Baur En Ville (Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction
Located at the heart of Zürich’s Paradeplatz, the storied Baur En Ville—now the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich—stands as a testament to Swiss heritage, architectural grandeur, and contemporary luxury. Established in 1838 as Zürich’s first grand hotel, it has consistently shaped the city’s cosmopolitan spirit and hospitality standards. Following a meticulous renovation completed in 2023, this iconic property now offers world-class accommodation, fine dining, and panoramic city views, serving as both a monument and a vibrant social hub. This comprehensive guide explores Baur En Ville’s history, architectural evolution, notable guests, and provides practical advice for visitors, including up-to-date hours, ticketing, tips, and recommendations for nearby attractions.
For the latest information, always consult the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich official website. Additional perspectives can be found in Lampoon Magazine and Travelnews.ch.
Table of Contents
- Historical Overview
- Visiting Baur En Ville (Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich)
- Social and Cultural Impact
- Architectural Heritage
- Economic and Urban Influence
- FAQ
- Visuals and Media
- Useful Links
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- Sources
Historical Overview
Origins and Early Years (1830s–1840s)
Johannes Baur, an Austrian entrepreneur, arrived in Zürich in the 1820s and quickly recognized the city’s need for high-quality accommodation. In 1836, he purchased a former rectory near the post station and, with his wife Anna Knechtli and architect Daniel Pfister, transformed it into “Hôtel Baur”—opening on December 24, 1838. The hotel introduced modern amenities and scale unprecedented in Zürich, including 140 beds, stables for 90 horses, private parlors, and advanced features like speaking tubes and a dumb waiter.
Architectural Evolution and Renovations
19th Century Expansion:
As Zürich expanded, Baur opened Baur au Lac and renamed the city hotel “Baur en Ville” to distinguish it.
Early 20th Century Reconstruction:
From 1907–1908, under Jakob Schwarz and architects Pfleghard & Haefeli, the hotel was extensively rebuilt and modernized, reopening with 170 rooms.
1970s Preservation:
A major renovation (1975–1978) preserved the historic façade while rebuilding interiors, reopening as a five-star property with 104 rooms and suites.
21st Century Renewal:
The latest transformation (2022–2023), led by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and designer Tristan Auer, reduced room count to 80 (including 35 suites and a presidential suite), updated guest spaces, and restored the 17th-century Orsini restaurant. The new rooftop bar “1838” offers panoramic vistas over Zürich and Lake Zurich (Lampoon Magazine).
Ownership and Name Changes
The hotel evolved from “Hôtel Baur” to “Baur en Ville,” then “Savoy Hôtel Baur en Ville,” before reopening in December 2023 as the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich. Ownership passed from Credit Suisse to UBS in 2023, with Mandarin Oriental taking over management (Travelnews.ch).
Notable Guests and Historic Events
Baur En Ville has welcomed a roster of distinguished guests, including Franz Liszt, Charles Dickens, Clara Schumann, Richard Wagner, General Dufour, and Bill Clinton. Its event spaces have been the site of pivotal gatherings, such as the signing of the 1859 Peace of Zürich (Lampoon Magazine).
Visiting Baur En Ville (Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich)
Opening Hours and Access
- Exterior and Paradeplatz: Open 24/7 for public enjoyment and photography.
- Hotel Public Areas (Lobby, Restaurants, Bars): Daily, typically 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
- Rooftop Bar “1838”: Daily, 4:00 PM – midnight. Reservations recommended for best views.
- Orsini Restaurant: Open for lunch and dinner; advance booking advised.
Tickets and Reservations
- Exterior: No ticket required.
- Restaurants, Bars, and Public Spaces: No ticket required, but reservations are strongly recommended, especially for the Orsini restaurant and rooftop bar.
- Special Events & Tours: Occasional heritage or culinary events may require tickets—check the official website or inquire with the concierge.
Accessibility
Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich is fully accessible, with step-free entry, elevators, and accessible restrooms. For special requirements, contact the hotel in advance.
Guided Tours and Special Experiences
Regular public tours are not available due to the hotel’s operational status, but private or themed experiences (culinary, heritage, or art-focused) may be arranged through the concierge. During cultural festivals or special events, guided access to select historic spaces may be offered.
Nearby Attractions and Photographic Spots
- Bahnhofstrasse: Zürich’s luxury shopping boulevard (Swisslimco.com).
- Fraumünster Church: Renowned for Chagall’s stained glass windows.
- Old Town (Altstadt): Medieval streets, cafés, and boutiques.
- Swiss National Museum: Exhibits on Swiss culture and history.
- Lake Zürich: Promenades, swimming spots, and boat tours.
- Grossmünster: Iconic twin-towered church.
For further details on these sites, see the Zurich Tourism – Historical Sites.
Photography: The rooftop bar, monumental staircase, and historic façade are prime locations for memorable photos. Please respect privacy during private events.
Practical Visitor Tips
Booking and Accommodation
- The Mandarin Oriental Savoy offers 80 rooms and suites, including a 200–300 m² Presidential Suite with panoramic views (Hotellerie Gastronomie).
- Book well in advance for peak periods (June–September, December).
Dining
- Four distinct dining concepts under Executive Chef Benjamin Halat.
- Swiss classics and international cuisine, with seasonal local ingredients.
- Explore nearby cafés and chocolate shops along Bahnhofstrasse (The World Pursuit).
Dress Code and Etiquette
- Smart casual for most areas; formal attire for fine dining in the evening.
- Punctuality is valued in Zürich.
Services and Amenities
- 24h concierge, valet parking, fitness center, spa treatments, high-speed Wi-Fi.
- Multilingual staff; concierge can assist with reservations, tours, and local insights.
Events and Seasonal Highlights
- June: Music festivals, art exhibitions, open-air performances (All Events in Zürich).
- The hotel’s central location provides easy access to city events.
Currency, Payments, and Tipping
- Swiss Franc (CHF) is standard.
- Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Tipping is not required, but small gratuities for excellent service are appreciated.
Safety and Practical Matters
- Zürich is one of the world’s safest cities.
- Tap water is potable; carry a reusable bottle.
Language and Communication
- Swiss German is the local language; English widely spoken.
- Learning basic German phrases is appreciated but not required.
Connectivity and Technology
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
- Type J electrical outlets (230V); adapters may be needed.
Sustainability
- The hotel participates in eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient systems and waste reduction.
Packing and Weather
- Summer: 22–26°C (72–79°F), bring layers and a rain jacket.
- Evenings can be cool; comfortable shoes recommended for cobblestone streets.
Social and Cultural Impact
Since its founding, Baur En Ville has shaped Zürich’s identity, developing Paradeplatz into the city’s luxury and financial hub. The hotel’s ballrooms and salons have hosted aristocrats, artists, business leaders, and major international events, embedding it deeply in Zürich’s social fabric. Its blend of historic features and modern design captures the evolving spirit of the city (Lampoon Magazine).
Architectural Heritage
The building’s neoclassical façade, grand ballroom, and monumental staircase (restored in 2023) showcase Swiss craftsmanship. About 90% of furnishings are Swiss-made, reflecting a commitment to local design traditions.
Economic and Urban Influence
With 80 rooms and a staff of 160, the hotel supports Zürich’s luxury hospitality sector and local retail, while also serving as a training ground for hospitality professionals (Travelnews.ch).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours for Baur En Ville (Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich)?
A: The Paradeplatz exterior is open 24/7. Hotel public areas are generally open 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM; rooftop bar “1838” is open from 4:00 PM – midnight.
Q: Do I need tickets to visit?
A: No tickets are needed for the exterior or public hotel spaces. Reservations are recommended for dining and special events.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No regular public tours, but special experiences may be arranged through the hotel concierge.
Q: Is the hotel accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes. The hotel is fully accessible with elevators and accessible facilities.
Q: What are the best nearby attractions?
A: Fraumünster Church, Bahnhofstrasse, Old Town, Grossmünster, Swiss National Museum, and Lake Zürich.
Visuals and Media
- High-resolution images of the façade, grand ballroom, Orsini restaurant, and rooftop bar.
- Virtual tours and videos available on the official hotel website.
Useful Links
- Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich
- Lampoon Magazine – Renovation Project
- Travelnews.ch – Importance for Mandarin Oriental
- Hotellerie Gastronomie – Inside the New Savoy
- Swisslimco.com – Luxury Shopping Zurich
- The World Pursuit – Switzerland Travel
- Zurich Tourism – Historical Sites
Conclusion and Call to Action
Baur En Ville, now the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich, is an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience Zürich’s unique blend of tradition, culture, and luxury. Whether you’re savoring Swiss cuisine, enjoying rooftop views, or exploring Paradeplatz’s vibrant surroundings, your visit will be enriched by the hotel’s storied legacy. For the latest updates, event schedules, and travel tips, consult the official website and download the Audiala app for real-time resources. Plan your visit in advance and immerse yourself in the living history of Zürich.
