Zurich also has a lot to offer in terms of nightlife – thanks to the large number of parties, clubs and discos in the city. Let’s discover them together!
Zurich by night: an explosion of fun
Zurich also has a lot to offer in terms of nightlife – but not only: if you are thinking of moving, you should discover the pros and cons of living in Zurich, because the city offers a wide range of parties, clubs and discos. Let’s discover them together!
Zurich’s most sensational nightclubs: a journey through bars, discos and music
Zurich’s nightlife is a kaleidoscope of experiences. From the quiet summer bars by the lake, perfect for an aperitif at sunset, to the nightclubs in the city centre, where you can dance until the early hours of the morning, the choice is huge. But that’s not all: many of these clubs have a fascinating history and have been frequented by famous personalities such as Einstein and James Joyce. Imagine drinking in the place where these cultural greats spent their evenings!
1. Bars in Zurich
Zurich’s bars are real gems, each with its own soul and style. Here are some addresses not to be missed:
Olé Olé Bar
If you are looking for a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere, this is the place to be. Located in the heart of the Langstrasse district, the Olé Olé Bar is one of the city’s most popular bars, a true crossroads where people of all ages and backgrounds meet, from bankers to students. Get ready for an eclectic mix and unforgettable evenings!
Splendid Piano Bar
Immerse yourself in Zurich’s history at this bar that is more than 40 years old. Located in the heart of the Old Town, the Splendid Piano Bar offers a unique experience with sophisticated cocktails and live jazz or blues music. International artists perform on the grand piano, creating an elegant and refined atmosphere that attracts customers from all over the world.
Old Crow
This small bar in the old town is a true paradise for cocktail lovers. The Old Crow welcomes you to a retro and cosy atmosphere, where you can enjoy amazing cocktails and choose from more than 1600 spirits.
Kronehalle
Enter a world of elegance and sophistication at this uniquely designed bar, which was opened back in 1924. At the Kronehalle you can enjoy first-class cocktails and homemade snacks, surrounded by art and paintings that create a very special atmosphere.
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Just entering this restaurant is already a beautiful experience, the early 20th century style ambience with canton symbols and gothic lettering create a unique ambience. The counter is beautiful and the atmosphere created by the paintings hung everywhere is remarkable.
We dined in the upper room of the restaurant, the furnishings very well cared for, the service perfect as a fine restaurant and the food did not betray, perfect as expected. Of course we are talking about a restaurant with very high prices even by Zurich’s already very high standard. For a starter and a dish, with wine and water dessert and coffee calculate 120-150 €.
5-star user review from Google left at Kronehalle
Petra’s Tip Top Bar
If you love pop music and want to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the LGBT community, this is the place for you. Petra’s Tip Top Bar is a popular meeting point, known for its cosy atmosphere, delicious cocktails and shows that liven up the evenings.
Pub Crawl Tour
If you want to discover the best of Zurich’s nightlife together, don’t miss this unmissable guided tour. The Pub Crawl Tour gives you the opportunity to visit different venues, with free entry and drinks included, and to get to know both locals and expats from all over the world. A fun and social way to explore the city at night!
2. Discos and nightclubs
When the urge to dance strikes, Zurich does not disappoint. The city is home to numerous nightclubs where you can let loose to music to suit all tastes. From the most exclusive clubs to underground venues, you are spoilt for choice. Here are some addresses to mark in your diary:
Mascotte
Get ready to enter the city’s oldest nightclub, a legendary venue where the likes of Josephine Baker and Louis Armstrong have performed. Mascotte offers evenings of techno, pop, hip hop, funk, punk or rock music, and hosts concerts by numerous international artists. A true temple of music and entertainment!
Kaufleuten
This legendary club is a landmark of Zurich nightlife. The Kaufleuten offers performances by famous DJs, concerts and cultural events, and also includes a restaurant, lounge and bar. A multifaceted and sophisticated venue, perfect for an unforgettable evening.
Gonzo Club
If you are looking for a cosy, underground atmosphere, the Gonzo Club is the place to be. Located on Langstrasse, this club is a true paradise for dance fans, who can enjoy the rock music, concerts and various parties that liven up the evenings.
Zukunft
Step into a biosphere of sound and light at this club where nightlife enthusiasts rock out to the beat of electronic music, phuture jazz, afrotech or deep house. Zukunft also includes a meeting room, an opportunity to chat and meet people from all over the world.
Hive
This is heaven for lovers of house and techno music. Hive will surprise you with its spectacular lights and lasers running through the three dance floors, creating an electrifying and engaging atmosphere.
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The place is a clubbing institution in Zurich. If you like electronic music and are from Zurich you must have been here once!
They have several DJs, three floors, an outdoor area and a ‘kiosk’ where you can get snacks after the hour, a plus.
People generally have a good time.
Great place to dance the night away.
5-star user review from Google left at Hive
X-TRA
This popular club is a hotspot for concerts and theme parties. X-TRA hosts numerous concerts and some of the best theme parties in Zurich, such as the gothic ‘More than Mode’ or the colourful ‘Lollipop Party’.
3. Music venues
For an evening of good music, Zürich also offers numerous music venues where you can listen to concerts and live performances. Here are some addresses not to be missed:
Jazz Club Moods
If you love jazz, soul, blues or pop, this is the place for you. At Jazz Club Moods you can enjoy top-quality performances and savour a wide selection of cocktails. A musical and sensory experience not to be missed!
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The atmosphere here is definitely a 5. Last night I went to a carnival party in Brazil at Moods and it was simply beautiful. Well decorated, the sound and lights were perfect, plenty of space to watch the show. Most of the bartenders were good and you could see how quickly they served at such a big event, overall they did a good job. Beware that the heating gets hot in the spring so make sure you don’t wear too much and leave your layers out in the locker.
5-star user review from Google left at Jazz Club Moods
Rote Fabrik
This legendary cultural centre on the shores of Lake Zurich is a true landmark for the city’s cultural scene. Rote Fabrik hosts concerts by international artists, film screenings and theatre performances, offering an all-round cultural experience.
Helsinki
This unique venue, housed in an old garage next to the Hardbrücke, will surprise you with its artisanal atmosphere and alternative music concerts or wild parties that liven up the evenings. An authentic and original place, perfect for those looking for something different.
Volkshaus
This charming bar-restaurant on Helvetiaplatz is a perfect place to chat, drink or eat in a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. The leather seats, benches, chairs and tables create a retro and charming atmosphere.
Dynamo
Located on the Limmat river, this music venue, bar and bathing area is a true landmark for Zurich’s subcultural scene. Dynamo offers subcultural events, concerts and parties, providing an alternative and engaging experience.
These bars, clubs and music venues represent some of the excellent activities that Zurich also offers during the winter season. But the city has much more to offer: for more great ideas on how to enjoy Zürich in winter and have an unforgettable experience, don’t miss our tips.
