Mercure Zurich City

The hotel offers a contemporary urban experience, with its modern design and exceptional proximity to the Altstetten train station serving as a signature feature. Guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness, comfortable beds, and the attentive service provided by many staff members. Its location provides easy access to public transport, making it an ideal choice for various travelers. The hotel is particularly well-suited for business travelers seeking modern amenities and efficient commutes, sightseers who appreciate quick access to central attractions, and couples looking for a contemporary stay with wellness options. To enhance your visit, it is advisable to clarify room temperature controls upon arrival, and for those who prefer in-room hot beverages, bringing a personal kettle is recommended as they are not standard.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities for guest comfort and well-being. Many guests appreciate the well-equipped gym, offering a convenient space for workouts. The spa area, featuring a sauna, steam room, and a rooftop terrace, is often highlighted as a pleasant spot for relaxation, though some note occasional maintenance issues like dust or cigarette butts on the terrace. The availability of free Wi-Fi throughout the property is a consistent positive. An on-site convenience store (Coop) is a significant advantage, providing easy access to essentials and snacks. However, some guests experienced inconvenience due to ongoing renovations that impacted access to the bar and lobby areas, and a few noted that the spa facilities could benefit from improved upkeep and the reintroduction of essential oils for a more complete experience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with many appreciating the comfortable beds and good soundproofing that effectively blocks out noise from the nearby train tracks. The spacious bathrooms, some featuring modern glass walls, are also frequently mentioned positively. Many guests enjoyed the newly renovated rooms, highlighting their contemporary appeal. However, feedback on room size is mixed, with some finding them quite small. A recurring point of concern is the absence of several standard amenities, including a phone, fridge/minibar, safe, and kettle/coffee maker in the rooms. Additionally, AC/heating issues are a common complaint, as the centralized system often prevents individual temperature adjustment, leading to rooms being too warm or cold, and windows cannot be opened for fresh air.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet receives widespread praise for its variety and quality, offering a wide selection of hot food, cheeses, fruits, and pastries. Many guests appreciate the availability of good coffee machines during breakfast. However, some guests found the breakfast to be quite expensive. Feedback on the hotel's main restaurant menu is mixed, with some describing it as limited and the food quality average, citing instances of tough meat or cold dishes. While the breakfast staff are often commended for their friendliness, some guests reported long queues at the coffee machines during peak times and occasional unfriendliness from staff in the breakfast area, particularly when it was crowded.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant advantage for many, situated within a short 2-5 minute walk from the Altstetten train station. This provides exceptionally quick 5-10 minute train rides directly to Zurich Main Station (HB), making city exploration highly convenient. The proximity to tram and bus stops further enhances public transport options. It is also conveniently located for those visiting the Swiss Life Arena. The presence of nearby supermarkets like Coop and Migros is also appreciated. However, some guests noted that the hotel is located outside the city center, in a business/industrial area, which can feel less vibrant or "dead" in the evenings and on weekends. Parking is available on-site, though guests should be aware that it comes with a fee.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, particularly at the front desk and in the restaurant. Many guests highlighted the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to assist with various requests, contributing to a positive experience. However, some guests reported instances of unprofessional staff or rude staff, especially when addressing concerns about room temperature or missing amenities. There were also mentions of slow service at the bar or reception during busy periods. A few guests experienced issues with double charging for their stay or difficulties in resolving payment discrepancies. Additionally, some noted inconsistencies with housekeeping services, such as rooms not being cleaned daily or in-room amenities not being replenished consistently.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing renovations, which may affect access to certain areas like the lobby and bar, and can sometimes lead to a less welcoming atmosphere upon arrival. Some rooms are equipped with emergency buttons or cords, which might be unexpected for guests not requiring accessible accommodations. The hotel emphasizes sustainability efforts, using refillable soap dispensers rather than single-use toiletries. While the hotel has a pet-friendly policy, guests should confirm any associated surcharges. A few guests reported issues with room key cards malfunctioning, requiring multiple trips to the reception. Notably, there is no intercom system in the rooms, with communication relying on a WhatsApp service, and some guests expressed security concerns regarding the elevators, as they reportedly do not require key card access to specific floors.