FAQ - Questions
& Answers

WHY HOTEL PLATZHIRSCH (BENEFITS & SPECIAL FEATURES)

What makes Hotel Platzhirsch special?

The hotel captivates with its blend of historic charm and modern design. It is situated in a time-honoured building right in the heart of the Old Town, yet offers fully renovated and modern rooms. A truly unique feature: the hotel produces its own honey on the roof, which is served at breakfast!

What benefits do I enjoy as a guest?

Prime location: Right in the Niederdorf, everything is within walking distance.
Transport included: Guests arriving by train receive a free day pass for public transport in Zurich.
Dining discount: You’ll receive a 10% discount at the hotel’s own first-class ‘Barfüsser Sushi & Lounge’.

LOCATION & SURROUNDINGS: ZURICH NIEDERDORF – ZURICH OLD TOWN

Where exactly is the hotel located?

The Hotel Platzhirsch is situated at Spitalgasse 3 in District 1 (8001 Zurich). It is right in the heart of Zurich’s lively Niederdorf (affectionately known as ‘Dörfli’ by locals), the historic old town.

What is there to discover in the Niederdorf?

The Niederdorf is the heart of Zurich’s Old Town. Here, historic buildings, winding alleyways, boutiques, craft shops, antique shops, bars and restaurants line the streets. By day, it’s a popular shopping district; by night, it’s the centre of Zurich’s nightlife.

What attractions are nearby?

From the hotel, you can reach Zurich’s main landmarks in just a few minutes’ walk:

Grossmünster: The striking church with its twin towers (the city’s landmark).
Fraumünster: Known for its world-famous Chagall stained-glass windows.
Lindenhof: A historic square with a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the Old Town and the River Limmat.
Limmatquai & Lake Zurich: Ideal for a stroll along the waterfront.

ARRIVAL, CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT

When can I check in and out?

Check-in: Between 14:00 and 22:00. (If arriving later, you will be provided with a door code).
Check-out: By 12:00.
Early check-in or late check-out is available on request and subject to availability, for an additional charge.

Where can I park?

The hotel is situated in a car-free zone. We recommend the ‘Urania Car Park’ (approx. 7 minutes’ walk away). Tip: For loading and unloading, you may drive up to the front of the hotel between 12.00 and 07.00 (provided you have registered your number plate in advance).

ROOMS & STAY

What facilities do the rooms have?

The rooms have been stylishly refurbished and are modern, featuring parquet flooring, an en-suite bathroom, high-speed Wi-Fi, a safe, a minibar, coffee and tea-making facilities, and a flat-screen TV. Some Superior rooms also feature a small kitchenette and air conditioning.

Is there a lift?

Yes, all floors are easily accessible by lift.

DINING (BREAKFAST & RESTAURANT)

Does the hotel serve breakfast?

Yes, there is a generous breakfast buffet – including the hotel’s own honey!

What does the restaurant offer?

From 11.30, the ground floor becomes the ‘Barfüsser Sushi & Lounge’. Here you can enjoy drinks, cocktails and excellent à-la-minute sushi (with a 10 per cent discount for hotel guests).

TIPS FOR ZURICH: EXCURSIONS & PRICES

Is the Zurich Card worth it?

Yes, if you’re spending a lot of time out and about in the city and would like to visit museums. The Zurich Card offers free travel on public transport, free or discounted entry to museums and other discounts.

Zurich Card prices (2026): CHF 29 for 24 hours, CHF 56 for 72 hours (children aged 6–15: CHF 19 / CHF 37).
Can you visit the Grossmünster?

Yes, it’s well worth a visit! In particular, the climb up the Karlsturm (187 steps) offers a spectacular view over Zurich, the lake and the Alps.

Karlsturm prices: Adults CHF 5, children/students CHF 2. (With the Zurich Card, the climb up the tower is free!)

Can I drink the tap water in Zurich?

Yes! The tap water in Zurich is of the highest quality (often spring water from the Alps) and can be drunk straight from the tap without any concerns. There are also over 1,200 public drinking fountains in the city.