Anwand Lodges

The Anwand Lodges is part of a small local chain of hotels and guesthouses scattered throughout Zurich. Its dynamic location in the up-and-coming (albeit sometimes gritty) Langstrasse area is only the beginning of its appeal. The three-star hotel also combines rustic charm with urban convenience—at rates that are very reasonable for Zurich.

Red-carpeted stairs, hanging rugs and lovely cherry wood lend a certain Old World feel to the Anwand Lodges. The hotel’s 17 guestrooms, on the other hand, juxtapose quaint fixtures (like exposed beams and impeccably polished hardwood floors) with a sleek modern feel (clean lines, clean white bedding, dark brown furniture). We especially loved the top-floor rooms, with their sloped ceilings and wooden beams reminiscent of mountain chalets.

Rooms are outfitted with a fan, mini-fridge, minibar and flat-screen television. The tiny bathrooms have white tiles and flimsy plastic shower curtains. They aren’t luxurious, but they are bright and spotless.

The neighborhood can be a plus or a minus, depending on the traveler. Langstrasse is fast becoming trendy, and we appreciated that the hotel’s neighbors include an African grocery and avant-garde art gallery. Just keep in mind that the area is still very much changing—and still home to a very evident red light trade.

The staff at the Anwand Lodges is extremely friendly and helpful. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and a small breakfast buffet is served in the basement breakfast room. If it’s not included in your room rate (check when booking), breakfast costs a pricey CHF17.50. We recommend opting for a cheaper meal at the farmers’ market or one of the many cafés in the area.