Marktgasse Hotel

The Marktgasse Hotel occupies a carefully restored 15th-century building in the lanes of the Old Town on the right bank of the Limmat. It describes itself as one of the oldest inns in Zurich, and Zürich Tourism calls it a hideaway in the heart of the Old Town. Behind the historic facade, the hotel is modern and design-led, and it holds a four-star rating.

There are 39 rooms, and each is different. They are individually furnished with high-quality designer furniture, and the hotel offers single rooms, double rooms and suites, which makes it a good option for solo travellers as well as couples. Because the building is old, the rooms vary in size and layout, so read the descriptions carefully before booking if space is important to you.

Food and drink are a strong reason to stay. The hotel is home to IGNIV by Andreas Caminada, a fine dining sharing restaurant that holds two Michelin stars, and to the IGNIV Bar, where cocktails are created specifically for the restaurant. For more casual meals, Café Delish serves breakfast, pinsas, salads and desserts. IGNIV also holds 17 GaultMillau points, and its kitchen is led by Daniel Zeindlhofer; booking a table well in advance is essential if you plan to dine there during your stay. The hotel is run by Ospena Group, which also operates several other Zurich restaurants.

The hotel's own website describes the rooms as unique, and the Marktgasse suits couples on a city break, food lovers and travellers who want to be in the middle of the Old Town without the formality of a grand hotel. It is best for guests who like an urban atmosphere among cobbled streets and historic landmarks.

The location is excellent for sightseeing on foot. Zürich Tourism notes that the main station is around 690 metres away and the airport about 9 kilometres. The Kunsthaus, the Opernhaus, the Schauspielhaus theatre and Bahnhofstrasse are all within walking distance, the Limmat is a short stroll away, and the Grossmünster and the bars and restaurants of the Niederdorf are on the doorstep. It is a convenient base for exploring both banks of the river.