Review of Widder Hotel

The Widder Hotel Zürich stands as one of Europe’s most distinctive luxury properties, seamlessly blending centuries-old heritage with contemporary sophistication. Spanning nine interconnected medieval buildings, each with its own unique character, the hotel offers 35 bespoke rooms and 14 individually curated suites, all rich in history and architectural detail. Every space tells a story, with design touches that evoke the past while embracing modern comfort. 

At the heart of the hotel, the renowned Widder Restaurant holds two Michelin stars, elevating Zürich's culinary scene. Guests enjoy access to six diverse venues for dining, drinks, and entertainment, a rejuvenating spa menu, and a cutting-edge fitness studio featuring the latest TechnoGym equipment. Personalized training sessions with leading Zürich fitness experts can be arranged upon request. Literature enthusiasts will appreciate the Turicensia library on the ground floor, a sanctuary filled with art tomes, Zürich history, and coffee table books. 

Widder Hotel guests receive exclusive privileges via The Living Circle’s City & Lake Resort Guest Card. This includes complimentary boat transfers between Zürich and Thalwil, as well as access to a curated selection of eight restaurants, four lively bars, and a stylish nightclub within the group’s portfolio.

Perched atop ancient Roman and Celtic foundations, the Widder Hotel enjoys a serene yet central position in Zürich’s historic Old Town, nestled on Rennweg in the vibrant Augustiner quarter. Just a short 183-meter stroll from the iconic Bahnhofstrasse—Zürich’s luxury shopping boulevard—and within easy reach of Lake Zürich, the hotel is perfectly situated for both leisure and business travelers. Zürich Airport is conveniently accessible: regular trains whisk guests from the airport to the main station in under 15 minutes, with the station itself only 650 meters away. The hotel offers private transfers upon request and secure on-site parking for those arriving by car. 

Major cultural attractions, from the twin towers of Grossmünster—Zürich’s unmistakable landmark—to the historic St. Peter Church (home to Europe’s largest clock face) and the celebrated Fraumünster with its Marc Chagall stained glass, are all within walking distance. The surrounding Old Town is alive with museums, galleries, and notable sites such as the Giacometti Murals, Cabaret Voltaire (the birthplace of Dadaism), and the acclaimed Kunsthaus Zürich, Switzerland’s premier art museum.

Each accommodation at the Widder Hotel is a masterclass in design and individuality, effortlessly marrying the building’s medieval roots with 21st-century luxury. Guests will discover iconic furnishings by celebrated designers such as Ray and Charles Eames, Le Corbusier, and Frank Lloyd Wright, all set against a backdrop of original architectural features. 

The hotel offers 34 rooms and 14 suites, each one distinct in shape and ambiance. Some showcase ancient oak beams, others display antique tiled stoves, hand-painted murals, or ornate stucco work. Modern amenities are seamlessly integrated: adjustable beds with reading lights, motion-activated night lighting, customizable climate control, Nespresso machines, complimentary minibars, and multimedia HD televisions come standard in every room. 

Room categories range from the cozy Design Single Room—ideal for solo travelers or short stays—to the more spacious Design Queen and Courtyard Queen options, which guarantee a tranquil retreat. Deluxe Double Rooms span 35–50 square meters, offering extra space and comfort. 

Guests seeking more room can opt for the Historic Junior Suites (35–60 sqm) adorned with 17th-century frescos or timber panels, or the Duplex Junior Suites (55–65 sqm) featuring a lofted gallery with additional bedding for families or groups. 

Signature suites include the Courtyard Suite & Spa (48–53 sqm) with a private spa shower, the Family Suite (53 sqm) with a master and twin bedroom, the Historic Suite (48–65 sqm) with opulent Baroque woodwork, and the Design Suite (73 sqm) boasting a panoramic rooftop terrace. 

For the ultimate in luxury, the Design Loft Suite (85 sqm) offers a colorful, duplex setting with a terrace and designer furnishings by Corbusier and Eileen Gray. The showpiece is the Penthouse Suite (164 sqm), with sweeping city, lake, and Alpine vistas, a wood-burning fireplace, and an entertainer’s dining area and bar. 

Guests reserving suites enjoy enhanced privileges, including complimentary ironing, a bottle of champagne, VIP welcome gifts, in-room check-in, and gourmet breakfast served in-suite. 

Since 2020, the Widder has expanded with four sophisticated, fully serviced apartments nearby. These residences blend historic elements—such as exposed beams and stucco ceilings—with state-of-the-art interiors. The Penthouse Maisonette (167 sqm) features three bedrooms and a private rooftop, while the Historic 3 Room Apartments (114–139 sqm) offer flexible layouts, multiple bathrooms, and modern kitchens. All apartments include hotel services, a welcome grocery kit, gym access, bi-weekly housekeeping, and the option to hire a private chef for special occasions. 

Accessibility is thoughtfully addressed, with two adapted rooms available for guests with mobility needs.

Guests at the Widder Hotel enjoy round-the-clock access to a high-tech fitness center, equipped with the latest TechnoGym machines and a comprehensive array of free weights. For those seeking expert guidance, private sessions with Zürich’s leading personal trainers can be arranged. The hotel’s spa services provide a menu of indulgent massages, beauty treatments, and wellness therapies, ensuring a sense of balance and relaxation during your stay.

The Living Circle’s partnership with the prestigious Hirslanden Private Hospital Group means guests requiring medical attention or specialized health services receive seamless support, a feature highly valued by international travelers in 2025.

On the ground floor of the Steinhaus, the Turicensia library offers a curated collection of art, history, and fiction in a tranquil setting—ideal for quiet reflection or research on Zürich’s rich cultural tapestry.

With The Living Circle’s City & Lake Resort Guest Card, guests unlock exclusive experiences, including complimentary boat cruises to Thalwil and privileged access to a network of acclaimed restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues across Zürich.

The Widder Hotel stands apart as a design icon, ingeniously uniting nine medieval townhouses—some dating to the 12th century—into a singular architectural marvel. Originally acquired by UBS to safeguard Zürich’s historical core, the transformation was led by visionary architect Tilla Theus, who wove the disparate structures together using sleek passageways and thoughtful detailing. 

Contemporary elements—chrome, glass, and steel—contrast beautifully with exposed stone, centuries-old beams, and hand-selected woods. Throughout the hotel, guests will find museum-quality artworks and vintage designer furnishings, creating a harmonious interplay between historic charm and urban sophistication. The result is a residential, gallery-like ambiance that attracts design aficionados and discerning travelers alike. 

This extensive restoration spanned more than a decade and engaged over 1,000 specialists, artisans, and craftspeople. Today, the property is owned by Swiss Life and managed under The Living Circle’s acclaimed hospitality portfolio, ensuring the Widder remains a pinnacle of Swiss luxury. 

Our stays have revealed why travelers return time and again: each room is a fresh discovery, with its own personality. The ever-evolving interiors make every visit an entirely new experience—an irresistible draw for those who appreciate individuality and craftsmanship at the highest level.

The acclaimed Widder Restaurant, recipient of two Michelin stars, is the culinary centerpiece of the hotel, where Zürich’s storied past meets contemporary gastronomy. Under the leadership of Chef Stefan Heilemann—awarded Gault&Millau Chef of the Year and celebrated for his innovative approach—each dish showcases the finest seasonal ingredients, many sourced directly from The Living Circle’s own estates and vineyards. Every meal is a testament to creative technique and Swiss terroir. 

The legendary Widder Bar, a cornerstone of Zürich nightlife, welcomes guests daily from noon until late. Its collection of over 300 single malt whiskies is among the city’s best, and the venue is famed for hosting international jazz luminaries during its twice-yearly concert series, making it a must-visit for music lovers. 

The Greenery, a seasonal pop-up on Augustinergasse in partnership with Perrier-Jouët, transforms into an enchanting winter forest for fondue and raclette, while in summer, guests can savor light, Alpine-inspired fare on the sun terrace.

Boucherie AuGust, helmed by Chef Tino Staub, delivers Swiss classics—think homemade pâtés, terrines, and hearty regional dishes—in a convivial brasserie setting. 

For those seeking an energetic after-dark scene, Widder Garage—set in the hotel’s former parking structure—offers a dynamic bar, club, and DJ-driven dance floor, complemented by creative cocktails and gourmet Pinsas. 

Widder Garden, open from mid-April through October, is a tranquil oasis just steps from Bahnhofstrasse, where guests can enjoy relaxed outdoor dining surrounded by lush greenery in the heart of Zürich’s Old Town.

Preserving its centuries-old architecture, the Widder Hotel is passionately committed to sustainability and responsible tourism, ensuring future generations can experience these remarkable buildings.

As a proud member of myclimate’s “Cause We Care” program, the hotel encourages guests to contribute to environmental initiatives and offsets the carbon footprint from each stay—doubling guest contributions to achieve carbon neutrality and fund further eco-projects. Widder Hotel also participates in the NOW association and Swiss Tourism’s Swisstainable program, showcasing its ongoing dedication to green hospitality.

Key efforts include energy-saving measures, ethical supply chains, digital office practices, sustainable floral arrangements, waste reduction, and water conservation. The hotel is pet-friendly, supports local artisans, enforces a non-smoking policy, and ensures fair compensation for suppliers—demonstrating a holistic approach to both environmental and social responsibility.

Wellness extends to food and beverage offerings, with healthy in-room options, sustainable amenities, and collaborations with local artists and artisan producers. Food waste is minimized through partnerships with KITRO and the Food Waste Alliance, and single-use plastics have been eliminated across all operations.

Dining venues prioritize regional and seasonal produce, largely sourced from The Living Circle’s own farm and vineyard, minimizing transport emissions and supporting local agriculture.

In guest rooms, leftover soap is donated to SapoCycle, where it is recycled by people with disabilities and distributed to families in need, improving hygiene and supporting social inclusion.

The Widder Hotel also invests in education, offering five annual apprenticeships and collaborating with leading hotel management schools to foster future hospitality talent.

• Eclectic Variety: With 35 rooms and 14 suites, each with its own personality, the Widder inspires return visits—no two stays are ever the same. The quirky architecture, slanted beams, and unique layouts create a sense of discovery. The Penthouse Suite, with its panoramic Zürich views, is truly unforgettable.
• Curated Library: The hotel’s intimate library, complete with original Eames lounge chairs, is a sanctuary for guests. It’s the perfect spot to immerse in Zürich’s history or savor a quiet morning with the day’s newspaper in a refined, historic setting.
• Unbeatable Location: The Widder’s setting in Zürich’s heart puts guests steps from world-class shopping, iconic landmarks, and the lakefront. Its blend of heritage and luxury rightfully places it among the world’s leading boutique hotels.Varun SharmaEditor-In-ChiefBusinessclass

• Farm-to-Table Excellence: Our dining venues spotlight produce from our own farms, such as eggs from "Schlattgut" above Herrliberg and organic beef from Vermes in the Jura—transformed into burgers, fillets, or artisanal sausages. Wines and spirits from our Terreni alla Maggia estate in Ascona are featured throughout our wine and cocktail lists, ensuring guests experience the farm-to-table philosophy in every bite and sip.
• Culinary Diversity: We take pride in offering a spectrum of gastronomic experiences, from relaxed lunches at AuGust brasserie to gourmet tasting menus at the Michelin-starred Widder Restaurant, led by acclaimed Chef Stefan Heilemann and his award-winning team.
• Living History: With over 700 years of heritage woven through nine distinct houses, the Widder Hotel offers a truly singular experience. From our central location to our personalized five-star service, every moment at the Widder is a celebration of Swiss tradition and innovation.Mr Jörg ArnoldGeneral ManagerWidder Hotel