Hotel Hirschen

We spent several nights at Hotel Hirschen after arriving on Christmas Day, and felt very welcome throughout. We got there before our room was ready, but staff let us leave our bags and had taken them up to the room by the time we came back. Special thanks to Micheal, Lorenzo, and a female staff member whose name we didn’t catch. Hirschen sits in a lively square with shops and restaurants, just steps from the river, yet we didn’t find it noisy. Our room was plain but clean, comfortable, and more than adequate. Breakfast costs a reasonable amount for Zürich and has a good range of quality continental items, including salmon, though nothing hot. The hotel was decorated for Christmas, but the outdoor area was closed during our visit. The hotel asks you to leave your key at the desk when you head out. That may surprise some guests, though it was once common in Europe and still is at smaller independent hotels. A bonus for us: the house dogs nap behind reception and let friendly guests pet them. We’d certainly stay again.

The owner was genuinely kind, and the hotel was nicely decorated, which made me hesitate to write this. But those things don’t make up for the poor service and the basics being so badly handled. I won’t return or recommend it unless they improve breakfast and staff behavior. For almost 200 CHF a night, the rooms and beds are tiny, and the sink is smaller than an airplane sink. Breakfast was a mess: portions were absurdly small, like a little bowl with five pineapple pieces, and there was no proper hot food. Ask for eggs and you’re treated as if you’re about to bankrupt the place. One older man at breakfast was practically shouting at guests, and I had to ask him directly to show people basic respect. I honestly don’t understand the good reviews, and I’m starting to wonder if some are paid.

We slept perfectly, even with a holiday market right outside the hotel, thanks to the great sound insulation. The room and beds were comfortable, and the location is lovely, close to everything and easy to reach from the airport by train or tram. Staff were kind, caring, and helpful. It was handy to be able to get breakfast on site without booking ahead. The buffet offered plenty of choices, and my soft-boiled egg was just right. No cons at all!

Right in the heart of Zürich’s old town, this beautiful antique hotel has lovely little rooms with very nice balconies. The service is great, and the staff are really friendly.