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Zürich travel guide

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Not so long ago, Zurich was famed chiefly for being the cleanest, most icily efficient city in Europe. Things have changed. These days it qualifies as a metropolis with style, and even a touch of glamour. Plan your trip to Zurich with our guide to Zurich, based on The Rough Guide to Switzerland , your travel guide for Switzerland .

What is Zurich famous for? Your Zurich travel guide

Top attractions and things to do in zurich, which areas should you visit in zurich, best places to stay in zurich, eating and drinking in zurich: best restaurants, cafés and bars, nightlife and entertainment in zurich, how to get around zurich, excursions and day trips from zurich.

Zurich's stunning skyline © Shutterstock

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Switzerland’s largest city (population over 420,000) has shaken off its reputation as Europe’s sourpuss and you’ll find its still pristinely clean streets abuzz with newfound confidence on the back of global recognition.

Zurich consistently rates at or near the top of annual surveys judging cities worldwide for their quality of life. Zurich is still best known, though, as a city to do business.

After World War II, the city’s foreign exchange speculators had become so powerful and secretive that exasperated British ministers, amid the 1964 sterling crisis, spoke of them as gnomes, scurrying about in the corridors of their private banks forever counting their gold. 

Today Zurich hosts the world’s most important market for trading gold and precious metals. Exceptional affluence tends to define the area these days, and yet, despite its wealth and status, Zurich is not a flashy place at all. 

You’re likely to find plenty to keep you occupied in this good-looking city, poised astride the River Limmat, adorned with over a thousand medieval and modern fountains, and turned towards the Zurichsee (Lake Zurich), so crystal-clear the Swiss authorities have certified its water safe to drink. 

Zurich Lake and city © Alexandru Staiu/Shutterstock

On the subject of good-looking cities, Zurich was one of the reasons you voted Switzerland one of the most beautiful countries in the world .

In recent years it's undergone a boom in arts and popular culture, expressed most tangibly in the Zurich West district, which has become a hotbed for the alternative scene and a powerhouse for new cultural institutions.

The heart of the city, though, remains its medieval Old Town, characterised by the steep, cobbled alleys and attractive, small-scale architecture of the Niederdorf district – perfect for exploratory wanderings.

With a handful of medieval churches to take in, including the mighty Grossmünster and graceful Fraumünster, the superb Kunsthaus art gallery and the most engaging café culture in German-speaking Switzerland, you could easily spend days here. That said, if you're thinking of visiting Zurich, read up on the wider region of  northeast Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

1. Grossmünster

No trip to Zurich is complete without a visit to its iconic “Great Minster” , from where Zwingli preached the Reformation. With its distinctive twin sugar-loafed towers, and a venerable history at the heart of the Swiss-German Reformation, the Grossmünster, or Great Minster, dominates Zurich’s skyline.

Zurich's gloriously grand Grossmünster church © S-F/Shutterstock

2. Kunsthaus

A truly world-class gallery of art, the Kunsthaus collection begins even before you get inside. Beside the main door is Rodin’s vivid Gate of Hell, while sculptures by Moore, Maillol and others dot the grounds. Inside, one whole wing is given over to a permanent display of the widest array of Alberto Giacometti’s sculpture in the world.

3. Chagall windows

Head to Fraumünster church to be spellbound by Marc Chagall’s breathtaking stained glass. Once inside, you’ll see the Chagall windows immediately. For a closer look, venture into the Romanesque choir that has a simplicity of design that would make it a magical place even without its windows.

4. Swiss National Museum

Enjoy superbly presented, state-of-the-art displays on Swiss history and culture in this mock-Gothic castle with a modern wing. The Swiss National Museum provides a deep understanding of swiss culture.

5. Uetliberg

Join the locals on this steep-sided ridge rising above the city, with stunning views and wooded walking trails. From the top of the summit’s 30m viewing tower, there are terrific 360-degree views over Zürich, the curve of the lake and, on a clear day, east into Austria and as far southwest as the Jungfrau.

Lake Zurich as seen from Uetliberg - one of the best things to do in Zurich © Oscity/Shutterstock

6. Zurich West

Discover this hotbed of Zurich’s dynamic counterculture, centred on the buzzing Langstrasse. This sometimes seedy, but always absorbing, 1.5km-long strip boasts an abundance of designer bars, independent cinemas, clubwear outlets and cheap eateries.

7. Confiserie Sprüngli

Indulge yourself with exquisite sweet treats and fine coffee at Confiserie Sprüngli , the home of Zurich’s premier confectioner. The display cabinets are full of exquisite chocolates and cakes, plus their own speciality, Luxemburgerli — cream-filled pastry bites that are truly drool-worthy.

8. Lake Zurich

Take to the water and leave urban life behind on a short boat trip to the “City of Roses”, Rapperswil, where you can lose yourself in the quiet Old Town alleys, which weave around and between a succession of plazas.

Crossing Lake Zurich by ferry is a feature of any decent Zurich travel guide © Swiss Tourism

To see lots of top Zurich travel attractions, you could book an immersive tour that takes in the Old Town, River Limmat and surrounding area by ferry, cable car and coach. Or, for a fun zip around Zurich, a private tuk-tuk tour of the city comes recommended.

Because the River Limmat divides the Old Town into two distinct halves, it makes more sense to consider the two banks of the river separately rather than concentrate on a New Town/Old Town split.

The alleys of the east bank – known as Niederdorf or the “Dörfli” – are full of cafés and small shops, with the enormous twin towers of the Grossmünster as a centrepiece. The slender spire to the north belongs to the Predigerkirche with, above it on a hill to the east, the grandiose architecture of the university.

Opposite, the west bank is the oldest part of the city, centred around the raised platform of the Lindenhof and characterized by expensive fashion outlets and offices.

Nearby rise the graceful spires both of St Peter’s, featuring the largest clock face in Europe, and the Fraumünster, a medieval church decorated in the last century with beautiful stained glass by Marc Chagall.

Zurich's famous Fraumünster Church, as seen from Grossmünster Church © Shutterstock

The long, curving Bahnhofstrasse follows the ancient course of the western city wall, and is now one of Europe’s most prestigious shopping streets, packed with jewellers and designer boutiques.

The best of the city’s clutch of museums are the Kunsthaus on the fringes of the Niederdorf, and the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum) in a park on the west bank.

Zurich has a full range of accommodation and – despite its being one of the most expensive cities in the world – if you book ahead you’ll have a strong chance of finding a decent place within your price range.

Prices at the higher-end places, though, can be frightful, and some mid-range hoteliers take this as carte blanche to overcharge: ask what you’ll be getting for your money before you check in.

Nearby Baden and Winterthur offer equally pleasant accommodation at more affordable prices. It’s worth checking with the tourist office about any weekend or off-season promotions, which can slash walk-in rates.

The greatest concentration of inexpensive hotels is in the Old Town’s Niederdorf district. None is more than a 10min walk from the station, or an even shorter trip on the tram. 

Mid-range hotels in Niederdorf are generally quiet and attractive, although often pricey, while those elsewhere in the city tend to offer better value but have noisier or more mundane surroundings. Withdrawing to one of the good-value hotels in the wooded hills to the east and west is a sound ploy.

Predigerkirche Church in Zurich's Niederdorf district — one of the best places to stay in Zurich for quiet charm © Diego Grandi/Shutterstock

Best hotels in Zurich

• Best for culture vultures: Alma Hotel . This upmarket designer hotel focused on sustainability is located near the lake south of the Opera House and has spacious, airy singles and doubles displaying great attention to detail.
• Best for couples: Hotel Kindli . A tranquil location on the steep cobbled lanes below the Lindenhof, this is one of Zürich’s most charming small hotels and has provided lodging since (at least) 1774.
• Best for nightlife-lovers: Pension Furdich . Backing onto Backeranlage park and pavillion, this quaint hotel with ajoining café is close to funky bars and clubs.

Best hostels and camping in Zurich

• Best for families: Fischers Fritz . With a superb lakeside setting not far from the city centre, this offers glamping options as well as traditional tent and caravan pitches.
• Best for budget travellers: Jugendherberge . This popular hostel in a southwestern suburb of the city boasts a quiet location close to the lake shore.

Zürich’s most alluring café culture takes place at the pavement cafés along the riverside Limmatquai and the cobbled squares nearby, such as Hechtplatz and Schiffländeplatz.

As a general rule, Niederdorf is livelier in the evening, while the area around Bahnhofstrasse is more popular at lunch time.

Traditional Zürich cuisine is rich and heavy with meat, epitomized in the city’s trademark dish Züri Gschnätzlets – diced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, generally served alongside potato Rösti. Vegetarians will nonetheless find plenty of options.

Traditional Swiss cheese fondue © Shulevskyy Volodymyr/Shutterstock

While eating can be often expensive, it is possible to eat cheaply. Dozens of hole-in-the-wall snack joints along Niederdorfstrasse churn out kebabs, falafels, sausages, noodles and/or chips, though you can often do better with the daily special at one of the beerhalls on the same street.

If you're into food, book a food-themed sightseeing tour to indulge in Swiss cheese fondue and fine wine while seeing the city — sure to be a memorable highlight of your Zürich vacation.

Best restaurants in Zurich

• Zum Kropf : an atmospheric listed building, boasting a frescoed interior that dates from its conversion into a restaurant in 1888. Serving meat, potatoes and dumplings in various forms, standards are high.
• AuGust : offering a contemporary twist on the traditional butcher’s, this chic bistro specializes in sausages and other meaty dishes.
• Bodega Española : with an outstanding menu ranging from tortilla catalana to paella, this dark-wood place dates back to 1892 and drips with atmosphere. The tapas bar downstairs is also outstanding.

Best cafés in Zurich

• Café 1842 : a very popular confectioner’s and café, famous for its hot chocolate. The nineteenth-century cash till is surrounded by fresh cake creations and wonderfully-presented packages of chocolates and sweets.
• Odeon : a compact café-bar on Bellevueplatz, where Lenin once sat and watched the world go by. The interior has plenty of character, with impressive marble on the walls and a long central counter.
• Zähringer : long-standing cooperative-run bastion of Zürcher counterculture, attracting an alternative clientele for snacks, herbal teas and beer. With a focus on local organic ingredients, this has lots of veggie options.

Best bars in Zurich

• Rheinfelder Bierhalle : with wooden benches, zero decoration and bright lights, this is a place to get shamelessly, sociably drunk, laugh loudly and clap strangers on the back.
• Jules Verne : an intimate little city-centre bar in a domed observatory building with panoramic views across the rooftops and steeples. The cocktails and bar food are good.
• Frau Gerold's Garten : simultaneously one of the hippest and most relaxed hangouts in town, this open-air bar boasts an urban garden (used to source the simple but excellent food) with a magical atmosphere.

Zurich Nightlife

Zurich’s nightlife scene has skyrocketed recently, helped by legislation permitting some all-night opening. The city’s dynamic club scene covers the gamut from techno to salsa, with the industrial quarter northwest of Langstrasse home to the best underground clubs.

Venues move, nights change and new places open virtually every month, so check flyers at the bars up and down Langstrasse.

Entertainment in Zurich

Zurich has a surprisingly wide range of entertainment options. It is home to a top-flight orchestra, a world-famous opera company, and one of the German-speaking world’s premier theatres (Schauspielhaus Zurich).

Moreover, many of the city’s churches – principally the Grossmünster, Fraumünster, Predigerkirche and St Peter’s – host regular concerts of organ, choral and chamber music, as does the Kunsthaus.

You can find complete what’s-on listings for the week ahead in ZüriTipp , the Fri supplement to the Tages Anzeiger newspaper, available free at the tourist office.

Zurich's handsome, historic Opera House © Nate Hovee/Shutterstock

Best nightlife and entertainment venues in Zurich

• Kaufleuten : in this plush city-centre nightspot, housey beats draw an unusual blend of hardcore clubbers and work-to-play young professionals. It was voted one of the world’s best party venues by the Wall Street Journal.
• Rote Fabrik : this alternative-style arts complex housed in a graffitied former silk mill on the lakeshore hosts a flow of bands famous and unknown from all musical genres, as well as big-name DJs.
• Opera House : Zürich’s majestic opera house attracts a host of international stars to what is a relatively intimate venue. The impressively varied programme of opera and ballet sells out quickly, so book well ahead.
• Xenix : this alternative cinema with a bar and terrace started in the 1980s as a politically-motivated youth movement and still shows socially committed films, with open-air screenings in summer.

To reach the city centre from the airport with ease, you could pre-book a private transfer , but it has to be said that one of the great advantages of Zurich is that you can enjoy all the buzz of big city life in a compact setting that’s no larger than a single arrondissement of Paris. In short, covering the city on foot is perfectly feasible.

Thar said, Zurich’s city transport system, run by Verkehrsbetriebe Zurich, is legendary for its efficiency, punctuality and convenience. For timetables, check the Verkehrsbetriebe Zurich website .

Zurich's Prime Tower © Swiss Tourism

The ZurichCARD  represents excellent value (24hr or 72hr). It is available at the tourist office, train stations (including the airport station) or at hotels, and is valid for free public transport by train, bus, tram, boat or funicular throughout the city centre (extending as far as the airport, Uetliberg and short trips on the lake).

Getting around Zurich by tram

The main mode of transport is tram, with fifteen lines covering the city and its outskirts. The main hubs in the centre are at Bellevueplatz and Bürkliplatz and by the station (Central and Banhofstrasse stops). The most useful lines are tram #4 that runs down Limmatquai in Niederdorf, stopping at Central, each of the three river bridges and Bellevue.

Getting around Zurich by train

S-Bahn suburban trains, most originating from or passing through the main station, add another dimension, linking to Zug and Einsiedeln in the south and Winterthur, Schaffhausen and Stein-am-Rhein in the north, as well as serving the nearby Uetliberg summit.

Getting around Zurich by boat

Boats crisscross their way up and down Lake Zurich. The tourist office has full information, as does the Lake Zurich Shipping Company . Regular boats sail from Zurich to Rapperswil (hourly; 1hr 45min) and beyond, stopping at just about every shoreside town on the way.

Getting around Zurich by bike

The station has the usual paid bike-rental facilities , but you can also take advantage of the efficient PubliBike bike sharing system, which is available 24/7 in many locations across the city.

Majestic Mount Rigi, Switzerland © Shutterstock

Easy day-trips from Zurich by train

• Braunwald: a car-free Alpine hideaway for rapid battery-recharge. Change at Linthal (1hr 45min)
• Einsiedeln monastery: a centuries-old site of pilgrimage up in the hills. Change at Wädenswil (45min)
• Lucerne: an exquisite Old Town plus breathtaking lake-and-mountains scenery (45min). Either train back, or boat Lucerne–Flüelen then train Flüelen–Zurich
• Rapperswil: a gentle, easy-going town on Lake Zurich, perfect for a lazy afternoon (direct 35min; 1hr 45min by boat)
• Rhine: Europe’s biggest waterfall. Change at Winterthur for Schloss Laufen or Neuhausen (50min)
• Rigi: a popular ride up the nearest high mountain to Zurich (1798m). Change at Arth-Goldau (1hr 40min)
• Schaffhausen: fascinating, little-visited Old Town; combine it with a river trip to Stein-am-Rhein (direct 55min)
• Uetliberg: Zurich’s “home mountain”, with a network of easy walking routes (direct 20min)
• Winterthur: a relaxed city with high-quality art museums (direct 25min)

If you're into the idea of exploring further afield, read up on the best outdoor experiences in Switzerland .

Adventure-minded female travellers might also want to discover a programme of outdoor activities in Switzerland created by women, for women .

It's also worth bearing in mind that Zurich is an easy gateway to the charms of Central Switzerland .

If you feel inspired by this Zürich travel guide, The Rough Guide to Switzerland and our tips on things not to miss in Switzerland will help you plan — think of them as your personal travel guide to Switzerland.

Not a fan of planning? Consider booking a hassle-free tailor-made trip to Switzerland, with customisable itineraries covering everything from unforgettable highlights of Switzerland , to touring the Grand Circle .

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Culturally vibrant, efficiently run and attractively set at the meeting of river and lake, Zürich is has emerged as one of Central Europe's hippest destinations.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Fraumünster

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The Ultimate Guide to Zurich

We all might have heard the jokes about Swiss trains being more precise than the Swiss watches, and the chocolate more expensive than gold, but also worth its price!

From the outside, Switzerland may seem like a slow, dreamy country for the wealthy (and retired), but we are here to bust that myth.

When you go to Zurich, prepare yourself for rich cultural life, an impressive number of art galleries, great food and cute boutiques, not forgetting the fun attractions for football fans! And don’t worry, the chocolate is waiting too!

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Table of Contents

How to get to Zurich

Zurich has an international airport, easy to reach with the majority of international airlines like Finnair, KLM or Lufthansa.

Cheap tickets from other destinations in Europe can be purchases with EasyJet, and if you book well in advance and plan your trip outside of major holiday seasons like Christmas, you can pay as little as 30 USD – a great option if you are on a budget. It is also easy and very convenient to reach Zurich by train!

There are direct connections between Zurich and Paris, and the trains are comfortable, fast and… always on time!

Taking the railway might be even nicer than reaching Zurich by plane since the Central Train Station is very impressive (actually, it is the biggest railway station in Switzerland!) so your Zurich sightseeing can start the very minute you step off the train!

What to expect in Zurich

Going to Zurich, prepare yourself and prepare your wallet – the city is expensive! Do not try to cut costs by eg. bringing your own bottle of water to a restaurant hoping to cut the drink off your bill, even the informal eateries are quite strict when it comes to bringing in food or drinks from outside – it’s a deliberate no.

You might be relieved knowing that there are usually no hidden charges in Zurich, service fees are mostly included in the price already, and tipping is not a must in Switzerland.

Speaking of money! Do remember that Switzerland, even though it’s a country in Europe, is not a part of the European Union, which means that you cannot pay with Euros. Switzerland has its own currency, the Swiss Franc, which has approx. 1:1 conversion with US dollar.

One thing you do not have to worry about is the language! The majority of people in Zurich speak German, but you will surely be able to communicate in both French and English too! Especially around tourist spots or cultural sites, multi-lingual guides and assistance will be available.

How to get around Zurich

Zurich is very walkable! And you will enjoy the walks for sure, so remember to bring your most comfortable shoes and prepare to get around the city on foot! If you aren’t much of a walker, do not think twice, buy the so-called Zürich Card.

It allows unlimited travel during either 24 (27 CHF) or 72 (53 CHF) hours throughout the entire city of Zürich, with both busses, trams and trains!

The cost of the card is 27 CHF for 24 and 53 CHF for 72 hours respectively, and it can be purchased on Zurich Railway Station, in the airport or online prior to your arrival.

The best time to visit Zurich

Summer in Zurich is magical! You can swim in Lake Zurich, and the area around the lake becomes the perfect spot for outdoor meetings and hangouts.

The temperature is pleasant (around 19 – 210C) and all the Zurich attractions look beautiful, brightened up by the sun rays.

Ski and winter sports enthusiasts would want to visit the city in the winter time, as Zurich is located quite close to Swiss Alps’ ski slopes.

Even if you aren’t fond of skiing, visiting Switzerland in the winter isn’t a bad idea, since many agencies organize winter sightseeing tours and let you enjoy the serene Swiss scenery covered in snow!

In December, the city also becomes home to cosy Christmas Markets, so in Zurich, cold weather means warm and homey atmosphere!

Things to do in Zurich

A walk around (and if you aren’t intimidated, also a swim in!) Lake Zurich is one of the top things to do in Zurich. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery or relax with a book by the waterside.

The shore of Lake Zurich often becomes a spot for cultural activities, like movie screenings during the annual ZFF – Zurich Film Festival, which takes place every year in late September.

You should also explore the old town, and you can either do it on foot or… by boat! A leisurely cruise on Limmat River is a great way to experience the old part of the city, and if you already have the Zurich Card, you can hop on the boat for free (otherwise the price is 4ish CHF)!

Are you interested in popular culture and history and wondering what to do in Zurich? Visit museums! Swiss National Museum is a museum complex worth checking out if you wish to learn more about the cultural history of the country.

With carefully curated permanent and temporary exhibitions, it offers a very comprehensive cultural program! For the sports-oriented explorer, we recommend the fun and very interactive FIFA World Football Museum.

The FIFA Museum focuses a lot on engaging viewers and creating an immersive experience for everybody, so it’s a great activity for families too!

Rietberg Museum, on the other hand, is a treasure on the inside (comprehensive exhibitions presenting arts and cultural artefacts from the all around the world!), and on the outside!

The new museum extension was designed by architects Alfred Grazioli and Adolf Krischanitz and has become an icon of architectural balance and elegance. A must-see not only for art lovers but also fans of modern architecture!

Places to visit in Zurich

W hether you’re looking f or a nice place to eat, a cute boutique to buy souvenirs from or simply want to have a stroll in a cool neighbourhood, do visit Zurich West!

This now up-and-coming area is a former industrial district where building spaces and old venues have been repurposed and have now become homes to chic eateries and shops.

Looking for things to do in Zurich at night? Western district is the place to go – both for local and visiting night owls, also great if you are a solo traveller and looking for open-open-minded locals to chat to!

Not a night owl? Not a problem! At 7 am the Botanical Garden opens, and it’s a great place for a relaxed morning stroll with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Admire the variety of botanical species or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere. And if you are on the lookout for free things to do in Zurich, you will be happy to know that there is no fee to enter the Botanical Gardens! Looking for more free things to do in Zurich?

We recommend visiting the commercial art galleries on Limmatstrasse. Hauser and Wirth or the slightly smaller Galerie Bob Van Orsouw will for sure have stunning art exhibitions on view, completely free of charge!

In the same building you will be able to find the Migros Museum, which charges an entry fee every day except Thursday between 5 – 8 PM! Note that down and head out for an artsy Thursday afternoon!

Another worthy (but pricey!) mention is the Zurich Opera House! With an abundant repertoire of ballet and opera shows, but also performances for children and recitals, the Opera House attracts big local crowds.

If you travel itinerary allows it, we recommend booking a ticket to one of the shows, but if you cannot find the time (or space in your budget), we recommend you to visit the site to experience the grandeur of the building itself and walk around the adjacent square.

What to eat in Zurich

You are in Switzerland – the land of cheese and chocolate, and you should not thank no to any of these! Try a traditional cheese fondue or order rösti at dinner, instead of potatoes!

The omnivores would probably like to try “Zurchergeschnetzeltes” which literally translates as “cut meat Zurich style”, and if that doesn’t sound local, we do not know what does! It’s a dish where thin strips of veal meat and veal liver are served in a creamy sauce with mushrooms.

For everyone with a sweet tooth, Switzerland is a place to be. Except for the divine Swiss chocolate that we keep mentioning, you should also try the famous Zuger Kirschtorte – Zug Cherry Cake.

This baked treat combines almond meringue layers and fruity cherry filling, which creates an interesting (by that, we mean addictive) flavour contrast! The rumour has it, this cherry pastry is one of Audrey Hepburn’s favourite desserts!

Swiss cuisine is heavy on dairy and meats, but there is hope for vegetarians and vegans as well! Zurich is embracing the plant-based diet and lifestyle, and many vegan eateries (like Roots and Friends) open up around the city.

All your meals, from breakfast through dinner, and all the snacking in between can easily be “veganized”, so if you are planning to visit Zurich with dietary restrictions, your needs will be met for sure!

Where to stay in Zurich

For many travellers the best place or area to stay in Zurich is determined by their budget. Cheap hostels can be found around Langstrasse, Zurich’s former Red-Light-District.

Do not worry though, the neighbourhood has shed its past and is now blooming with small eateries and gives opportunities for a multi-cultural shopping experience.

Langstrasse is situated outside of the city centre, but the street / the area is easy to reach by both bus and tram.

If money is not the problem, the area around Lake Zurich is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. “Kreis 1” which is the area also referred to as the Altstadt or Old City offers boutique accommodation with the perfect view of the Limmat River flowing out to Lake Zurich.

The moment you wake up, you feel like a part of a fairy tale admiring the magical Swiss scenery, but remember – this kind of magic doesn’t come cheap!

Tours to do in Zurich

When in Zurich, you should not miss the Uetliberg Mountain! Half-day excursions starting in the Old Town, and taking you to the Uetliberg Mountain can be easily arranged.

Prepare yourself for a fun ride on the cable car (included in the price and arranged by your tour provider!) and stunning sights while hiking on the Planet Trail!

If you prefer staying in the city, there are interesting tours to join as well! How about a moving culinary experience where you get to see some of the most beautiful sites of the city while dining?

An eTuk Tuk fondue and wine tour is probably the most fun (and the most Swiss) way to do sightseeing!

Cross some of Zürich’s most popular tourist spots off your list while enjoying cheese fondue and wine. We love this combination, and we are sure you will too!

Day trips from Zurich

Zurich offers plenty of things to do, but its incredible natural surroundings are very tempting too. The city is the perfect hub for excursions to the Swiss Alps.

Day trips to the mountains are a perfect add-on to your Zurich itinerary, especially if you are longing for a getaway from the city.

The mountain region called “Jungfrau” is a magnificent site in close proximity to Zurich, and the Jungfraujoch Mountain is actually on the UNESCO World Heritage-list! Breathtaking sights, serene atmosphere and fresh, uplifting breeze of the cleanest mountain air guaranteed!

Your explorations of the Swiss Alps should not stop there though. We recommend booking a day excursion to Mount Rigi – one of the key things to do in Zurich in Winter!

The trip includes a visit to Lucerne and gives you time to explore the old part of town on your own too. It’s a perfect mix of a guided and more independent way of exploring and getting to know the Swiss nature and culture!

• Recommend budget tours in Zurich
• Swiss Alps Day Trip from Lucerne: Jungfraujoch and Bernese Oberland
• Private Tour: Zurich City Highlights
• Zurich City Highlights with Felsenegg Cable Car Ride
• Mount Rigi and Lucerne Summer Day Trip from Zurich
• WOW Zurich Tour: on shore, on water, in the air!
• Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip from Zurich
• Mount Rigi Winter Day Trip from Zurich
• Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein Half-Day Tour from Zurich
• Swiss Chocolate Walking Tour of Zurich
• The Best Taste of Zurich and Panoramic Views in a Small Group Walking Tour
• Swiss Alps Small Group Day Tour from Zurich
• Bern Day Trip from Zurich
• 4-Day Switzerland Tour from Zurich Including Mt. Titlis Cable Car

Get your guide is a Great company, that often offers heavily discounted tours! Check out a few options below:

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Maddy's Avenue

By: Maddy Cornelius · Last Updated: April 4, 2024

Two Days in Zurich, Switzerland: The Perfect Itinerary

If you’re planning to spend 2 days in Zurich, you’re in the right place! This itinerary is the perfect guide for first-timers and includes everything you need to know for a successful trip.

Zurich holds the title for Switzerland’s largest city with around 400,000 inhabitants, and quite frankly, it’s no wonder all the Swiss are flocking there. While the city was once seen as Switzerland’s stuffy, incredibly expensive (okay, it still is!), and stuck-up banking and financial capital, it has changed immensely in recent years.

With its groovy nightlife, cool arts district, burgeoning foodie scene, modern shopping streets, and brilliant museums, I wouldn’t blame you if Zurich made it onto your must-visit European city list. Not to mention, with its perfectly preserved Old Town, serene lake views, and the wondrous snow-capped Alps, the setting couldn’t be more stunning.

Two days in Zurich is the perfect amount of time to explore the best that Zurich has to offer, and this itinerary is jam-packed with the best things to do, see, and eat!

Here’s the perfect itinerary for 2 days in Zurich!

How to Spend 2 Days in Zurich: Perfect Zurich Itinerary for First-Timers

Arriving for 2 Days in Zurich

Arriving in Zurich is an absolute breeze. Here’s what you need to know.

ARRIVING VIA AIRPLANE

If you’re arriving in Zurich via airplane, don’t bother with an expensive taxi fare. Instead, hop aboard the airport train to Hauptbahnhof (HB), the main station in Downtown Zurich. The journey from airport to city center takes just 10 minutes!

ARRIVING VIA TRAIN

If you’re taking a train to Zurich from another city in Switzerland – or even from a neighboring country like Italy , France , or Germany – Hauptbahnhof (HB), the central station, should be your final destination. This is the largest railway station in Switzerland, located smack in the middle of Zurich’s downtown. You can either walk to your accommodation or hop on a tram/cable car from there.

The best way to book train tickets for your journey around Europe is via Rail Europe!

ARRIVING VIA BUS

If you take a bus to Zurich, you will be dropped off at the Zurich Bus Station, which is also centrally located. You can easily walk to your accommodation or hop on a tram/cable car from there.

I recommend booking your bus journeys through Europe via Flixbus ! There are routes to everywhere you want to go, fares are very cheap , and their buses are equipped with wifi, toilets, air conditioning, and power sockets.

Where to Stay in Zurich

Overall, the four best neighborhoods to stay in are:

• Old Town (Altstadt)
• Zurich West
• Langstrasse
• Bahnhofstrasse

I recommend you stay in Old Town (Altstadt) because it’s centrally located – it’s close to tram/cable car stops, the lakefront, and all of the best things to see and do. Old Town is quaint and absolutely beautiful, and overall, it offers the best bang for your buck. Stay in Old Town, and you’ll be set up for a perfect 2 days in Zurich!

These are my top accommodation recommendations in each price bracket.

Best Luxury Hotels

• Storchen Zurich (Old Town/City Center)
• Widder Hotel (Old Town/City Center)
• Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich (Seefeld)

Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Hotel City Zürich Design & Lifestyle (Old Town/City Center) – most popular!
• Sorell Hotel Rütli (Zürichberg) – amazing views of the city and Lake Zurich!

BEST budget OPTIONS

• Oldtown Hostel Otter (Old Town/City Center)
• Green Marmot Capsule Hostel (Old Town/City Center)

You can find great deals on accommodation in Old Town and other Zurich neighborhoods HERE !

NOTE: If staying in a central location is totally out of your price range, don’t worry! You can book accommodation further from the city center because Zurich’s public transport (trams and trains) system is very thorough and easy to use. Even though Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city, it’s not really all that big; most of the major sites are within walking distance from Hauptbahnhof (Zurich’s Central Station).

What to Do in Zurich in 2 Days

With two days to spend in Zurich, there are a few must-sees and must-dos to add to your list!

Your itinerary should include a mixture of taking in the mountain views, meandering the quaint Old Town streets, shopping in the modern city center, visiting museums, drinking wine by the lakefront, experiencing the nightlife, and indulging in a few Swiss delicacies!

Here are the best things to add to your two-day Zurich itinerary.

Day 1 of 2 Days in Zurich

On your first day, get acquainted with the city on foot, explore the historic sites, and take in all of the stunning views. Enjoy meandering the old streets, stopping into a cafe for a coffee, sampling Swiss chocolate, sipping on a glass of Swiss wine.

#1 Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

Kick off your 2 days in Zurich by heading straight to Altstadt , or Zurich’s Old Town . Here, wander through the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, gawk at the colorful, wonderfully preserved buildings, and stroll along the Limmat River.

Niederdorf is a pedestrian-only zone, making it the perfect place to br owse the small shops, sit and have a drink, buy some Swiss chocolate, and do a bit of people-watching. Spend a decent amount of time in this area, simply meandering through the alleys, taking in the beauty, history, and small-town vibes. Free and fun!

#2 See the views from Grossmünster

As you roam Altstadt, you will probably stumble upon Grossmünster – a centuries-old Romanesque cathedral that also happens to be Zurich’s most iconic landmark!

For breathtaking panoramic views (like you see above!) and brilliant photo opportunities of the city, the Alps, and Lake Zurich, visit Grossmünster  and climb the 187 stairs to the top of the tower.

It wouldn’t be a European city without a few famous churches or cathedrals to visit, would it?!

#3 Stop by Lindenhof Hill

Next, cross the Rathausbrücke (pedestrian bridge) and head over to the other side of the Limmat River. There, you’ll find Lindenhof Square atop Lindenhof Hill !

This historic plaza and park, located in the heart of the city, offers the most beautiful views of the Old Town and the shimmering blue river below. Whether you visit mid-day or for sunset, you can’t go wrong!

#4 Check out Fraumunster

Next, pay Fraumunster – AKA the Church of our Lady – a visit to appreciate its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows.

The Gothic-Romanesque style church was first built in the 9th century. Then, in the 1960s, world-famous artist Marc Chagall’s stained glass windows were installed, giving the beautiful church an extra draw-card.

#5 Walk Bahnhofstrasse

Once you’ve had your fill exploring Zurich’s historical sites, make your way to modernity and pay Bahnhofstrasse a visit.

Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s premier shopping street, and as one of the most bustling places in Zurich (day or night!), it’s a must-visit during your time in Zurich.

Here, you’ll find high-brow institutions like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Cartier (hello, window shopping!) and you’ll also find the likes of Zara, H&M, and Mango. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to discover.

This is also a great people-watching spot!

#6 Eat Fondue

Let’s face the facts here. The Swiss aren’t exactly known for their food in general… But they are known for their cheese . On your first day, don’t forget to try some traditional Swiss food – specifically fondue !

Where should you go for fondue? My pick is a fondue place frequented by locals: Zebra Bar !

P.S. all of my recommendations for the best places to eat in Zurich are toward the bottom of this post.

Day 2 of 2 Days in Zurich

#7 Spend Time at Lake Zurich

Of course, a trip to Zurich wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the Lake Promenade of Lake Zurich . Walk and take it slow, enjoy the cool breeze, watch the geese float along the docks, and let the lake’s peaceful, calming vibes take over.

Consider bringing cheese, bread, wine, and all your favorite bits for a lakeside picnic in the sunshine ! In the warmer months, you can also opt for a refreshing swim in the lake . No doubt, this is one of the top Zurich attractions in summer.

Another popular thing to do is to cruise on Lake Zurich ! I haven’t done this myself, but I have heard there are all kinds of cruises, from relaxing sightseeing ones to gastronomic cruises (think cheesy fondue and frothy beer). There are also nighttime party cruises – if that floats your boat!

Hot tip: Want a printable version of this Zurich itinerary? Get it here.

#8 Peak at Uetliberg Mountain

For an unbeatable view of Zurich, take to the mountains! Hike, jog, bike, or take the train up to Uetliberg Mountain . The perfect half-day activity for day 2!

Once there, take in the sweeping panoramic views, sit down for a glass of wine, and continue to be wowed by Zurich’s beauty.

In the summer, hiking and mountain biking are great activities to partake in at the top of Uetliberg. In the winter, hiking trails are converted into sledding runs so you can go tobogganing !

#9 Visit a Museum (or Two!)

If you have any extra time, you might fancy a visit to a museum or two. There are many different museums on offer in Zurich, but if I were you, I’d go with Kunsthaus Zurich or Rietberg , both of which are excellent art museums.

Neither one is free, but if it’s freezing or raining outside, why not?

Where to Eat in Zurich in 2 Days

To be frank, I wasn’t super impressed with the foodie scene the first time I visited, but over the past few years, Zurich has upped its game! With only 48 hours in the city, there are plenty of good (albeit expensive) options to explore!

Here are my top picks for the best places to eat in Zurich:

• Neue Taverne : A modern and creative vegetable-focused restaurant with one Michelin star .
• Filfl : Amazing Eritrean and Ethiopian food to infuse some African flavor into your time in Zurich.
• Gaijin Izakaya : A can’t-miss Japanese izakaya restaurant featuring bold flavors and epic drinks.
• Hiltl : A popular vegetarian restaurant, perfect for an easy and delicious lunch while you explore the city.
• Zebra Bar : A cozy fondue spot frequented by locals . Don’t miss it!
• Kronenhalle : A Zurich fine-dining institution . Delicious food, unique drinks, great atmosphere.
• Bean Bank Coffee & Co : Specialty coffee roasters whose reviews speak for themselves.

What to Pack for Zurich

• Wool coat: During the colder months a beautiful wool coat is essential for style and practicality. You will fit in with the locals with this one . For your time in the mountains, a more practical hiking jacket will be better.
• Comfortable boots: As expected, you’ll walk a lot in Zurich, so opt for a comfortable but stylish boot that you’ve worn in. You can’t go wrong with a smart Chelsea boot, like these . For hiking in the mountains bring a good pair of hiking boots .
• Daypack: Make sure you are prepared with essentials, a decent backpack will be needed for your water bottle, snacks, and extra layers. This one is great and the perfect size for a day hike.
• Hat and gloves: In the winter it will be much colder so prepare with a good warm hat and gloves to take that chill away.
• Sunscreen: Nothing spoils your trip (and your photos!) more than sunburn, and snow glare is no joke. Remember to prepare with a good, natural sunscreen and stay protected.
• Reusable water bottle: Remember to keep hydrated during your adventures; it can’t all be wine and coffee all the time! Bring a reusable water bottle so you can keep topped up, you will especially need this when hiking and snowshoeing.
• Travel insurance: As with any trip, you should ALWAYS purchase travel insurance in case anything goes wrong. I’ve had my fair share of travel mishaps!

Quick Zurich Tips

• HOTEL : I use this website to score amazing deals on accommodation worldwide. You can find great deals on accommodation in Old Town and other Zurich neighborhoods HERE !
• HOSTELWORLD : If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best website to score cheap hostel deals.
• VACATION RENTAL : I use this site to find the perfect vacation rental for an unforgettable getaway.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE : Never go on a trip without travel insurance! SafetyWing is great for most trips, but if you are a remote worker and/or traveling regularly it also has an awesome monthly subscription for digital nomad insurance.
• GUIDED TOURS & EXCURSIONS : Many of the tours I recommend are hosted with Viator, which also works with local tour operators.
• CHEAP FLIGHTS : Fly into Zurich Airport, it is easy to get to the city center from there. Get great deals on flights using my favorite flight fare aggregator .
• TRAVEL GEAR : All of my must-have travel gear is listed here . Most important to remember is comfortable shoes .
• CAR RENTAL : It is unlikely you will need to rent a car, but if you are using Zurich as a start-off point for a longer road trip, you can book a car rental in advance here for the best deals.

GOING ON A GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR? Check out these other resources:

• Top 10 Things to Do in Berlin
• How to Spend 24 Hours in Milan
• Edinburgh vs. Glasgow: Which City Should You Visit?
• Ultimate Guide to 3 Days in Prague
• Ultimate Guide to 3 Days in Budapest
• 5 Must-Visit Fairy Tale Towns in Germany

QUICK FACTS ABOUT ZURICH

Zurich isn’t a huge city, so 2 days is the perfect amount of time to explore all the interesting activities and beautiful sights Zurich has to offer. You could spend several days in Zurich, but it’s definitely not necessary. Your time would be better spent heading somewhere else nearby, like Lucerne!

Absolutely! Though Zurich is one of the more expensive cities to visit in Europe, it’s also one of the most beautiful. The views alone – of the old, colorful architecture along the Limmat River, the snow-capped mountains in the distance, and serene Lake Zurich – are reason enough to visit. Not to mention, the high-end (window) shopping, amazing design, cool bars and restaurants, and interesting museums. There’s more than enough reason to visit Zurich Switzerland.

Yes. In fact, Zurich is among the top three most expensive cities to live in the world . Don’t be surprised when the most basic, blah plate of plain spaghetti costs $20. But spending 2 days in Zurich is affordable enough! There are plenty of free activities to occupy your time, and you can easily pick and choose what’s worth splurging on to make sure you don’t blow the budget. This 2 day Zurich itinerary mixes free activities with worthwhile expensive ones to make sure you see the best of Zurich Switzerland.

Yes! Zurich Switzerland is one of the safest cities in the world. Whether you’re a solo female traveler or visiting with young kids, you should feel safe and secure in Zurich. Generally speaking, you can feel free to roam aimlessly, explore, and let your guard down. My vacations in Zurich have been nothing but fun, safe – and expensive! But of course, always keep your wits about you and watch out for pickpockets! As with anywhere else in the world.

Yes! If you need to stick to a budget, the Zurich Card can help. There are only 24 or 72 hour options for the Zurich tourism card, so you might consider buying one or two 24-hour cards. The card includes unlimited travel via tram, bus, train, boat and cableway in and around Zurich. It also grants you free (or discounted) access to 40+ museums and many other benefits. Vacations to Zurich are easy and cheaper when you have the card.

48 Hours in Zurich Itinerary: A Guide for First-Timers

Well, there you have it, my friends! That’s my 2-Day Zurich Itinerary, perfect for first-timers!

I had an amazing time in Zurich, and you will too!  How could I not, while taking in those incredible views and sipping on fabled Swiss wines? (Really, when have you ever seen Swiss wines? It’s likely that you never will… unless you travel to Switzerland!)

Over to you! Have you visited Zurich before? Did you do exactly what I did? Or do you have other recommendations to add? If not, is Zurich on your bucket list?

*This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through a link on our site, we will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. These commissions help keep Maddy’s Avenue up and running, and we thank you for your support!

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About Maddy Cornelius

Hey! I'm the cook, world explorer, chief wordsmith, and photographer behind Maddy's Avenue. A California native, I've lived in many countries around the globe, but I'm currently traveling through Latin America. Slowly. Running two businesses. Livin' the "digital nomad" life. I’m here to learn, grow, and explore this planet - ever in search of big flavors and epic adventures. My goal? To inspire you to live a bold life: to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Thanks for being here!

You’ll Also Love

July 17, 2015 at 5:25 pm

July 17, 2015 at 5:26 pm

Thanks for your comment! :)

July 21, 2015 at 7:09 pm

These are gorgeous pictures! Zurich looks so nice and peaceful – just like you said it is!

July 21, 2015 at 7:41 pm

Thank you! :) It sure is!

July 21, 2015 at 7:11 pm

Thanks for sharing this. Great info for a trip to Zurich and thanks for letting us know about the prices and your experiences with the not so good places you ate at.

July 21, 2015 at 7:40 pm

Thanks for commenting! Good and bad comes with every destination. A lot of bloggers only like to showcase the good, but we strive to be honest and detail the entire experience, good, bad, and ugly! :)

July 22, 2015 at 2:24 pm

I really enjoyed my day in Zürich, but I agree with you on the price front. It’s super expensive, which is why I ended up eating from the supermarket (they have surprisingly tasty pre-made sandwiches by the way!). If you ever find yourself back in the city I’d definitely recommend a visit to the National Museum (right by the Hauptbahnhof). Lovely pictures, as always! -Claire, tallgirlbigworld.com

July 22, 2015 at 2:36 pm

Hey Claire!

I have no idea when I’ll visit Zurich again soon, but I will definitely keep your museum recommendation in mind! History museums are my favorite. Thanks for commenting! :)

July 30, 2015 at 1:21 pm

Hey! Tried to email you twice from CreateTrips but the email does not go through to you! If you have another email, please contact us with that! :)

July 30, 2015 at 2:50 pm

Just emailed you! :)

July 30, 2015 at 4:41 pm

This looks like such a pretty place to visit…but so I’ve heard that about all of Switzerland! Thanks for sharing!! And greetings from Finland!

July 30, 2015 at 4:50 pm

IT IS! It’s just sooo expensive, just like the rest of the country! Loved it though anyway!

September 2, 2015 at 12:08 am

Do you think 2 days in Zurich is too short, too long or just right?? Great photos and post! Love your blog :) -Elayna

September 2, 2015 at 12:12 am

Hi Elayna, I think two days is just right. If you follow this 2 day guide, you’re sure to have a great time. I think any more than 2 days is probably too much time in Zurich. Try nearby Lucerne if you want to stay in Switzerland longer!

January 17, 2023 at 9:45 pm

Hi, This is Rahimshad, we are family of four and I am planning to visit Switzerland for 4 days, Kindly requesting to guide/share the Itinerary for the best places to explore

* Note, since we are four members which is better taking a rent a car or public transportation ?

January 18, 2023 at 2:41 pm

Hi there, you don’t need a car in the city. Walking and public transportation will be fine. You can also use Uber and Lyft.

March 29, 2023 at 5:30 pm

I just returned from a 2-night visit to Zurich. I would not say it is a place for tourists, at least not compared to other European cities such as Paris or even Verona. It is just a “business” city. The restaurants are basically overpriced across the board. I see plentiful tourists buying take-outs from supermarkets and other food outlets, spreading the items out in the park, and consuming them openly. McDonalds do good there; there is one across from the main train station. A 0.5 L bottle of water would cost 5 CHF in a restaurant, and about 0.9 CHF if purchased from a supermarket. Additionally, not all restaurants are “eager” for your business – they run on “enhanced Hawaiian-time” – that is to say, closing early, and sometimes closed on weekdays. There must be something that is humming that economy, since it would not work in other countries, but I leave it to the next visitor to experience.

April 20, 2023 at 2:14 pm

Hey George, yep, Zurich is expensive and only getting more so… I definitely still think that there’s plenty to keep travelers occupied and interested though – and ways to enjoy yourself on a budget. Personally, I love a picnic in the park :)

April 26, 2023 at 11:14 pm

Hi Maddy, Nice to hear from you! In my very short two nights, I found that the Swiss have it figured out. That is to say, how they could charge more so they could work less! As such, everything is expensive* because their labor rate is high compared to other developed nations. CH being landlocked may very well be a reason for the higher cost. However, what is astonishing, is CH’s ability to stay attractive to foreigners.

I was slightly disappointed that the Grossmunster was closed to tourists when I visited Zurich March 17-19, 2023. There was a sign at its main entrance indicating so.

The other disappointment is I did not get to eat at a Zurich restaurant. It is either too expensive** or very crowded. The latter was due to patrons having reserved tables far in advance, leaving walk-ins without a chance to dine in. I have a hunch that is because by working fewer hours in the restaurant business, the economy creates an artificial demand (thus, the crowded restaurant scene), resulting in higher prices (goes back to my 1st paragraph). It is just the other way, in Verona and in Paris.

*Except for their top-end watches, which I think are worth their price – both craftsmanship and investment. **There is a Japanese restaurant that only takes reservations (no walk-ins). It does not look like a restaurant from the outside, but more of a high-class meeting place with dime, reddish lights. I recall it is in either Linhof or maybe just to the south of the Grossmunster. I am sure it is expensive, but my curiosity wanders. Not finding anything reasonable, I doggy-bagged a 3-piece meal from Zurich Fried Chicken.

April 27, 2023 at 1:25 pm

If you have a bit more time, travel to the Bernese Highlands. This area is amazing, such a beautiful landscape and so many lakes. I love Switzerland for this.

August 27, 2023 at 12:38 am

Wow, this is such a comprehensive guide to spending 2 days in Zurich! I appreciate how you’ve covered everything from getting around the city to must-see sights and even the evolving food scene. Your itinerary seems to offer a balanced mix of the historic, like Altstadt and Grossmünster, and the modern, like Bahnhofstrasse. I’m particularly interested in your food recommendations—Zebra Bar for fondue sounds like a local gem. Have you tried any gastronomic cruises on Lake Zurich, and would you recommend them for someone looking to experience both the lake and Swiss cuisine?

August 28, 2023 at 3:48 pm

Nope, haven’t done a gastronomic cruise in Zurich. Sorry!

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A Complete Travel Guide to Zürich – Insider Tips & Map

Traveling to Zürich? This travel guide will give you all the information you need. From what to see and do to where to eat, where to stay, plus a lot of practical travel tips.

Whilst Zürich is almost too small to be considered a city by any other country’s standards, don’t be fooled – there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.

In fact, this is the case for most Swiss cities and in many ways adds to their charm.

This complete travel guide to Zürich will take you from one end of the city to the other, highlighting some of the most popular spots and also a few of my own personal favorites.

The first piece of advice I could give anyone going on a trip to Zürich is simple: don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path!

Traveling to Zürich – Everything You Need to Know

Sights to see in zürich, 1. the main event: grossmünster*.

No postcard or picture of Zürich would be complete without the Grossmünster towers standing proudly in the background.

The inside of this church is somewhat understated, but climb to the top of the towers and you won’t be disappointed by the spectacular views.

2. Fraumünster*

Fraumünster is a smaller church with a rich history and an ancient crypt museum.

It is set on the edge of the lively Münsterhof square.

3. Lake Zürich

Zürich wouldn’t be a Swiss city without a lake.

And with boat trips, a Chinese garden, and plenty of cafés to choose from, Lake Zürich has a lot to offer at any time of year.

4. Lindenhof Hill

The perfect place to escape from city life and get some quiet time , Lindenhof Hill is my favorite spot in Zürich.

It also offers you some prime photo opportunities (you guessed it, of those lovely Grossmünster towers) or the chance to simply watch the world go by.

5. Niederdorf

Cross over the Limmat River on your way down from Lindenhof and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the old town – Niederdorf.

Lined with eateries, bars and shops , Niederdorf is a lovely place to wander through and take in the atmosphere.

Tip: some eateries and bars open on Sundays but not all. Check them on Google maps for opening hours.

6. Bellevue / Zürich Opera House

Once you reach the end of Niederdorf, you’ll be met with a sea of people and traffic.

Bellevueplatz is home to many businesses, cafés, and the best part: the Opera House.

If the magnificent façade of the Opera House sparks your interest, you can book a behind-the-scenes tour to see where the magic happens.

7. Book a Tour of Zürich

if you really want to get to know the city one of my best tips is to book a tour.

There is this great city tour that includes a cruise and a visit to the Lindt chocolate museum for some delicious chocolate tasting!

Or, if you’d rather not join a group tour, this private tour around Zürich in a tuk-tuk is a lot of fun!

8. Üetliberg

A short train journey from the main train station (around 25 minutes) will take you on an adventure to Zürich’s very own mountain.

Although it’s nowhere near as impressive as the other mountains Switzerland has to offer , you won’t be disappointed by the views from the top of Üetliberg.

Best Cafés in Zurich

There aren’t too many places to grab a coffee – Zürich definitely has more bars than cafés. But the cafés that they do have are well worth a visit.

1. Babu’s*

This is my all-time favorite café . A big claim, I know, but after your first visit, you’ll see why.

Babu’s caters for your on-the-go working breakfast to your after-work apéro – and everything in between.

The place itself is always packed, so if you do have your heart set on trying it out, make a reservation!

2. Café des Amis*

A little piece of Paris in the heart of Zürich.

Café des Amis is particularly famous for its weekend brunch, which ranges from traditional French pastries, bread, and Swiss cheese to a lighter birchermüesli.

The cafe is only a short tram journey from the main station.

3. Café & Conditorei 1842*

Set in the heart of Niederdorf, Conditorei 1842 is about as idyllic as a café can be.

It opened in 1842, hence the name.

Stepping into the café for the first time is like being transported back in time ; velvet curtains, a grand piano, and the most delicious cakes make for a very grand afternoon.

Best Restaurants in Zürich

1. Zeughauskeller*

This restaurant was formally a storage place for weapons, and legend has it the crossbow of national hero William Tell was once stored here.

Zeughauskeller is a must-visit for any tourist visiting Zürich (and for many locals).

The restaurant offers traditional Swiss food, and dining here is more of an experience than just a meal out!

A bit of a claim to fame for the city, Hiltl is credited as the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant.

Service is a ‘help yourself’ affair and you can enjoy rooftop views from the Dachterrasse branch!

If you fancy something a bit more exotic than traditional Swiss delicacies, Saigon is the place to be.

The restaurant itself is small and minimalist and the selection of Vietnamese food on offer is delicious –it does fill up quickly so time your visit well!

Tip: if you love fondue and wine, check out this Fondue & Wine Tuk-Tuk Tour . A unique way to experience Zürich!

Best Bars in Zürich

1. Raygrodski

Potentially the most hipster bar to ever exist.

There is something captivating about the atmosphere in Raygrodski, even if you can’t really hear yourself think.

The extensive cocktail list strays from the classics in favor of creative mixes and presentations.

If you have your heart set on visiting this bar at the weekend, reserve a table – it WILL be busy!

2. Jules Verne Panorama Bar*

This bar really is something special.

Boasting a panoramic view of the city and almost too many drinks to choose from, this is the perfect place to go for celebratory drinks and a must-see for tourists traveling to Zürich.

As a result of its reputation, it is a bit pricey… but well worth it.

3. Frau Gerolds Garten

At first glance, you might mistake Frau Gerolds for a scrap yard that someone has tried to dress up with fairy lights.

In theory, you wouldn’t be completely wrong. But once you step through the gate you’ll be fascinated by the wonderland that awaits you.

From the popup stores and outdoor bars to the quirky terrace with views over Hardbrücke, this place is certainly something special.

Museums in Zürich

A visit to one of Zürich’s many museums could just turn that boring rainy day around. Here are my top 3:

1. Landesmuseum*

The Swiss National Museum where you can learn all about Swiss history and traditions. The museum is closed on Mondays.

2. FIFA Museum*

One for the football fans – includes a detailed history of football as well as classic memorabilia. The museum is closed on Mondays.

3. Kunsthaus Zürich*

This art museum plays host to one of the most important art collections in Zürich. With a little bit of everything, it’s sure to please every art enthusiast. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Shopping in Zürich

Zürich might not be the first place you think of for a shopping spree, but it is home to one of the world’s most expensive shopping streets: Bahnhofstrasse.

The street is a designer lover’s dream; lined with shops including Cartier, Tiffany’s and Chanel, but also with more affordable shops including Zara and H&M.

Where to Stay in Zürich

If you are only traveling to Zürich for a few days I’d recommend staying in the city center.

Two popular hotels in the center of Zürich are citizenM and Hotel Schweizerhof . Both are good 4-star hotels that you can easily reach from the train station.

But, for a small city, Zürich has a good selection of hotels, plus a few guesthouses and hostels.

I would recommend using Booking.com to find a place to stay in Zürich.

Practical Tips for Visiting Zürich

1. travel passes.

The Zuri Pass gives you free travel on buses and trams in central Zürich.

For those of you who fancy exploring the rest of Switzerland, pick up a Swiss Pass (available for various lengths of time) and enjoy unlimited travel around the country. The only thing you may have to add is a supplement for cable cars to explore the mountaintops.

2. Money Money Money

The rumors are true: Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world.

Don’t come here expecting a cheap city break to Zurich – that’s not what this part of the world is about. It’s all about the experience.

3. Sundays in Zurich

Like in a lot of European countries, Sunday is a family day in Switzerland.

In Zürich (and in most other cities/towns in Switzerland) almost everything is closed on Sunday.

But, shops and restaurants in train stations and airports as well as the places marked above with an * will remain open.

4. Swiss German

Brushing up the German you learned in school/uni will only get you so far in Switzerland.

The famous Schwiizerdütsch (Swiss German) is far from easy to learn or understand and also varies between Cantons.

Luckily, most locals also speak High German and English, so there shouldn’t be too much pointing and miming!

I hope you found this guide to Zürich helpful and have a great trip!

• 10 Places to Visit for the Best Views in Switzerland
• Interview With an Expat About Life in Zürich
• 4 Lesser-Visited European Capitals Worth Traveling to
• How to Plan a Perfect Trip

A Complete Travel Guide to Zürich on a Map

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Where To Stay in Zurich: A Guide To City’s Best Hotels

You’ve finally bit the bullet and decided to travel to Zurich, but you’re not sure which area to stay in? With more than a hundred hotels a 500+ hotel rooms to choose from, it’s understandable if you can’t quite decide what’s the best option for you. That’s why this guide to the best hotels in Zurich is just what you need to read!

I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the city’s best hotels in all the most popular areas. The guide also includes budget, mid-range, and luxury hotel options, so there’s something for everyone, whether you’re pinching pennies or splurging on the best rooms!

So, still wondering where to stay in Zurich? Scroll down to start making sense of it all!

Table of Contents

Alstadt (Zurich Old Town)

The Altstadt is the central area of Zurich with all the main tourist attractions . If this is your first time in the city, or you just want to be within walking distance of all the best attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and shops, this is the best area of Zurich for you. It’s also the most expensive area of Zurich for accommodation.

Luxury Hotel: Baur au Lac

Baur au Lac is a fabulous 5-star hotel in the heart of Zurich. It’s situated near the shore of Lake Zurich and the central location means you will have easy access to all the best attractions in the city center. The hotel is also within easy walking distance of the main railway station, as well as a mere stone’s throw away from the Zurich harbor, which allows easy boat travel to other towns and villages on the shore of the lake.

The nightly rates for this luxury hotel start at around 620 CHF for a single room, and go up to 5,500 CHF for a deluxe suite with a view of Lake Zurich. Breakfast isn’t included in the base rate of the rooms, but WiFi access and a welcome gift are.

Mid-range Hotel: citizenM Zürich

The citizenM Zurich is a great hotel for travelers who want to be centrally located but without spending a fortune on the hotel room. The hotel is in Zurich city center on the left bank of the Limmat River, close to the Old Botanical Garden . The location is excellent for first-time visitors because all the top sights are within walking distance, plus you can enjoy some beautiful Zurich views from your room.

The rooms at citizenM are quite small but equipped with all the necessities. You’ll get a comfy bed, a bathroom in the room, and a desk for work. This hotel also boasts quite a few communal lounge areas, which makes it one of the better options for young adults who want to mingle and meet other people during their trips. In a way, it’s like an upscale hostel, but you don’t have to share a room with strangers. The base rate for a single room is around 286 CHF, while double rooms go for at least 289 CHF.

Budget Hotel: Old Town Hostel Otter

Even the cheapest budget hotels in Zurich can rival luxury hotels in other cities. The Old Town Hostel Otter is great for travelers who are on a very tight budget because it allows them to explore the city without spending a fortune. You can get a bed in a 6-person dormitory for as little as 55 CHF, which will barely get you a proper lunch in Zurich.

The hostel also offers twin rooms and a proper apartment, and the prices for private rooms are 140-220 CHF. If the prices seem a bit high for a bed in a dormitory, that’s Zurich for you. The location of the hostel is excellent though; it’s a 3-minute walk away from Grossmnunster, and only 6 minutes from the Zurich Opera House.

Enge is more of a residential area of Zurich, so the prices of hotels are generally lower than in the city center. The neighborhood is well connected to the rest of the city with public transport, plus it’s home to Museum Rietberg , Fifa World Football Museum , beaches, and more.

Luxury Hotel: Neues Schloss Privat Hotel Zurich

Neues Schloss Privat Hotel Zurich is one of Enge’s best 5-star hotels. It’s situated close to the Zurich Yacht Club and the Rentenwiese Park , plus it’s only a 10-minute walk from Paradeplatz in the city center. The hotel is in a more quiet and peaceful area of Zurich, but you’re still super close to the city’s best attractions.

The nightly rates are significantly more affordable than those of hotels in the proper center of Zurich. The cheapest nightly rate is 383 CHF, which is equivalent to a mid-range hotel in Altstadt. That’s the rate for solo travelers; couples can get a room at this luxury hotel for as little as around 420 CHF.

Mid-range Hotel: Hotel Glärnischhof by Trinity

Hotel Glärnischhof by Trinity is an excellent option for travelers who don’t quite have the budget for luxury accommodations. The location of this hotel is excellent; it’s just across the bridge from the heart of Zurich, a 4-minute walk away from Paradeplatz and Bahnhofstrasse.

Basic double rooms start at a little more than 300 CHF, which is an excellent price for a hotel so close to the historic area of Zurich. Solo travelers can also get a great deal because the prices for single rooms start at approximately 240 CHF. It’s worth noting that these prices listed here include some discounts that are automatically applied when you try to book a room at the hotel’s official website.

Budget Hotel: Residence Mutschellen

Residence Mutschellen is an affordable accommodation option for travelers on a tight budget. It’s further away from the city center of Zurich than all the other places mentioned in Enge, but it’s very close to the bus, tram, and train station that can take you to the heart of the city in no time. This hotel is a 30-minute walk (or 15-minute bus ride) away from Paradeplatz, but only a 10-minute walk away from Museum Rietberg.

Solo travelers can get a room at this hotel for as little as 150 CHF per night, while couples can get a twin room for only 166 CHF. If you’re splitting the cost that’s only slightly more expensive than a bed in a hostel dormitory, but you have your own bathroom and even a kitchenette.

Langstrasse

Langstrasse is a great neighborhood for young adults who want to stay in a more affordable area of Zurich that’s known for its excellent nightlife. The neighborhood is home to hip hotels, excellent bars, and lots of clubs.

Luxury Hotel: 25hours Hotel Langstrasse

25hours Hotel Langstrasse is the best place to stay if you want to be close to Zurich’s main train station. The 4-star hotel offers surprisingly inexpensive rooms for an upscale hotel in one of Zurich’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Solo travelers get the shorter end of the stick because the difference in price between the cheapest room for one vs two travelers is only about 15 CHF. Single rooms start at around 295 CHF, while double rooms cost anywhere from 309 CHF (without breakfast) to 539 CHF for a refundable reservation with breakfast.

Mid-range Hotel: Greulich Design & Boutique Hotel

Stay at the Greulich Design & Boutique Hotel if you want to be in a more urban area of Zurich and stay at a modern hotel. The room furnishings are all very clean and modern, and all hotel rooms are equipped with a bathroom, a desk, and free WiFi.

The hotel offers standard double rooms, lofts, and a 2-bedroom apartment. The average nightly rate is 200 CHF for a double room, and it’s worth noting that there are no single rooms at the Greulich. Solo travelers will need to pay the same rate as couples, so you might want to reconsider if you’re looking for a single room in Zurich. The more spacious double rooms are 300-330 CHF per night, depending on what amenities you want to be included in the price.

Budget Hotel: Hotel Kernhof

Hotel Kernhof is at an excellent location, practically on Langstrasse and very close to the Swiss National Museum . This 3-star hotel offers free WiFi in the rooms, free toiletries in the private bathroom, and a dedicated workspace. One thing to note is that the hotel is situated in a pretty busy area, where parties go on well into the wee hours of the morning. But that’s the beauty of Langstrasse, and unless you like to frequent bars and nightclubs, it’s not a good area for a stay.

The nightly room rates are 125 CHF for solo travelers and 140 CHF for couples. Even the most expensive suite at the hotel is around 200 CHF per night, which is what makes Hotel Kernhof one of the best budget Zurich hotels.

Zurich West

Zurich West is a popular neighborhood in the city’s Industriequartier. The former industrial area has gotten a new life and is now central to Zurich’s economic growth. The city area is characterized by beautiful panoramic views, train stations, nightclubs, and proximity to the Swiss National Museum.

Luxury Hotel: 25hours Hotel Zürich West

25hours Hotel Zürich West is an excellent 4-star hotel. It’s a very good option for travelers who want to experience staying in a luxury hotel in Zurich, but don’t quite want to pay the exorbitant prices of hotels that are more centrally located. It’s situated in an area full of great bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, plus it boasts easy access to the rest of the city with public transport.

Single rooms at this hotel start at just 220 CHF, which is a bargain for a hotel as well-equipped as this one. What’s even better is that rates for two adults in double rooms are also 220 CHF, which is the equivalent of an apartment in a hostel in Altstadt! It’s not great for solo travelers, so you might want to consider a different hotel if you’re traveling on your own.

Mid-range Hotel: Novotel Zurich City West

The Novotel Zurich City West is a great option for travelers who prefer staying in busier neighborhoods. It’s a 4-star hotel with spacious, comfortable, and modern rooms. The hotel is located very close to the main tram stations in the area, allowing easy access to other city areas.

The nightly rates for this hotel are around 220 CHF for a double room, which isn’t at all a bad deal for couples. However, solo travelers get the short end of the stick here because the hotel doesn’t have dedicated single rooms, and the rates for the double rooms are the same as for two adults.

This hotel is also one of the best hotels in Zurich for families as they offer a range of activities for children and they also have a delicious children’s menu that the kids will surely enjoy.

Budget Hotel: ibis budget Zurich City West

ibis budget Zurich City West is a 1-star hotel with some of the most affordable nightly rates in the city of Zurich. Double and twin rooms start at around 120 CHF per night, and that’s as cheap as beds in hostel dormitories. But instead of sharing the room and the bathroom with strangers, you get them all to yourself, as well as free WiFi.

Breakfast is not included in the price of the rooms, but you can get it for an extra fee of 15 CHF. Also, it’s worth noting that the shower is inside the room (it’s not separated by a wall), so the hotel will work only for solo travelers or couples who are very comfortable with one another. The location of the hotel is excellent though; it’s in a busy neighborhood with lots of great restaurants and bars, plus it’s super close to tram and bus stations.

Seefeld is the area of Zurich south of the Opera House. It’s known for excellent bathing spots, long promenades, and the gorgeous Chinese Garden. Consider staying in Seefeld for lower hotel prices, easy access to the city center via public transport, and an excellent selection of bars and restaurants.

Luxury Hotel: La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich

La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich is a fabulous 5-star hotel on the bank of Lake Zurich. The rooms offer sweeping lake views and exquisite luxurious furnishings. There aren’t any single rooms at this hotel and all solo travelers will have to pay the standard double room rate, which is identical for two adults.

The double rooms at this hotel start at 700 CHF per night and can cost up to 6,000 CHF per night for the 2-bedroom suite. This hotel is the epitome of luxury in Zurich and without a doubt one of the best options for travelers who want to experience living the high life in Switzerland and be pampered with welcome gifts, free drinks, and VIP treatment during their stay.

Mid-range Hotel: Boutique Hotel NI-MO

Boutique Hotel NI-MO is a very nice hotel in this trendy neighborhood. It’s only a 4-minute walk away from the Zurich Opera House , and it’s even closer to some of the best public bathing areas in the city of Zurich. The hotel boasts comfortable rooms and offers a discount to all guests who decide to book a room directly on their website.

The nightly rates at this hotel are approximately 220 CHF for a single room and 250 CHF for double rooms. Even the most expensive hotel room isn’t much more than 300 CHF per night, and that’s without the discount that’s applied automatically if you book on their site.

Budget Hotel: Seefeld Residenz Apartment

Seefeld Residence is an apartment hotel in the heart of this neighborhood. It’s a great option for travelers who are planning longer stays in the city and want their accommodation to have slightly more functionality than a hotel room.

The apartments in Seefeld are equipped with full kitchens, so you can easily cook during your stay. The apartment building has laundry facilities that guests can access for an extra fee, plus there’s private parking on the site for an extra 15 CHF per day.

The apartment for two goes for some 170 CHF per night, while the triple apartment costs approximately 200 CHF per night. That’s a pretty good deal for the Seefeld area, especially since the apartment building is only a 5-minute walk away from the iconic Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich.

Hotels Near the Zurich Airport

Choose a hotel close to Zurich Airport if you’re in the city for only a short time, you’re traveling for business, or you just don’t want to pay the prices of centrally located hotels. The airport has a direct train connection to the old town, so you can still explore Zurich to your heart’s content.

Luxury Hotel: Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport The Circle

If you’re in the city for only a night, or you prefer to stay close to the airport for whatever reason, you’ll be glad to know that there’s no shortage of luxury hotels even there. In fact, some of the best Zurich hotels are situated in the Circle building at the airport, Hyatt Regency included.

It’s an excellent 5-star business hotel with a direct connection to Zurich city center. The train station is just steps away from the hotel’s front door, and you can be in Zurich Altstadt in some 25 minutes. The rooms in this hotel are spacious with modern and luxurious furnishings, and some even offer beautiful views of the nearby park.

The rates for standard double rooms are from 311 CHF per night, but that’s an exclusive deal for World of Hyatt Members. The standard rate for a classic double room is 380 CHF and that’s the most affordable option for solo travelers. The hotel boasts bigger and better rooms as well, with the presidential suite going for more than 2,000 CHF per night.

Mid-range Hotel: Radisson Blu Hotel Zurich Airport

Radisson Blu Hotel Zurich Airport is a 4-star hotel situated at the Circle building complex. The hotel is very close to the airport train station and it’s only half an hour away from the central Zurich area for easy city tours. It’s also the largest congress and convention hotel in the country, so it’s absolutely perfect for business travelers.

The nightly rates at the Radisson Blu are from 230 CHF, which is a special rate for members of the Radisson Rewards Club. Family rooms and suites are from 300 CHF and 500 CHF per night, while the presidential suite costs at least 1,000 CHF per night to book.

Budget Hotel: B&B Hotel Zürich Airport

If you want to stay close to the airport to save money on accommodation, the B&B Hotel Zürich Airport is one of the most affordable options in the area. It’s a bit further away from the train station (a 10-minute walk), but you can still be in the center of the city in about half an hour.

There aren’t any single rooms at this hotel and the cheapest rooms are standard double rooms with a nightly rate of around 105 CHF. That’s the base rate for the stay and breakfast is another 20 CHF per day. This is actually an excellent deal for couples because you get a room for 50 CHF per person, which is extremely cheap for Zurich. Triple rooms are from 152 CHF per night, while family rooms (for up to 4 adults) start at 213 CHF.

Map of Where to Stay in Zurich

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in zurich for first-time travelers.

The Altstadt area of Zurich is the best place to stay if you’re in the city for the first time. All the most popular landmarks and tourist attractions are within walking distance, as is the main Zurich railway station that connects the city to other cities and villages in the area. 

What is the best area to stay in Zurich for nightlife?

Langstrasse and Zurich West are two of the best city areas for travelers who want to experience Zurich nightlife. Both neighborhoods are quite busy with lots of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. 

What is the best area to stay in Zurich for shopping?

The Old Town is the best area for (luxury) shopping in Zurich , thanks to the iconic Bahnhofstrasse. Here you will find everything from H&M to Chanel, plus you will be within easy walking distance of all the best tourist attractions in the city. 

What is the recommended number of days to stay in Zurich?

Plan to stay in Zurich for 3-5 days to really explore the city. Three days can be enough to discover the city’s top landmarks and attractions, but five days will give you enough time to explore outside the most popular tourist hotspots and maybe even visit a nearby town or two. 

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Zurich Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 17, 2023

The biggest of the Swiss cities, Zürich has a hopping nightlife and is filled with endless bars and restaurants. It’s a cosmopolitan city that’s bustling with activity. It’s also set on a beautiful lake near the mountains so you can also do a lot of nature-based activities when you visit.

While Zürich is known as a financial hub and business center, it’s also one of the most cosmopolitan and dynamic Swiss cities. The city is very arty and full of street art and exhibitions. Zürich’s cultural scene includes theaters and opera, several well-known orchestras, and the Cabaret Voltaire.

The city also has a good number of festivals such as the Sechseläuten in April (which includes a procession and the ceremonial burning of a snowman), the Knabenschiessen in September (a sharpshooting contest for young people), the Fasnacht (Zürich Carnival) in late winter. There’s also the techno music Street Parade in August, which thousands of people come to.

In short, Zürich is a city with tons to see and do — no matter your interests.

While very expensive thanks to all the banks in the city, this travel guide to Zürich can help you visit the city on a budget and ensure you have a great time without breaking the bank!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Zürich

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Zürich

1. Go hiking

Zürich has two mountains that offer good views and even better hikes: Zürichberg to the East and Uetliberg to the West. Zürichberg is busier but Uetliberg has better mountain-biking trails. Start with the Planet Trail on Uetilberg for an easy two-hour trek. It takes 20 minutes to get there by train/tram.

2. Visit the National Museum

This museum offers a detailed look into the history of the country. The exhibits are comprehensive and it has a number of both permanent collections and temporary ones. A new archaeological section was opened in 2016 as well. Admission is 10 CHF.

3. See the City Gardens of Stadt Gaertnerei

This small botanical garden is home to some 250,000 plants that are used in public flowerbeds around Zürich. It’s also home to 17 different species of tropical birds, including toucans. It has rotating exhibitions, guided tours, lectures, and every Wednesday there’s an informational talk about plant life.

4. Catch the Street Parade

This is currently the biggest open-air techno rave in Europe. It happens on the second Saturday of August during which time trucks functioning as mobile sound systems start driving along the lakeside. Every year, this event attracts nearly a million visitors who dance carefree in the streets.

5. Walk around the Old Town

Located on both sides of the Limmat River, the Old Town is filled with guild houses and historic churches. Stop to eat at one of many restaurants or have a drink at a variety of pubs, or walk around tasting the city’s unique cheese and chocolates. Be sure to try the truffles at Confiserie Honold too.

Other Things to See and Do in Zürich

1. taste swiss chocolate.

Switzerland is synonymous with chocolate. To do a deep dive into this cultural staple, try a food tour. Sweet Zürich Tour organizes tours that focus on chocolate and its 200-year-old tradition in Switzerland. You’ll get to taste lots of chocolates, uniquely flavored truffles, bars, ice cream, and hot chocolate all while you learn about the chocolate trends of Zürich. Their small tours (2-10 people) take around 2.5 hours and cost CHF 85.

2. Explore Zürich’s vibrant nightlife

Zürich may be a relaxing city during the day, but at night it comes alive with over 500 nightlife venues including pubs, restaurants, music halls. With no open-container laws in Zürich, you can start your night with cheap drinks on the Limmat riverfront before moving to the bars and clubs. When you are ready to hit the town, head to Neiderdorf in the Old Town or Langstrasse just nearby for some of the best clubs and bars in Zürich. Cinchona Bar and Olé-Olé-Bar are two fun options.

3. Eat in the dark at Blindekuh Zürich

At the restaurant Blindekuh (which means “Blind Man’s Bluff” in German) you eat in the dark. Founded in 1999, this restaurant became the first dark restaurant to employ visually impaired staff in the world. Eat with only 4 out of 5 senses here and have a culinary adventure. It’s unlike any other dining experience out there. Expect to pay around 75 CHF for a three-course meal.

4. Walk the lake promenade

The Lake Zürich promenade was created around 1800 and stretches around the entire lake. From Bellevue, the boardwalk runs for about 3 kilometers (2 miles) along the lake towards Tiefenbrunnen, and is always busy with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters. About halfway, at Bürkliplatz, there’s a peaceful meadow for relaxing on a sunny day, as well as an outlook terrace. If you’d rather mingle with the locals, pause and chat with some of the jewelry sellers or street artists who dot the promenade.

5. Go skiing

Flumserberg is the nearest large ski-resort to the city. A day pass costs around 69 CHF, but there are reduced passes available (as low as 39 CHF) if you go later in the day. There are other nearby ski resorts too, like Sattel-Hochstuckli and Amden, both of which can be reached in under an hour by car. There are also lots of cross-country skiing options nearby too, including Zurgerberg, Bachtel, and Rothenthurm. You can rent cross-country skis and boots for around 110 CHF per day.

6. Visit the Beyer Zürich Clock & Watch Museum

Switzerland is famous for its watchmaking. This private museum has one of the best collections in the world and tells the history of timekeeping from 1400 BCE (when they used things like sundials and hourglasses) to today. Check out all of the timepieces housed in this well-designed museum, and be sure to pay attention to the one-of-a-kind, rare, and antique clocks. Admission is only 10 CHF.

7. Celebrate Swiss National Day

If you happen to be here on August 1st, Swiss National Day celebrates the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. Festivities are carried out in the evenings and fireworks are launched at night. Watch them over the lake, or if you have experience with (safely) launching fireworks yourself, you can buy them in the days leading up to the national holiday. The display over the Rhine Falls (one hour away by S-Bahn) is also extremely popular. No matter where you are in the city, you can find houses and buildings draped in the Swiss flag and another colorful bunting, while families and friends take advantage of the holiday to gather in parks and public spaces for barbecues and picnics.

8. Take a boat tour

When the weather is nice, take a boat tour on Lake Zürich to admire the scenic views of the region. You can find mini-tours starting at 25 CHF and bookings can be made at the pier on Bahnhofstrasse or online. Tours/cruises just get more elaborate from there, with a variety of themes such as cheese fondue cruise, folklore cruise, a brunch cruise, and even a build-your-own-burger cruise. These trips cost between 45-115 CHF per person.

10. Check out the Rietberg Museum

For a day of international art, head to the Rietberg Museum. It’s the third-largest museum in the city and the only art museum in the country that focuses on non-European art. The museum contains collections from around the world, including Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Admire Indian miniature paintings, Swiss masks, and ceramics from the Meiyintang collection. Other highlights include a shaman eagle mask and Persian wall hangings. Admission is 18 CHF for the collection plus special exhibitions. The park where the museum is located (Lindenhofplatz) looks over the city and is nice to pass a couple of hours in.

11. Tour Rosenhof Market

This seemingly hidden market in a square in the Niederdorf part of the Old Town is perfect for picking up little souvenirs and trinkets. Go here to browse shops selling intriguing goods like incense, jewelry, handicrafts, and bohemian clothing. When you’re here, be sure to sample some international food from one of the many delicious food stalls.

12. Wander around Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is renowned for being one of the priciest shopping streets in the world per square meter; the entire route is covered in high-end shop fronts featuring international luxury brands. If you’re backpacking, you’re probably not shopping on this pedestrian street but it’s fun to people watch and see how the other side lives. If you’re here in December, be sure to check out the elaborate Christmas decorations lighting up the entire area.

13. Admire the architecture

Zürich is an attractive city and has many architectural features including the beautiful and well-preserved Altstadt (Old Town). Here is the 1,400-year-old Romanesque Grossmünster which was built by Charlemagne, St. Peter’s Church which was built in the 13th-century, and the Fraumünster (Minster of Our Lady) which has some beautiful stained glass windows that were designed by Marc Chagall. There are also guild houses and patrician residences (some are used as restaurants or for civic functions). More old buildings can be found along both shores of the Limmat River too.

  For more information on other cities in Switzerland, check out these guides:

• Basel Travel Guide
• Bern Travel Guide
• Geneva Travel Guide
• Interlaken Travel Guide

Zürich Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are only a couple of hostels in Zürich and they book up quickly in summer, especially during major festivals and events. Expect to spend at least 50 CHF per night for a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm (although prices can be as high as 100 CHF). Private rooms start at 100 CHF, but you’re more likely to spend over 120 CHF. Hostels typically include free breakfast and free Wi-Fi.

There are a few campsites around Zürich — including some that are right on the lakes. Prices start at 8 CHF per night for a basic plot without electricity but expect to pay more if you want to be closer to the city center. Wild camping is legal in the mountains above the treeline only (and it’s not permitting in official nature reserves).

Budget hotel prices – There are a handful of budget hotels in Zürich and they start at 80 CHF per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, coffee/tea makers, and occasionally free breakfast.

Airbnb is available here with private rooms averaging around 90 CHF per night. Renting an entire home/apartment averages 200 CHF per night (though you can find cheaper options if you book early).

Food – With strong French, German, and Italian influences, Swiss cuisine is a mix of meat and potato-based dishes along with plenty of local cheeses. Popular dishes include veal and mushrooms, fondue (with bread or potatoes), rösti (fried grated potatoes), and quiche. Naturally, Swiss cheese and chocolate should not be missed either. When it comes to breakfast, muesli is a go-to healthy choice.

If you want to eat out, bars and cafés are the cheapest food option and cost about 9-15 CHF for a lunch special. An inexpensive restaurant costs about 25 CHF while a 3-course meal at a mid-range one costs about 60 CHF.

If you want to drink with your meal, a beer costs around 7 CHF and cocktails can cost 12-15 CHF.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 15 CHF for a combo meal. A large pizza is 15-21 CHF.

Sternen Grill, which has been open since 1963, has a couple of takeaway locations with wurst, deli sandwiches, and other delights for 8-15 CHF. Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy the menu at Tibits. Kafischnaps is a hip café with yummy breakfast and lunch menus with dishes under 20 CHF.

You can keep your food spending in check by going to the local supermarkets and buying your own groceries. Expect to spend around 140 CHF per week for basic staples like pasta, rice, eggs, seasonal produce, and some meat. The major supermarkets are Migros, COOP, and Spar. COOP is the most expensive.

Backpacking Zürich Suggested Budgets

For those backpacking through Switzerland, budget 100 CHF per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all of your meals, using local transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free and cheap activities like walking tours and hiking.

For a mid-range budget of 195 CHF per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like food tours, skiing, and museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 410 CHF or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis or rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CHF.

Zürich Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Zürich is a very expensive city. There’s no hiding that fact. But there are plenty of ways to save money in the city so you don’t go bankrupt while visiting. Here are some helpful ways I lowered my costs:

• Buy a Zürich Pass – The Zürich Pass offers excellent value, with free airport transfers and local transportation as well as free admission to forty Zürich museums. A 24-hour Zürich Pass costs 27 CHF while a 72-hour pass costs 53 CHF.
• Ride a free bike – In Zürich, city bikes, e-bikes, and children’s bikes can be rented for free! You can pick your bike up year-round with a valid ID and a deposit of 20 CHF at the main station (Europaplatz). This service, known as Züri rollt, is available for every visitor.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a service that lets travelers stay with locals for free. It was a lifesaver that allowed me to keep my costs down the most. Since a lot of travelers use this service here, make your requests for hosts early.
• Don’t drink – Drinking alcohol is not cheap here so avoid it if you want to save money. If you’re going to drink, stick to hostel bars and happy hours.
• Cook your own meals – While it isn’t glamorous, cooking your own meals will cost you a fraction of what eating out costs. The major supermarkets are Migros, COOP, and Spar. COOP is the most expensive.
• Go veggie – Meat is expensive in Switzerland. Stick to veggies and avoid buying meat for your meals (especially beef).
• Use lunch specials – If you are going to eat out, do so during lunch when there are lots of affordable lunch specials. Moreover, stick to Chinese, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Thai restaurants for the best deals and biggest portions.
• Take a free walking tour – To get a feel for the city and learn about its history, take a free walking tour with Free Walk Zürich . it’s the best way to see the highlights on a budget. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where To Stay in Zürich

There are only a couple of hostels to choose from in Zürich. Here are your options:

• Oldtown Hostel Otter
• Youthhostel
• Green Marmot Capsule Hostel

How to Get Around Zürich

Public transportation – The bus, train, and tram system in Zürich runs on one extensive network. Zürich is divided into zones, and you need to make sure you purchase tickets or a day card which covers the appropriate zones. For example, Zürich City is zone 110, while the airport is part of zone 121.

Single tickets on public transit with Zürich Transport Network (ZVV) start at 3.10 CHF for 1 hour in 1-2 zones and increase from there. These tickets are good for the bus, tram, train, and boat.

The best value for public transit is the Zürich Card, which gives unlimited 2nd-class travel by tram, bus, rail, boat, and cable car in the city, as well as surrounding regions (zones 111, 121, 140, 150, 154, 155). The card also includes transfer between the city and the airport, an excursion trip to Uetliberg, short boat trips, and the Limmat River Cruise. The cost for 24 hours is 27 CHF and it’s 53 CHF for 72 hours.

Bike – Zürich has an excellent public bike-sharing program. Bikes are available year-round at Europlatz and can be used for free, once you pay a 20 CHF deposit. PubliBike is also available and has several stations spread throughout the city. The first 30 minutes cost 2.90 CHF, and then 0.10 CHF for each additional minute, up to a maximum of 20 CHF per day. To sign up, download their app and follow the instructions.

Taxi – Taxis are incredibly expensive in Zürich. In fact, with base fares starting at 6 CHF and then going up by 3.80 CHF per kilometer, Zürich taxis are some of the most expensive in the world. Skip them!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Zürich and is a bit cheaper than taxis. However, public transportation goes everywhere so you really shouldn’t need one.

When to Go to Zürich

Summer is the most popular time to visit Zürich. July and August have the warmest temperatures, offering snow-free hiking trails and longer days. If you’re around on August 1st, there are tons of celebrations for Swiss National Day. Peak temperatures hover between 18-28°C (65-82°F). This is when prices are the most expensive, though it never gets too crowded here compared to other cities in Western Europe.

The shoulder seasons are from around April-May and October-November, which are known in Switzerland as Zwischenzeit — the “between time” for the ski and summer seasons. The weather can be unpredictable, but if you want to visit Zürich as cheaply as possible (and take your chances on the weather), this is the time to do it.

From December to March Zürich tends to be quieter as everyone flocks to the mountains. The weather is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, so be sure to pack plenty of layers. Because of its proximity to the ski resorts, hotel prices can also be quite high during this time – especially around Christmas when Europeans are on holiday. Book early to find the best deals.

How to Stay Safe in Zürich

Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world (it’s ranked 7th safest currently). Both violent crime and petty theft like pickpocketing are extremely rare here.

That said, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach when in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night if intoxicated, etc.)

While scams here are rare, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you plan on hiking or spending some time skiing in the mountains, pay careful attention to weather reports. Heed avalanche warnings, and stay off the trails if you’re told to do so.

If you experience an emergency, dial 117.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Zürich Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Zürich Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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• Switzerland

Zurich blog — The fullest Zurich travel guide for a budget trip for first-timers

Zurich – the largest and richest Switzerland’s city and is known as one of the financial centers of the world. The Swiss city of Zurich is worldwide famous for its vibrant, modern but equally quaint and artistic beauty. Zurich is charming with its old town and ancient architectural houses, snow-capped peaks. The ancient, gentle peace and rich culture and long history are the tourist attractions of this place. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Zurich for the first-time? Let’s check out our Zurich blog (Zurich travel blog) with the fullest Zurich travel guide (Zurich guide, Zurich tourist guide, Zurich visitor guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Zurich has more than 2000 years of history and is the oldest city in Europe. Perhaps that’s why the beauty of Zurich blends the vibrant and lively features of a modern city with the ancient and peaceful nature of an old city, which brings a very distinctive color that no city in the world has it.

Zurich blog: Overview of Zurich

This city has a very long history, but is really known since the 1st century when the Romans came here to station and collect taxes. The city was then located on the south bank of the Limmat River. Then during the Middle Ages, the city developed on the north bank of the river until the 19th century. Now the city has extended to all directions, around Lake Zurich (German: Zürichsee). This is a very large, Loofah fruit-shaped lake, its water is originated from the surrounding mountains and hills, flowing through Zurich, it narrows down to form Limmat River, then merges into Rhine River, flowing through several European countries before empties into the sea in the Netherlands.

Besides the political capital of Bern, Zurich is known as the financial capital, the commercial center as well as the Switzerland cultural hub city. The population of Zurich metro area of over 1.4 million people, covering an area of 87.88 km², and is one of the safest cities with a top quality of life that many people dream of.

An interesting thing is that this city is surrounded by the Limmat river, so come to Zurich you will see water everywhere with countless canals, fountains throughout the city. Especially, lakes and water are extremely clean, even some fountains can provide potable water.

Some interesting things about this city:

• Many people think that Zurich is the capital of Switzerland, but in fact, Bern is the capital.
• Being one of the happiest cities in the world because the quality of life here is extremely high.
• The city’s urban population is over 400 thousand people and about 30% are foreigners. Switzerland has 4 official languages, so the city of Zurich is also called in 6 different ways such as: Zurich – French and English; Zurigo – Italian; Turitg – Roman; Zürich – German; Zurich – German; Züri – the city’s nickname in the German language of the Swiss

Zurich blog: When to visit?

Zurich has a temperate climate and has 4 distinct seasons, so choosing the right time to visit Zurich is not too difficult. You can visit here year-round.

If you like to see flowers, you can go in spring, the weather is sunny and rainy, brings good conditions for flowers to bloom. If you come to Zurich in summer, you should be aware of storms that often come in evening, which is also very opposite to Asian countries. Therefore, summer is not the suitable time to make a trip to Zurich.

Autumn (October) is the most beautiful time to visit Zurich. During this time, the weather is cool, not too cold and not too hot while winter is cold, foggy and snowy. June, July and August are the wettest months of year.

Zurich travel blog: Getting to Zurich

If you depart from other European cities you can take a bus, train or flight to get to Zurich. Zurich in particular and Switzerland in general has a very developed transport system that well-connected to neighboring countries both by road, railway as well as by air.

Zurich International Airport (German: Flughafen Zürich) is the largest airport of Switzerland. The airport is located about 13 kilometers from the city center and is home to the Swiss national flag carrier of Swiss International Air Lines. There are many airlines operating non-stop or connecting flights to this airport such as: Emirates, Qatar Airways, United Airlines, American Airlines… One of the best ways to find cheap airfares as well as most suitable flight routes, you can go to Google Flights, SkyScanner or Momondo to seek.

Getting from airport to central city

There are three ways to getting from the airport to city center.

Train: You can take Train or S-Bahn with 10 – 15 minutes of traveling time that’s quick and efficient. The fare for single trip is CHF 6.80 (Children: CHF 3.40) / Day travel pass 24h: CHF 13.60 (Children: CHF 6.80). But if you have Zürich Card, the ride is free of charge.

Tram: Take the tram line 10 with 35 minutes of riding, it’s like a sightseeing tour immediately on arrival. The fare for single trip is CHF 6.80 (Children: CHF 3.40) / Day travel pass 24h: CHF 13.60 (Children: CHF 6.80). But if you have Zürich Card, the ride is free of charge.

Taxi: Which takes 10 – 20 minutes with the fare of CHF 45 – 70. The advantages are convenient and fast; personal collection, fast and efficient.

To getting Zurich by bus or train you can refer to transport companies, routes, timetables and fares on OMIO.com .

Zurich blog: Getting around Zurich

Although it is a large city, traveling in Zurich is quite convenient and easy. Most of the main tourist attractions are located in the center and around the old town, so most of them are within walking distance.

However, there will also be times when you need to travel by public transport such as getting to the hills or moving from the hotel to the center.

Currently, all public transport has the same fare for train, bus and even cable car. Single ticket for 30 minutes of riding is currently €2.7/way and €8.8/day.

You can update the ticket price list on the ZVV page.

Or if you want to both take public transport, cruising on the lake and have free admissions to more than 20 museums, other attractions you can buy a Zurich Card for €25/24 hours, €50/72 hours. You click here to receive the code to reduce €5 then go to this Zurich card link to buy tickets.

• Zürich Card

In addition, you also can rent a bicycle and car. However, you should not rent a car because gasoline prices are high and shortage of parking lots. You should only rent a bike or you can take a taxi if you need. Besides, to visit the lakes and streams, visitors can easily rent a boat.

Zurich blog: Where to stay?

Switzerland is a extremely expensive country to tourists, Zurich is no exception, that’s why hotels and guesthouses here are not cheap at all, budget room rates ranging from about 70-100 USD/night. The best place to stay in Zurich is probably the Old Town or District 4 which is close to the central station.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Adler Zurich ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Widder Hotel – Zurichs luxury hideaway ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hilton Zurich Airport ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Storchen Zurich – Lifestyle Boutique Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Zurich Marriott Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top rated and best hotels in Zurich on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Zurich travel blog: Where to go?

Old Town (Altstadt)

The old town is probably the city’s most famous and popular tourist attraction. This place not only has the most important architectural works and buildings of Zurich such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Swiss National Museum, Lindenhof castle but also shows the vibrant nightlife with many restaurants and bars, pubs and cafes.

Come here, don’t forget to visit famous landmarks such as Fraumünster church, St. Peter’s Church, Swiss national museum, Fine Arts museum, Lindenhof castle… to discover impressive Roman architecture.

One of Zurich’s most iconic tourist attractions, the Kunsthaus is home to impressive art collections. The Kunsthaus is also known as the Museum of Art. This is considered one of the most interesting and worth visiting museums in Switzerland. This museum is home to many impressive works of art by the masters, famous artists in the 20th century such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Cezanne, Monet…

It’s located right in the center of the old town. You can take Tram line 3/5/9 or bus 31 and stop at Kunsthaus station.

Admissions: Adult: €25; 13-19 years old: €8 and students 20-30 years old: €13. Free admission on every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 5 pm and the first Sunday of every month.

Address: Heimplatz 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Hours: 10AM–8PM/Monday: Closed

Mount Uetliberg

Mount Uetliberg is always in the top 4 places you should visit in Zurich. At an altitude of over 2,858 feet above sea level, this is great place to get a panoramic view of the city.

You can get here by train or hiking. Trains run from Zurich HB central station and take about 30 minutes.

To get back from Uetliberg to the center, you need to follow the signs on the mountain down to Felsenegg, then take a gondola ride down to Adliswil and walk about 5 minutes to reach the train station. From here it takes about 25 minutes by train to return to the center of Zurich.

Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich with a lakeside road is one of the ideal Zurich tourist destinations. Along the lakeside road are colorful houses and bustling shops and restaurants.

The lake stretching for more than 40 km from Zurich to the foot of the Glarner Alps, so every day there are quite a few yatchs and boats carrying tourists on day cruise tours to the villages and towns along the lake. The main pier in Zurich is Burkiplatz. If you want to take a cruise on the river Zurich, come here.

The water source of Lake Zurich is derived from the mountains, so the water of the lake is very clean. In the summer, the lake’s blue water is enchanting, walking along the banks, or taking a boat on the lake will bring extremely wonderful experiences.

Fraumunster Church

You can spot the green bell tower of Fraumunster Church from miles away! One of Zurich’s most prominent landmarks, the glass windows by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti are one of the reasons make it becomes so popular with visitors and locals alike. Hidden in the church’s basement is a monumental 9th-century stone chapel that all archeology lovers are sure to love. The entrance fee to the church is 5 francs (CHF) and allow you access to the Crypt Museum.

To get there, take tram 11, 13 or 17 from Zurich main station and get off at Paradeplatz, the church is a 2-minute walk away.

Address: Münsterhof 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Hours: 11/1 – 29/2: 10:00am – 5:00pm | March 1 – October 31: 10:00am – 6:00pm Architectural style: Gothic architecture Opened: 853 AD

Grossmünter Church

The Romanesque-style Protestant church with outstanding twin towers built in the 12th century (in 1100) is considered as a symbol and pride of the city of Zurich. Many people often compare these two towers to look like rockets, while in the roof behind the church there is a small bright red tower.

Inside the church is built in Roman architecture with unique colorful glass windows and many sculptures of guardian gods for the city.

Address: Grossmünsterplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Hours: 10AM–6PM

Bahnhofstrasse Avenue

Bahnhofstrasse is Zürich’s main downtown street and one of the most famous and expensive retail shopping districts in the world. Stretching along more than 1.5km of boulevard is the presence of more than 90 luxury fashion stores with worldwide famous brands such as Cartier, Mont Blanc, Prada, Gucci, Chanel…

In addition to stores of fashion, accessories, perfumes… this place also focuses on high-class restaurants, cafes, bars specializing in serving the upper class and the headquarters of many Swiss banks.

Don’t forget to enjoy delicious chocolate in this place. In addition, in Bahnhofstrasse, you can also admire extremely unique architecture and art, with special works such as the magnificent Das Haus zur Trülle historic building, the Rebekka-Brunne fountain, the Parade square…

Zurich Zoo is rated as one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Zurich. It is considered one of the best zoos in Europe today.

Currently, this place is home to more than 4,500 animals of 360 different species. One of the interesting things of the zoo is that every afternoon, penguins often gather in large numbers. There are also several of restaurants and amusement parks within the zoo that are suitable for families with young children.

Address: Zürichbergstrasse 221, 8044 Zürich, Switzerland Hours: 9AM–6PM

Lindenhof is a hilltop park in the old town with views of the Limmat River, Lake Zurich and the city. This is the most important and strategic location in the history of the city from its founding in the 1st century BC.

Until the 9th century, this place still retains its importance with the Roman fortress and the Carolingian palace being built here. Today, although these buildings no longer exist, this place is still considered a famous place with a romantic view of the city.

Address: 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Hours: Open 24 hours

Zurich Opera House

This neoclassical building may not be the iconic construction in Zurich, but it holds a very important place in the history of Swiss Opera. Although it has gone through many architectural styles, the opera in Zurich is now a place for visitors to visit and pay their respects to world-renowned musicians and composers such as Weber, Wagner and Mozart, among other famous writers like Schiller, Shakespeare and Goethe with his famous bust. The Opera House continues to be a world-class Zurich tourist destination for opera lovers.

Address: Sechseläutenpl. 1, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland Opened: October 1, 1891 Architects: Ferdinand Fellner, Hermann Helmer

Church of St. Peter

Church of St. Peter in Zurich is home to the largest watch face in Europe! Formerly used as a fire monitoring post, the walls have foundations from the 9th century that are still standing today. It is the only baroque church in the city and the oldest one in Zurich.

Take tram line 4 from the main station, pass 3 stops and stop at Rathaus, the church is 2 minutes walk away.

Address: St. Peterhofstatt 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland Hours: 8AM–6PM Architectural style: Baroque architecture Opened: 1706

Zurich blog: Day trips from Zurich

• Rhine Falls: 46km from Zurich and takes about 35 minutes by car or 45-60 minutes by train.
• Lucerne: 52 km from Zurich and takes about 50 minutes by train.
• Bern: 123km from Zurich and takes about 1 hour by express train.
• Mount Titlis: 92km from Zurich and takes about 2 hours 30 minutes by train.
• Stein Am Rhein village: 45km from Zurich and takes about 45 minutes by train.
• Grindelwald (Jungfraujoch mountain) & Interlaken: takes about 50 minutes by train.
• Mount Pilatus: From Lucerne, takes another 20-minute bus ride.
• Glarus: 76km from Zurich and takes about 1 hour by train.
• Basel: 87km from Zurich and takes about 1 hour by train.
• Liechtenstein country: 120 km from Zurich. The train ride from Zurich to Sargans takes about 50 minutes. From there take a bus to the capital of Liechtenstein (Vaduz) about 25 minutes more.

Of all the places above, most are famous day trip destinations and visitors often take these trips. However, the most popular are probably the Rhine waterfall, the beautiful city of Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland region (Jungfraujoch & Interlaken…).

If you do not have too much time in Switzerland, you can refer to a few tour packages organized by Klook with prices from €60 for each day trip here .

Zurich blog: Suggested travel itinerary for Zurich self-sufficient trip

As you have also seen in the map, most of the tourist attractions in Zurich are located right in the center. If you only plan to visit Zurich for 1 day, I think you only need to go to the above places except Uetliberg mountain and the zoo.

Itinerary for 1 day:

Lake Zurich – Old Town – Grossmunter Cathedral – Art Museum – Lindenhof Hill – Bahnhofstrasse Avenue – Fraumunster Church.

Itinerary for 2 days:

Day 1 you go the same itinerary above. On the second day, you add more the Uetliberg mountain and the zoo to day 2 itinerary.

In addition, a day trip from Zurich is definitely indispensable. You can go to one of the places I have listed above. For famous tourist destinations such as Lucerne, Bernese Oberland, it is better to go for many days than take a day trip.

Zurich travel blog: What to eat?

Swiss cuisine in general or Zurich in particular is famous in the world with breads and dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and most especially chocolate…

Below are traditional and must-eat foods in Switzerland as well as in Zurich.

Cheese fondue

Cheese fondue (cheese hotpot) is an ideal dish to share with friends, made from melted cheese with other ingredients, like garlic, white wine, a little cornstarch or corn flour, and Kirsch. The dish is then served at the table in a special ceramic pot called a caquelon, and always cooked over a small stove to keep the cheese from clumping. The way to eat is also very simple, you just need to use a long fork to skewer the small pre-cut bread pieces, then dip them into the cheese pot on the stove and enjoy.

Rösti (Classic Swiss Potato Pancake)

Rosti is a dish made from potato chips that are fried or baked to create a crispy crust but melt inside. Sometimes Swiss people add a bit of bacon, onions, cheese and even chopped apples to the mix.

Bircherműesli (Fruit cereal)

This is a great combination of rolled oats, fruit, nuts, lime juice and condensed milk (or yogurt).

Raclette (Warm Melted Swiss Cheese with Egg and Potatoes)

Raclette is the name of a very popular Swiss cheese made from cow’s milk. This dish is melted by a specialized machine and then topped with a mixture of baked potato chips (with the skin on), vegetables, charcuterie (fermented meat), pickled baby cucumbers and pickled onions.

Bűndnernusstorte (Traditional Pie)

Bűndnernusstorte or engadinernusstorte is a type of pastry that originated from Graubünden. The basic recipe of this cake includes flour, sugar, eggs, butter, salt, a little caramel sugar, cream and small nuts, usually walnuts.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (Zurich-style Veal)

Veal, sometimes veal liver, is cooked with mushrooms, onions, wine, and cream, then often served with rosti, noodles or rice. You can replace veal with chicken or pork if desired. This will be an attractive dish when traveling to Zurich.

Zopf (Swiss Braided Bread)

There are many types of bread in Switzerland but the most popular and delicious is still a soft and white bread, called zopf. The dough is made from white flour, milk, eggs, butter and yeast, then braided into a braid and spread with egg yolks before baking.

Berner platte (Mixed meat platter)

This is a mixed plate of meats and sausages, which may include beef, ham, bacon, smoked beef, pork tongue, ribs, pork leg, pork loin, shoulder, bone marrow… In addition, on the plate, there are picked sauerkraut cabbage, potatoes and dried beans.

Älplermagronen (Swiss Alpine Macaroni Pasta)

This dish uses all the ingredients available on a livestock farm such as: cheese, potatoes, onions, pasta, milk or cream, and apples. The classic version is made by cooking potatoes and pasta with cream and cheese, baking in the oven, and then served with fried onions and stewed apple sauce. You can sometimes use extra bacon.

It’s very famous food in Zurich. Made with premium milk and delicious cream, Zurich’s milk chocolate ranks among the best in the world. So please enjoy Swiss chocolate and buy it as a gift for your loved ones, this will surely be a great gift after your Zurich trip.

Zurich blog: What to buy?

• If you want to buy jewelry, you can go to the Bucherer and Beyer store on the main street of Zurich, which is Bahnhofstrasse.
• The Schweizer Heimatwerk and Confiserie Sprüngli stores sell unique items that can be bought as gifts for tourists such as watches, paintings, linen, chocolates, etc.
• The area specializing in selling Swiss souvenirs is the Zurich Hauptbahnhof and Shopville shopping malls.
• The Niederdorf district, where you can find everything from trendy clothes, to interesting books and unique antiques.
• The Kanzlei flea market in Helvetiaplatz opens on Saturday mornings.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Zurich you can refer to

• Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City 1-day pass
• Jungfraujoch Day Tour from Zurich
• The Best of Zurich City Half Day Tour
• Swiss Travel Pass
• Zurich City and Surroundings Half-Day Tour with Ferry and Cable Car Ride
• Lucerne City Tour and Yacht Cruise from Zürich
• Zurich Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Heidiland & Liechtenstein Day Tour from Zurich
• Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich

Are you looking for more top things to do in Zurich: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And full guides for Switzerland , Bern , Lucerne , Jungfraujoch , Interlaken , Zermatt  and here .

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