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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!

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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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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

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Switzerland, created by local experts

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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 .

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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Your Trip to Zurich: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Michela Sieman

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the point of entry or departure for the majority of travelers visiting the country. It's also one of the great cities of Europe with history dating back to the Roman era as well as a preserved medieval old town, and important monuments and churches. Zurich also offers stunning scenery (both from viewpoints in the city and the surrounding mountains), Swiss and international cuisine, and museums showcasing rich culture and history. There's also palpable modernity in Zurich, as evidenced in its young, educated population and in new developments and urban reclamations like Europaallee and Zurich West .

Whether your travel tastes lean toward history, culture, or the outdoors, Zurich is a must-see city on your tour of Switzerland. Here's the info you need to plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit:  The months of July and August see pleasantly warm weather and are the most popular months to visit. In late November and all of December, Christmas markets are open all over the city, and streets and buildings are strung with lights and decorations. In January and February, skiers use Zurich as a city base for outings to the surrounding mountain ski resorts, so the city can be crowded and pricey. Spring and fall are shoulder seasons, when the crowds are less dense and hotel prices are generally lower, but the weather can be especially rainy and overcast. Read more about the best time to visit Zurich and our guide to the weather and climate in Zurich.

Language: Zurich is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland (the other part is French-speaking), so German is the official language of the city  . But the language you'll hear in Zurich is Zurich German, a local dialect of Swiss German. English is widely spoken, particularly among people in industries catering to tourists.

Currency:  The common currency in Zurich and the rest of Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF)  . Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, so it does not use the euro as currency. While some stores and businesses will accept euros, they will give you change in francs. U.S. dollars are not accepted anywhere. Your best bet is to go to an ATM when you arrive in Zurich and withdraw some francs. Most businesses of any kind will let you pay with credit and debit cards, though you may find that American Express cards are less widely accepted.

Getting Around:  If you arrive to Zurich by train or plane, your first introduction to the city will be Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the busy main train station. From here, you can reach virtually any part of central Zurich by foot or via one of the numerous, frequent trams that ply the city. Zurich's comprehensive tram network is enhanced by a periphery network of buses and regional and cogwheel trains, as well as boats that cruise the Limmat River and Lake Zurich. There is no need for a rental car in Zurich unless you plan day trips to areas not reachable by public transport, plus you'll find parking in the city scarce and expensive. For more on getting around Zurich, read our guide to public transportation in the city.

Travel Tip:  Zurich's city center is compact and mostly flat. In the Altstadt (Old Town), many zones are pedestrian-only, making for pleasant walking, and people-watching from sidewalk cafes.

Things to Do

If you're spending a few days in Zurich, you'll want to spend your time taking in a few museums, exploring historic neighborhoods and enjoying the scenery along Lake Zurich and the Limmat River. Luxury fashion and accessory shopping draws tourists to Zurich, but there are also areas where you can find antiques and one-of-a-kind goods from local designers and artisans.

Here's a look at some of our favorite things to do in Zurich:

• Explore the Altstadt. The oldest and most characteristic neighborhood of Zurich, the Altstadt (Old Town) sits on both sides of the Limmat River and is home to medieval churches, public buildings, and historic guild-houses dating from the 12th to 19th centuries. Much of the area is pedestrian-only.
• Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich. Commuter and tour boats sail the clear waters of Lake Zurich all year long, and a ride on this postcard-perfect lake is a must-do activity in Zurich. Boats are a fast, easy, and entirely pleasant way to access many easy day trips from Zurich .
• Head up to Uetliberg. At 2,850 feet above sea level   but just 30 minutes by tram from Zurich's main station, Uetliberg mountain is a favorite outdoor destination for Zurichers and visitors alike. There are family-friendly hiking trails, casual eateries, and terrific views of Zurich, the lake, and more distant mountain peaks.

For a more detailed look at activities in and around the city, check our guides to the top things to do in Zurich and the best neighborhoods in Zurich .

What to Eat and Drink

Cuisine in Zurich, as in the rest of Switzerland, is heavy on meat, cheese, potatoes, and bread. Must-try dishes include fondue , which is a blend of melted cheese, wine, and seasonings served hot and gooey. It's eaten with chunks of bread, small boiled potatoes, and other vegetables and served in a communal pot. Raclette is another Swiss favorite; it's a thick slice of grilled, melted cheese served with cured meat, potatoes and vegetables. Sausages of all varieties dominate restaurant menus in Zurich, and they're often served with rösti , a type of crispy potato pancake. Chocolate, of course, is a treasured treat in Switzerland, and you shouldn't leave Zurich without trying some high-quality offerings from a fancy chocolate shop. Zurich also has an international food scene, with plenty of great restaurants for Indian, Thai, and Chinese food.

Whether wine, beer, or coffee is your drink of choice, Zurich presents a multitude of options. The city's historic cafes, such as Odeon and Conditorei Schober , are ideal places to sip a coffee or tea, while in the summertime, outdoor beer gardens pop up along the lake and riverfront. The Swiss are justly proud of their wine—in Zurich, red Blauburgunder (Swiss German name for pinot noir), and aromatic whites such as Müller-Thurgau, Räuschling, and Completer are good choices for those wishing to sample a regional wine.

Where to Stay

As in most European cities, hotels in Zurich run the gamut from basic and (kind of) cheap to lavish and ultra-expensive. The city's poshest and priciest hotels are found in the Altstadt (Old Town), but even this area has some affordable options. Expensive hotels are also scattered along both sides of the lakefront, especially on the eastern Seefeld shoreline. For more of a modern city feel and generally lower prices, look west of the Altstadt to the area anchored by Europaalee and Langstrasse. The latter, once Zurich's red-light district, now has a lot of small hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, plus the hip 25hours Hotel Zürich Langstrasse .

For more ideas on where to stay, check our guide to Zurich's best neighborhoods.

Getting There

You'll most likely arrive to Zurich by plane or train. Domestic, European, and international flights arrive to the modern and efficient Zurich Airport (Flughafen Zürich), located about 7 miles (11 kilometers) from the city center. A taxi from the airport into the city will cost between 40 Swiss francs and 60 Swiss francs, depending on traffic. It's faster, and much cheaper, to take one of the trains that leave roughly every three to five minutes for the 12-minute ride into the city. As you leave the arrivals area, just follow the signs for trains. Airport trains arrive to Zurich Hauptbahnhof Station (abbreviated Zurich HB), the city's main station. From there, you can catch a cab or tram, or walk to your final destination.

Most trains from other parts of Switzerland and Europe also arrive to Zurich HB—it's a huge transportation hub. Signs will direct you to station exits, where you'll find dozens of tram stops. Within the station, there's a shopping mall, restaurants, and transportation and tourist information offices.

Not only is a rental car not necessary in Zurich, it's ill-advised. Public parking spaces are hard to find and private parking—either at your hotel or a private lot—is very expensive. With the city's walkability and efficient tram system, a car is not needed. If you're driving to Zurich from outside the city, park your car and leave it parked during your stay in Zurich.

Culture and Customs

Visitors from the U.S. might find the people of Zurich and the rest of Switzerland a bit more formal and reserved than the American norm. You'll likely be better received at restaurants and theaters if you dress neatly and a little more professionally than you might typically for a vacation—shorts, T-shirts, and baseball caps are not the norm here, no matter how warm in it is. Avoid talking loudly on your cellphone or using the speakerphone mode when you're in public places, including trams.

Note that a service charge is almost always included at restaurants, so tipping is not required. However, if you were pleased with the service or if you were a particularly large party, it's nice to leave a tip of 5 to 10 percent.

Money-Saving Tips

Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but there are a few ways you can save money here during your stay.

• Ride the trams. Instead of taking costly taxis, take advantage of Zurich's extensive tram network to get where you're going. A single tram ticket, good for one hour, costs 4.30 Swiss francs (about $4.50).
• Consider the Zurich card. The Zurich Card travel pass includes unlimited free travel on the city's network of trams, buses, boats, and regional trains.
• Pack a picnic. Avoid pricey restaurants by packing a picnic lunch or early dinner and enjoying it in one of the city's lakeside or riverside parks.
• Dine out at lunch. Restaurants in Zurich are expensive. But if you've got your heart set on a particular fine dining experience, you'll generally find lunchtime menu prices are lower than at dinnertime for the same food and ambiance.

The Federal Council. "The Federal Constitution of the Swiss Confederation, article 1" .

International Monetary Fund. "Switzerland." June 4, 2019.

Zuerich. " Uetliberg – Zurich's Very Own Mountain ."

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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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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Zurich   Travel Guide

Courtesy of bluejayphoto | iStock

Why Go To Zurich

Switzerland's largest city is set on the banks of two rivers and a lake , with the snow-topped Swiss Alps rising in the background. The modern city sprawls into the surrounding foothills, but in the heart is the historic city center, which features clean cobblestoned streets that hug a hilly terrain, with medieval church spires pointing heavenward. Despite its reputation for being a banking hub, a Google base and a capital for top-notch chocolate, Zurich is also a very modern city that chooses to meander through life at a punctual, steadied pace. Travelers desiring an authentic experience should strive to do the same. 

Ulrich Zwingli came to proselytize. James Joyce came to write "Ulysses." Bankers came to make money. Dadaists met at Zurich's Cabaret Voltaire to change or ruin art, depending on your position. But you should come for the decadent chocolate, grilled sausages, locally grown wines, amazing museums, medieval architecture, extravagant shopping, breathtaking vistas and restorative swims in the city's clean, clear alpine-fed lake and river. Zurich is a popular gateway to the alps, but stay a bit longer and the city's austere charms reward you by unfolding quietly.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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• # 5 in Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Best of Zurich

Best hotels in zurich.

• # 1 in Widder Hotel
• # 2 in Baur au Lac
• # 3 in The Dolder Grand

Best Things to Do in Zurich

• # 1 in Lake Zurich (Zurichsee)
• # 2 in Old Town (Altstadt)
• # 3 in Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich)

Popular Tours

Jungfraujoch Day Trip from Zurich: Swiss Alps & Bernese Oberland

(976 reviews)

from $ 320.94

Mount Titlis and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich

(1599 reviews)

from $ 197.92

Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip from Zurich

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from $ 320.92

Zurich Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Zurich is between June and September, when average temperatures, which hover in the high 70s, make lake and river swimming possible. December, January and February (the winter offseason), see hotel rates spike due to the city's proximity to the Swiss Alps' ski slopes. Springtime is colorful and festive, and the period from March to May often surprise visitors with its temperate weather and reasonable room rates. October and November are gray due to nebelmeer season, when fog fills the valleys all over the alps.

Weather in Zurich

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Zurich is expensive Although the Swiss franc and euro currencies are fairly equivalent, high living expenses make Zurich one of the world's priciest cities to visit.

Cars are a hassle  Getting around Zurich is easy to do on foot or by public transportation. Plus, a boat ride on Lake Zurich (which is included with your tram ticket), is a lovely way to see the city. What's more, farther locales like  Uetliberg are just a 30-minute train ride away.

Sunday is for relaxing Most shops, pharmacies and grocery stores (and many restaurants) are closed on Sundays, the day when Zurichers reboot. Be sure to buy your essentials on Saturday.

How to Save Money in Zurich

Buy the Zurich Card  According to travelers, this card is worth its price as it grants you unlimited travel on public transportation and free or discounted entry to dozens of museums.

Skip the taxi  Taxis are very expensive in Zurich, with the meter starting at 8 Swiss francs (about $9). If you need to travel by car, Uber is cheaper. Or, save money by walking or cycling instead.

Visit in the summer or spring If you plan your visit to coincide with one of these shoulder seasons, you'll likely find a reduced rate on your hotel room.

Culture & Customs

When visiting this beautiful Swiss city, don't litter. Zurich still holds on to its 16th-century Protestant past, as displayed throughout the immaculate city. In fact, Zurich is so clean that you can fill your water bottle from the city's 1,200-plus fountains.

Switzerland has four official languages: Swiss German, Italian, French and the least commonly spoken, Romansh. In Zurich, the majority of residents speak Swiss German, though French phrases like “ adieu” (goodbye) and "merci" (thank you) are often used here as well. Nearly everyone speaks English, even used as a neutral language among Swiss from different linguistic regions. But to really know Zurich, learn to speak a few guttural Swiss-German phrases just in case. En guete ("bon appétit"), prostli ("cheers"), shoggi ("chocolate"), kaffeli ("coffee"), and the most difficult, chaschuechli ("cheese quiche"), are a few to get you going.

Unlike other European countries, Switzerland does not use the euro for currency. Instead, stock up on Swiss francs after arriving, (1 Swiss franc equals about $1.12). Though a few rare shops and restaurants will take euros for payment, change will be given in francs. To ensure you are up-to-date on the Swiss franc to U.S. dollar exchange rate, look up the latest exchange rate before your trip.

Switzerland incorporates tips into advertised meal and service prices, but it's common to round up to the nearest 5 or 10 francs, though few expect it. Sales taxes are also included in all bill prices.

What to Eat

Much like its languages, traditional Swiss food is heavily influenced by Germany, France and Italy. Because of Zurich's equidistance to the German, Austrian and French borders, most of the city's food has German, Austrian and French roots, but grew to be its own flavor over the centuries. "Nach Zurcher art" (or dishes cooked in the traditional Zurich style) typically consist of meat, potatoes, mushrooms, butter and cream – a mix of German heartiness, but with doses of saucy French influence, a reminder that Zurich was once at the frontier of Burgundy and has Carolingian heritage, as evidence by a bust of Charlemagne on the city's Grossmunster Cathedral. For classic Zurich cuisine, head to Old Town . Quintessential local dishes include Zurcher geschnetzeltes (Zurich-style sliced veal in gravy), rosti (shredded fried potatoes) and burli (crusty bread rolls).

In addition to the city's predominantly savory cuisine, Zurich offers several spots for authentic Swiss chocolate and melted cheese, like raclette and cheese fondue. A trip to Confiserie Sprungli's flagship store in Kreis 1 is also a must for chocolate and pastry. There's also the themed Fondue Tram, which departs from Bellevue station and travels throughout the city every November through February. For more information about Zurich's Fondue Tram, visit Zurich Public Transport's website .

There have been no major recent terror attacks in Switzerland, and threats of violence are extremely rare. Demonstrations in Switzerland can become surprisingly heated and often cause disruptions to transportation, so unless you are participating, it's best to avoid protests (locally called a streik ). As a whole, Swiss cities are typically very safe to visit. Zurich sees very little tourist-directed crime and visitors are more likely to have their lost wallets, phones and computers returned to the lost and found than stolen. For more safety tips, check out the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Zurich

The best way to get around Zurich is on foot or by bike. If your feet need a break, you can take the city's efficient tram system. From Zurich Airport (ZRH), you can also take a train for 6 miles (around 20 minutes) into Zurich. Though expensive, traveling by taxi to the city center from the airport is a viable option, as is Uber. If you take a taxi from the airport into the city, expect to pay around 50 Swiss francs (around $54). Driving within Zurich is not recommended due to the city's constant traffic and intentionally limited amount of parking.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Currently, for visits up to 90 days, Americans do not need a visa to enter Switzerland and the surrounding Schengen Zone. If you plan on staying longer, proper visa documentation – which can be obtained from the Embassy of Switzerland – must be completed prior to departure. A passport that is valid for at least three months after your return is also required. In 2024, American will be required to fill out an ETIAS travel authorization to receive authorization to travel in the Schengen Zone. To find out more about entry and exit requirements for Switzerland, visit the U.S. State Department's  website .

During the warmer months, it isn't uncommon to spot a few swans swimming in the Limmat River.

Explore More of Zurich

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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# 10 in  Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

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This international finance capital is blessed with one of the highest qualities of life in the world, making for an exceptionally safe and highly enjoyable visit. While the city is smaller than you might think, there’s plenty to keep you busy, whether you’re wandering the gilded cocoon of the Altstadt (Old Town), lined with glittery watch and jewelry boutiques, private banks, and storied chocolate houses, or taking in the dynamic, edgy scene that awaits in Zurich West with its art galleries, design boutiques, and trendy eating and drinking establishments. Capping it all is an unparalleled natural beauty, with the serene Limmat River cutting through the city’s heart before opening into vast, shimmering Lake Zurich.

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When’s the best time to go to Zurich?

The image of Switzerland might be of snow-capped mountains, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find much snow in Zurich. The country is full of microclimates, and Zurich’s is a moderate one. Winter is a glorious time to visit, thanks to temperatures that barely ever dip below freezing, Europe’s biggest indoor Christmas market, and Bahnhofstrasse shopping—even on Sundays throughout December. Spring weather can be cool and sunny, but it’s often wet, especially in the later months. (One consolation is the numerous pockets of gorgeous cherry blossoms that dot the city.) Surely the best season to visit is summer and early fall, when it’s warm enough to swim in the lake.

How to get around Zurich

The concrete, steel, and glass–clad Flughafen Zürich, also known as Zurich Kloten Airport, offers a microcosm of what to expect in the city you’re about to enter: Everything is pristine, with advertisements for watches everywhere. Zurich’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, is just eight miles south, and a number of trains will take you there in as little as 12 minutes. The number 10 tram takes 35 minutes but might be more convenient if your destination is on the northern edges of town. Taxis are insanely expensive—about 50 Swiss francs or $55 to the heart of the city—and should be avoided unless you have lots of baggage.

It’s no exaggeration to say Zurich’s public transportation system is the most punctual and reliable in the world. Like practically everything else in this city, it doesn’t come cheap: a one-hour ticket costs 4.20 Swiss francs. But a day pass, at 8.60 Swiss francs, is a relative bargain considering it allows for travel on any of the city’s various modes of public transportation, be it train, bus, tram, funicular, cable car, or boat, during any given 24-hour period. The most popular, and efficient, is the city’s iconic blue tram. A fun alternative is to tour the city on two wheels with Züri rollt, the city’s popular—and free—bike-share program. Also, considering Zurich’s relatively small size and pedestrian-friendly Altstadt, it’s possible to reach many of the city’s most interesting sights entirely on foot.

Can’t miss things to do in Zurich

Even born-and-bred locals can’t get enough of strolling along the lake, with loyalties divided between the right and left bank. The former may seem the obvious stunner, with its gorgeous tree-lined promenade, but the latter certainly has its lures. Keep wandering south until you reach Saffa Island, perhaps the most charming spot on the lake, reachable by an arched pedestrian bridge, and offering a straight-shot view of the Alps.

Food and drink to try in Zurich

Swiss food is hearty—and deliciously indulgent. It is certainly possible to dine on fondue and bratwurst for all your meals here, but it would be wise to seek out some of the lesser-known traditional dishes, like raclette, rösti, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, the classic Zurich specialty of pan-fried veal with a creamy white-wine sauce. But the Zurich food scene is much more than just meat, cheese, and potatoes: there’s visionary fine dining, internationally inflected vegetarian, and fresh fish dishes prepared with Lake Zurich catch. There’s also a seemingly limitless choice of chocolate, whether your vice is richly dense cake, Champagne-filled truffles, or single-origin bars. Zurich is a beer-loving city—try a local TurbinenBraü brew—but while you’re here, make sure to sample some of the wines produced from grapes grown in and around the city, many of which you’ll be hard-pressed to find outside of Zurich, much less out of the country.

Culture in Zurich

Where there’s wealth, there’s art. This is a city brimming with cultural institutions. The venerable Kunsthaus , which holds Zurich’s most important collection of modern art, should be on every art lover’s itinerary, as should the lesser-known “ Löwenbräu brewery-turned-arts complex , home to Kunsthalle Zürich and Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst, two of the most important museums for contemporary art in the city. If you never step foot inside a museum, you can still get your fill of great art: Fraumünster church has stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti, several hotels have sizable art collections (the Widder even commissioned a Rauschenberg), and for high-rolling diners, Kronenhalle serves veal steak and wiener schnitzel amid pieces by Picasso, Matisse, and Mirò.

For a small city, Zurich has a packed celebratory calendar. With time-honored, tradition-bound festivals such as the Sechlauten in the spring, raucous blowouts like Street Parade in the summer, and numerous cultural events like the Zurich Film Festival in the fall, there is no shortage of events around which to plan your vacation.

Local travel tips for Zurich

The Swiss tend to be proud and reserved, but they can be exceedingly polite and helpful if encountered on their terms. Always greet shop owners and restaurant staff with “Greüzi” (hello) when entering, and “entschuldigen” (pardon) before asking a question or making a request. Use polite tram etiquette. On older trams, avoid the second car, which is reserved for strollers and wheelchairs, unless necessary. If you want to cross ahead of an idle tram, make eye contact with the driver and proceed only if he waves you through. The Swiss are very rule abiding: You’ll find them standing at a red light even if there’s no traffic in sight. Follow their lead.

Guide Editor

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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Travel Guide to Zurich, Switzerland

Ra's Travel Guide to Zurich

A city with 1200 fountains and the home of the largest church clock in Europe; a complete travel guide to Zurich.

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, serves as a significant hub for culture, social activities, and financial institutions. Renowned for its status as one of the world's happiest cities, Zurich offers a remarkably clean environment and abundant opportunities. In the warmer months, locals embrace the pristine waters of the Limmatt River, floating to and from work. With a rich historical backdrop, Zurich has hosted significant events, such as the Dadaists' gatherings at Cabaret Voltaire and James Joyce's writing of "Ulysses." Dive into this travel guide to Zurich for tips on optimizing your visit.

Getting to Zurich, Switzerland: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Zurich is easily accessible by bus, plane, and train, both domestically and internationally. Buses and trains are generally more budget-friendly but may have longer travel times. The scenic routes, however, offer breathtaking landscapes that are worth the extended journey. Direct Flixbuses are also available from Basel-Mulhouse-Freidburg airport, a hub for many budget airlines.

Air travel remains the most popular option to reach Zurich, albeit typically pricier, depending on the airline and the season. Zurich airport, a relatively large facility, hosts hundreds of daily flights. To ensure a smooth experience, it's advisable to arrive 3-4 hours before departure to navigate through the airport and reach your gate.

For planning travel routes, assessing costs, and exploring transportation options, I frequently turn to Rome2rio. This invaluable tool offers comprehensive information, suggesting possible route combinations and recommending stops along the way, facilitating a customized and well-informed travel experience. Rome2rio link

Where to Stay in Zurich, Switzerland?

Zurich is a large city, making the choice of where to stay challenging. Your decision should be based on budget, accommodation preferences, and your main objectives during the visit. The city offers a variety of hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, and more. While Zurich is not the go-to destination for budget travelers due to higher prices compared to other places, there are opportunities to save money. Here's a brief overview of Zurich's regions:

• Altstadt: Ideal for Sightseeing
• Langstrasse: Perfect for Nightlife
• Enge & Wollishofen: Suitable for Families and Budget Travelers
• Seefeld: Offers Lake Views

During my Zurich visit, I stayed at Meininger Zurich Greencity Hostel in the Enge and Wollishofen area. It provided a quieter atmosphere and more affordable accommodation. The area boasts a major train and bus station, facilitating easy city exploration and commuting between the city center and your lodging. Keep in mind that prices might be lower in warmer months, as many visitors come for skiing and snowboarding.

Guides to Switzerland

Authentic Swiss Souvenirs

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Getting Around Zurich, Switzerland

Renting a car in Zurich isn't ideal for city exploration due to high costs associated with gas and parking. Most hotels offer limited or expensive parking options, and road congestion is a common issue. Rental agencies are available at the airport for those still considering this option.

Bus/Tram/Trolleybus

Zurich's public transportation is efficient, widespread, and user-friendly. Trams are excellent for city center travel, while buses cover longer routes. Tap-and-pay isn't available, so tickets must be purchased through machines or the SBB app. Options include single trips, 1-3 hours, single-day, or multi-day passes. Consider the Zurich Card, inclusive of public transportation, if visiting major attractions.

The best option for longer routes or day trips around Zurich. Trains are punctual, clean, and comfortable. Tickets are available at vending stations, online, or through the SBB app, offering similar options as mentioned earlier, including direct tickets to day-trip destinations.

Zurich promotes eco-friendliness, making biking popular. Pay-and-ride options exist, and free rentals for daily use are available at Zuri Rollt with a $25 deposit upon showing your passport.

While Uber is available, Zurich's extensive public transportation network makes taxis unnecessary, especially given their high costs. Rates start at $8.75 and then $5.50 per kilometer.

When visiting the Old Town, walking is the best method to get around and explore the city. While this is usually my favorite option to get around, many of the museums and tourist attractions are spread out around the city. Unless you’re interested in going on multiple 45-minute - 1+ hour-long walks, I recommend using public transport to reach an area near your destination and then explore on foot.

What to Do in Zurich, Switzerland?

Walking tour.

When everything in Zurich seems expensive, consider a free walking tour to explore key tourist spots and the city's history. Local volunteers guide these tours, offering valuable travel information and tips about Zurich and Switzerland. Check their website for various tour options, and make sure to reserve your spot in advance. Don't forget to bring cash for tipping your guide at the end.

Swiss National Museum

This museum showcases collections and exhibits highlighting Swiss art, culture, and history. Core exhibits cover Swiss architecture, centuries of history, and art collections, with rotating exhibits such as the recent display on the linguistic diversity of the country. Housed in a castle-like building near the main train station, the museum offers a free audio guide through its app.

The heart of Zurich, Old Town, features picturesque architecture and cobblestoned streets. Key attractions include Cabaret Voltaire (a gathering place for Dadaists), Grössmünster Cathedral, Fraumunster Cathedral, Münsterhof Square, Lindenhof Park, Augustinergasse, St. Peter’s Church, and the Niederdorf neighborhood. Most locations are free, except Fraumunster Cathedral, which charges 5 CHF. Google Maps provides convenient navigation with dropped pins for these attractions.

Situated southwest of Zurich, Uetliberg is a small mountain offering various hiking trails and a viewing platform. Enjoy breathtaking views or climb the tower for an aerial perspective of Zurich (for a small fee). If hiking isn't your preference, a train from Zurich HB main station to Uetliberg stop is available.

FIFA Museum

A treat for soccer/football enthusiasts, Zurich, as the official FIFA headquarters, houses a comprehensive museum. Explore exhibits on the sport's history, players, memorabilia from the World Cup, and engaging interactive displays, suitable for various age groups.

Lindt Home of Chocolate

Learn about the history and production process of the world-renowned Lindt Chocolate. Inside, you will find a large gift shop, cafe, and the museum which needs to be booked in advance as it sells out. The museum audio guide is extremely informative and there are many interactive exhibits, including chocolate sampling. You even get to take home all the different flavors of chocolate from the exhibit.

Boat Cruises

Explore Zurich's scenic waterways with boat cruises on the Limmat River or Lake Zurich during warmer months. Different options and durations are available for lake cruises, offering views of major attractions along the lakeside. River cruises provide spectacular photos, videos, and views of both new and old Zurich, with the added bonus of a boat bar.

Zurich Opera House

Established in 1891, the Zurich Opera House is a cultural landmark hosting famous operas and ballets. It stands out for its architectural excellence inside and out. If not attending a show, take advantage of guided tours. Purchase tickets in advance, and don your best outfit as shows often sell out.

Polybahn Funicular Train

One of the best views of Zurich is at the famous ETH Zürich, the university where many famous scientists attend including Albert Einstein, who was kicked out of the university to receive a Nobel Prize later. To reach this viewpoint from the Old Town, you can take a vintage funicular train up the hill.

Museum of Art

Ideal for art lovers, this museum features collections from renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Andy Warhol. It boasts the largest collection of Edward Munch paintings outside of Norway. Admission is free every Wednesday and discounted for students on Thursday evenings. Don't miss the bronze sculpture "The Gates of Hell" by Auguste Rodin at the museum's entrance.

Zurich, with its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and diverse cultural offerings, stands as a captivating destination for any traveler. From the enchanting Old Town to the breathtaking views atop Uetliberg, this travel guide to Zurich provides a comprehensive overview of the city's key attractions. Whether indulging in Swiss chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate or exploring the FIFA Museum for soccer enthusiasts, Zurich offers a blend of experiences that cater to various interests. Navigate through the city's neighborhoods, embark on boat cruises, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene. This travel guide to Zurich equips you with the insights needed to make the most of your journey, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling experience in this enchanting Swiss city.

There’s no tap-and-pay in public transport, so you will need to purchase a pass or tickets through the ticket machines located at major stops or through the SBB app.

My Playlist for Zurich, Switzerland

"Dr Schacher Seppli" by Ruedi Rymann

"S’Vreneli ab em Guggisbärg" by Polo Hofer

"Lueget, vo Bärg und Tal" by Franz Stadelmann

"Aloïs" by Gölä

"Hemmige" by Mani Matter

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.1.1 By tram and bus
• 3.1.2 By rail
• 3.1.3 By boat
• 3.2 On foot
• 3.3 By bike
• 3.5 By taxi
• 5.1 Museums
• 6.2 Shows and theaters
• 7.1 Shopping districts
• 7.2 Swiss clocks and watches
• 7.3.1 Brands
• 7.3.2 Confectioneries
• 7.4 Swiss handcrafts
• 7.5 Swiss army knives
• 7.6 Markets
• 8.1.1 City centre
• 8.1.2 Neighborhood Langstraße
• 8.1.3 Gewerbeschule
• 8.1.4 Food courts
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 9.1.1 Centre
• 9.1.2 Kreis 2 (Wollishofen)
• 9.1.3 Kreis 4 (Langstrasse)
• 9.1.4 Kreis 5 (Zürich West)
• 9.3 Gay and lesbian travellers
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 10.4 Camping
• 11.1 Gay and lesbian travellers

Zurich (German: Zürich , Swiss German: Züri ) is the largest city in Switzerland , with a population of some 435,000 (2018) in the city, and 1.3 million (2009) in the metro area. Zurich is on Lake Zurich, where the lake meets the river Limmat, in the north of Switzerland. While Zurich is the country's financial centre and has the busiest airport, Berne is the Swiss capital.

Understand [ edit ]

Zurich is Switzerland's biggest city and a cultural center of German-speaking Switzerland. Despite it not being the administrative capital of any more than its Kanton , Zurich punches well above its weight in terms of major media and business headquarters and due to it being at the heart of Switzerland's excessively punctual and meticulously maintained train network and being home to Switzerland's most important airport, it is often the first part of Switzerland that visitors get to see. Zurich is close to some excellent skiing resorts and many people headed for the Swiss Alps don't spend much time in Zurich itself, but you'd be missing a lot if you don't stay in Zurich for a couple of days at least.

While Zurich can be expensive, it is also clean, efficient and blessed with a high standard of living, which together with the high wages, explains why people bear with the high prices. Zurich has drawn people from the rest of Switzerland for centuries, but in the 20th and 21st centuries it has also begun to draw both people and companies from outside Switzerland and in some cases even outside Europe. This means that you will hear a lot more languages than just Swiss German and the overall atmosphere is a lot more cosmopolitan than you might think.

Zurich is home to ETH Zurich, one of the world's leading technical universities, which has produced a number of Nobel laureates and numerous innovations and due to Switzerland's long history of neutrality it also houses headquarters of the likes of FIFA and the International Ice Hockey Federation. Zurich is also home to a number of large banking and insurance conglomerates that grew on the fabled Swiss banking secret and still enjoy good reputations in the financial sector.

History [ edit ]

The city's Latin name, Turicum , was used for a Roman customs station at the Limmat, which has some remnants today. The Alemanni, a Germanic tribe, settled in the 5th century.

While the Church used to rule early Medieval Zurich, the Guilds ( Zünfte ) took power in 1336, establishing Zurich as an autonomous republic. The Guilds have survived until today, though their role today is mostly ceremonial. Zurich became the fifth canton of the Swiss Confederacy in 1351, and has been its capital at times. However, Switzerland's famous neutrality and stability is a modern thing, as many battles have been fought in and around Zurich. The canton lost the Old Zürich War between 1440 and 1446 against the confederacy, and was re-admitted in 1450.

Ulrich Zwingli led the Protestant Reformation in Switzerland during the early 16th century. As the Thirty Years War ended in 1648, the Holy Roman Empire lost its grip on Switzerland, which has mostly been independent since then.

The 1830s and 40s saw a series of revolts and war, including the Züriputsch , a revolt of conservative landowners of the canton, against the city of Zurich, and the 1847 Sonderbund War. In 1848 Switzerland adopted a constitution, which established the country as a federal republic. While the government settled in Bern, many federal institutions, including the new Polytechnic University (ETH) have their seat in Zurich.

The Zurich Stock Exchange was founded in 1877, and the city rose as a financial centre in the 20th century, as Switzerland remained neutral in the World Wars, and could maintain lower taxes on capital than the European great powers. Even though Switzerland has opted out of NATO and the European Union, Zurich is today one of central Europe's most cosmopolitan cities.

Climate [ edit ]

Zurich has a four-season climate typical of central Europe . Temperature in winter is usually around zero degrees, which means that snow can linger or melt away. Summers are warm with temperatures in the 20s (C) and occasionally in the 30s. The nearby mountains are significantly cooler than in the valley, with snow remaining well into spring.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

47.4516 8.5618 1 Zurich Airport ( ZRH  IATA ) is Switzerland's largest and busiest airport, handling roughly 30 million passengers a year. It is actually in the community of Kloten and it is 10 minutes by train from the main station. The trains depart about every 10-15 minutes, during the day, but less frequently at earlier or later hours. A single ticket to the Hauptbahnhof (Main station, a.k.a. "Zürich HB") costs Fr. 6.80. Several bus lines connect to the airport and provide access to the Winterthur region near it. There is also tram 10 from Zurich terminating at the airport, a rather slow option, but it might be faster door to door for some destinations in Zurich.

Most major airlines fly to Zurich but flag-carrier Swiss is still the biggest player at ZRH and offers the widest range of connections. Almost every large hotel in Zurich provides shuttle buses from the airport to your hotel. The stops for these buses are a short walk to the right from Terminal 1 arrivals.

Zurich Airport has high passenger costs due to several noise reduction and approach restrictions. Most no-frill airlines fly to Basel which is 1 hour away by train. EasyJet offer several flights to Germany, the UK and Southern Europe.

If you are travelling without a Schengen Visa to another destination in Europe (via Zurich airport) and if you are not a European citizen, you must not stay in Europe for longer than 90 days — even if your final destination would allow citizens of your country to stay for more than 90 days. Failure to do so will lead to very high fines (around €8100) should you try to leave Europe via Zurich airport .

Zurich Airport offers free WiFi for all guests for a maximum of two hours. A mobile phone capable of receiving texts in Switzerland is required. Travelers have to connect to the "ZurichAirport" network and register their cell phone number. The user will receive the access code via text message. After the free hour, there is a five-hour waiting period before you can access the next free hour.

By train [ edit ]

Regular trains to and from other Swiss and European cities leave from and arrive at Hauptbahnhof , the main train station, located in the city centre at the end of Bahnhofstrasse, with easy access to mass transit. The Zurich Hauptbahnhof (HB) is served by the local S-Bahn commuter trains, InterCity (IC and ICN) connections throughout Switzerland , Italy , Germany 's IC and ICE, France 's TGV Lyria and Austria 's Railjet with some direct connections reaching destinations as far in Eastern Europe as Budapest . While Switzerland itself does not have many high speed lines, Zurich is connected to the high speed rail networks of neighboring countries. The once extensive sleeper train network has been cut down a lot in the 21st century, but there are still some ÖBB Nightjets connecting Austria and Germany with Zurich.

Domestic train tickets within Switzerland are available through the SBB Website though there are few early bird discounts. International tickets can sometimes be bought through the SBB as well, but often you can get better offers through the DB website (German) the SNCF website (France) or the websites of ÖBB and Trenitalia for Austria and Italy respectively. All adjacent railways have (sometimes significant) discounts for early booking on international trains, so if you know your plans far in advance, by all means book early.

The train station and the connecting underground mall has shops, restaurants, and a grocery store which locals use when they need to do Sunday shopping, as it is not subject to the closing hours laws otherwise in force in the city. It also hosts a Christmas market and other events in the big entrance hall.

There are some 24-hour lockers in level B1 available for Fr. 6-9 per 24 hr (maximum 3 days).

Just to the east of the train station on the Bahnhofbrücke bridge, there is a large Coop supermarket open Monday to Saturday till 22:00.

By car [ edit ]

The region around Zurich has probably the highest density of highways in the country, which makes it very convenient to access. A1 goes past Zurich just north of the city, with two feeders into the city centre. A3 and A4 end just south of the city. The regional highways A51 , A52 and A53 all also lead to Zurich. While this makes it that there are many ways to drive into the city from every direction, it also means that there is a lot of congestion, especially during morning and evening hours. Parking is also hard to get at affordable rates, so it might therefore be faster and more convenient to travel by public transport.

By bus [ edit ]

47.38089 8.53736 2 Bus station at Sihlquai . The bus station is next to the main train station, near the confluence of the Sihl and Limmat. While the domestic Swiss intercity bus market is tightly regulated and dominated by state-run Postauto that is intended to supplement the train network rather than compete with it. That said, on international routes the likes of Flixbus (a German company) do offer some routes. There are also some routes to destinations farther away ( updated Jul 2017 )

By boat [ edit ]

It is possible to reach Zurich by boat on the lake from Rapperswil (2 hours) or Horgen (45 minutes). However, this is more of a leisure boat and only offers a couple of trips each day.

Get around [ edit ]

Public transport [ edit ]

Zurich is famous for its highly efficient, clean and safe public transport system, managed by the Zürcher Verkehrsverbund (ZVV) which covers the entire canton of Zurich as well as Rapperswil-Jona in the canton of St. Gallen and Pfäffikon SZ in the canton of Schwyz. The network includes trams, buses, S-Bahn (suburban trains), cable cars and boats. The size and complexity of the network may be daunting at first, but you will soon realize that there are dozens of ways to get from one place to another and following any of them will still be efficient.

Timetable information for Switzerland is available on sbb.ch or can be obtained using the SBB Mobile ( iOS , Android apps) (requires a working internet connection). Or simply use ZVV's own timetable app ; its advantage is that it also informs you about local disturbances or delays! You can also purchase ticket on ZVV-Tickets app . The free Wemlin App ( iOS , Android ) gives you offline access to timetable information and network maps for the canton of Zurich area without internet connection and is therefore ideally for on the go usage in case you don't want to use data roaming.

The system is divided into numerous fare zones, with the city centre and innermost suburbs being in zone 110 and the outer suburbs located in other zones (Winterthur is in zone 120, for example), and the more zones you pass through, the more you'll have to pay for your journey. There are single tickets, day cards, monthly cards and annual cards. The monthly and annual cards are collectively referred to as ZVV NetzPass .

Tickets must be purchased from a ticket vending machine before boarding or from one of the ticket selling kiosks. The ticket vending machines are in German, English, French and Italian and offer almost all regular tickets available (not personal tickets though). You select the zones you wish to pass through upon buying the ticket, with a zone map on every machine as well as clear instructions coming to your aid, so feel free to choose! Once you've got your ticket it gives you access to all modes of transport.

If you're staying for a longer period, consider a monthly ZVV NetzPass, because even though there are no regular tickets valid for something between 1 day and a month, it takes only 10 "zone 110" day cards for a "zone 110" monthly card to be cheaper. When travelling in all zones, it takes only 8 day cards for the monthly card to be cheaper. A 24-hour ticket for zone 110 costs just the same as two single rides.

If you don't mind starting your travels after 09:00, the "ZVV-9-UhrPass" is the best option. It is available as daily, monthly and annual cards, and will save you a lot of money compared to regular similarities, especially given that the 09:00 rule does not apply on weekends.

There are also so-called Z-passes, which can be used not only in Zurich, but also in one of the neighbouring cantons (Aargau, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Zug, St. Gallen or Thurgau); however, only one additional canton is possible, so if you're not going to one neighbouring canton more often than the others you are probably better off with just a normal all zones Zurich monthly card and buying single ticket from the last valid station to your final destination. The Z-pass system also has its zones, even in the neighbouring cantons. It is only available as monthly and annual cards and can not be bought from ticket vending machines.

For all details regarding fares, see the ZVV home page linked to above.

The Swiss Travel Pass (not to be confused with the SwissPass) is valid on all public transport in Zurich and, if you are a tourist visiting most of Switzerland, this may be your best way to saving money and time spent trying to figure out zones, routes, and fare options. Eurail passes are valid only on the S-Bahn and boats. Interrail passes are valid on the S-Bahn (although the ZVV website claims a "reduction" for other routes for Interrail holders). Nevertheless, you may find you don't need the trams and buses if you don't mind walking around a little.

By tram and bus [ edit ]

Several tram lines, trolleybuses and buses cover the city at street level. Like all other public transport in Zurich, you must purchase and validate tickets before boarding, or risk a fine if they decide to spot check. You can find a timetable at every stop which is usually accurate to the minute, however delays do occur due to heavy traffic, rerouting, or other factors.

By rail [ edit ]

The 'S-Bahn' is Zurich's convenient and fast suburban rail system which covers nearly all suburbs of Zurich and beyond. Zurich's S-Bahn system provides convenient and fast service throughout the region. All lines except the rural ones pass through the Hauptbahnhof. The ZVV offers directions for a series of excursions on the S-Bahn.

You must have a validated ticket before you board. If you do not have a ticket you will be liable for an on-the-spot fine of Fr. 100.

There are two types of boat-based public transport operated in Zurich: river buses and lake boats. The river boats operate in the summer months only and the lake boats operate on a much reduced schedule during the winter.

The river buses operate between the Landesmuseum (near the Hauptbahnhof) along the river Limmat and out in the Zürichsee (Lake Zürich) to Tiefenbrunnen. There are several stops along the Limmat.

The Zürichsee Schifffahrtsgesellschaft (ZSG) operates lake boats (including two historic restored steam ships) which leave from Burkliplatz (at the end of Bahnhofstrasse). The ZSG's website provides information on destinations and ships. The ZSG offers a variety of tourist-oriented trips (including Jazz Brunch), and a popular trip is to Rapperswil at the south end of the Zürichsee. The town has a beautiful castle overlooking the lake surrounded by a medieval town.

On foot [ edit ]

The main train station, old town and the lake promenade and all nearby tourist attractions are easily walkable. You may find that you don't need transport for most of your tourist needs once you get into the city.

By bike [ edit ]

Zurich is generally easy to get around by bicycle. There are bike lanes marked out in most parts of the city and if you don't mind the hills, a bike might be a fast and cheap alternative to public transport. The city has an online map service [dead link] , which can calculate routes for biking and also shows locations of bike parking and pumps. Many of the major intersections don't have bike lanes due to space constraints, but it is generally possible to avoid those. Note that cycling on the pavement is not allowed. Cyclist are commonly fined for cycling against the traffic or ignoring traffic lights.

Züri rollt offers free bike "rental" around the city. To get a free bike, you have to register with your I.D. or passport and pay a refundable deposit of Fr. 20. There are seven stations. Two of them are located at the main station ( 47.3792 8.53887 3 North bike gate and 47.37798 8.53698 4 south bike gate ) and are operated year round. The rest are operated only from April to October. Two of them are near the old town at 47.37581 8.53863 5 Globus City and at 47.36668 8.54507 6 Bellevue . The opening hours vary by station, but most of them are operated daily from 09:00-21:30.

O-Bike is a Chinese start-up bike sharing service that is new in town. It's a free floating system with its bikes parked randomly all over the city. To unlock you need their app and a deposit of Fr. 130. After it lets you rent bikes for Fr. 1.50 per half hour.

Driving in Zurich is possible but it is painful as the city centre is not easy to navigate by car. It's cheaper and more convenient to park outside the city and take a train.

By taxi [ edit ]

The taxis in Zurich are very expensive compared to New York, London and other major cities. Most of the taxi drivers are unfriendly and uncommunicative. Better travel by tram, bus or S-bahn. Uber have stopped their UberX service and now offer only the regular and UberBlack service.

Talk [ edit ]

For formal speech and writing, German-speaking Swiss use Swiss Standard German ( Schweizer Hochdeutsch ), which is very similar to standard German. The Zurich dialect ( Züritüütsch ) is dominant among the Swiss German ( Schweizerdeutsch ) dialects, and is difficult to understand for non-Swiss.

English is widely spoken, at least among the young and businesspeople.

See [ edit ]

Most of the interesting sights are in the old town around the river and lakefront.

• 47.3603 8.5474 3 Lake Promenade ( Utoquai, Seefeldquai ). Especially during summer, the lake is a beautiful place to spend the evening or the weekend. Starting from Bellevue, the boardwalk goes for about three kilometers along the lake towards Tiefenbrunnen. About halfway from Bellevue there is a meadow where you will find thousands of people on a sunny day.  

Museums [ edit ]

• 47.35893 8.52147 17 Rietberg Museum , Gablerstrasse 15 ( Tram 7 for Wollishofen, alight at ‘Museum Rietberg’ stop; five-minute walk to museum S-Bahn to Enge station; ten-minute walk to museum Bus 72 for Morgental, alight at ‘Hügelstrasse’ stop; six-minute walk to museum ), ☏ +41 44 415 31 31 . This is one of the largest art museums in Switzerland, administered by the City of Zurich. Its focus lies on the traditional and contemporary arts and cultures of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. The complex consists of three nineteenth-century villas and a coach house, as well as a twenty-first century underground extension crowned by the Emerald, a glass pavilion that opened in 2007, designed by architects Alfred Grazioli and Adolf Krischanitz. ( updated Jun 2019 )

Do [ edit ]

• 47.385653 8.534333 2 Oberer/Unterer Letten . If you go to Zurich during summer take your swimwear with you. The clean river at both the public river baths "Oberer Letten" (mainly youngsters) and "Unterer Letten" (also families) is used by the locals to cool down after hot days. Jump in upstream and the river will carry you down. Right in the middle of the town there is also a wooden floating bath for women only Frauenbad Stadthausquai at the start of the Limmat. Showers and free lockers are provided but you must bring your own lock. Free . ( updated Dec 2017 )
• Go skiing by train — Buy a snow'n'rail ticket (train & skipass) at the Hauptbahnhof during winter months, train out in morning, back in evening. Flumserberg is the closest large ski-resort, popular with people from Zurich, with a good range of runs for beginners and intermediates. Retreat to the right side of the resort if the rest gets busy.
• Take a 47.366003 8.540519 3 trip on the Zürichsee . With one of the two old steam ships. There are a few different routes you can choose from, which will vary mainly in the distance. Journeys usually start from Bürkliplatz. Steam ships operate between April and mid-October. ZVV tickets valid . ( updated Aug 2015 )
• Rent a small rowboat or pedalo .
• Take a 47.379064 8.541509 4 Limmat river cruise , Landesmuseum Pier , [email protected] . Offers views of the old town and Lake Zurich. Operates between April and October. Fr. 4.30, free with ZürichCARD or a valid ZVV ticket for Zone 110 . ( updated Jul 2015 )
• Watch football ie soccer: the city has two teams playing in the Super League, the top tier of Swiss football. Both FC Zürich and Grasshoppers or GC Zürich play at Letzigrund, capacity 26,000, at 500 Badenerstrasse, 1 km west of the main railway station.
• Go club-hopping — Zurich has proportionately the largest number of clubs per capita in Europe.
• The Grossmünster sometimes has organ concerts in the evenings. Check the front door for notices.

Events [ edit ]

• Street Parade . The biggest open air techno rave in Europe. It happens one day each year on the second Saturday of August, during which trucks which function as mobile soundsystems ("Love mobiles") start driving along the lake side, starting from the east at Utoquai and ending at the west at Hafen Enge. Every year this event attracts nearly a million visitors who dance in the streets to the music which you can hear from anywhere in the city. After the Street Parade the party doesn't stop, there are open air parties along the route until midnight and club parties at various locations in town until late the next day, to keep the party going. Don't be surprised if the city's cleanliness isn't up to its usual standard the next day. Check out Lethargy festival that happens during the same weekend if you're into less commercial electronic music. Free . ( updated Dec 2017 )
• Swiss national day . 1st of August — Celebrations are carried out in many cities in the evenings and fireworks are launched at night. Watch them over the lake, or if you're experienced with safely launching fireworks yourself, you can buy them in the days leading up to the national holiday and have fun. The display over the Rheinfall, one hour away by S-Bahn, is also extremely popular. Free . ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Sechseläuten . Around mid-April, the guilds of Zurich celebrate their traditional spring festival with the burning of the snow man (Böögg). A procession of several hundreds of people with historical guild costumes and horses takes place in the centre of the town. Free . ( updated Jul 2017 )

• 47.3503 8.53511 7 Zürcher Theater Spektakel , Landiwiese ( Buses No. 161, 165, and Theater-Spektakel-Bus: stop Landiwiese ), ☏ +41 900 320 320 . Last two weeks of Aug, from 17:00 . A festival for the performing arts. Held along the lake on the Landiwiese near Rote Fabrik and features a number of free performances. Usually in August. varies . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• UCI World Cycling Championships are next hosted by Zurich 21-29 Sept 2024.

Shows and theaters [ edit ]

• 47.36636 8.54742 13 Cinema Arthouse Le Paris ( Arthouse Le Paris ), Gottfried-Keller Strasse 7 ( Tram stop Stadelhofen, or take the S-train to Stadelhofen ), ☏ +41 44 250 55 00 . Frequently changing arthouse movies; students get a discount.  

Buy [ edit ]

• Currency: Switzerland is a land of banks and financial institutions, so getting local cash from ATMs at banks, railway stations and within shopping malls should pose no problem. Euros are accepted at many larger stores and places that cater to international visitors. Eighth-series Swiss banknotes were withdrawn in April 2021 (10 Fr Le Corbusier, 20 Fr Honegger, 50 Fr Taeuber-Arp) but can be exchanged without time limit at any Swiss National Bank. You want the ninth series, see Switzerland#Buy .

Shopping districts [ edit ]

For shopping in Zurich there are three different areas in the centre:

• 47.3714 8.5386 1 Bahnhofstrasse . Runs from the Zürich Train Main station "Hauptbahnhof" right down to the lake. Bahnhofsstrasse is famous for being one of the most exclusive and expensive shopping streets in the world. Here you can get anything from diamond rings to chocolate to fur coats. Globus and Jelmoli are two fiercely competitive department stores, both of which carry items from many high-end brands.  
• 47.37332 8.54379 2 Niederdorf . The Old Part of Zurich which expands from "Bellevue" by the Lake right to "Central" which is just over the river from the train station. The Niederdorf is more for young people. Aside from a lot of fast food places you will find a lot of trendy clothes stores here.  
• 47.37646 8.53785 3 Löwenstrasse . Runs west of Bahnhofstrasse from the main train station, has shops selling everyday items and a large branch of Migros, a department store chain.  

Swiss clocks and watches [ edit ]

You may be disappointed to know that most of the cheap watches and clocks in Switzerland are imported from China and Japan for their cheap quartz movements (including most of the wall clocks and alarm clocks sold at department stores, for example). Don't purchase a "Migros Budget" clock for Fr. 8 thinking it is a Swiss clock! Nevertheless, real Swiss-made clocks are still well known for their quality and reliability, and intricate mechanics. The following are true Swiss-made watches:

• Swatch , possibly your best bet for a "cheap" Swiss watch (Fr. 40-100) and perhaps better suited for the younger generation. Available in their stores on Bahnhofstrasse and various other locations, or in department stores.
• M-Watch , based on both Mondaine and Migros and available in Migros Electronics stores such as the one on the 2nd floor of the Lowenplatz location. Also relatively inexpensive (Fr. 40-100). Do not confuse this with "M-Budget" which is an imported cheap watch.
• Mondaine is known for their use of the famous SBB railway clock face. You can buy a replica of the SBB clock as a watch or a wall clock in most major railway stations, among other locations. However, most of them do not replicate the hallmark smooth movement of the second hand for 58.5 seconds followed by the 1.5-second pause that is characteristic of real SBB railway clocks, but they do replicate the clock face. They are quartz, and the price may seem a little inflated to you (Fr. 130-180). The vast majority of SBB railway clocks are produced by Mobatime (Moser-Baer AG), not Mondaine, even though Mondaine's name appears on some of the larger clocks such as the Treffpunkt in Zurich HB. Mondaine's wall and desk clocks, however, are only of "Swiss design" and are manufactured in China and Taiwan.
• Mid-range brands (Fr. 100-500) can be found at clock and watch stores throughout the city. Just walk in and have a look if you're interested.
• Upper-end watches and clocks , such as Rolex, are also sold, but you should probably do more research into them than you can find here. If you just want to stare at some of the most expensive watches for sale, take a look at the Bucherer store window at Bahnhofstrasse and see what a Fr. 25,000 watch looks like.

Swiss chocolate [ edit ]

Brands [ edit ].

• Frey is not as well known abroad as other Swiss brands, but with a market share of roughly 35%, it is the most popular brand in Switzerland. It mostly produces for the Migros supermarket chain and is known as good quality chocolate at a cheap price. A big share of the production is also exported, mostly however under store brand labels for chains such as Marks & Spencer, Loblaw, Tesco, Coles. The factory is in Aarau (about 1 hour by train and bus), where there is also a visitor centre.
• Lindt is available at the Coop and other supermarkets besides Migros for Fr. 2-2.50, but Lindt chocolates are also sold at the Lindt & Sprungli Chocolate Factory Shop [dead link] , which is accessible by taking the S-Bahn S8 to Kilchberg (12 min) and then bus 165 to the stop "Lindt & Sprüngli" (2-3 min). Hours are limited (M-F 09:00–17:00). The factory store prices are somewhat lower than supermarket prices (on the order of 10-20%), but there are some sale items, including factory rejects (for underweight chocolates, improper packaging, or filling showing through) that are sold for roughly half-price. The Lindt factory used to offer tours and free samples, but this is no longer the case.
• Chocolats Halba belongs to Coop and produces all own-brand chocolates for the retailer (e.g. Naturaplan, Qualité & Prix, Prix Garantie, Karma). Chocolats Halba also produces for customers abroad - including in Germany, France, the USA, Canada, New Zealand and China. Chocolats Halba specialises in sustainable chocolate. Overproductions are sold in the outlet shop, the Schoggihüsli, located in Hinwil ( Zürichstrasse 55, 8340 Hinwil [dead link] ). The offer is seasonally adapted and low-priced. It includes, for example, broken chocolate in a 1 kilo bag for 5-8 francs. In addition, there are also export articles that cannot be bought anywhere else in Switzerland.
• Läderach produces their signature "fresh chocolate" as well as confectioneries. They sell their products in a chain of stores in Switzerland. Multiple stores are located at the Zurich main station, and another one is located right at the entrance of Bahnhofstrasse.

The larger Coop supermarkets carry many brands, including Lindt , Camille Bloch , Goldkenn , and others, including all sorts of alcohol-filled chocolates.

Confectioneries [ edit ]

• 47.3721 8.5386 4 Teuscher , Bahnhofstrasse 46 , ☏ +41 44 211 13 90 .  
• 47.3707 8.5412 5 Teuscher , Storchengasse 9 , ☏ +41 44 211 5153 .  
• 47.3757 8.5379 6 Teuscher ( Globus ), Schweizergasse 11 , ☏ +41 44 211 5153 .  

• Sprüngli — A Zurich institution that offers a variety of sweet and savory goodies including a wide variety of chocolates, from handmade truffles to special chocolate bars. There are locations throughout the city, including Bahnhofstrasse and inside Zurich HB. Some specialities include the Luxemburgerli, a sort of soft macaroon resembling a hamburger in looks but is actually completely pastry and cream, and comes in a variety of flavors; the Truffe du Jour, a chocolate truffle that is made daily from raw cream and is meant to be consumed immediately; and the extraordinary Grand Cru Sauvage truffle, made from wild cacao beans from Bolivia. Most items are rather pricey but worth it. The flagship store on the Paradeplatz is a very popular spot for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Try their berry-filled muesli, it's like no other muesli you've ever had. There are two handy stores at the Kloten airport for last-minute gifts to bring home.
• 47.37327 8.528801 7 St. Jakobs Confiserie . Badenerstrasse 41. The background organisation, Behindertenwerk St. Jacob, aims at providing jobs for disabled people.  

Swiss handcrafts [ edit ]

• 47.374 8.541 8 Schweizer Heimatwerk , Uraniastr 1 ( on the river Limmat ), ☏ +41 44 222 19 55 . M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa 09:00-18:00 . Also branches at the Bahnhofstrasse 2 and the airport. Quality Swiss handicrafts and other Swiss-made products presented in a gallery-like setting. You won't find many cuckoo clocks and the like here (cuckoo clocks are not really Swiss, they are from the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in Germany!), the emphasis is on real traditional crafts and the work of modern craftspeople. You will find things like sleek modern hand-blown glassware and beautiful hand-carved wooden items from the Appenzell region. A worthwhile visit even if you just browse. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Swiss army knives [ edit ]

• Coop City in Bahnhofstrasse sells the Victorinox line at uninflated prices, although you won't get additional bells and whistles like customized faceplates or engraving. Many other department stores also carry them.
• Any cutlery shop will probably carry both Victorinox and Wenger lines of products. However, do make sure they are not inflating the price. For example, a SwissChamp (possibly the most popular model) should be retailed around Fr. 78.

Markets [ edit ]

• 47.36687 8.54162 9 Flohmarkt Bürkliplatz (Fleamarket) , Bürkliplatz ( in the Bellevue area near the Stadelhofen station ). May-Oct: Sa 06:00–15:30 . Fairly relaxed yet large flea market with many interesting stalls. ( updated Jan 2019 )
• 47.37598 8.5269 10 Flohmarkt Kanzlei (Fleamarket) , Helvetiaplatz . Sa 08:00–16:00 . A big flea market that hosts up to 400 stalls on busy days.  

Other [ edit ]

• There is an English language bookstore at the intersection of Bahnhofstrasse and Rennweg.

Eat [ edit ]

The quintessential Zürich dish is Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (Swiss-German: Zürigschnätzlets ), sliced veal in a cream and wine sauce. Various kinds of grilled wurst (sausages) are also popular. These are most often accompanied by boiled potatoes, rösti , a Swiss potato pancake (grated potato, formed into a pancake then pan fried until crisp in butter or oil similar to hash browns) or chnöpfli , in German sometimes called Spätzle (small noodle dumplings).

Veal is still very popular, though the use of turkey and other meats as a substitute is growing.

While fondue (melted cheese in a central pot, dip bread into it) and Raclette (cheese melted in small portions, served with potatoes and pickles) are not really local to Zürich (they come from Western Switzerland) they are commonly available at restaurants aimed at tourists. Swiss people usually eat those dishes at home and only during winter.

The bread available in Zürich is generally delicious. There are many varieties, and your best bet is to go to a bakery or a supermarket in the morning or just after work hours, when most people are doing their shopping and bread is coming out fresh.

Try grilled bratwurst from street stands, served with a large crusty roll of sourdough bread and mustard, or sandwiches made with fresh baked bretzeln (large, soft pretzels). A typically Swiss bread is the zopf , a braided soft bread that is commonly served on Sundays (the other name for it is Sonntagszopf ).

For breakfast, try a bowl of müesli , which was invented as a health food in Switzerland. The Sprüngli confectionery store tea rooms serve a deluxe version of this fiber-filled cereal with whole milk, crushed berries and cream.

There are a huge variety of cheeses available at the supermarkets, specialty stores and markets, as well as all kinds of hams and dried sausages . Dairy products are generally delicious, especially the butter . Do not miss the supermarkets! You should take a thorough look through Migros or Coop and maybe even assemble your own lunch or dinner some time. Even the cheap, budget prepackaged desserts in the supermarket exceed the quality of what you may be used to.

For those with a sweet tooth, there's a huge variety of chocolates to enjoy, from the cheapest chocolate bar to individually handmade truffles. (See the Shopping section above). The chocolate bar displays at the supermarkets will overwhelm you! Also enjoy pastries and cakes from the various Konditorei scattered around town. In pastry shops, you can also find special pastry from Zurich: The most famous of them is probably Tirggel , a rather hard pastry made of flour and honey. Although traditionally made and eaten during the Winter holidays, many pastry shops (including larger supermarkets) sell them throughout the year. Often, they've got sights of Zurich printed on the top, can be stored for months and thus make up a pretty good and cheap souvenir. Another famous type of pastry are Luxemburgerli exclusively sold by the confectionery chain of Sprüngli (part of the famous chocolatier Lindt & Sprüngli). A typical cake is the Mandelfisch , an almond cake shaped like a fish.

Like most European cities, Zürich abounds with cafés where you can enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee, glass of wine or other beverage, and watch the world go by.

There are many international dining options available too. The current hot trend seems to be pan-Asian noodle, rice, and sushi places. However, due to the long distance from the sea and the lack of original, well-trained Chinese and Japanese cooks, the quality cannot live up to that of the original countries. Instead, the Italian cuisine holds the highest popularity among the foreign restaurants. They can be found throughout the city and are relatively cheap. Turkish fast food restaurants are also a delicious, cheap option.

Vegetarian food is easy to find throughout the city. Vegans may have a little trouble because cheese is used generously in most food, but should be fine living off supermarkets at the very least. Hiltl , the first vegetarian-only restaurant in Europe, is also worth a visit. You choose from the buffet, where your meal is priced by weight or from a variety of à la carte menus, which are a bit more pricey, but include vegetarian/vegan versions of popular Swiss meals like Züri-Gschnätzlets or Beef Stroganoff amongst Indian food and classic vegetarian plates. Another vegan friendly restaurant is "Bona Dea", which is located directly at Zurich Mainstation.

Budget [ edit ]

City centre [ edit ].

• 47.375909 8.544138 1 Rheinfelder Bierhalle , Niederdorfstrasse 76 ( at the beginning of the Niederdorf, near Central ), ☏ +41 44 251 54 64 . In this huge and boisterous restaurant you get good value food and rich portions (only try the Jumbo Jumbo Cordon-Bleu when really hungry). Cheap beer. Service can range from very good to poor depending who is working that day. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.368996 8.543802 2 Pizzeria Molino , Limmatquai 16 , ☏ +41 44 261 01 17 . Pizzas and pastas in a relaxed setting. Check website for more locations. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.375046 8.543831 3 Zurich Fried Chicken , Niederdorfstrasse 41 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.36375 8.54629 4 Baba's take-away (Restaurant Pumpstation) , Seeanlaga Utoquai , ☏ +41 44 260 96 69 . Part of the Restaurant Pumpstation is located direct at the lake promenade (south of Banhof Stadelhofen). From April–October, serves fresh grilled sausages, ribs, and chicken for about Fr. 6-10. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• 47.3728 8.5438 5 1001 , Niederdorfstrasse 4 . A nice Turkish place with remarkably good kebab, friendly service, and possibility to seat conveniently inside. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.367277 8.545559 6 Sternen Grill , Theaterstrasse 22 . Zurich's most famous sausage stand near Bellevue tram stop. Red or white sausages for around Fr. 6 (Aug 2015), a piece of bread and (hot!) mustard is included. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Neighborhood Langstraße [ edit ]

• 47.378773 8.527066 7 Gambrinus , Langstrasse 103 ( near Helvetiaplatz ). A typical Swiss restaurant with good food and cold beer. It is located in the Red Light District (Langstrasse) of Zurich and is not the ideal place to bring children or acquaintances. Gambrinus looks like a pub more than anything else, but the staff are friendly and speak English. Try the Zürigschnätzlets mit Rösti or the fondue (one of the best in town). From Fr. 14 (Aug 2015) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.37616 8.527905 8 Ah-Hua , Ankerstrasse 110 ( next to Helvetiaplatz ). Offers delicious Thai dishes to budget prices. Great pit-stop in a Langstrasse pub crawl. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.376503 8.52654 9 Bank , Molkenstrasse 15 , ☏ +41 44 211 80 04 . Restaurant, café, bar and bakery in old bank. Mostly organic and Mediterranean food. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Gewerbeschule [ edit ]

• 47.384225 8.531625 10 Millennium Restaurant , Limmatplatz 1 ( Limmatstrasse at Langstrasse, right across the X-tra bar ), ☏ +41 43 811 52 16 . Offers great pizzas, large hamburgers, spicy kebabs and other Italian and Turkish dishes at reasonable prices. Staff is very friendly and service is great. Perfect for lunch or a late-night snack. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Food courts [ edit ]

• The Migros and Coop supermarkets (several branches all over the city) are good places to assemble an inexpensive and delicious picnic lunch consisting of freshly baked bread, cheese or ham and fresh fruit. Larger branches also feature a takeaway counter, for example the Migros City branch at Löwenstrasse or the Coop Bahnhofbrücke branch near the main station. The Migros branch in the main station is open on Sundays when most other stores are closed, and also until 21:00 on weekdays, whereas the Coop Bahnhofbrücke is open M-Sa 07:00 to 22:00.
• Coop St. Annahof and Manor department store restaurant for a cheap buffet lunch, good salad and vegetable stands. All located at Bahnhofstrasse and open during the day

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 47.367391 8.54594 11 Rosalys , Freieckgasse 7 ( near Bellevue ), ☏ +41 44 261 44 30 . Typical Swiss food including Älplermacrone (pasta with apple purée). Excellent cocktail bar, too. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.373178 8.543683 12 Swiss Chuchi , Rosengasse 10 ( in the Niederdorf ), ☏ +41 44 266 96 66 . A kitchy place serving up classic Swiss fare, mainly for tourists. Serves fondue year round. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.370374 8.539893 13 Zeughauskeller , Bahnhofstrasse 28a ( near Paradeplatz ), ☏ +41 44 211 26 90 . 11:30–23:00 . Offers hearty sausages, stews, rösti potato, etc., in a Brauhaus-like setting. Touristy, but good and large portions. Housed in a historical building, built in 1487. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.370642 8.540248 14 Zum Kropf , In Gassen 16 ( just down the street from the Zeughauskeller ), ☏ +41 44 221 18 05 . Offers beer hall fare such as sausages and pork shanks in a somewhat refined setting. The restaurant features a beautiful painted ceiling. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.373178 8.53658 15 Hiltl , Sihlstrasse 28 ( behind Jelmoli department store ), ☏ +41 44 227 70 00 . The oldest vegetarian restaurant in Europe (from 1890). ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.364976 8.547882 16 Tibits , Seefeldstrasse 2 ( behind the Opera house ), ☏ +41 44 260 32 22 . The fast-food outlet of Hiltl, Europe's oldest vegetarian restaurant. Offers a nice self-service buffet of fresh veggies and fruit and a surprising variety. Try the freshly squeezed juices. Buffet: 3.60 Fr for 100g . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.383689 8.528688 17 Restaurant Eisenhof , Gasometerstrasse 20 , ☏ +41 44 271 39 90 . Has the warm feel of an old pub. The house specialty is horse steak, served on a hot stone with fries. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.358303 8.557291 18 Blinde Kuh , Mühlebachstrasse 148 , ☏ +41 44 421 50 50 . Restaurant in complete darkness, served by blind people. An amazing experience. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.382439 8.540655 19 eCHo Restaurant , Neumühlequai 42 ( 5 walking minutes from Zurich HB (Main Train Station) ), ☏ +41 44 360 73 18 , [email protected] . Daily 18:00-22:30 . Traditional Swiss cuisine. Everything is prepared according to original recipes, and all products originate from the region. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 47.366021 8.548942 20 Commercio , Mühlebachstrasse 2 ( near Stadelhofen station ), ☏ +41 44 250 59 30 . Excellent pasta and a busy atmosphere. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.377719 8.543867 21 Commi-Halle , Stampfenbachstrasse 8 ( near Central ), ☏ +41 44 250 59 60 . Italian food served late. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.366531 8.546496 22 Globus Bellevue , Theaterstrasse 12 . This relatively new branch of the Globus department store in the Bellevue near the Stadelhofen station is totally dedicated to food. There is a large eatery on the ground floor that serves various fusion-type foods (decent noodle bowl) and a passable sushi bar. The ground floor has a gourmet food market, and upstairs there are kitchen wares. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.369522 8.539181 23 Sprüngli Paradeplatz , Bahnhofstrasse 21 ( 1. Floor ). The flagship store of the Sprüngli confectionery store chain has a beautiful turn-of-the-century style dining room upstairs that is extremely popular for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Choose from the menu or from the gorgeous display case filled with beautiful cakes, tarts, open-face and regular sandwiches. Try the muesli! Great people watching too, since this is the place for an after-shopping snack for the rich ladies of Zurich. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.373038 8.529013 24 Masala , Stauffacherstrasse 27 ( near Stauffacher ), ☏ +41 44 240 03 61 . Tasty Indian cuisine. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.367054 8.547751 25 Outback Lodge , Stadelhoferstasse 18 ( at Bahnhof Stadelhofen ), ☏ +41 44 252 15 75 . Unrelated to the U.S. Outback Steakhouse chain. Enjoy Aussie tucker like ostrich, kangaroo, and crocodile, as well as more conventional fare. Popular with locals as well as expats. Has a hopping bar scene (see Drink section). There's also a branch in Winterthur. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.358293 8.553761 26 Iroquois , Seefeldstrasse 120 , ☏ +41 44 383 70 77 . Tex-Mex food in the trendiest part of town, with the best margaritas in Zurich. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.361876 8.551112 27 Tiffin's , Seefeldstrasse 61 ( between Kreuzstrasse and Feldeggstrasse ), ☏ +41 44 382 18 88 . M-Sa . Great place for Asian food. Crowded. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.382565 8.529672 28 Lily's , Langstrasse 197 ( between the railway and Limmatplatz ), ☏ +41 44 440 18 85 . Great Thai and other Asian food. The curries are particularly good and come in huge portions. Come before 19:00 or after 21:00 if you don't want to wait. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.376478 8.53908 29 Manzoni Bar , Schützengasse 15 , ☏ +41 44 227 76 29 . Morning till evening . Authentic Italian coffee and aperitif bar that offers clients over 20 different coffee specialties and a vast take away menu. The concept was created by the Manz brothers together with Francesco Illy, the most famous coffee brand in Italy. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.365135 8.554576 30 Nooba , Kreuzplatz 5 , ☏ +41 43 243 60 06 . Pan-Asian noodle bar, a short walk up the hill from Stadelhofen station. Stylish setting, attentive and multilingual service and a broad selection of freshly prepared noodle, rice and curry dishes. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• 47.388689 8.521216 31 Nooch , Heinrichstrasse 267 ( opposite the Cinemax movie multiplex ), ☏ +41 43 366 85 35 . Yet another Pan-Asian noodle, rice and curry joint. Also has a sushi bar. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 47.374757 8.54355 32 Ristorante Toscano , Schmidgasse 3 , ☏ +41 44 261 54 50 . M-Sa . A very good Italian restaurant in the old part of the city (Niederdorf). You should try the Spaghetti al Bacio! ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 47.374435 8.520731 33 Bebek , Badenerstrasse 171 , ☏ +41 44 297 11 00 . Breakfast until 16:00. Meze dishes and bar in the evening. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 47.382439 8.540655 34 White Elephant , Neumühlequai 42 ( 5 walking minutes from Zurich HB (Main Train Station) ), ☏ +41 44 360 73 22 , [email protected] . M-F 12:00-14:00, Su-Th 18:00-22:00, F Sa 18:00-23:00 . Original Thai Food. Since 1991 it offers an authentic cuisine with the full scope of original spices. ( updated Apr 2018 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 47.38338 8.54319 35 Mesa Restaurant , Weinbergstr. 75 , ☏ +41 43 321 75 75 . Tu-F 11:45-15:00 and 18:30-00:00; Sa 18:30-00:00 . Traditional kitchen with Catalan influences as one of the best restaurants in Zurich ( updated May 2017 )
• 47.3675 8.5457 36 Kronenhalle , Rämistrasse 4 ( at Bellevue ), ☏ +41 44 262 99 00 . 12ː00-24ː00 . The city's most famous restaurant where all the glitterati go to see and be seen. Good Swiss food and heavenly chocolate mousse are one reason to go, the opportunity to dine among original artwork by famous Swiss and European artists (who paid in paintings instead of money) the other. Mains Fr. 30-65 . ( updated May 2017 )
• 47.37242 8.5399 37 Widder Hotel , Rennweg 7 , ☏ +41 44 224 2526 . High-class food in a cool setting. The hotel has a trendy bar, great piano music, cool red leather decor, and halogen lighting. Mains Fr. 20-50 .  
• 47.3702 8.54028 38 Zunfthaus Zur Waag , Münsterhof 8 , ☏ +41 44 216 99 66 . Very authentic Swiss high-end restaurant. To ensure your meal does not get cold, they split your order into 2 plates and bring you one at a time. Mains Fr. 25-50 .  
• 47.37063 8.54379 39 Le Dezaley , Römergasse 7 ( Near the Grossmünster Cathedral in a street connecting Limmatquai and the Niederdorf ), ☏ +41 44 251 61 29 . Traditional French-Swiss food from the French-speaking Kanton Waadt (Vaud). One of many fondue restaurants in Zurich. Mains Fr. 25-40 .  
• 47.3519 8.56081 40 Blaue Ente , Seefeldstrasse 223 ( at the far end of tram 2 and 4 near Bahnhof Tiefenbrunnen ), ☏ +41 44 388 68 40 . Romantic cuisine in a beautiful building.  
• 47.36889 8.53851 41 Coco Grill & Bar , Bleicherweg 1A ( next to Paradeplatz ), ☏ +41 44 211 98 98 . M-F 10:00–14:30 & 17:00–00:00, Sa 17:30–00:00 . Grill restaurant that offers set menus for lunch and a menu surprise for dinner (either fish or meat). Also has a good wine selection and very nice in the summer due to a small garden  
• 47.387012 8.501464 42 Da Angela , Hohlstrasse 449 , ☏ +41 44 492 29 31 . Authentic Italian food. ( updated Sep 2017 )

The restaurants at the top of the Uetliberg are great to combine a nice view of town (a hike in the summer) and some great food. It also has a cheaper self-service area.

Drink [ edit ]

Zurich has a lot of places to go out. There are a lot of clubs, restaurants, cafés , bars but also many museums and theatres. The most common drinks in Zurich include: Beer, Swiss white wine (e.g. Fendant), Swiss red wine (is delicious), and Spanish red wine (is generally good value here). At apéro time (after work), you will find many people drinking a Cüpli (glass of sparkling wine).

Bars [ edit ]

• 47.382439 8.540655 1 Bar & Lounge 42 , Neumühlequai 42 ( 5 walking minutes from Zurich HB (Main Train Station) ), ☏ +41 44 360 73 24 , [email protected] . Daily 09:00-00:30 . New York in the middle of Zurich. Exclusive whiskey, unique cocktails, premium liquors, snacks, a homemade gin and an elegant smoker's lounge with a broad selection of cigars. ( updated Apr 2018 )

Centre [ edit ]

• 47.37585 8.5438 2 Bierhalle Wolf , Limmatquai 132 ( At the northern end of the old town, facing the river ), ☏ +41 44 251 01 30 , [email protected] . A lively beer hall often with live music. In addition to the beer selection, they serve great local food.  
• 47.372335 8.543461 3 Edi's Weinstube , Stüssihofstatt 14 . nice wine bar in Niederdorf where you can get the cheapest okay wine in Zurich ( updated Dec 2017 )
• 47.3781 8.5409 4 Federal , Main Station ( Tram 3,4,6,7,10,11,13,14, Bus 31, Main Station ). A big brasserie-like bar inside the Main Station with a choice of 100 Swiss beers.  
• 47.3726 8.5434 5 Nachtflug , Stüssihofstatt 4 ( Niederdorf ). Stylish, coffee and some snacks during the day, large choice of drinks at night.  
• 47.3722 8.5372 6 James Joyce bar , Pelikanstrasse 8 . Where the writer used to drink. Now mostly frequented by bankers.  
• 47.3723 8.5443 7 Oliver Twist , Rindermarkt 6 , ☏ +41 44 252 47 10 . An Irish/British pub with a good atmosphere, and many English-speaking foreigners. Has English ales on draught.  
• 47.3723 8.5446 8 Öpfelchammer ( apple chamber ), Rindermarkt 12 , ☏ +41 44 251 23 36 . Not a real pub or café, they only serve wine or water. But if you succeed in climbing over the roof beams, you get a free glass of wine to drink hanging upside down and you can mark your name into the wood afterwards.  
• 47.37223 8.53991 9 Widder Garage , Widdergasse 6 , ☏ +41 44 224 25 26 . By far the best stocked whiskey bar in town, with a separate whiskey menu containing 250 single malts. In the famous hotel of the same name. ( updated Dec 2017 )
• 47.37345 8.5449 10 Corazón , Zähringerplatz 11 , ☏ +41 44 261 09 59 . A Spanish-themed bar with a good selection of wines and excellent service.  
• 47.3648 8.5549 11 Bohemia , Klosbachstrasse 2 ( at Kreuzplatz, just up from Stadelhofen ), ☏ +41 44 383 70 60 , [email protected] . Trendy place popular for its coffee during the day and an even better nightlife. Usually a popular place for college students.  
• 47.36846 8.54202 12 Barfussbar , Stadthausquai 12 ( a 3 minutes walk from Bürkliplatz along the Limmat ), ☏ +41 44 251 33 31 , [email protected] . W Th Su 20:00–00:00, summer only . During the day this is a public bath for women only. But at night (after 20:00) men are also allowed. It is a beautiful place to spend a warm summer night with a great view of Zurich.  
• 47.37154 8.5329 13 Rimini , Badweg 10 ( Go down Badweg from Talstrasse ). Su-F 19:30–00:00, Sa 17:00–00:00, only in summer and only when it's not raining . Another open air bar. This one is at the men's public baths. Really cool atmosphere because of the nice colored lights and the straw mats and pillows.  
• 47.3744 8.5337 14 El Lokal , Gessnerallee 11 ( on the Sihl ). Bar, restaurant, and intimate gig venue attracting alternative crowd, "soccer vs elvis vs che guevara" themed.  

Kreis 2 (Wollishofen) [ edit ]

• 47.3389 8.5303 15 Shamrock Irish Pub , Studackerstrasse 1 ( end station of the 7, Wollishofen ). daily 11:00-00:00 . Irish pub with regular events & good crowd (food served).  

Kreis 4 (Langstrasse) [ edit ]

• 47.37521 8.52607 16 Xenix , Kanzleistrasse 56 ( by Helvetiaplatz ). Small art house cinema with a busy beer garden in summer. There's a mixture of students, bohemians, and bicycle messengers posing with their fixies.  
• 47.37877 8.52882 17 Total Bar , Tellstrasse 19 ( a block east of the Langstrasse ). Tiny bar serving a range of Zurich's microbrews. There's always good music.  
• 47.38279 8.52959 18 Kasheme , Neugasse 56 ( near Langstrasse ), [email protected] . This bar is all about good music. It features sometimes world famous DJs doing small mostly vinyl only sessions of funk, soul, disco and of course electronic music. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 47.377304 8.529098 19 Kanonaegass Bar , Kanonengasse 9 . Nice bar off Langstrasse with good drinks and good music. Bar is owned by 1990s electronic-music/trip-hop pioneer Richard Dorfmeister from Kruder & Dorfmeister. ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 47.380447 8.527005 20 Mars Bar , Neufrankengasse 15 ( Langstrasse ). Bar frequented mostly by the leftist youth of Zurich. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.377126 8.525964 21 Acid , Langstrasse 67 . W Th 17:00-24:00, F Sa 10:00-02:00, Su 10:00-18:00 . Hip café and bar. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.376898 8.525775 22 Gotthard Bar , Langstrasse 63 . This dive bar exists since forever. It's almost always packed, there's live music sometimes. Very mixed crowd but very likeable place. ( updated Dec 2019 )

Kreis 5 (Zürich West) [ edit ]

• 47.38949 8.52175 23 4. Akt , Heinrichstrasse 262 ( near Escher-Wyss Platzfor ), ☏ +41 44 271 03 68 . Teens and tweens love this place.  
• 47.382556 8.530051 24 Vineria Centrale , Neugasse 42 . A cool low key Italian wine bar. Go there for aperitivo and good times. ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 47.385325 8.5191 25 Frau Gerolds Garten , Geroldstrasse 23/23a ( near Bahnhof Hardbrücke ). huge open air bar with urban gardening and little shops inside. great during summer but also offers a couple tables inside during winter ( updated Dec 2017 )
• 47.38849 8.52067 26 Aya Bar , Hardstrasse 260 ( near Escher-Wyss Platz ), ☏ +41 44 271 80 08 , [email protected] . M–W 06:30 – 01:00; Th 06:30 – 02:00; F 06:30 – 04:00; Sa 10:00 – 04:00; Su 11:00 – 01:00 . A roof lounge on top the Cinemax complex. Older crowd, very expensive, but stylish. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• 47.38899 8.51835 27 Moods , Schiffbaustrasse 6 ( near Escher-Wyss Platz ), ☏ +41 44 276 80 00 . Jazz club in the Schiffbau complex, concerts on Saturdays.  

Clubs [ edit ]

Zurich has proportionally more clubs than any other city in Europe. You will find anything from very "fancy" clubs to places you can just chill. If you want, you can go to a club every night. There is always a Club that has a party going and Zurich's young make sure to splash all their income on going out. Most of the clubs are located around the Langstrasse and Hardbrücke. The uncommercial platform denkmal.org aggregates published events from all clubs and bars in Zurich and is a good place to look up what's up. Unsere Beweggründe is mostly focused on the club scene. Usgang.ch used to be pretty big but features mostly big commercial parties.

• 47.38407 8.53294 28 X-Tra , Limmatstrasse 118 . Big club with events and concerts, the famously have a weekly goth (dark scene) party. Can be trashy depending on the party, check beforehand ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.3849 8.5203 29 Hive Club , Geroldstrasse 5 , ☏ +41 76 321 32 16 . Many rooms to wander through and listen to DJs from Switzerland and abroad. Sometimes offers nonstop parties during the weekends. Focus on Techno and House. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.385878 8.518157 30 Helsinki , Geroldstrasse 35 . Small Bar and Club with nice atmosphere especially in summer when the outdoor area is open. Live concerts most nights and safe haven for independent artists from all over Switzerland. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.38004 8.527733 32 Gonzo , Langstrasse 135 . A basement club that generally plays no electronic music. Can be lots of fun but the queues are long and the door can be strict. Great on Wednesday (Hip-Hop) and Thursdays (students). ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.378925 8.527383 33 Klaus , Langstrasse 112 . Member only club that is mostly frequented by the local "scene". Features mostly local DJs but is the new place to be. Befriend a local to get in. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.381527 8.537093 34 Kauz , Ausstellungsstrasse 21 . underground club with great drink and cocktail selection. house techno and other electronic music ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.388304 8.51932 35 Exil , Hardstrasse 245 . small club and concert venue in Kreis 5. Look up what's happening beforehand. Music can range from trap/hiphop to indie rock ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.377349 8.510984 36 Friedas Büxe , Friedaustr. 23 . small underground club with techno and house music, beloved by the local scene ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.38877 8.52506 37 Space Monki , Limmatstrasse 275 . new club with a weird name but apparently an amazing soundsystem. mostly techno. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Kaufleuten , Mascotte and Plaza are the fancier clubs in Zurich where you get champagne, lounges and all that jazz.

Gay and lesbian travellers [ edit ]

• 47.37208 8.54259 38 Rathauscafé , Limmatquai 61 , ☏ +41 44 261 07 70 . Coffee and a croissant in the morning, moving over to sparkling wine in the afternoon and early evening. Nice terrace in the summer. Mixed crowd, friendly service.  
• 47.37215 8.5432 39 Cranberry , Metzgergasse 3 ( opposite Rathauscafé ), ☏ +41 44 261 27 72 . Very crowded on Fridays and Saturdays 20:00–00:00, before the boys head to the clubs.  
• 47.37356 8.54463 40 Barfüsser , Spitalgasse 14 , ☏ +41 44 251 40 64 . Once Europe's oldest gay bar, it has now been converted into a fancy and large lounge and sushi place. Has a relaxed atmosphere and mixed crowd.  
• 47.387655 8.529941 41 Heldenbar , Sihlquai 240 . Heldenbar is the weekly get together of the local LGBTQI scene. ( updated Dec 2019 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Zurich is the financial centre of Switzerland and most travellers come with an expense account. The hospitality sector focuses therefore mostly on the 4- and 5-star sector. Zurich is known for its superb hotels, but these won't come cheap. Best is to go on a company rate, because rack rates are sometimes ridiculous.

• Couchsurfing . Has a lot of members in Zurich. Public transport is very fast and good, so also consider staying in surrounding areas instead of in the city centre. Remember that couchsurfing is about the community and not only a free place to crash. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 47.34787 8.5278 1 Youth hostel , Mutschellenstrasse 114 ( 2-kilometre, 15-minute tram ride from the centre ), ☏ +41 43 399 78 00 , [email protected] . A little way out of the centre, but the city is easily reached by public transport (take the S-Bahn to Wollishofen and walk over the hill). A clean and sleek facility, if a little quiet. From Fr. 42 for a dormitory bed with breakfast; Fr. 104 for a single room with shower .  
• 47.37597 8.5447 2 Hotel Marta , Zähringerstrasse 36 , ☏ +41 44 251 45 50 , fax : +41 44 251 45 40 , [email protected] . A "clean and friendly" place which doubles as a hostel and a one-star hotel. They also have weekly and monthly rates for rooms, and a couple of studio apartments. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 47.36855 8.54556 3 Otter , Oberdorfstrasse 7 , ☏ +41 44 251 22 07 , fax : +41 44 251 22 75 . A good hotel for the price. The rooms have been decorated with the kind of care that one normally expects in a much more expensive hotel, each with its own theme. You can choose from the jungle room with its hammock, or the pink Carmen, or go for the top floor apartment. Each floor's three rooms share a bath, shower and toilet (WC), with the exception of the apartment which has its own shower. Fr. 115 for a single room, Fr. 150 for a double, and Fr. 200 for 2-person apartment (Fr. 240 for 4-person apartment).  
• 47.37327 8.5433 4 Hotel Splendid , Rosengasse 5 . This hotel is relatively cheap. The rooms are clean but spare. Private showers and bathrooms are not available, you share with your floor. What is really great is the location, right close to the Gemüsebrücke and the city centre. Fr. 62-85 for a single, from Fr. 160 for a 4-person room, plus Fr. 2.50 City-Taxe per person.  
• 47.38895 8.51621 5 Etap Hotel , Technoparkstrasse 2 ( Zurich West ), ☏ +41 43 276 20 00 , fax : +41 44 276 20 01 . This hotel is in a great place if you want to party, next to some great bars and restaurants. The rooms are clean and comfortable. It's also near a tram station, which takes 10 minutes to get to the main train station. 90 Fr (low season) to Fr. 115 (high season) for a single room, and from Fr. 100 for double/triple occupancy. For Zurich, this is cheap . ( updated Jul 2016 )
• 47.37381 8.54336 6 Hotel Schäfli , Badergasse 6 , ☏ +41 44 251 41 44 , fax : +41 44 2513476 . The location is the draw in this somewhat run-down hotel. Situated in the old town near the station and by the charming Niederdorfstrasse, where there are tons of bars and restaurants. The shower has a timer. Be sure to get all the coins for the shower you need by Saturday, as the reception desk closes on Sundays. Fr. 102 for a double room.  
• 47.36959 8.5137 7 Hotel Neufeld , Friesenbergstrasse 15 , ☏ +41 43 960 7373 , fax : +41 43 960 7374 . The comfortable, modern 3-star owner-run hotel is located just a few minutes away from the city centre. All 40 new renovated rooms are comfortable and modern furnished. Perfect for businespeople and tourists. The rates start from Fr. 110 for a single and Fr. 155 for a double room, including tax breakfast and free wifi.  
• 47.37072 8.52815 8 Hotel St. Georges , Weberstrasse 11 , ☏ +41 44 241 11 44 , fax : +41 241 11 42 , [email protected] . Traditional and charming owner run hotel in the city centre, 10 minutes walking distance to the train station. Convenient for businespeople as well as tourists and backpackers. The rates start from Fr. 99 for a single and Fr. 228 for a double room, including tax, breakfast and free Wifi.  

• 47.37332 8.54361 9 Hotel Adler , Rosengasse 10 , ☏ +41 44 266 9696 , fax : +41 44 266 96 69 , [email protected] . Clean rooms and breakfast is included in the price. They have a terrific restaurant attached and associated with the hotel that has delicious fondue. The hotel is in a great area for foot exploration. With many bars, restaurants, and cafes all within a few minutes. They have a single computer on the second floor with free internet access. Fr. 110-230 single room; Fr. 180-310 double .  
• 47.3644 8.547 10 Ambassador à l'Opéra , Falkenstrasse 6, CH-8008 , ☏ +41 44 258 9898 , fax : +41 44 258 9800 , [email protected] . Four-star boutique hotel situated in the town centre, opposite the Opera House and only 10 min away from the main station Hauptbahnhof and 30 minutes from the Zurich airport. Renovated and exquisitely decorated. Single room from Fr. 220, two-person room from Fr. 390 in the low season.  
• 47.36987 8.54321 11 Helmhaus , Schifflände 30 , ☏ +41 44 266 9595 , fax : +41 44 266 9566 , [email protected] . Three tram stops with tram number 4 from the main station. Located directly next to the Limmat in the old town of Zurich. Very traditional four star hotel with first-class service, style and modern comfort. Single room from Fr. 230, double room from Fr. 300.  
• 47.38481 8.54306 12 Sorell Hotel Rex , Weinbergstrasse 92 , ☏ +41 44 360 2525 , fax : +41 44 251 2476 , [email protected] . Three-star hotel, 5 minutes by tram number 7 from the Hauptbahnhof. All rooms are non-smoking. Single room from Fr. 140, twin room from Fr. 190 . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 47.37305 8.54392 13 Wellenberg , Niederdorfstrasse 10 , ☏ +41 43 888 4444 , fax : +41 43 888 44 45 , [email protected] . The four-star Art Deco Hotel Wellenberg with its idyllic inner court terrace is in the car-free old town of Zurich, 10 walking minutes from the Hauptbahnhof. The rooms are modern and elegant. One-person room from Fr. 290, two-person room from Fr. 370.  
• 47.37831 8.55913 14 Palais Kraft , Kraftstrasse 33 , ☏ +41 44 388 8485 , fax : +41 44 388 84 86 , [email protected] . Three luxury rooms in Zurich's most prestigious residential building. Located 2km from the centre, above the university district at Toblerplatz (Trams 5 and 6, direction Zoo), in the heart of Zurich's prime residential area. The rooms come with a large well-stocked fridge, kitchenette, 32" or bigger flat screen TV, wireless internet access, and open to the terrace of the Palais Kraft. Beginning at Fr. 385 per room/night, including continental breakfast, soft drinks, snacks, internet, local calls, and all taxes. Fr. 330 double-bed guest room with bath and kitchenette.  
• 47.3785 8.5206 15 Designer Hotel Greulich , Herman-Greulich-Strasse 56 , ☏ +41 43-243 4243 , fax : +41 43-243 4200 , [email protected] . Located in the heart of Zurich's vibrant Aussersihl district, the stunning Hotel Greulich is a haven of style and comfort with a renowned gourmet restaurant. Online booking.  
• 47.3764 8.5393 16 Hotel St. Gotthard Zürich , Bahnhofstrasse 87 , ☏ +41 44 227 7700 , [email protected] . Business hotel. A five-floor building, with 143 spacious rooms, 11 of which aresSuites, comfortable lobby and three restaurants, the Hotel Gotthard meets all the expectations of the demanding traveller. The Hotel Gotthard lies center of the city, located on the Bahnhofstrasse, within 10 minutes walk from sightseeing, the business district and Lake Zurich.  
• 47.3803 8.5064 17 Crowne Plaza Zürich , Badenerstrasse 420 , ☏ +41 44 404 4444 , [email protected] . Clean rooms and breakfast included in most of the rates. It has a fitness centre, a bar and a restaurant. It is about 200 m away from Albisreiden Tram station (tram number 3). €150-300 per night depending on the room type and the season .  
• 47.438804 8.565377 18 Dorint Airport-Hotel Zürich , Riethofstrasse 40, 8152 Opfikon-Glattbrugg , ☏ +41 448081000 , [email protected] . The hotel (opened in 2014) is located near the airport and offers 235 rooms. from 160 CHF per room/night . ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 47.43946 8.56886 20 Movenpick Zurich Airport Hotel , ☏ +41 44 808 88 88 . Glattbrugg. 5-star hotel minutes from Zurich Airport offering accommodation, 3 restaurants, meeting & conference facilities and a gym.  
• 47.37114 8.54183 21 Hotel zum Storchen , Am Weinplatz 2 , ☏ +41 44 227 27 27 . On the river Limmat with an exclusive restaurant.  
• 47.36717 8.53943 22 Baur au lac , Talstrasse 1 , ☏ +41 44 220 50 20 . Located at the lake, excellent restaurant, popular with actors, celebrities, and politicians.  
• 47.36979 8.5397 23 Savoy Baur en Ville , Paradeplatz , ☏ +41 44 215 25 25 , fax : +41 44 215 25 00 , [email protected] . Rooms are clean and modern but small.  
• 47.36636 8.53612 24 Park Hyatt Zurich , Beethovenstrasse 21 , ☏ +41 43 883 1234 , [email protected] . expensive but has a very nice room and spa there is a casino too. Fr. 1650 .  
• 47.36457 8.53435 26 ALDEN Hotel Splügenschloss , Splügenstr. 2 , ☏ +41 44 289 9999 . A small and intimate five-star boutique hotel in Zürich, located on a quiet side street, near the lakeshore and Bahnhofstrasse. The hotel comprises of two restored landmark buildings and has a modern interior.  
• 47.382439 8.540655 27 Zurich Marriott Hotel , Neumühlequai 42 ( 5 walking minutes from Zurich HB (Main Train Station) ), ☏ +41 44 360 7070 , [email protected] . International business hotel with spacious guest rooms, popular restaurants, meeting facilities and a fitness center. ( updated Apr 2018 )

Camping [ edit ]

• 47.3363 8.5411 28 Fischer's Fritz Camping , Seestrasse 559 , ☏ +41 44 482 16 12 , [email protected] . This camp site is the closest to the city. Many guests were not too happy with the facilities and the friendliness of the owners. ( updated Jul 2017 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Zürich, like all cities in Switzerland, is relatively safe. Nevertheless, be on guard for thieves and pickpockets. Carry your wallet or purse in a secure way, not in your hip pocket or a backpack outer pocket. In particular, thieves are known to operate around the Zurich main train station. Do not let your bags out of sight for even a moment.

Certain areas along the lakefront are frequented by young people who sometimes try to pick a fight when they are drunk. Do not let them provoke you, as they are likely to be there in numbers and will use any excuse to go at you. You may also notice many of said young people smoking something that isn't a cigarette. Switzerland is surprisingly lenient about such things but it is hardly a cause for alarm.

Public transport is very safe. You can use it without any special precautions.

If you decide to bicycle in the city, understand that Zurich is a city of public transport. Beware of tram tracks which can get your wheel stuck and send you flying into traffic, of the trams themselves which travel these tracks frequently (and may scare you into getting stuck into the track), and the buses, which make frequent stops in the rightmost lane. In short, bicycling downtown should be only done by those experienced with cycling with such traffic.

Being Switzerland's most liberal city (the socialist and green parties now fare extremely well here), Zurich is the favourite place to live for Switzerland's (German-speaking) gays and lesbians. The Canton of Zurich was the second canton, after Geneva, to allow registered partnerships for same-sex partners for example. The city of Zurich is probably the place in Switzerland that offers the most open environment for gays and lesbians. Gays and lesbians need not take special precaution for their safety on the streets. It is always possible for random homophobic behaviour to happen, though.

Connect [ edit ]

As of Sept 2021, the city has 5G from all Swiss carriers. WiFi is widely available in public places.

Cope [ edit ]

Permanence Hauptbahnhof at the main train station provides urgent out-patient care for tourists without prior appointments. There is also a dentist downstairs at the station. For serious emergencies rush to the university hospital which has a 24/7 emergency ward. Tram stop "ETH/Universitätsspital" (look out for the inexplicable golden boy statue in front of the building, then follow the red "Notfall" signs). They will not send away people with serious, urgent health problems. Ambulance phone number is 144 but the European 112 emergency number works as well.

If you're on a budget, don't stay out too late — the "N" night buses only run on weekends and only once per hour. On work nights, there is no public transport at all after about 00:30 (although expensive taxis still exist in case you're stuck).

Stores are generally closed on Sundays including all supermarkets in the city, except those in the main train station, some suburban stations, and at the airport which remain open.

Zurich has two police departments, the Stadtpolizei Zurich which is responsible for the city area and the Kantonspolizei Zürich which is responsible for the whole region. With approximately 1,800 and 3,000 officers, these corps are the biggest in Switzerland. While police officers in Zurich will happily help you out if you are in trouble or need directions, they are also known for approaching "suspicious" persons in order to check their papers. This procedure is annoying but legal as you will probably have a hard time proving you were not acting suspicious. Carry a photocopy of your passport and your onward ticket with you, stay calm and polite and you're unlikely to have any trouble.

Go next [ edit ]

Some interesting destinations nearby:

• Baden — This town is known for its castle ruin and the thermal baths. It takes 15 minutes by train to get there from Zurich.
• Greifensee — A lake and village next to the nearby town of Uster . The village of Greifensee is within a conservation area and very untouched.
• Lucerne — Probably Switzerland's most popular destination. Go there to see the famous chapel bridge or the impressive transport museum.
• Rapperswil — Located at the opposite end of lake Zurich. A small, picturesque town, good for a stroll. It is possible to go there by boat from Zurich.
• The Rhine falls — Europe's largest waterfall. It is located near Schaffhausen , which has a nice old town in the Renaissance style.
• Winterthur — Around 25 minutes from Zurich, this city is worth a visit on a rainy day to visit some of its many museums. Technorama is the most popular one, an interactive science centre.

A bit further away, but also worth a day trip:

• Appenzell — As close to the stereotypical image of Switzerland with wooden farm houses and traditional clothes as it gets. An interesting visit is the cheese factory, where the Appenzell cheese is made.
• Augusta Raurica — Close to Basel, this is one of the best preserved Roman sites north of the Alps.
• Bellinzona — Since the opening of the new Gotthard tunnel in 2016, the Italian speaking part of Switzerland is less than two hours away by train. Go to Bellinzona to see its three castle, which are inscribed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
• Biel — Traditional watch making town. Visit the Omega factory to learn more about the watch industry.
• Chur — Not only a nice city, but a good hub for hiking or skiing in the mountainous Graubünden region.
• Fribourg — Home town to the famous Swiss fondue. A good choice if you want to make a short trip into the French part of Switzerland.
• Solothurn — A small city on the river Aare noted for the giant cathedral and baroque old town.

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Zurich travel guide

Zurich, at the extreme north of the lake of the same name, is Switzerland’s largest urban centre. The city has been a major financial capital since its stock exchange was founded in 1877 but, despite its economic importance, the atmosphere of this town remains warm and human – earning it the nickname, the ‘Big Small Town’.

Top places to visit in Zurich

Bahnhofstrasse.

The old town straddles the Limmat river, though the majority of its narrow, now pedestrianised, streets with small independent shops are on the east bank. The most elegant shopping street in Switzerland and one of the most prestigious in the world, the Bahnhofstrasse, connects the railway station to the lakefront. Jewellery, watches, haute couture, antiques and objets d’art: all the most luxurious items can be found here. Shaded by linden trees, the street is reserved for pedestrians, making it ideal for window-shopping.

Fraumünster

The venerable Fraumünster dominates the west bank of the Limmat and overlooks the Münsterhof. There has been a church on this spot since a convent was founded here in 853. The current edifice dates from the 13th century and has a Romanesque choir with stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.

Medieval heart and Sankt Peterskirche

On the Münsterhof, the Zunfthaus zur Waag dates from 1637; once home to the linen weavers’ and hatmakers’ guilds, it is now a restaurant, as are many old guild houses.Charming little streets lined with boutiques and antiques shops lead you to the Sankt Peterskirche (Saint Peter’s Church), the oldest church in Zurich. Its 13th-century belltower houses one of the largest clocks in Europe, nearly 9m (30ft) in diameter. The baroque-style nave is decorated with pillars of pinkish-orange marble, delicate stucco and crystal chandeliers dating from the 18th century.

If you are willing to take on the steep stairs leading to the Lindenhof, you can enjoy a beautiful view over the Limmat, with its flat-roofed pleasure boats and the busy Limmatquai.This square’s fountain was built in honour of the women of Zurich, who saved the city when it was besieged by the Habsburgs in 1292. Parading in full battle dress, they duped the enemy into believing that the city was too well defended to be conquered.

Grossmünster

On the other side of the river, facing the Fraumünster, stands the cathedral, Grossmünster, built between 1100 and 1250 on the site of a 9th-century church. The Grossmünster is the uncontested ‘mother church’ of the Reformation in German-speaking Switzerland; Zwingli preached here from 1519 until his death in 1531. The stained-glass windows, designed by Augusto Giacometti, are a 20th-century addition. The twin towers, built in the 15th century and topped with domes from the 18th, are the city’s most distinctive landmark.

Guild houses

On the east bank of the river stand the ancient guild houses, each more splendid than the last: the Zunfthaus zum Rüden, one-time gathering-place of the nobility; the Zunfthaus zur Zimmerleuten, the house of the carpenters’ guild, built in 1708 and decorated with oriel windows; and the Zunfthaus zur Saffran, headquarters of the haberdashers’ guild. Opposite the latter is the Rathaus (Town Hall), dating from 1698. Zurich’s municipal and cantonal parliaments still meet here.

The lakeside

Along the lakefront, the Zürichhorn park has two wonderful attractions. The Heidi Weber house, Le Corbusier’s last work, is a refined mix of forms and colours. A little further, you’ll find Heureka – a fantasmagoric extraterrestrial bird, created by sculptor Jean Tinguely. More recent developments include the shopping and leisure centre, Sihlcity, in an old paper factory; the opening of Schiffbau (shipyard) a collection of galleries and restaurants, and to the north of the centre in Viaduct is a 500-metre-long urban meeting place with independent shops and cafés under 36 arches.

Zurich’s museums

Fine arts museum.

The Kunsthaus (Fine Arts Museum) contains collections of European painting from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with Swiss artists particularly well represented. On view are works by Johann Heinrich Füssli (1742–1825), Arnold Böcklin and Ferdinand Hodler, both major figures of the 19th century, as well as the sculptor Alberto Giacometti. In addition to masterpieces by Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh and Picasso, the museum possesses the largest collection outside Scandinavia of works by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. 

One entire gallery is devoted to Marc Chagall, while another has Dadaist works by Hans Arp, Francis Picabia and Max Ernst. The museum owns collections from several important foundations, including the Alberto Giacometti Foundation, the Dada collection (with, most notably, the photographs of Man Ray) and the Swiss Photography Foundation. 

Swiss National Museum

The Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum), located in a curious Victorian-style edifice beside the Hauptbahnhof, celebrates the culture, art and history of Switzerland. Its halls are bursting with medieval sculpture and painting, and many rooms feature windows and frescoes that have been removed from ancient churches and houses and re-installed here. Upstairs, a huge room displays weapons, armour, uniforms and other military memorabilia. The museum also has reconstructed rooms from Swiss homes of several centuries ago.

Panoramic views and boat trips

For an amazing panoramic view of Zurich, its lake and the Alps, take the train up to Uetliberg (871m/2,860ft) from the central train station or the Selnau station. The trip takes 20 minutes, and there is a train every half-hour.To explore Zurich by the Limmat river, take one of the glass-topped boats that depart from the Landesmuseum every half-hour (from April to October) for a 50-minute tour. Cruises are also available to the Zürichsee (several options are available from Burkliplatz pier, ranging from 1.5 to 7 hours; lunch is provided on some trips) during which you can admire the lakeside villages surrounded by orchards, vineyards and appealing inns. The villages, especially those on the right bank (nicknamed the ‘Gold Coast’), make up Zurich’s wealthier suburbs.

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Visit Zürich

Where to stay in zürich.

Old Town Zürich

Old Town Zürich is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like St. Peter Church and Bahnhofstrasse. See more of Zürich by jumping on the metro at Paradeplatz Tram Stop or Rennweg Tram Stop.

Zürich Center

While you're in Zürich Center, take in top sights like Lindenhof or Swiss Casinos Zurich, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Rennweg Tram Stop or Sihlstrasse Tram Stop.

Zürich District

While you're in Zürich District, take in top sights like St. Josef Church or Swiss National Museum, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Museum fuer Gestaltung Tram Stop or Limmatplatz Tram Stop.

Lake views, spas, and gardens highlight some notable features of District 2. Make a stop by FIFA World Football Museum or Tonhalle Zurich while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Morgental Tram Stop or Butzenstrasse Tram Stop to get around town.

Noted for its cafes and shopping, there's plenty to explore in Aussersihl. Top attractions like Helvetia Square and Letzigrund Stadium are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Guterbahnhof Tram Stop or Backeranlage Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Travelers choose District 8 for its lake views. Hop aboard the metro at Frohlichstrasse Tram Stop or Wildbachstrasse Tram Stop and check out top sights like Botanical Garden.

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Check Zürich hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

Come face-to-face with rare and exotic animal species, including Amur tigers and snow leopards, which roam in recreations of their natural habitats.

• Swiss National Museum

Discover the life of the Swiss people from prehistoric times to the present day while wandering among the rooms of a grandiose riverside castle.

• Bahnhofstrasse

This is one of the world’s most exclusive retail strips. Even if you can’t afford the price tags, it’s worth a browse for the window-shopping alone.

• Zürich Opera House

You can make plans for a show at Zürich Opera House during your trip to Zürich. Wander the lakeside in this culturally rich area.

This historic quarter is filled with medieval alleyways, Zurich’s finest churches, artisan’s shops and a hilltop featuring Roman ruins and sweeping city views.

• Kunsthaus Zurich

Spot works from the 15th century onward and pieces by Matisse, Picasso and Rembrandt, among other greats at one of Switzerland’s most significant art museums.

Reviews of Zürich

5/5 - excellent.

Beautiful place

I know everyone says Switzerland is so expensive, but I was not ready at all for the costs!! It was insane!!!

Very expensive !!!

Love this city!!!

We loved the ease of transportation and shopping/dining options. Beautiful city and we can’t wait to return.

Great place to visit! We only stayed for the weekend. It’s a great place if you want to visit for a short time and still see all of the sights. If we were able to stay longer, we would have loved to taken one of the day trips to Lucerne or Titlis.

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• Places of interest
• Letzigrund Stadium
• Hallenstadion
• Zurich Town Hall
• University of Zurich
• Paradeplatz
• Grossmuenster
• FIFA World Football Museum
• Fraumuenster
• Lakeside Promenade
• Zurich Exhibition Centre
• FIFA Headquarters
• Botanical Garden
• Technopark Business Center
• Bellevue Square
• Uetliberg Lookout Tower
• St. Peter Church
• Tonhalle Zurich
• Central Library Zurich
• Polybahn Funicular
• Buerkliplatz

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Travel Guide To Zurich

Known as the cleanest and most efficient city in Europe and long synonymous with finance and banking, you will nonetheless find plenty to keep you occupied in beautiful Zürich, which nestles on the bank of Limmat River. In recent years the city has undergone a massive explosion in arts and popular culture. There are a handful of medieval churches to take in, including the mighty Grossmunster as well as the spectacular, expansive Kunthaus art gallery, one of the best in the world. The medieval Old Town - characterised by the steep, cobbled alleys of the Niedderdorf district - comprises a substantial part of the city centre and is perfect for wandering. Take in the lively café culture: sit in the café arcades by the River, and survey the glitter of mountains over the lake.

Where to stay in Zurich

Check www.zuerich.com for hotel deals: it could land you a room at the five-star lakeside Hotel Eden au Lac (Utoquai 1; 00 41 1 266 2525; www.edenaulac.ch ). Otherwise, stay central. CLARIDGE HOTEL Tiefenau Steinwiestrasse 8-10 (00 41 1 267 8787; www.tiefenau.ch ). An old manor house with rooms of eccentric shape and antiquey furniture. £ HOTEL LEONECK Leonhardstrasse 1 (00 41 1 254 22 22; www.leoneck.ch ). Low-priced rooms decorated with amateur murals of Swiss culture.

£ WIDDER HOTEL Rennweg 7 CH-8001 Zürich (0041 1 224 2526; fax: 224 2424; www.widderhotel.ch ). At this hotel, ancient meets modern with Le Corbusier loungers and 16th-century murals, leather bedcovers and Biedermeier antiques. It is tucked away off the Bahnhoffstrasse on a chocolate-box street lined with boutiques, restaurants and pastry shops. There are 42 rooms and seven suites in 10 linked townhouses, each with different décor. Service is faultless, the staff are warm and friendly. The best thing has to be Bang & Olufsen CD players (suites only), personalised business cards and 'Stolen at Widder Hotel' ashtrays.

££ EDEN AU LAC Utoquai 45, CH-8023 Zürich (00 41 1 266 2525; fax: 266 2500; www.edenaulac.ch ). This townhouse is decorated in neo-Baroque style, with antique European furniture, a rooftop sauna and a glossy guestlist. Situated on Lake Zürich, five minutes' walk from the Opera House, the hotel has 5 intimate suites and 48 rooms. Ask for suite 510, which has an open fireplace, canopied bed and circular bath. The restaurant serves French nouvelle cuisine, with a wide variety of hot hors d'oeuvres (first provided at the request of Aga Khan III). The best thing? A concierge who can magic opera tickets out of thin air, even for sell-out shows.

££ DOLDER GRAND Kurhausstrasse 65, CH-8032 Zürich (00 41 1 269 3000; fax: 269 3001; www.doldergrand.ch ). This fairy-tale fantasy hotel has romantic turrets and 149 rooms and 35 suites. Front rooms look across parkland to the lake and Alps beyond; rooms at the rear back onto a forest dotted with deer. The hotel is perfectly suited for guests on business, and is near to the city centre and finance district.

£ BAR HOTEL SEEHOF Seehofstrasse 11, CH-8008 Zürich (00 41 1 254 5757; fax: 254 5758; www.hotelseehof.ch ). This chic, contemporary boutique hotel is housed in a 1930s townhouse with an edgy, minimalist interior. It is located on Zürich's 'Left bank', near the Opera House and opposite Quaglino's and stylish bars, cafés and other restaurants. The bedrooms resemble white cubes with dark wood shelves and a conspicuous absence of detail. The bathrooms are cramped, and can only accommodate a shower or small bath.

£ BAUR AU LAC Talstrasse 1, CH-8022 Zürich (00 41 1 220 5020; fax: 220 5044; www.bauraulac.ch ). This hotel is the grande dame of Zürich, where medieval tapestries and a glass lift lurk behind a classical, dove-grey façade. There are 83 rooms and 42 suites to choose from, as well as seven conference rooms. Bathrooms are minimalist but still luxurious. For fashion lovers, the Baur au Lac is situated just off the Bahnhoffstrasse, a stone's throw away from DKNY (right on the doorstep), Prada, Gucci and Miu Miu.

£ LADY'S FIRST DESIGN HOTEL Mainaustrasse 24, Zurich, Switzerland (00 41 1 380 8010; fax: 380 8020; www.ladysfirst.ch ; email [email protected] ). Lady's First Design Hotel, which opened in January 2001, should more accurately have been called Ladies Only because that was the rule: men weren't allowed past the lobby. The policy was relaxed in December 2002, although the wellness centre, which occupies the top two floors, remains women-only. Housed in a 1890s stucco-fronted house behind the opera house, two blocks from the lake, the hotel has retained its original high ceilings and added bold blocks of colour, ergonomic leather chairs, giant pebble lamps and charcoal-covered throws on beautifully finished king-size beds. The wellness centre has a sauna, steam baths, a gym and treatment rooms. It is also open to the female public. Stairs lead up to one of the hotel's best features: a large roof terrace with lovely views across the city. In the summer it is open for breakfasts and aperitifs. There is no restaurant, but two Italian restaurants nearby provide room service every night except Sunday.

£ PARK HYATT Beethovenstrasse 21 Zurich ( http://zurich.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp ). Aimed primarily at business travellers, the Park Hyatt is situated in the heart of the city's financial and commercial district and within walking distance of the boutiques of the Bahnhofstrasse and the architecture of the old city. Its 142 rooms and suites have floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city, Grohe rain showers and high-speed Internet access. Swiss restaurant Parkhuus serves modern, flavoursome food.

Where to eat out in Zurich

Confiserie sprüngli.

AG Café Bahnhofstrasse 21. Perfect for coffee and delicious cakes in the company of the best felt hats in town. Open Mon to Fri 7am to 6.30pm, Sat 8am to 5.30pm, Sun 9.30am to 6pm.

FRANZISKANER

Niederdorfstrasse 1. A big, amiable bistro. Open 7am to midnight.

KAISER'S

Reblauber Glockengasse 7 (00 41 1 221 21 20). Classic, clever Swiss food in the Old Town. Open 11.30am to 3pm, 6pm to midnight; closed Sat lunch and Sun.

KRONENHALLE

Rämistrasse 4 (00 41 1 251 66 69). The glorious pictures excuse the high price of the good bistro food.

Zürich Heimplatz 1 (00 41 1 251 53 53). The Museum restaurant is good for coffee, lunch and an Italianate dinner. Open 7.30am to midnight.

Hiltl Sihlstrasse 28 (00 41 1 227 70 00). A good vegetarian. Open daily 7am to 11pm.

Seefeldstrasse 2 (00 41 1 260 32 22). Smart vegetarian fast-food restaurant opposite the opera. Open Mon to Fri 6.30am to midnight; Sat from 8am, Sun from 9am.

WHERE TO DRINK

Cafe/bar odeon.

Limmatquai 2. Open Mon to Thurs 7am to 2am, Fri to Sat until 4am, Sun 9am to 2am.

NIETTURMBAR

Schiffbaustrasse 4. Open Wed to Sat from 6pm.

Things to do in Zurich

Mai 36 gallery.

Ramistrasse 37. Open Tues to Fri, 11am to 6.30pm, Sat until 4pm.

SAMMLUNG EMIL G BUHRLE

Zollikerstrasse 172. Open Tues, Fri, Sun 2pm to 5pm, Wed 5pm to 8pm.

SAMMLUNG OSKAR REINHART 'AM ROMERHOLZ'

Haldenstrasse 95, Winterthur (take the S12 train). Open Tues to Sun, 10am to 5pm.

THOMAS AMMANN

Restelbergstrasse 97. Open Mon to Fri, 10am to 5pm.

Le Corbusier Höschgasse 8. A showcase of Le Corbusier's art and architecture.

KUNSTHAUS ZÜRICH

Heimplatz 1. This is Switzerland's finest art gallery. The 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. One whole wing of the ground floor is given over to a permanent display of the widest array of Alberto Giacometti's sculpture in the world. Elsewhere you will find Dutch and Flemish paintings by Rubens, Rembrandt, Hals and others, as well as the Venetian room showing Canaletto and El Greco. The new wing houses a stunning collection of twentieth-century art. A broad selection of pop and expressionist art is headed by a number of works by Warhol and Rothko. There are sculptures by Matisse, and works by Dalí and Miró, Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cezanne and more. Open Tues to Thurs 10am to 9pm, Fri to Sun until 5pm.

The Zürich opera is truly Zürcher - truly democratic; it has the only cooperative opera box office in the Western world. Tickets are often still available 10 days in advance (call 00 41 1 268 64 00), except for the newest, hottest productions. The opera house itself is almost cosy: velvet curtains; gilt and red; heroic paintings on the ceiling.

Boats leave roughly every half-hour, from Bürkliplatz at the end of Bahnhofstrasse. You can cross the whole lake to Rapperswil, and come back either by train or boat. Lunch is passable: avoid battered lake fish.

WALKING TRIPS

A favoured getaway for city dwellers is a short trip to Uetliberg, Zurich's minor mountain, from where there is a popular hiking route, running about two hours south along a forested ridge. Take the S10 train from the Hauptbahnhof (Platform 2, every half-hour) to the top of Uetliberg, then it's a 90-minute, brisk, well-signposted walk to the cable car that takes you down to the railway station at Sihlau. Or walk on, for another couple of hours, to Albispass, and take the train from Aldiswil. The easy path is the Planeten Weg ('planetary path').

The hammam at Fitness Park is at Blaufahnenstrasse 3, off Münstergasse in the Niederdorf, close to the Grossmünster church. Open Mon to Fri 8am to 10pm, Sat to Sun 9am to 8pm.

How to get to Zurich

Zürich's airport is 11km northeast in Kloten and is regularly voted to be one of the best in the world.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

easyJet (08717 500100; www.easyjet.com ) flies from Luton to Zürich. British Airways (0870 850 9850; www.ba.com ) flies from Heathrow to Zürich. Swiss (0845 601 0956; www.swiss.com) flies to Zürich from London City and Heathrow. There's a good rail link from the airport to the Hauptbahnhof, which is also a hub of the tram system.

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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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• Geneva travel blog — The fullest Geneva travel guide & what to do in Geneva

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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Zurich Travel Guide

The cosmopolitan city of Zurich is well-known for its importance as a finance centre but it has plenty to offer the visitor, too. Situated on Lake Zurich, the city is home to a well-preserved Old Town full of cobbled streets and squares, a number of elegant buildings and an attractive lakeside quay.

Arriving in Zurich

By air: Zurich is home to one of Switzerland’s two major international airport. There are a number of options to transfer from the airport to the city centre . Visitors arriving late into Zurich may prefer to stay overnight at one of the many Zurich Airport hotels .

By train: Zurich’s main train station, Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Hbf), is one of the busiest stations in Europe. Regular trains arrive and depart Zurich from all over Europe. If you plan on using trains as your main mode of transport whilst in Switzerland, it’s worth considering a Swiss Rail Pass , an all-in-one transport pass.

By car: Zurich can be easily reached by car thanks to the extensive Swiss and European motorway network. If you are driving to Zurich, it’s wise to check in advance if your hotel can offer car parking. If not, there are numerous public car parks available throughout the city. You’ll find all our tips for driving in Switzerland in this article .

What to See in Zurich

Start your visit to Zurich by wandering the cobbled streets and alleys of the Old Town. Stop by the twin-towered Grossmunster where you can climb the towers for wonderful views.  Next, head to Limmatquai, a pedestrian path alongside the River Limmat before visiting Lindenhof, a quiet park that overlooks the city.

Next, head to the lakeside promenade for a stroll beside Lake Zurich, or board a cruise boat to see the city and lake from the water.

Other attractions include the many artisan chocolatiers who sell their treats around the upmarket shopping street, Bahnhofstrasse, and Lindt Home of Chocolate (opening November 2020). Zurich Zoo, the FIFA World Football Museum and thermal baths are amongst the other things to do.

For a great selection of bars, museums and galleries, head to Zurich West where you can glimpse urban life Zurich-style.

Make sure you consider purchasing a Zurich Card – it’s an all-in-one city pass that include free use of public transport (trains, trams, buses and boats) as well as discounts on admission to museums and attractions.

Christmas in Zurich

Zurich hosts a range of activities at Christmas time.  As well as numerous Christmas Markets , you can see a singing Christmas tree, enjoy ice skating and hop aboard the Fondue Tram.

Fun Fact – There are 1225 drinking fountains in Zurich and you can safely drink from all of them!

Where is Zurich?

Zurich is located in north-central Switzerland, just one hour from Basel, Bern and Lucerne.

Zurich Info

Population: 400,000

Canton: Zurich

Language spoken: German

Average temperatures: January – 4C / 39F; April – 15C / 59F; July – 25C / 77F; October – 15C / 59F

Christmas market dates: 23 November – 23 December, to be confirmed.  ( Click here to learn more ).

Read all our Zurich articles by clicking on the guides below …

Cool Things to Do in Zurich (Off the Regular Tourist Trail)

How to spend 48 hours in Zurich: Two day itinerary

The Zurich Card

Short Breaks and Weekend Trips from Zurich

Best Hotels in Zurich

Hotel Sorell Zurichberg | Review

Top day trips from Zurich [2024]

Best Zurich Airport Hotels

How to get from Zurich Airport to the City

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