Cheap hotels near Lake Zurich in Zurich, Switzerland

The lake that defines Zurich is 17 miles long and swells to 2.5 miles wide. And unlike other urban bodies of water, this one is oft-used (especially in more temperate months) as a swimming hole. Yes, the water in some spots is that shallow!

With a long and lovely promenade for city strolls (make sure to stop and feed the geese and ducks along the way) and plenty of riverside photo ops, the lake has also become synonymous with boat tours.

To take a tour, pick up info from one of the many ferry boat operators at Burkliplatz (the lake end of Bahnhofstrasse and where boats depart) or check times at the Lake Zurich Navigation Company’s Web site.

So, bring your swimsuit and hop in. During summer months, public beaches and baths pop up along the shores. Thanks to avid environmentalists, Lake Zurich is considered one of the cleanest, most purified lakes in Europe. The water is potable too.

Hotels near Lake Zurich: Since lodgings can get pricey the closer you are to that crystal-clear water, we recommend heading a bit inland to Talstrasse or Sihlfeld. Even more options abound in Seefeld. Some of those listed below are also in tourist-friendly Altstad.

The lake, of course, is huge, and Zurich is relatively small. Thus, you won't be far from its shores from many of our other hotel picks.