Review: Swiss Senator Lounge Zurich Terminal A

Swiss Senator Lounge Zurich Terminal A – Location and Access

On a recent trip from Canada to Toulouse, France, I had the chance to spend some time at the SWISS Senator Lounge in Terminal A during my transit through Zurich. This was part of the same journey, during which I had earlier visited the SWISS Arrivals Lounge after an unpleasant overnight flight in SWISS Business Class from Montreal to Zurich. By the time I reached Terminal A, I was well into “reset mode” and looking for a comfortable space to recharge, get some work done, and grab a proper meal before continuing onward.

Swiss Senator Lounge – Zurich Terminal A

Thanks to my Aeroplan 50K status, I had access to the Senator Lounge as a Star Alliance Gold member. The Senator Lounge is also open to Miles & More Senators, and it’s positioned as a step above the standard Business Class lounge once inside. Access to the Senator Lounge is restricted to Star Alliance Gold members and Miles & More Senators, which limits crowding. That distinction became especially noticeable later when I compared notes with friends who were using the Business Lounge next door.

Lounge Entrance and Showers

Layout and Seating

The SWISS Business Lounge and the SWISS Senator Lounge each have their own separate entrances in Terminal A at Zurich Airport, though once inside, it’s obvious that the two lounges share a common design. Both spaces are organized around a glass atrium, with a high communal table running along its edge, which is an ideal spot for passing time while remaining connected to the terminal’s flow.

Main Lounge Seating Area

The main seating area of the Senator Lounge is visually striking without feeling overdesigned. Natural light pours in through the open atrium, giving the space a sense of openness, yet the layout retains a sense of intimacy. Seating options on the main floor are varied and practical, with sofas, lounge chairs, bar stools, and high-top seating lining the walls.

Traditional Sofa seating

Cushioned benches

High-Chair cafe-style seating

Design-wise, the lounge leans heavily into a familiar Swiss aesthetic. Wooden panels and the signature SWISS lamps create a warm, comfortable atmosphere that feels consistent throughout the space. The main floor is clearly geared toward socializing and productivity, with common tables and meeting-style seating that work well for passengers looking to get some work done.

For those seeking something quieter, there’s a Silent Area upstairs. This upper level offers a noticeably calmer environment, with individual nap booths, semi-private seating for couples, and wingback chairs and loungers positioned for relaxed TV viewing. What stood out most to me was how intentional the connectivity was throughout the lounge. Power outlets were available at virtually every seat with a focus on productivity. At the same time, certain corners were deliberately designed to feel “less connected,” offering spaces where you could unplug a bit and simply rest. The balance between work-friendly zones and relaxation-focused areas was one of the lounge’s strongest points.

Silent Floor – Napping Booths

Silent Floor – Loungers and semi-private booths

Napping booths

Food and Beverage

F&B was a clear highlight during my visit. Timing-wise, I arrived just before lunch, so the live chef station was set up for breakfast-style offerings. Guests could order freshly prepared omelettes or eggs cooked to their preferences.

Live Chef Station

Coffee Station and Beverages

Beyond the live station, the spread included a generous selection of cold cuts, baked goods, and drinks. The layout made it easy to graze or sit down for a more substantial meal, depending on how much time you had. As expected in Europe, good coffee was readily available, with multiple freshly ground options available. For those not looking for a full meal, there were plenty of lighter finger foods that worked well for a quick refuel.

Cold Cuts and Baked Goodies

Morning Dessert

Live Omelette station

Breakfast of Champions 😉

Everything felt efficient and well-managed, without the sense of urgency or crowding that can sometimes detract from an otherwise solid lounge experience.

Takeaway

The SWISS Senator Lounge in Terminal A was calm, spacious, and easy to settle into. Friends who were using the adjacent Business Lounge reported crowding and long food lineups, enough that they chose not to stay longer than about 30 minutes. In contrast, the Senator Lounge felt like a quiet cocoon, with ample seating, minimal noise, and plenty of reasons to linger.

For travellers looking to refresh, work, or simply enjoy a more comfortable lounge experience during a Zurich transit, the SWISS Senator Lounge delivers efficiency and functionality without overselling itself.