Wonderful Winter Days in Zurich—
Where to Dine, Sleep and Find Treasures

(Zurich)There’s a particular thrill to arriving at Zurich’s main train station in winter. Within moments, you’re gliding down Bahnhofstrasse, that luminous luxury boulevard that leads straight toward the lake. Snow-dusted peaks shimmer in the distance as you stand at the edge of Bürkliplatz. The whole city seems to fit neatly into your pocket. Slip into the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, wander through Seefeld’s tree-lined streets, or venture west to Wiedikon and the more industrial stretch of the Industriequartier, where creative energy hums.

As the season turns, Zurich begins to glow. The ceremonial switching on of the Christmas lights—known as Lucy, a nod to The Beatles’ song, “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds”—draws crowds to watch the city sparkle to life. Market stalls perfume the air with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, while choirs gather around the Singing Christmas Tree. From storied Maisons to emerging labels, Zurich’s shopping scene has a generous offering, all within easy walking distance. Add crisp alpine air, lakeside views, and ski slopes just beyond the city, and it is easy to see why a weekend here often feels like the beginning of a lasting love affair.

La Réserve Eden Au Lac
One of Zurich’s biggest draws for me is the lake, framed by snowy Alpine peaks that shift with the light. At La Réserve Eden au Lac—a luxury hotel that blends heritage with a contemporary touch—book a top-floor corner room overlooking the water. The wraparound balcony makes sunrise espresso feel cinematic.

Widder Hotel
Tucked into Altstadt, Widder Hotel places you right in the heart of the city, in a discreet and tranquil side street. The hotel is composed of nine medieval townhouses, some parts dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Its sensitive renovation was led by Swiss architect Tilla Theus, who curated an art collection featuring works by Hans Arp, Max Bill, Robert Rauschenberg, and Andy Warhol to sit effortlessly within the historic fabric. Inside, the rooms pair historic bones with mid-century elegance, creating a sophisticated cocoon.

The Home
Situated along the river across from Zurich’s Enge district, a little outside the city center yet wonderfully peaceful, The Home truly lives up to its name. Housed in a former paper mill, the hotel was redesigned by Theo Hotz, with interiors by Scandinavian designer Erik Nissen Johansen, adding a playful Dada spirit to spaces that feel warm, artful, and soothing.

Fischerstube
After a stroll through Seefeld’s lakeside park—which is dotted with sculptures like Jean Tinguely’s Heureka—Fischerstube makes for a charming stop. With its inviting atmosphere and views across the water, it’s a lovely spot for brunch (think generous plates and fresh bread) or, in fair weather, a classic Swiss fondue on the veranda.

Kronenhalle Restaurant & Bar
Kronenhalle Bar is a true Zurich institution. Come for lunch surrounded by original works by Chagall, Miró, and Picasso, or simply for an apéro at the elegant wood-paneled bar. It’s one of those places where I love to spend unhurried weekends with friends, watching the city’s cultural heartbeat unfold.

Neue Taverne
In the cozy days of winter, I like to head to Neue Taverne for dinner. The space has a wooden cabin feel, and the menu is entirely vegetable-focused—inventive and full of flavor. Don’t miss the blini with “field caviar,” egg yolk, and finger lime. It’s the kind of place that makes cold evenings something to look forward to.

Tasoni

While Zurich’s main luxury street is lined with names like Hermès and Cartier, Tasoni offers a spirited, fresh take. Owner Tary Sawiris was among the first to introduce niche international luxury labels such as Jacquemus, Courrèges, Charlotte Chesnais, and Cecilie Bahnsen to the city. The concept store’s selection is tightly curated yet playful, mixing directional pieces with timeless staples.

Anthracite 

There’s a myriad of options for art lovers in Zurich. Beyond classics like Kunsthaus, smaller galleries offer fresh perspectives. Anthracite Art & Design by curator Ebba Wallmén hosts shifting exhibitions that spark dialogue between disciplines, such as recent paintings by Scandinavian artists shown alongside Basalto Collective’s handcrafted pieces by Latin-American artisans.

Solané

Opened just a few months ago, Solané is the brainchild of the founders behind Pelikamo—one of Zurich’s leading tailoring houses. In their city-center shop, they serve barista coffee and pastries alongside thoughtful gifts and timeless wardrobe staples, all made in Switzerland and nearby Italy. On my holiday season list is the knitted balaclava in 100% RWS merino wool.

Motra’s Table
Hailing from Germany, the sisters behind Motra’s Table fell in love with Zurich and decided to make it home. Co-founder Arta Muja hosts pop-up dinner gatherings around town, Heidi Retreats in the mountains, and collaborates with Swiss artisans such as Les Solides on limited-edition style drops. My eye is on this sculptural silver hairpin, effortlessly chic.

Tauta Home
In leafy Seefeld on the same street as Monocle Café (perfect for a matcha and a stack of design, fashion, and culture magazines), Casa Tauta brings a burst of Colombian color to Zurich’s polished “old money” aesthetic. Maria Claudia Lorez opened the space to share her Latin-American roots, blending tradition and creativity through handcrafted home décor, vibrant apparel, and cultural experiences. Stop by for an arepa and a browse.