is quick and easy for a short stay in the city.
10. Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rigihof Zurich
- Private Room: From $201
- Address: Universitätsstrasse 101, Oberstrass, 8033 Zürich, Switzerland
Grab yourself a bargain with this top hotel in Zurich. The rooms on offer are decorated in luxury furnishing, with comfy beds and a desk so you can catch up on work if too. Located in the buzzing university district, there’s a load of places to eat and drink nearby.
We think this is easily one of the best budget hotels in Zurich for couples. Downstairs there’s a bar where you can grab a drink and a spot of dinner, too. Set in the heart of all of the action in the city, there are all sorts of bars and restaurants just around the corner.
11. Zurich Center Oerlikon 2
More like staying in an Airbnb than a hotel, this top budget hotel in Zurich offers really good value for money. For one thing, you pay for a room which is much bigger than most hotel rooms; with that, you get a lounge area as well as a kitchen.
It feels like the ideal hotel in Zurich for couples who want more privacy but want to feel the vibrancy of the city. The train station is located really close to the hotel so that it’s simple to travel around the city. I suggest visiting the home of Dadaism when you head into town – great coffee and books!
12. The Guest’s House
This place may look a little basic, but it’s a lot nicer than you might first think. Rooms are really reasonably priced and there is a good free breakfast thrown in too which makes it one of the best budget hotels in Zurich. And it leaves more lunch money in the kitty – I’d spend it at Haus Hitl, the oldest vegetarian restaurant in Switzerland!
A little out of town, some rooms have views of the nearby mountains. Being out of the city centre is no drama – the local tram stop will whizz you into the city centre in no time at all. And, if you come by car, there’s free parking which saves on high parking costs in the city.
13. City Backpacker
Super close to loads of the best attracts in the city, this is the best cheap hostel in Zurich. Sure the rooms might be a little basic and lack a little pizzazz… But if you’re looking for an affordable stay you can’t go too wrong with this Zurich backpackers hostel.
There’s a communal kitchen so you can make yourself meals to keep your food costs down. You can also save on any public transport costs. Many of the tourist sights are easily reached on foot, which I think makes a great cheap Zurich hostel option.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Zurich
Everyone needs good hostel insurance – you never know what might happen on the road and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQ about Hostels in Zurich
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Zurich.
What to Pack for your Zurich Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Zurich?
On average, hostel prices are always changing ESPECIALLY in Europe, but you can generally expect to pay around $80 and $119+ per night.
What are the best hostels in Zurich for couples?
Top-rated by couples due to its central location, Oldtown Hostel Otter is an ideal hostel for couples in Zurich. Right in the heart of the city centre, on the skirts of the Old Town, strolling these cobblestone streets with your boo is so romantic.
What is the best hostel in Zurich near the airport?
Capsule Hotel – Alpine Garden Zurich is the best hostel near Zurich Airport. It’s literally IN the airport – you couldn’t get more convenient.
Final Thoughts on Zurich’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Zurich has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! Backpacking Europe is such a wonderful experience and Zurich is no exception, the food is incredible and the sights and scenes are something else. Whether you’re frolicking in and on Lake Zurich, mincing about the city centre or laughing over a beer at the hostel bar, I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
If you’re still on the fence about where to stay, I get it. I’ve given some hot options in my list and they’re all pretty different. My favourite hostel; Youth Hostel Zurich is always going to be my top suggestion – it’s just so picturesque and lovely here.
If your budget is super tight (I feel ya!) then being out of the city and having to pay for transport might not work for you. But don’t fret – Oldtown Hostel Otter is an epic option and is right in the heart of Old Town. You can enjoy a discount at their bar too so savings all around here!
Wherever you stay in Zurich I’m sure you’ll love it, it’s a stunning city and caters towards everyone. You can mingle with the high-powered finance crew or slink through cobblestone alleyways and find the underground scene.
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Switzerland for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Zurich covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Zurich if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Zurich before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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