Housed in what was formerly the Uto Castle, the Ambassador à l’Opéra's neo-Baroque architecture -- complete with wrought-iron balconies, ornate gables, and carved stonework -- still very much exudes an aristocratic air. Built in 1898, this privately managed boutique hotel retains a strong sense of tradition -- the ambience can even feel a little formal -- while interiors have been largely brought up to date in a smart palette of black and gold. References to opera music are dotted around the walls, while the hotel's pièce de résistance appears in the restaurant: a wonderful freehand mural depicting various operatic scenes. A single elevator services the hotel's five floors and also carries guests to a rooftop terrace with views over the lake and the Alps beyond. 

The hotel is located in Zurich's Seefeld quarter, across from the city's Opera House. Lake Zurich -- with its pleasant quayside promenade -- is just a block away, while the picturesque Old Town and famous Bahnhofstrasse -- one of the world's most expensive and exclusive shopping streets -- is about 10 minutes away on foot or two tram stops. There are plenty of tram connections in the immediate surrounds, and the Stadelhofen station is a five-minute walk away. From here, guests can get to the Zurich Airport in under 10 minutes; it takes about the same amount of time by cab (traffic permitting). 

The hotel has 45 rooms, each of which is traditionally decorated with tasseled floral-print drapes, old-fashioned etchings, and mostly antique-style furnishings that neutral-tone striped wallpaper. Beds have wrought-iron frames and are adjustable with a remote control, while a menu pillow with seven different options is available to guests. Amenities include Nespresso coffeemakers, free fast Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with over 100 channels. All rooms also come with robes and slippers and a free bottle of Swiss mineral water that's replaced daily. While some of the cheaper rooms are on the small side, others are spacious and open up to small balconies. Turndown service is provided. 

Because the Ambassador is a smaller property, there's not a great deal in the way of on-site amenities. However, the hotel's restaurant certainty stands out. Guests can start the day with a hearty Swiss breakfast comprising bread, seasonal jams, fresh eggs, Swiss cheeses and even Zurich's own sparkling wine (but note that breakfast isn't included in standard rates). The restaurant is also known as one of the city's best seafood spots and certainly features some of the most interesting art you'll find while dining around town. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace that's open during warmer weather with lounge chairs and lovely panoramic views. There's also a parking lot next door and valet service (both for a fee). Fast Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.