Finding a parking space in Zürich

Zurich, a vibrant city and the economic hub of Switzerland, attracts thousands of visitors daily with its business opportunities, cultural attractions, and picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Zurich. However, finding a parking spot in this bustling metropolis can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Here’s a practical guide to help you find parking in Zurich stress-free.

1. EasyP – Find a parking spot anywhere in Zurich with just a few clicks.

The EasyP App is a mobile app for sharing parking spaces, available throughout Switzerland. It enables people looking for a parking space to find one quickly, and to book it in advance or at the last minute. The app also allows people with private parking spaces to share them on the app when they do not use them, in order to receive compensation.

2. Parking lots in Zurich City

Zurich boasts a network of public parking lots located in strategic neighborhoods and close to major attractions. Here are some popular options:

Parking Urania : Located near Bahnhofstrasse, it is ideal for shopping or exploring the historic city center.
Parking Opéra : Close to the lake and the Seefeld district, it’s perfect for a cultural outing or a stroll along the lakeside.
Parking Hauptbahnhof : Convenient for those arriving or departing by train, it is located near Zurich’s main train station.
Parking Hohe Promenade : An ideal location for accessing shops and restaurants in the city center.

These parking lots are convenient but expensive and are often full during peak hours.

3. Outdoor parking zones in Zurich

Zurich is divided into several parking zones, identified by colors. These parking spaces have varying rates and limited parking durations:

Blue zones: free parking spaces of limited duration (from one hour to several hours), for which it is compulsory to use a parking disc to indicate the time of arrival at the space.
White zones: paid parking spaces that allow for limited parking duration. The hourly rate varies depending on the zone, with higher costs in central areas.
Yellow zones: these are private spaces reserved for residents or businesses. It is therefore forbidden to park on them without a specific permit. These spaces can be rented via the EasyP app, if the owners of these spaces have shared them on the app.

It is crucial to check the signs before parking to avoid fines.

4. Parking apps

An increasing number of drivers in Zurich are using mobile apps to quickly and easily find a parking spot. These apps allow you to locate available parking spaces and pay directly from your smartphone.

EasyP : it is an app that allows you to find parking spaces in advance or at the last minute, for either short or long durations. Payment is made directly through the app.
PayByPhone : this app lets you pay for parking in outdoor parking zones.

These apps are particularly useful for saving time and avoiding unpleasant surprises.

5. Park-and-ride (P+R) facilities in Zurich

For those who wish to avoid driving into downtown Zurich, park-and-ride (P+R) facilities are an ideal solution. They allow you to park on the outskirts of the city and take public transportation to reach the center. The main park-and-ride locations in Zurich include:

P+R Sihlquai : Located near the main train station, it is ideal for accessing the city center by tram.
P+R Altstetten : Convenient for those coming from the west of Zurich, with direct connections by train and bus.
P+R Zürich-Oerlikon : A good option for visitors coming from the north, with quick connections to the city center.

These parking facilities are affordable and well-connected by public transportation.

6. Private parking spaces in Zurich

There are also private parking spaces in Zurich, which are most often located in yellow zones when outdoors. These spaces can be a good option for those looking for long-term parking. Platforms like EasyP allow you to reserve and rent these types of parking spots online via a mobile app, based on your specific needs.

7. Practical tips for parking in Zurich

Avoid peak hours: Try to arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to find a parking spot more easily.
Use public transport: Zurich has an efficient public transport network, with trams, buses, and trains that serve the entire city effectively.
Look for free parking: Some parking spaces are free in the evening or on Sundays, especially in residential areas.

Conclusion

Finding a parking spot in Zurich can be challenging, but with proper preparation and the right tools, it becomes much easier. Whether you choose public parking, a private spot, or a reservation through an app, this guide will help you optimize your parking experience and fully enjoy your visit to this beautiful city.