Sihlcity
Zürich
Sihlcity is a major urban entertainment and shopping complex located in Zurich's Wiedikon district, built on the grounds of a former paper mill near the Sihl river. Opened on March 22, 2007, it spans approximately 100,000 square meters and integrates a diverse mix of facilities including around 75 shops, 14 restaurants, a multiplex cinema with 18 screens, a fitness and wellness center, a cultural house, offices, and residential apartments. The site preserves four historic industrial buildings, notably the old chimney, which serve as a reminder of Zurich's industrial heritage. Sihlcity hosts about 2,300 employees and attracts roughly 20,000 visitors daily, making it a vibrant hub for shopping, entertainment, and community activities. The complex also features a chapel and had a hotel, with a new hotel planned to open in 2024 featuring French Dada-inspired design. Well connected by public transport, including trams, buses, and the Sihlcity railway station, it is easily accessible from Zurich’s central areas. Sihlcity's blend of modern amenities and historical elements offers a unique urban experience in Zurich.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to use public transportation for convenience, as Sihlcity is well served by tram lines 5 and 13, trolleybus line 72, and the S4 S-Bahn line at Zürich Saalsporthalle-Sihlcity station. Parking is available but limited to 850 paid spaces. The best times to visit are weekdays or mornings to avoid peak crowds. Tickets for the multiplex cinema and special events can be purchased online in advance to ensure availability. Seasonal activities, such as the indoor minigolf and children’s adventure areas, offer family-friendly entertainment options. Check the official website for current events and promotions.
Interesting facts
- •Sihlcity was built on the grounds of a former paper mill, preserving four historic industrial buildings including a prominent chimney.
- •The multiplex cinema within Sihlcity, Arena Cinemas, is the second largest in Zurich with 18 screens and around 2,100 seats.
- •The original Four Points hotel closed and is being replaced in 2024 by The Home Hotel, inspired by the Dada art movement with French design elements.
- •Sihlcity employs approximately 2,300 people and receives about 20,000 visitors daily.
- •The project was considered the largest private high-rise construction in Switzerland during its main building phase.
History
Sihlcity was developed on the site of the former Zurich paper mill near the Sihl river, with construction beginning in July 2003 and culminating in its opening in March 2007 as Switzerland's first urban entertainment center of its kind.
The project was led by Karl Steiner AG and architect Theo Hotz, with Credit Suisse and associated real estate funds as primary investors.
The development preserved four industrial-era buildings, including the characteristic chimney, maintaining a link to the site's manufacturing past.
Initially envisioned as the largest private construction project in Switzerland at the time, Sihlcity has evolved into a multifaceted complex blending retail, culture, and residential spaces.
Place Guide
Historic Industrial Buildings19th century
Four preserved buildings from the former paper mill, including the iconic chimney, which highlight the industrial heritage of the site.
Arena CinemasOpened 2007
A multiplex cinema with 18 screens and approximately 2,100 seats, making it the second largest cinema in Zurich, offering a wide range of current films and events.
Minicity Children's Adventure Area
An indoor children's playground designed as a small city with various play worlds and activities, ideal for families visiting Sihlcity.
Upcoming Home Hotel2024
Scheduled to open in summer 2024, replacing the former Four Points hotel, with interiors and decor inspired by the Dada movement and featuring a French restaurant.
Contact
Phone: 044 204 99 99
