Family-run five-star hotel founded in 1844 on the Schanzengraben canal where the Bahnhofstrasse meets Lake Zürich. Parkland gardens, the Pavillon and Baur's restaurants and a spa make it the city's traditional grand address.
Baur au Lac is a family-run five-star hotel at Talstrasse 1 in central Zürich, Switzerland, where the Bahnhofstrasse shopping boulevard meets Lake Zürich. It stands beside the Schanzengraben canal, a short walk from Paradeplatz, the Bürkliplatz lake pier and the Bellevue tram hub, and roughly a fifteen-minute walk or a brief tram ride from Hauptbahnhof. Founded in 1844, the property is regarded as the city's traditional grand address, and it occupies its own parkland gardens, which give the hotel an unusually secluded feel for a location this close to the banking and retail district. The atmosphere is formal and classic, with period public rooms, polished service and a long-standing reputation among business travellers, diplomats and leisure guests. Accommodation is divided into Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites and Suites, many of them overlooking either the gardens or the canal and lake. Standard amenities include wifi, a concierge desk, room service and a fitness centre, while a spa provides treatments and relaxation space for guests who want to unwind after a day of sightseeing or meetings. Dining is a central part of the stay. The Pavillon and Baur's restaurants are the hotel's best-known venues, and the hotel also operates a bar for evening drinks. Breakfast is served in an elegant setting and is typically a full buffet-style affair with Swiss specialities. The service character is attentive and discreet, with a multilingual concierge team able to arrange theatre and opera tickets, lake excursions, private transfers and tables at city restaurants. The hotel is best suited to travellers who want a prestigious central base and are willing to pay for it. Rates generally run from about CHF 750 to CHF 1800 per night depending on room category and season, which places Baur au Lac at the top end of the Zürich market. Families are welcome, although the setting is more refined than playful. The gardens, canal views and proximity to the Old Town, the Kunsthaus and the lake promenade make the hotel a convenient base for both short city breaks and longer stays, and its location means most major sights can be reached on foot.
| Price | $$$$ |
|---|---|
| Address | Talstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland |
Room types
- Deluxe Room
- Junior Suite
- Suite
Amenities
- wifi
- restaurant
- bar
- concierge
- fitness center
- room service
- spa
- gardens
Location
Talstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
47.3671, 8.5393 View on map
Highlights
- Family-run grand hotel founded in 1844 beside the Schanzengraben canal
- Private parkland gardens a few steps from Bahnhofstrasse and the lake
- Pavillon and Baur's restaurants plus a hotel bar
- On-site spa and fitness centre
- Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites and Suites with garden or canal outlooks
Tips for visiting
- Reserve garden-facing or lake-view rooms early, as they are the most requested categories.
- Rates of roughly CHF 750-1800 per night vary sharply by season and room type.
- The Bürkliplatz tram and boat stops are within a short walk for lake cruises.
- Ask the concierge about opera, theatre and restaurant reservations before arrival.
- Smart casual dress is the norm in the restaurants and bar.
When to visit
Late spring through early autumn suits the gardens and lake promenade; December brings festive atmosphere on nearby Bahnhofstrasse.
Accessibility
As a large historic hotel with a concierge and lift access, it is generally suitable for guests with reduced mobility, though visitors needing step-free rooms should confirm room details with the hotel before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Baur au Lac located?
The hotel is at Talstrasse 1, where Bahnhofstrasse meets Lake Zürich, beside the Schanzengraben canal. Paradeplatz and the Old Town are within walking distance.
Does the hotel have a spa?
Yes, the hotel has a spa and a fitness centre. Treatment availability can be confirmed with the hotel directly.
What dining options are on site?
The Pavillon and Baur's restaurants and a bar are part of the property. Room service is also available.
How much does a night cost?
Rates typically range from about CHF 750 to CHF 1800 per night, depending on room category and season.