Youth Hostel Zürich

Youth Hostel Zürich is the official Swiss Youth Hostel at Mutschellenstrasse 114 in the Enge-Wollishofen area of Zürich, Switzerland, with about 76 rooms. It is the city's main hostel and offers the cheapest bed in an expensive destination, with dormitory beds and private rooms for guests of all ages, not only the young. The hostel lies south of the centre on the western side of the lake, a short ride from Bahnhof Enge, and tram and bus services link the neighbourhood with Paradeplatz, Hauptbahnhof and the lakefront. The setting is calm and residential, close to the Zürichsee and the green areas of Wollishofen, with the lake baths and promenades a short distance away, which makes the hostel pleasant in summer. Rooms are offered as Dormitory Beds and Private Double Rooms, giving a choice between shared and private accommodation. Amenities include wifi, lockers, a shared lounge and a restaurant, and the restaurant provides meals so that guests can eat without searching the neighbourhood, while breakfast is typically included or available at low cost. The shared lounge is the social centre, with travellers from many countries meeting there. As a member of the Swiss Youth Hostels network, the property follows a standard of cleanliness and sustainability, and guests with membership cards often receive a discount. The service character is friendly and informal, popular with backpackers, school groups, cyclists and families on a budget. Rates generally run from CHF 45 for a dorm bed to about CHF 130 for a private room, which is far below hotel prices in Zürich. Early booking is advisable for summer and school holiday periods, and the distance from the Old Town means visitors should allow travel time of around twenty minutes to the centre. For travellers who want to save money for dining and excursions, the hostel is among the best-value options in the city.