Werdinsel: Zurich’s Gay Nude Beach Escape (2026)
Crystal-clear river swims, leafy island paths, and a relaxed, proudly queer vibe — Werdinsel is Zurich’s favorite warm-weather escape and one of Europe’s best urban gay nude beaches.
Just a short, clockwork-reliable tram ride from Old Town, Werdinsel sits on the Limmat River and feels worlds away from the city. Think shaded grassy fields, designated swimming ladders, picnic-perfect lawns, and a welcoming gay nude section tucked at the far tip of the island.
Below is your complete guide to Werdinsel: how to get here, where to set up, what to bring, when to go, and where to stay.
Just a short, clockwork-reliable tram ride from Old Town, Werdinsel sits on the Limmat River and feels worlds away from the city. Think shaded grassy fields, designated swimming ladders, picnic-perfect lawns, and a welcoming gay nude section tucked at the far tip of the island.
Below is your complete guide to Werdinsel: how to get here, where to set up, what to bring, when to go, and where to stay.
What Makes Werdinsel So Special?
Werdinsel blends Swiss precision with carefree summer energy.
Why it stands out:
- Legal, well-known gay nude area
- Easy river access with swimming ladders
- Grassy fields and shaded trees — sun or shade, your call
- Beautiful walking trails across a protected island
- Quick, easy transit from the city center
It’s social without being loud, natural without being remote, and effortlessly Zurich.
ZURICH TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Zurich? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
Planning your trip to Zurich? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
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🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
How to Get to Werdinsel
Zurich’s trams are the star of the show — frequent, clean, and incredibly easy.
From Old Town:
- Take the tram toward Werdinsel
- You’ll know you’re close when you spot the rainbow fencing on the pedestrian approach
- Cross the bridge on foot and follow the island paths
🌟 Pro tip – Trams run like clockwork. This is one of the easiest gay beaches in Europe to reach without a car.
How to Find the Gay Section
Once on the island:
1. Follow the trails through the protected area
2. Walk all the way to the far tip (the “point”) facing away from the city center
3. Look for signage marking the nude area
Just before the official gay section, you’ll find restrooms. The grassy fields leading up to the point are also popular for nude sunbathing and feel… energetic, shall we say.
What's the Vibe?
Expect a relaxed, social river-day atmosphere.
You’ll find:
- Nude sunbathers on lawns and at the river’s edge
- Guys swimming, floating, and chatting in the Limmat
- Groups picnicking with beers or bubbles
- A mix of locals and visitors, especially on warm afternoons
It’s easygoing, friendly, and unmistakably Zurich — calm, confident, and inclusive.
🌟 Pro tip – We share behind-the-scenes photos and videos as well as the spicier details from Werdinsel (and all our nudist travels) over on Patreon.
Swimming, Amenities & What to Bring
Werdinsel is more developed than many nude beaches, but preparation still matters.
On-site:
- Restrooms (near the gay section approach)
- Multiple swimming ladders for safe river entry/exit
- Shaded areas under trees
- Cafés elsewhere on the island
Bring with you:
- Water (swimming is thirsty work)
- Sunscreen
- Snacks or picnic
- Towel or beach blanket
Choose between shade under the trees or full sun on the grassy fields — both options are excellent.
When to Go
Werdinsel shines from late spring through early fall.
Best months:
- May to September
Best days:
- Sunny weekdays for space and calm
- Warm weekends for a buzzier, social scene
Fall days can still be spectacular — crisp air, golden light, and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay in Zurich
Renaissance Zurich Tower Hotel — Modern Luxury with Easy Transit
⭐ Best for: Relaxation, wellness lovers & effortless city access
📍 Location: Zurich West — perfectly between Old Town and Werdinsel
Why We Love It:
- Bright, modern rooms with sleek design
- Open-concept bathrooms you can close or leave open
- Complimentary sauna & steam room access
- Excellent fitness center with skyline and rail views
- Fast tram connections to Old Town and the gay area
Just 10 minutes and two quick stops from the airport, the Renaissance Zurich Tower makes logistics a breeze. Location-wise, it’s ideally positioned between the city center and Werdinsel — perfect for pairing a naked river day with dinner and nightlife downtown.
It’s a polished, comfortable base with all the amenities you want after a long swim and a lazy picnic.
Final Thoughts
Werdinsel is one of those places that reminds you how good city living can be.
With easy tram access, legal nude spaces, beautiful river swimming, and a relaxed gay crowd, it’s the ultimate summer escape — no car, no stress, just sunshine and water.
If you’re visiting Zurich when the weather is warm, do not skip Werdinsel. It’s local, authentic, and quietly unforgettable.
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip to Zurich? From the best LGBTQ+ hotels to must-visit attractions, dining, and travel tips, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to Zurich.
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