Central Plaza Hotel is ideally situated in Zurich. It is one block from the main Zurich train station (Hauptbahnhof) and is clearly visible across the Limmat river as you leave the main entrance of the train station. All the trams in Zurich pass within a one block radius of this hotel. You are within 2 blocks of all the major restaurant and shopping areas. In short, this is the perfect location. Note: please consider a Zurich tram pass (available from the main train station on the basement level or from the front desk of the Central Plaza Hotel) as tram tickets purchased individually for each trip can add up quickly.
The Central Plaza Hotel is moderately priced for Zurich. The rooms are a good size with space for a desk, a small table with 2 chairs, luggage stand, and a King size bed you can walk around. The bathroom is well equipped, but would be small for two people at the same time. WIFI is free and there is a mini bar (although I did not use this). The fitness center is small but adequately equipped with treadmill, bike, elliptical, weight and rowing machines.
The breakfast (not always included) can be varied, but is not the least expensive you could find. The bar is very popular, but drinks can be expensive. I did not try the King's Cave restaurant in the hotel as the prices for the main dishes were a bit overwhelming. I'm sure it is nice, as are most of the Zurich restaurants. Beware, most Swiss-style restaurants in Zurich lean towards protein and starch with few vegetables (you're right, it is not very lean, but who can resist spaetzle!). There is a very good Italian restaurant (Commi Halle) a half block from the hotel that serves home made pasta and the prices are not totally terrifying (i.e. 2 people can eat for under a 100 Swiss francs with wine).
In terms of variety, shopping in Zurich for anything is wonderful, except for the prices which are very high. You are likely to find the same item at home for less (no matter where you call home). However, you are also likely to find something truly unique that you cannot find at home, especially in the many art gallery stores. The one must visit is the Kunsthaus (museum of arts), which is a very good public art gallery that does not overwhelm you, but has a wide range of important and influential artists.
- Hotel Central Plaza
- Central Plaza zürich
