The best social hostels
in Zurich

Zurich Youth Hostel offers a fresh take on hostel accommodation, having been built where an old school cabin once stood. Located close to the serene lakeside, it’s perfect for those wanting to relax by the water or venture into the city. The hostel’s facilities include a cosy bar and a spacious common area that fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet fellow travellers. Guests rave about the helpful staff—Basem often gets a special mention for his hospitality—and the clean, cheerful rooms. The location is not only well-connected to public transport but also provides easy access to local attractions, making it a practical choice for exploring Zurich. A few guests have noted noise in the dorms, but with a hearty breakfast and great overall value, this hostel is well-loved among visitors seeking comfort and convenience.

Most customers are highly positive about this hostel, praising the friendly and helpful staff (many mentions of Basem), clean rooms and common areas, and the great location with easy access to public transport and a solid breakfast. However, some mention drawbacks such as noise in dorms, towels and toiletries not included, and occasional comfort issues like no air conditioning or cooler rooms in hot weather, with a few noting the location can feel a bit distant from central Zurich.

Capsule Hotel - Alpine Garden Zurich is a fantastic option for those flying in or out of Zurich, conveniently situated right across from Check-in 1 at the airport. It boasts a unique setup with 144 lockable, ventilated capsules and a lively community space designed for socialising and co-working. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and welcoming staff, who are available around the clock for assistance. The transport links are superb, with frequent trains to the city centre just minutes away. It’s a modern and innovative space that caters to travellers looking for comfort with a touch of adventure. Although some have experienced noise disruptions or trouble with check-in, the overall sentiment leans towards satisfaction, particularly for those needing a convenient overnight stay before their journey.

Most customers are positive, praising the airport location, cleanliness, friendly staff, and comfortable capsules. However, some mention noise disturbances, temperature control issues, and occasional check-in/code problems.

Nestled in the eco-conscious Greencity district, MEININGER Zürich Greencity is a delightful option for anyone looking to explore Zurich with a green touch. This hostel offers a perfect mix of comfort and sustainability, which is particularly appealing for environmentally aware travellers. With Manegg S-Bahn station just a short stroll away, guests can hop on a quick train to the city's vibrant centre, where cultural hotspots and culinary delights await. Visitors will find clean, modern rooms that won't break the bank, alongside a friendly reception team ready to assist. One of the standout features is the shared kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and connect with fellow travellers. While some have noted the occasional noise from the nearby trains and minor cleanliness issues, the overall feedback highlights the hostel’s excellent value and accessibility. So whether it’s business or pleasure bringing one to Zurich, this hostel is a solid choice for a stay that balances comfort with convenience.

Most customers are positive overall, praising the hotel's value for money, clean and modern rooms, friendly staff, and easy access to public transport. The most frequently noted positives are clean rooms, good location, and the shared kitchen facilities. However, some guests report drawbacks such as train noise, occasional cleanliness or maintenance lapses, inconsistent staff service, and confusion over charges and extra fees.

For those wanting a unique experience in Zurich, Green Marmot Capsule Hostel is the city's first capsule hotel, and it's all about cosy accommodation at a reasonable price. Inspired by a concept from Japan, these capsules provide a snug haven in the bustling heart of the city, making it an ideal base for exploring Zurich. Guests appreciate the clean and well-maintained capsules, and the friendly staff are often mentioned as a highlight of the stay. While the central location is fantastic, some guests do report that privacy can be an issue due to the design, with sound carrying between capsules. The bathrooms can get busy, but overall, the vibe is positive, particularly for budget-conscious travellers looking for a quirky yet functional stay. With free Wi-Fi and basic amenities, it’s a great blend of modern living and accessibility.

Most customers are positive overall, praising the central Zurich location, friendly staff, clean beds/capsules, and good value for money. However, some mention issues such as limited privacy, significant noise/sound leakage, crowded or dirty bathrooms, security concerns, and limited on-site staff availability.

Situated in the vibrant old town of Zurich, Oldtown Hostel Otter offers a unique blend of socialising and comfort, thanks to its trendy bar right downstairs. Formerly the Hotel Otter, this hostel retains a charming atmosphere while providing budget accommodation with easy access to the city's major attractions. With the beautiful Lake Zurich just a stone's throw away and famous landmarks like the Grossmünster and the art museum within a five-minute walk, it's a prime spot for both relaxation and exploration. Guests can unwind in one of the hostel's 10 dorms or opt for one of the three private rooms, enjoying amenities like 24-hour free coffee and tea in the common area. While many praise the friendly staff and central location, there are some recurring mentions of cleanliness and bed quality that could be improved. Despite this, Oldtown Hostel Otter has a lot to offer for those looking to immerse themselves in Zurich's lively atmosphere while meeting fellow travellers along the way.

Overall, reviews skew positive with strong praise for location and staff, plus value. Common complaints center on cleanliness, ventilation, and bedding, with occasional notes about room misrepresentation and bathroom/shower issues.