is zurich tourist friendly

What you need to know before traveling to Zürich

Apr 21, 2023 • 4 min read

The best, and most environmentally friendly, way to get to Zürich is by train © Maythee Voran / Shutterstock

Welcome to Zürich , a beautiful city nestled in the heart of Switzerland . As a Swiss-Italian content creator I've traveled the world, but always feels most at home in the Alps. Zürich is for me the perfect mix of Alpine closeness and tranquility with a buzzing city life, which is why I've lived here for over 10 years.

Before you pack your bags and head to this beautiful Swiss city destination, let's dive into what you need to know.

1. Planning your trip to Zürich

When planning your itinerary keep in mind that Zürich is a a comparably small city that can be easily explored in two to three days. However, if you plan on visiting other parts of Switzerland, I recommend staying here for at least a week.

Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season. If you feel that staying central is not your main focus, you can easily find hotels a little further out on the lakeside, or even in direction Oerlikon (in the northern reaches of Zürich) which are much more budget-friendly and quieter. In general, you can get to the city center within 30 minutes by public transport, so choosing a more economic accommodation is not going to cause you any major delays. 

If you're looking for a unique experience, try visiting a traditional restaurant. A good recommendation is the classic  Kronenhalle  which serves fine-dining versions of local home-style cuisine and drinks. Bookings can be made online via their website, but as Zürich is a very international city and most people speak English, feel free to give a quick call to book a table.

It’s not just cliché: the chocolates , Luxemburgerli, and other sweet creations at Lindt & Sprüngli, are a must. I always bring my friends to the store at Paradeplatz because the experience is exquisite. And if you might think Luxemburgerli is just a copy of the famous macarons, they're not. They're smaller and lighter than macarons and come in a unique bite-size form.

2. Transportation in Zürich

As for transportation, the easiest and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center is by train. You can purchase a ticket at the airport station or via the SBB mobile app . Ideally buy a day pass so you can hop on and off as many times you want on Zürich's trams and buses.

Note that the transport is always precisely on time. If it says departure at 10:15, it is exactly that and not a minute later or earlier.

If you are coming from Europe mainland, consider taking a train to Zürich instead of a flight. Overall, it doesn’t take longer and you can relax and enjoy the incredible landscape along the ride.

3. Etiquette in Zürich

Switzerland is known for its punctuality, and Zürich is no exception. If you have a scheduled appointment or reservation, make sure to arrive on time.

It's important to realise that Swiss people are rather reserved which means they may seem aloof at first, but they are friendly once you get to know them. Also note: when first greeting someone use their last name with the appropriate title (Mr. or Ms. for example).

Dress code in Zürich is typically smart casual, but in summer a dress and sandals, or shorts and flip-flops, are perfectly fine.

Finally, tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up a bill is appreciated when you eat out in a restaurant.

4. Where to stay in Zürich

If you're looking for a vibrant neighborhood to experience the local culture, I recommend staying in Kreis 4 or 5 (these are abbreviations for districts in Zürich). These areas are known for their street art, bars, and diverse food scene.

On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter neighborhood, Seefeld and Enge are excellent options. Both areas have beautiful parks, lakeside views, and charming cafes.

5. Health and Safety in Zürich

Zürich is a safe city, but as with any destination, it's important to take precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so keep your valuables close to you. In case of an emergency, dial 117 for the police and 144 for medical assistance.

And finally, Swiss tap water is safe to drink, so there's no need to buy bottled water.

Zürich is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable trip.

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Zurich   Travel Guide

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13 Best Things to Do in Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich boasts of Dadaism, more than 100 art galleries, several renowned museums, like the Kunsthaus ( Museum of Art ) and the castle-like Swiss National Museum , and world-famous architecture, both ancient and contemporary. But for those who aren't

• All Things To Do

Lake Zurich (Zurichsee) Lake Zurich (Zurichsee) free

Surrounding the bottom of banana-shaped Lake Zurich is a tangle of parks and gardens, collectively known as the lake promenade, that make for a picturesque place to spend an afternoon. When the weather is warm, the lake is peppered with boats and its banks are filled with picnickers and bikini- and speedo clad-sunbathers. If you're a jogger, the area is also one of Zürchers' favorite places to pound the ground.

For some of the best views of Zurich and the nearby Alps, travelers suggest taking a boat ride on the lake. Boat tours are available throughout the year and are free for Zurich Card holders, while a daily tram card will get you on the water too.

Old Town (Altstadt) Old Town (Altstadt) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every day at 9 a.m., Zurich’s bauarbeiten (construction workers) pause for a z’Nüni , a midmorning snack. Bakeries and metzgerei (butchers/delis) stock an assortment of z’Nüni snacks, including landjaeger (smoked meat sticks), butterbretel, gipfeli (croissants) and mini cheese quiches. – Adam Graham

Zurich's Old Town is the historic part of town – and by historic, we mean medieval. Winding cobblestone alleys run alongside quintessential Zurich attractions like the Grossmunster . You'll also find several acclaimed museums – such as the Swiss National Museum and the Kunsthaus Zürich around the district.

Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich) Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich)

With its assortment of works, some say the Kunsthaus Zurich (the city's art museum), is one of – if not the – best museums in the city. Among an interesting collection of Swiss artists, the museum also hangs works by Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Claude Monet and the largest collection of paintings by Edward Munch outside of Norway.

While the entire museum is worth perusing, previous travelers said a visit to the top floors are a must. On the upper floors you'll find the museum's most iconic works, including pieces by Vincent van Gogh, Monet and Andy Warhol. And before leaving, be sure to check out Auguste Rodin's The Gates of Hell bronze sculpture, which sits just outside the museum's entrance. A new free-standing structure designed by British architect David Chipperfield was added to the museum complex in 2021; it showcases contemporary art from the 1960s and later.

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Uetliberg Uetliberg free

Standing an impressive 2,858 feet above sea level, Uetliberg offers some of the best views of Zurich and the surrounding alps. Once at the top, travelers will find multiple trails through the dense and ancient yew tree groves for hiking, extreme mountain biking and sledding. Paragliding at the mountain's peak is another popular pastime here.

Though traveling to and from this local attraction will set you back about an hour, visitors rave about Uetliberg's stunning views and superb hiking paths. For an educational twist on your average hike, take the mountain's Planet Trail, which is designed to mimic the sizes of and distances between the solar system's planets (each meter along the path represents one million kilometers). The nearly 4-mile trail stretches between Uetliberg and Felsenegg mountains and takes about two hours to complete.

Bahnhofstrasse Bahnhofstrasse free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The cheese and chocolate selection at Coop, a supermarket along Bahnhofstrasse, is consistently outstanding and half the price for the same quality you will find in smaller boutiques. After 4 p.m., grocery stores regularly reduce prices on cheese by 50%. – Adam Graham

One of Zurich's popular shopping spots is the sleek storefronts of Bahnhofstrasse. Stretching across Old Town from Hauptbahnhof station to  Lake Zurich , Bahnhofstrasse features a variety of high-end shops, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry, Chanel and Giorgio Armani, as well as H&M and Zara and other affordable brands. Swiss shops like the dessert-focused Confiserie Sprungli and the jewelry-centric Gubelin AG can also be found here.

Lindenhof Lindenhof free

Whether you want to play a game of chess, relax after exploring  Bahnhofstrasse  or take in some superb views of  Old Town , the Grossmunster and the Limmat River, odds are you'll appreciate Lindenhof. What was once the location of a fourth-century Roman fort is now an elevated plaza with linden trees, benches and giant chess sets.

Many visitors opt for picnic lunches to enjoy the city’s shingled medieval rooftops and half-timber structures and distant alpine views from the shade of the linden trees. Keep in mind, though, that Lindenhof's elevated position means a short uphill climb via stairs or a ramp is required. Once you get there, you'll find a flat, graveled courtyard and wheelchair-friendly terrain.

Great Minster (Grossmunster) Great Minster (Grossmunster) free

Located in Kreis 1 in the Old Town , the Grossmunster church was the starting place of the Protestant Reformation in Zurich. Preacher Huldrych Zwingli initiated the movement from this austere church's pulpit. But the history of the Grossmunster goes back even further. According to local legend, Charlemagne is said to have founded this magnificent church, which is believed to sit atop the graves of the city's patron saints of Felix and Regula.

Some visitors say that a visit to the Grossmunster would not be complete without a trip to the top of the tower. You'll have to pay 5 Swiss francs (about $5.50) to climb the historic cathedral's 187 steps, but past travelers said the panoramic city views more than justify the fee. Others also recommended taking time to admire the church's ornate bronze doors and stained-glass windows, some of which are designed by artist Augusto Giacometti, while others were crafted by contemporary artist Sigmar Polke. Time your visit during an organ concert to really experience the church's chambered acoustics.

Minster of Our Lady (Fraumunster) Minster of Our Lady (Fraumunster) free

The Fraumunster is popular with visitors thanks to its distinctive spire (which grace's Zurich's skyline) and its Marc Chagall stained-glass windows. The church is built on the remains of a convent that was founded in the ninth century by Emperor Ludwig, Charlemagne's grandson. Along with its far-reaching history, the property's iconic green spire makes it one of Zurich's most recognizable landmarks.

Some previous visitors said the church's exterior isn't much to look at. However, most agree the interior's stained-glass windows are well worth a visit. In addition to the newer Chagall windows, some featuring designs by Augusto Giacometti, who is famously linked to the stained-glass windows at the  Grossmunster , are also located inside.

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Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zurich) Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zurich)

The Swiss National Museum resides within a historic, castle-like building in the northern tip of Kreis 1. The museum surveys Swiss art, history and culture from as far back as 100,000 B.C. to approximately A.D. 800. Exhibits cover everything from archaeology in Switzerland to Swiss artistry and craftsmanship. There's even an exhibition designed specifically for children called "A Magic Carpet ride through history" that invites the museum's youngest visitors to travel back in time as they explore a replica of an Arabian palace, a vintage railway car and a large sailing ship.

According to many past visitors, the Swiss National Museum's architecture alone is worth seeing. However, should you decide to go inside, expect to find a comprehensive overview of Switzerland's history. To absorb all that this museum has to offer, previous travelers recommended downloading the free Landesmuseum smartphone app , which includes an English audio guide. This is especially helpful since most of the exhibits' displays are in German.

Seebad Utoquai, Zurich Seebad Utoquai, Zurich

U.S. News Insider Tip: Zurich’s badi (outdoor pools) generally empty out around 6 p.m. when locals go home for dinner. But many badi (and their bars/cafes) stay open, making them a great place to watch the sunset with an Aperol spritz. – Adam Graham

Zürisee ( Lake Zurich ) is home to many badi (outdoor pools) located on both coasts of the lake – the sun-kissed Goldküste (Gold Coast) and the less sunny (and amusingly nicknamed) Pfnüselküste (Sniffle Coast). But this historic and inclusive white wooden bathhouse located on the city’s lakefront promenade is a traveler favorite and has been serving both visitors and locals since 1890.

Adliswil – Felsenegg Cable Car Adliswil – Felsenegg Cable Car

Visitors who want to get closer to the alps don't have to venture far to do so. The cherry red Adliswil-Felsenegg cable car is located just outside the city and accessible via a 15-minute train ride. The cable car whisks visitors up more than 2,600 feet (in about five minutes) and offers sweeping views of Lake Zurich and scenic peaks like Säntis, Speer, Glärnisch, Rigi and Titlis. The entire area is partially linked by the planetary path from Uetliberg , about 5 miles away, so many hikers make the walk from Zurich. It's also home to the Albis Nordic Walking Park (six trails at three levels of difficulty) and the Gasthaus Felsenegg inn, where visitors rave about the fondue evenings by a 120-year-old tiled stove.

Previous visitors rave about the fantastic views from the cable car. They also suggest treating yourself to a cup of coffee and a pastry from the restaurant at the top.

Sprüngli Paradeplatz Sprüngli Paradeplatz

Zurich’s legendary confectionery and patisserie has 15 locations across Switzerland, including many train stations and the Zurich airport. But the Paradeplatz location, which dates back to the mid-1800s, is a must-visit for many tourists – it features a ground-level cafe and bar and an upstairs restaurant, and is an ideal place to experience its variety of sweet offerings. 

The landmark chocolatier and cafe still appeals to moneyed Bahnhofstrasse habitués, but modern visitors also love its heavenly concoctions of rich chocolate truffles and Luxemburgerli, small cream-filled meringue cookies akin to French macarons. Visitors also stock up here on small snacks like butterbrezel (soft pretzel bread stuffed with a layer of butter) and high-quality pastries, bread and open-faced sandwiches.

FIFA World Football Museum FIFA World Football Museum

Thousands of pieces of memorabilia are spread across three floors covering approximately 32,500 square feet of exhibition space at this ultimate fan’s museum, which explores all aspects of the world of soccer. Recent visitors call out interactive exhibits, like "Planet Football," an overview of all 212 FIFA teams – and "The Rainbow," a collection of national team shirts by color, as well as "The Timeline," a historic overview of the sport. There's also a museum shop, guided tours, events and activities for kids and families, and even an affiliated FIFA sports bar at the nearby Enge train station.

Previous visitors recommended the museum for soccer fans and cited seeing the World Cup trophies as highlights. Others were disappointed that some of the interactive gaming elements within the museum weren't working properly during their visits.

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• One Day in Zurich Itinerary: How to See the Best of Zurich in a Day

Although Zurich is truly one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, due to its size, spending one day in Zurich is the perfect amount of time to experience the major attractions of the city.

Resting in the shadow of the Swiss Alps, Zurich is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Given its setting on the shores of the glistening Lake Zurich with the River Limmat flowing through the Old Town, Zurich is a really picturesque destination.

It offers plenty of appeal for urbanites yet the surrounding nature makes Zurich feel all the more spectacular for those who like their cities in a more rural environment. 

This one day in Zurich itinerary picks out the most interesting things to see and do and provides a few different options to ensure that whatever the weather is doing, you have a few options to select from. Continue reading to find out how to prepare for your trip and what to do in Zurich for one day.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Visiting Zurich

How to get to zurich.

Zurich Airport, or Flughafen Zurich (ZRH), serves international and domestic flights with direct connections to most major European cities and North American destinations which makes Zurich a fantastic starting point for a Switzerland road trip .

The airport is situated 10 km (6.2 miles) north of the city. You can hop on the S-Bahn train or take the tram (line 10) into the city. 

Either way, the journey costs 6.80 CHF (€7) but it’s entirely free with the Zurich Card. If you want to purchase a Zurich Card , it costs 27 CHF (€28) for a 24-hour pass or 53 CHF (€55) for a 72-hour pass, if you are spending longer than one day in Zurich.

The card covers your travel via tram, bus, train, boat, and cableway in the city and surrounding area and grants free or reduced admission to a number of museums. It does not, however, cover the scenic boat cruises mentioned later in this Zurich itinerary.

You can purchase a Zurich Card online, via the Zurich City Guide app. Alternatively, you can buy one in person at the airport or at a ticket machine at a train station in town.

You can also travel to Zurich by train from elsewhere in Switzerland. Zurich Main Station is located super centrally in District 1. As a guideline, the journey from Geneva takes around 2 hours 45 minutes to traverse the 273 km (170 miles). 

Best time to visit Zurich

There isn’t a bad time to visit Zurich as the city has year-round appeal and it never gets unbearably hot or cold. It really depends on what you want to do while in the city and whether you prefer to spend more time indoors or outside.

This one day Zurich itinerary is designed for any season but note that some attractions, such as boat cruises, do not operate during the winter. 

The only months that I would recommend avoiding are July and August as this is when the city is the most crowded and when trying to see Zurich in a day, you’ll risk losing valuable time standing in lines. But, on the other hand, these are the best months for taking a dip in the lake!

Zurich is a joy to explore during the spring, early summer, and autumn months. The temperatures hover between 15-20°C (59-68°F) during these shoulder months and it’s pleasant for walking around. You’ll need some layers for the cooler evenings though. 

Winter in Zurich is lovely because the city glows with Christmas markets and yuletide activities. This typically arrives towards the end of November and stays until the New Year celebrations when fireworks erupt over the lake. It rarely snows in Zurich, even during winter, but temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F). Rain is possible at any time of year so you’ll want to bring something waterproof.  

How to get around Zurich

As with most European cities, Zurich benefits from a fantastic public transport system. Actually, it’s slated to be one of the best in the world!

You can use the U-Bahn (metro), S-Bahn, buses, and trams to get around Zurich. For something more alternative, you can ride the Polybahn, a little red funicular railway, which connects the Old Town to the viewing platform at the Polyterrasse.

Zurich is also served by boats and ferries that navigate the Limmat and Zurichsee (Lake Zurich). So if you are wondering what to do in Zurich for one day, you can literally spend it riding all these fun transit systems around if you want to!

Where to stay in Zurich

As you are only spending 24 hours in Zurich, it makes sense to book accommodation as centrally as possible to save some time. I’ve rounded up three of the best places to stay in Zurich to suit all budgets.

If you do want to stay further afield, the perk is the wonderful public transport system I already told you about. 

LUXURY – Storchen Zürich

This beautiful hotel is located right in the heart of Zurich and has its own boat pier directly at the Limmat River. Rooms come with classic furnishing with warm colors and modern facilities and each room offers a picturesque view of the Old Town. The hotel also has a beautiful outdoor terrace which is perfect for summertime trips.

MID-RANGE – Hotel City Zürich Design & Lifestyle

Situated by the famous Bahnhofstrasse, this modern hotel is artistically presented with comfortable and spacious rooms. All rooms have a private bathroom and most include bathtubs with overhead showers. 

BUDGET – Hotel Marta

This no-frills hotel is clean, functional, and fabulously located in the northern point of the Niederdorf quarter of Old Town. Breakfast is included in the rate and the staff goes out of their way to take care of their guests. 

Overview of Your One Day Zurich Itinerary 

At a glance, this is how you will spend your 24 hours in Zurich. It’s a fairly full agenda but some of the attractions are optional or either/or so feel free to customize this itinerary as you like!

Morning: Museum Rietburg/Rieterpark, Zurich Lake Cruise OR River Limmat Cruise 

Afternoon: Zurich Altstadt (highlights include trying raclette for lunch and visiting Limmatquai, Rathaus, Grossmünster, St Peter’s Church, Predigerkirche, Fraumünster, the Old Botanical Garden, and the Swiss National Museum)

Evening: Uetliberg Viewpoint OR Thermalbad & Spa Zürich OR Urania Sternwarte 

Morning of Your One Day in Zurich 

Museum rietberg/rieterpark .

Located in the southwest of the city, Museum Rietberg is a collection of artworks and archaeological items from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The archive contains a mix of traditional and contemporary objects and is such an unexpected museum to find in the heart of Zurich.

Housed within a 19th-century mansion, the museum is set within the landscaped Rieterpark. If you are looking for more outdoorsy things to do in Zurich for a day then you can cross the road to visit the neighboring Belvoirpark and work your way over to the waterfront. 

Museum Rietberg is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and until 8 pm on Wednesday evenings. Admission to the permanent collection is 14 CHF (€14.50) and if you want to also visit the temporary exhibitions, the ticket costs 18 CHF (€18.60).

Access to both Rieterpark and Belvoirpark is free and they are open 24/7. 

Zurich Lake/River Limmat Cruise 

If you want to get out on the water, then you have a couple of options for touring either the River Limmat or Lake Zurich.

The Lake Zurich Navigation Company schedules daily round trip cruises during the summer season, from early April until late October. If you are spending one day in Zurich, then the short tours that sail down to Thalwil and Erlenbach before returning to the city are the best option.

From Rieterpark, you can walk to Zurich Bürkliplatz in 15 minutes and board a boat there. The cruise takes around 1.5 hours and costs 4.40 CHF (€4.55). You can head straight to the ferry terminal but you might want to check the schedule online once you have your dates. They typically depart every half an hour. 

Alternatively, you can take a scenic cruise along the River Limmat as part of your exploration of Zurich Altstadt. A round trip from Zurich Landesmuseum to the Zurichhorn in District 8 takes around 1 hour and costs 4.40 CHF (€4.55). Again, you can check the schedule online to help plan your time.

Afternoon of Your One Day in Zurich Itinerary

The Old Town, Zurich Altstadt, is situated within District 1 and straddles both banks of the River Limmat. The area is defined by its enchanting heritage architecture and friendly ambiance and it’s lovely to dedicate a few hours to wander around it all. As there is so much to see, my one day Zurich itinerary pulls out some of the highlights.

Feast on Raclette

Raclette is one of the national dishes of Switzerland and if you love cheese, then sampling the delicacy for yourself is one of the best things to do in Zurich for a day. You’ll find a number of restaurants in Altstadt which serve it so you can always follow your nose and see what you find.

But if you would rather save time looking, you can head directly to Raclette Factory for the most classic quality and dining experience. The restaurant is located on the right bank of the River Limmat and has a menu that offers the finest local cheese and a selection of potato options.

Notable Churches 

There are so many beautiful churches in Zurich Altstadt so if you enjoy visiting these landmarks, you’ll have a field day!

On the left bank, Fraumünster Church features an iconic teal spire, its majestic organ, and its elegant stained glass windows by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. There is an entrance fee of 5 CHF (€5.20) to enter the church but the rest of the churches on this list are free to enter.

Less than 5 minutes away, St Peter’s Church brings together Romanesque and Gothic architecture and its signature is the colossal clock ticking down your 24 hours in Zurich!

Across on the right bank, pretty much directly opposite Fraumünster, you will find the twin-towered Grossmünster. Constructed in the 12th century, this church was the backdrop for the preachings of religious reformer Huldrych Zwingli in the 1500s.

One final church that you can linger on is the Predigerkirche, which means Preacher’s Church. First erected in 1231 in the Romanesque style, the church has been through a couple of renovations and at the time the bell tower was added, it was remarked on for being unusually tall.

This charming street lines the right bank of the river and is worth taking a stroll along to appreciate views across the water and shoot some postcard-worthy photos as a memento from your one day in Zurich.

One notable sight that you will not miss is the Zurich Rathaus or Town Hall. With a direct view over the river, the Rathaus has occupied this spot since the late 17th century when the building was constructed to replace an earlier town hall from the 13th century.

The Rathaus is the seat of both the local council and the cantonal council.

Old Botanical Garden

These 19th-century botanical gardens are located in the western point of Zurich Altstadt on the left bank. The park features flowers, bamboos, and edible herbs, vegetables, and fruits and it’s a tranquil spot to recoup your energy while exploring the best of Zurich in a day.

The gardens are open Monday to Friday, between 7 am – 7 pm, and on weekends, between 8 am – 6 pm. The entrance is free.

Swiss National Museum

Located in the northernmost tip of the Aldstadt at the confluence of the Limmat and Sihl rivers, the Swiss National Museum will tell you everything you could want to know about Switzerland’s heritage and culture. They also curate fantastic special exhibitions about interesting topics.

The museum is a huge complex with loads of detail and you can easily spend 2-3 hours devouring the artifacts. For that reason, I recommend this as an option for history buffs or for those seeking things to do in Zurich for a day during winter or inclement weather.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and until 7 pm on Thursday evenings. Admission is 10 CHF (€10.30).

Evening of Your One Day in Zurich 

For your one evening in Zurich, I have selected a couple of options for you to choose from based on what you would prefer to do. If you are spending longer than one day in Zurich, you might want to tackle all three activities!

Uetliberg Viewpoint 

For one of the best views across the city, lake, and surrounding Alps, you can visit the lookout at Uetliberg, a mountain that overlooks Zurich. Trains (route S 10) connect Zurich Main Station and Uetliberg in 25 minutes, then it’s a short walk to the summit.

Whatever time of year you visit, the scenery is epic. For the purpose of this one day in Zurich itinerary, I suggest going up to catch the sunset although you could always flip it over and visit early in the morning.

Trains typically start around 6.30 am and run until around 11 pm but you can check the specific train schedule online. 

If you are spending longer than one day in Zurich then there are loads of hiking trails waiting for you up here. 

Thermalbad & Spa Zürich

If you aren’t fussed to visit the viewpoint (or went first thing instead) then you might be tempted to indulge in a thermal mineral bath to soothe your aching feet.

Located in the former Hürlimann brewery, the spa has taken inspiration from the casks to create an aquatic wonderland in deep wooden barrels. There are a number of pools to discover and the highlight is the rooftop pool that provides a view across the rooftops of Zurich. While you’re at the spa you can also opt to get a massage treatment if you wish.

Thermalbad & Spa Zurich is located in Enge. The thermal baths are open from Monday to Friday between 8 am – 10 pm and during the weekend between 9 am and 10 pm. It is not possible to book in advance and you might have to wait if the spa is busy. It is, however, recommended to book massages and treatments ahead. Day admission to the thermal baths is 35 CHF (€36.20).

Urania Sternwarte 

One final option for things to do in Zurich for a day at night is to enjoy a spot of stargazing. This 50 meters (164 feet) high observatory in Altstadt hosts public astronomy tours on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 8 pm during winter and 9 pm during summer.

The fee is 20 CHF (€20.65), but you get a 5 CHF (€5.20) discount if you have the Zurich card.

Planning a trip to Switzerland?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Switzerland. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks
• 28 Incredible Zermatt Hotels with Matterhorn View
• The Ultimate One Day in Bern Itinerary
• The Perfect Itinerary for Spending One Day in Geneva
• 11 Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland You Can’t Miss
• Hotel Review: Boutique Hotel Glacier, Switzerland
• Hotel Review: Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz

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A Complete Guide to Zurich: Discover Why It’s Worth a Visit

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Zurich is the favorite starting point of most travelers visiting Switzerland. With almost all the destinations in Switzerland easily reachable by train from Zurich and Zurich’s flight and train connections to other countries, it’s no wonder.

Whether it’s a tourist wanting to relax for 1 to 3 days in Lucerne or an adventurer desiring to have an ultimate 7-day trip to the Jungfrau Region , they’re almost always choosing Zurich as the place where they kick off their Switzerland trip. However, Zurich is known to be one of the most expensive cities in the world; therefore, travelers often don’t spend much time here during their trip to Switzerland.

Most importantly, it goes without saying that the Swiss Alps are the main attraction of any Swiss vacation and should take up most of your time there. So, after travelers arrive at Zurich they immediately ride the train to the tourist attractions in the Swiss Alps. 

But Zurich isn’t just a transportation hub, and if you’re traveling to Switzerland, there are reasons why you might like to give Zurich a try – perhaps for a day or two! Personally, I find Zurich worth considering, especially for a Switzerland trip that lasts longer than a week. Let me tell you more about it in this post.

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As a traveler always in pursuit of indescribable beauty, I have to be candid — Zurich is just a bit better than average. Yet, Zurich is far from dull, boasting intriguing museums, a vibrant shopping district, and an electrifying nightlife!

The city is also sprinkled with hidden treasures. From stunning churches to scenic spots along Lake Zurich’s shores, there’s a wealth of discoveries to be made. And let’s not forget the gastronomic delights served up by the city’s numerous Michelin-starred restaurants.

With all that Zurich has to offer, consider it a unique twist on the typical Swiss journey, which usually involves quaint countryside villages and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Spending time in Zurich allows you to experience both facets of this stunning country—the natural beauty and the urban charm. Moreover, the city’s museums, especially the Swiss National Museum, serve as a perfect introduction to Switzerland.

When else might we consider staying in Zurich and spending some time in it?

Well, apart from a lengthy Swiss holiday (example, a 14-day Switzerland trip ) where you have extra time to uncover the less frequented parts of Switzerland, a brief Swiss trip could be another occasion. If you’re planning a brief trip to Switzerland, say a three-day weekend getaway, Zurich could be an ideal base.

From here, you can easily explore nearby attractions. For instance, Lucerne is just an hour’s train ride away. Interlaken is another viable day trip option from Zurich, albeit slightly further than Lucerne.

Your weekend can be spent soaking in Switzerland’s top sights, while your nights can be dedicated to experiencing Zurich’s renowned city life. Sounds like a plan, doesn’t it?

If you’re considering spending a few days in Zurich, here’s where you can scout for the best hotel deals in the city . If you’re traveling to Switzerland for a week or longer, SAVE MONEY by using the Swiss Travel Pass. Learn more about the Swiss Travel Pass here .

Still on the fence about visiting Zurich? Or perhaps you’ve already decided to go and are wondering what to do there? My list of 15 reasons to visit Zurich should answer all your questions.

1. Zurich’s Numerous and Interesting Museums

No other city in Switzerland boasts as many museums and galleries as Zurich does. With over 100 museums , it offers a comprehensive insight into the lives of the Swiss people. The wealth of knowledge and intriguing discoveries that these museums house make Zurich a must-visit.

The collections span a wide range of fields, from art to photography, design to architecture, and culture to history and science!

In Zurich’s old town alone, you can embark on a museum-hopping adventure with its 20 museums, seemingly nestled on every other street! The modern city houses 69 museums in total, making Zurich a paradise for museum enthusiasts. The remaining museums are scattered throughout the Zurich region, just 10 to 30 minutes from the city center.

Among them, I highly recommend the Swiss National Museum, the Wow Museum, and Kunsthaus Zürich.

If you’re keen on immersing yourself in Swiss history and culture, the Swiss National Museum is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find artifacts that trace back to the earliest Swiss civilizations, as well as collections that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the Swiss people.

For a more playful experience, especially if you’re with kids or simply young at heart, the Wow Museum is a great choice. This captivating space is filled with mind-bending illusions that are not only fun but also offer insights into virtuality and diversity.

Finally, for art lovers, there’s no place like the Kunsthaus Zürich. This art haven in Zurich houses over 100,000 artworks, from paintings to sculptures and prints to drawings. While it primarily features Classical Modernism, the Kunsthaus Zürich also boasts artworks from various eras, with some dating back to the 13th century.

If you’re someone who appreciates the depth and detail of museums, and loves to dive into the art and history of your travel destinations, then Paris and Florence are must-visit cities for you. They are famous for their significant landmarks and attractions, boasting artworks and exhibits that have received worldwide acclaim.

2. Parks and The Beautiful Views of Lake Zurich

One of the charms of a city lies in its green and blue spaces, offering locals and travelers alike a place to unwind. Zurich is no exception. The city’s open spaces are not just inviting, but they’re also one of its most appealing features.

While Zurich is often seen as an expensive destination, it’s worth noting that you can enjoy these parks and gardens free of charge. So why not swap a meal at a pricey restaurant for a delightful picnic amidst the scenic backdrop of trees, rivers, and a lake?

Zurich is home to several parks that are conveniently located near the city’s main attractions. For instance, Platzspitz Park is nestled right next to the Swiss National Museum. After spending hours exploring the museum, you can easily unwind in the park’s charming spots with some snacks from your bag.

Another park worth visiting is Rechberg, which is situated adjacent to a major tourist attraction, the Kunsthaus. With its elegant Baroque garden design, Rechberg offers a more refined setting for a picnic compared to Platzspitz.

However, if I were to pick my favorite park in Zurich’s city center, it would undoubtedly be Lake Promenade. This park boasts a beautiful beach, vibrant flowers in the summer, and a stunning view of the Alps.

Whether you’re strolling alongside wild swans or sitting on the grass watching the shimmering Zurich Lake, it’s an incredibly refreshing experience. Plus, you might even stumble upon street artists performing or inline skaters whizzing by on the paved path – talk about free entertainment!

3. Scenic Views from Uetliberg (Zurich’s Mountain)

If you only have a day to explore Switzerland, Zurich is undoubtedly the city to visit! This city offers a blend of cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty. Zurich is not only home to a beautiful lake, but it also boasts its own mountain. Mount Uetliberg, standing tall at 870 meters (or 2,850 feet), provides a panoramic view of Zurich.

From this vantage point, you can take in the sights of Lake Zurich and even the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps in the distance.

The view from Uetliberg is indeed a highlight of any visit to Zurich, especially if you’re short on time in Switzerland. This mountain gives Zurich an edge over other cities when it comes to tourism. Along with Lake Zurich, Uetliberg offers visitors an easy way to experience the tranquility of nature.

Reaching the peak of Mount Uetliberg is straightforward. While there are hiking trails for those who prefer a more active journey, a train from the city center is a convenient option for those pressed for time.

Although it’s rare to see a sea of clouds from lower-elevation peaks, you might be lucky enough to witness this breathtaking spectacle from Uetliberg. The view above the clouds is truly awe-inspiring, making you feel as if you’re in heaven.

The captivating scenery from the top of Uetliberg is equally enchanting in the afternoon and at sunset, adding a romantic touch to the experience. So, when planning your Zurich itinerary, make sure not to miss out on Uetliberg!

4. Lindenhof & The Old Town Zurich

You don’t need to venture out of Zurich’s city center to Uetliberg for panoramic views. The heart of Zurich, particularly the old town area known as Lindenhof, offers its own picturesque sights that are sure to captivate any shutterbug.

Lindenhof Park, nestled on a hill west of the Limmat River, serves as a prime vantage point overlooking Zurich’s old town, or “Altstadt”. This charming park, adorned with trees and benches, provides a tranquil spot to unwind after exploring Altstadt and its array of museums. 

Lindenhof Park can get quite busy, particularly during the peak tourist season. If you’re a photographer aiming to capture the best views of Altstadt, or a traveler seeking some quiet moments, I’d recommend visiting at sunrise. Depending on the weather, the city may still be shrouded in mist at this time, creating a magical atmosphere.

One of the lovely scenes of Lindenhof Park is the locals playing chess. But it’s not an average chess game — the pieces are life-sized, requiring you to physically move around to play. Whether you join in or simply watch, it’s these kinds of encounters that often make city travel so nice.

By the way, Lindenhof Park is just a 5-minute walk from the WOW Museum. After having fun at the museum, Lindenhof Park is an ideal next stop for some rest and relaxation.

5. Zurich’s 11-to-12-Centuries Old Churches

While Europe is indeed home to a multitude of stunning churches, when it comes to Switzerland, Zurich certainly stands out. The city is known for its 15 churches, but there are four in particular that are noteworthy and could be a compelling reason to visit Zurich.

The “Great Minster,” or Grossmünster, is a standout landmark in Zurich. This 12th-century reformed church graces the banks of the Limmat River and is steeped in history. Legend has it that the Grossmünster was built over the graves of Saint Felix and Saint Regula, Zurich’s patron saints. Its twin towers, with their distinctive design, can be seen from afar.

While the Grossmünster’s iconic twin towers are its most recognizable feature, you can also climb one of them for a breathtaking view of Zurich.

Across the Limmat River from the Grossmünster, you’ll find another notable church: Fraumünster. This church contributes to Zurich’s picturesque cityscape along the river. On a sunny day, when the river is calm, you can see the reflection of this church and its pointed spire on the water.

A short distance north of Fraumünster is Saint Peter’s Church. With foundations dating back to the 9th century, it’s Zurich’s oldest church and is renowned for its massive clock face tower. In fact, with a diameter of 8.7 meters, Saint Peter Church’s clock face is the largest in Europe!

When embarking on a church-hunting adventure in Zurich, make sure to include Enge Church on your list. Perched atop a moraine hill, this church is an architectural gem that embodies Zurich’s 19th-century liberal Protestantism. From its intricate mosaic and wooden floors to the majestic dome overhead, the church’s stunning elegance is a sight to behold.

In my view, it’s as if a church and a castle were beautifully merged into one. It’s no wonder it’s considered the most significant Neo-Renaissance church in Switzerland.

If, like me, you’re a fan of uncovering historical treasures and marveling at medieval architecture, then the churches in Zurich are a must-see! However, some of the most stunning churches I’ve encountered are in Venice , Rome , Milan , Reims , Strasbourg , Munich , and Lyon .

6. The Fun Festivals in Zurich

Despite the march of globalization and the rise of modern technology, culture remains one of Europe’s most captivating features. Zurich, a city with over 2,000 years of history, has cultivated its own unique culture that extends beyond its architectural structures.

Throughout the year, from February to December , you can immerse yourself in Zurich’s culture through more than 30 events. These include lively festivals, parades, and exhibitions that add to the city’s charm. While some traditions have been preserved over time, newer cultural events have brought a fresh wave of excitement.

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland and considering starting in Zurich, aligning your visit with these festivals could enhance your experience. You can find all the details about these events, including dates and other information, on the city’s official website .

There are three events in Zurich that I believe are particularly worth attending: ZüriCarneval, Street Parade, and Sechseläuten. These events offer a unique insight into the city’s vibrant culture and are sure to leave you with lasting memories.

First up is ZüriCarneval (Zurich Carnival), a high-spirited, colorful, and musical event that showcases different cultures, often European, in a carnival style. It’s an excellent event for families, as kids will undoubtedly enjoy the lively parade of costumed participants accompanied by bands playing musical instruments.

ZüriCarneval usually takes place in late winter or early spring, although the exact dates can vary depending on local and global circumstances. For instance, the event was scheduled to take place from March 4 – 6, 2022, but was postponed due to the pandemic. For more information, you can check out the ZuriCarneval’s webpage .

Another event that takes place in Zurich during spring is Sechseläuten, which translates to “The six o’clock ringing of the bells” in English. This festival is a celebration of an authentic Swiss tradition that occurs on the third Monday of April. The city has been observing this festival since the early 20th century, making it a longstanding part of Zurich’s cultural heritage.

Of all the events in Zurich, the Street Parade stands out as the most exhilarating. Known as the world’s largest techno party, this event is a whirlwind of fun and excitement!

During the Street Parade, the streets of Zurich and the basin of Lake Zurich come alive with people dancing and celebrating. Organizers typically set up more than seven party stages where hundreds of DJs spin and play electrifying electronic music. This epic celebration takes place every summer. For announcements and detailed information, be sure to check out the official Street Parade website .

Have you heard about the exciting and vibrant festivals in the cities of the French Alps? Annecy boasts a different festival for each season, while Chamonix hosts a unique festival amidst its mountains!

7. Ecstatic Nightlife in Zurich

Contrary to what you might think, Zurich isn’t just about the Street Parade – the city comes alive every night! If you’re looking to unleash your inner party animal, Zurich is the place to be.

It might be hard to imagine, especially when you see the city’s charming medieval attractions during the day. But did you know that Zurich boasts more bars per capita than any other city in Europe? Zurich Tourism lists over 230 bars and nightclubs for you to explore. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or trendy, cozy or lively, cultural or LGBTQ+ friendly, there’s a place that’s just right for you!

Feeling the urge to dance and party the night away?

Zurich’s clubs and discos cater to all generations, playing everything from Jazz, Latin, house, and hip-hop, to rock and party beats. Immerse yourself in an exhilarating night of live music at various venues across the city. Known for its vibrant concert culture, Zurich is a must-visit for music lovers!

If you’re into a chill, open, and laid-back atmosphere with alternative music, Helsinki Club might be your vibe.

If you’re unsure about which club or bar to visit, or if you’re up for some bar hopping, consider exploring Niederdorf, Langstrasse, and Zurich West. These areas offer a modern city vibe that contrasts with Zurich’s District 1 (Old Town).

While Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries and Zurich is generally safe, it’s always important to look after yourself and your belongings when exploring these nightlife districts.

8. The Cuisine and Restaurants in Zurich

Another compelling reason to visit Zurich is the city’s vast array of dining options. With hundreds of restaurants, takeaways, and delivery services at your fingertips, food-loving travelers are sure to be delighted.

Moreover, Zurich is a welcoming destination for those with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians, thanks to its wide variety of food choices. So, whether you’re a foodie or simply enjoy trying new cuisines, Zurich’s culinary scene is sure to satisfy your palate!

Zurich is a food lover’s paradise, with over 350 restaurants recommended by the tourism office, ensuring a quality dining experience. As of 2022, the city boasts 11 restaurants that have been awarded one to two Michelin stars, reflecting their exceptional culinary standards.

A third of the restaurants recommended by Zurich Tourism serve Swiss specialties like Raclette and Fondue. Additionally, over 50 establishments offer Italian dishes, and another 50 serve Mediterranean cuisine. The city also has a significant number of Asian restaurants.

For vegetarians and vegans, Zurich offers a selection of over 20 restaurants catering to your dietary preferences.

Remember, don’t limit your culinary exploration to just Zurich’s old town. The city’s other districts also offer a plethora of dining options that won’t disappoint.

9. Best Shopping Experiences in Switzerland

Fashion enthusiasts, luxury seekers, and souvenir hunters will find Zurich just as delightful as food lovers do. The city offers a shopping experience that caters to all tastes, from high-end boutiques to bustling flea markets.

It might sound cliché, but Zurich truly is a shopper’s paradise and that alone could be a compelling reason to visit.

While Zurich is renowned for its high-end shopping, it doesn’t mean that travelers on a budget can’t enjoy the city’s upscale shopping districts. You can always indulge in some window shopping or simply soak up the city’s glamorous atmosphere.

You might feel the need to dress to the nines before venturing into the city’s posh districts, but according to Switzerland Insider , most people aren’t concerned about whether you’re wearing designer clothes. The key is to be yourself and present yourself decently.

One district that embodies Zurich’s luxury is Bahnhofstrasse. This avenue isn’t just Switzerland’s most exclusive and expensive shopping street, but it’s also considered one of the most luxurious in all of Europe! Here, you’ll find sophisticated shops and high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Rolex, Versace, and more.

Alongside these boutiques, jewelry shops, and art galleries are cozy cafes where you can take a break from your shopping or sightseeing adventures.

Bahnhofstrasse, which begins at Bahnhofplatz or “Station Square,” extends all the way to Burkliplatz on Lake Zurich. This avenue spans 1.4 kilometers, and a leisurely stroll from one end to the other typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes.

Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can find affordable souvenirs at the Burkliplatz flea market located at the end of Bahnhofstrasse. The market offers a wide range of items, from antiques and electronics to clothing and accessories for both men and women. However, keep in mind that the flea market is only open on Saturdays from May through November.

Zurich boasts 11 additional department stores and shopping malls where you can shop to your heart’s content. Whether you’re preparing to head home or continue your journey through Switzerland, you’re sure to find everything you need in this city.

10. Zurich’s Charm and the Little Things You Can Discover

While I personally have a preference for nature travel, I’ve found that cities can often be full of unexpected delights. This is what makes urban travel so thrilling.

Zurich, being the largest city in Switzerland, is no exception. It’s filled with hidden gems that you won’t find in most guidebooks. From my perspective, these unique discoveries are what make a visit to Zurich so worthwhile.

One of the surprises awaiting you in Zurich is Fraumunster. From the outside, Fraumunster may appear to be just another historical attraction in Zurich. However, once you step inside, you’ll quickly realize that it’s anything but ordinary.

Take a moment to appreciate the mini-courtyard nestled between Fraumunster and Stadthaus Zürich. The architecture is simply superb and charming! Inside Fraumunster, you’ll be captivated by the honeycomb glass windows, elegant arcades, and ornate window frames, which together create a castle-like ambiance.

Venture into Fraumunster’s cloister and you’ll be greeted by impressive murals that narrate the history of early Christians in Zurich. And let’s not forget the church’s organ, considered the largest in the canton of Zurich.

With nearly 7000 pipes, it’s designed to leave anyone who sees and hears it in amazement. Zurich’s lovely and picturesque narrow lanes, like Augustinergasse near Lindenhof, are sure to bring a smile to your face, too. This vibrant street, adorned with the flags of Switzerland, is a must-see for any shutterbug! It offers a glimpse into Zurich’s rich history.

And if you’ve never seen a police station that doubles as a work of art, Zurich is the place to be! The entry hall, known as Giacometti-Halle, of the police station near the WOW museum features stunning frescoes painted by Giacometti. The ornately designed ceiling is a delightful spectacle waiting to be discovered in Zurich.

11. Lindt Home of Chocolate in Zurich

Shopping, nightlife, and what else puts Zurich on the map? Chocolates! Indeed, chocolates are a significant reason to visit Zurich.

Why, you ask? It’s because chocolates are deeply intertwined with the city’s history. Did you know that Zurich has been crafting chocolates and spreading sweetness around the world for nearly 200 years? The city’s first chocolate factory was established by Rudolf Sprüngli-Amman back in 1845.

While Zurich may not have been the first place in Switzerland to establish a chocolate factory, it has certainly earned its reputation as one of the country’s top destinations for chocolate lovers.

Leading the way are chocolate makers Lindt & Sprüngli.

In Zurich, you can do more than just shop for chocolates — you can truly immerse yourself in the world of chocolate. In 2020, Switzerland’s newest and most state-of-the-art chocolate museum, Lindt Home of Chocolate, opened its doors in Zurich.

At the Lindt Home of Chocolate museum, you’ll find the largest Lindt Chocolate Shop, spanning a floor area of 500 square meters, and a host of exciting and spectacular chocolate exhibits. The tour offers a wealth of knowledge about the Swiss cultural heritage of chocolate, covering not only Lindt but also other Swiss chocolate makers.

As you enter the venue, you’ll be greeted by a giant Lindt chocolate fountain — a chocolatey sight to behold!

The entry fee is 15 EUR, but with all the free chocolates you can sample and the wealth of knowledge you’ll gain, it’s well worth it! The tour covers everything from the ingredients used in chocolate to its history and manufacturing process. Learn more about Lindt Chocolate Factory from their official website .

12. Family Fun at Zurich’s Zoo

Earlier, we touched on the topic of chocolates, which are sure to delight children visiting Zurich. Another attraction that will captivate your little ones is the Zurich Zoo. This is a must-visit destination, especially if you’re traveling with kids!

Zurich Zoo is a haven for over 4000 animals, representing 380 species from all corners of the globe. Here, you can watch wildlife in their natural habitat, whether they’re grazing, crawling, or soaring in environments that mirror the savannah or the rainforest.

And it’s not just land animals; the zoo boasts an impressive aquarium as well! From penguins and alpacas to flamingoes, there’s a world of creatures waiting to be discovered. In fact, after a visit to Zurich Zoo, you might feel like you’ve embarked on a global expedition. The atmosphere is particularly immersive in the summer, transporting you to the heart of Africa, South America, or Asia.

What sets Zurich Zoo apart is its commitment to animal welfare. Rather than confining animals in cages, which can be disheartening, the zoo provides enclosures that closely resemble their natural habitats. This approach not only enhances the animals’ well-being but also makes them livelier and engaging for visitors.

Spread across a sprawling 10 hectares (or 25 acres), Zurich Zoo is a vast space to explore.

To make your journey more convenient, there’s a mini train that quickly shuttles you between different enclosures.

The zoo is also continually evolving. Future plans include an aerial cableway and a coastal ecosystem for sea birds and otters among other enhancements. So, every visit promises something new and exciting!

If you’re planning a trip to Zurich Zoo, I recommend visiting their [ official website ]. You’ll find all the information you need, including opening hours and visitor details. Don’t forget to check for any recent announcements!

Here’s a video introduction to Zurich Zoo for you to enjoy.

If you’re in search of a unique zoo adventure, Stuttgart is the place to be. It houses Wilhelma, a unique attraction that beautifully merges a zoo with a botanical garden.

13. More things to Do in Lake Zurich

As you’ve likely gathered from our previous discussions, Zurich is a city brimming with activities and attractions. But the appeal of Zurich doesn’t stop at destinations that require a train or car ride. There’s so much more to explore!

Consider taking a boat ride from the Limmat River to Lake Zurich, where you can discover the stunning locales that make Zurich so special. One such place is the Monastery Island of Ufenau. Here, you can interact with monks, marvel at medieval churches, and get a taste of the Swiss countryside.

Surrounded by the turquoise waters of Lake Zurich, this idyllic island is a must-visit destination.

Just a stone’s throw away from Ufenau Island, you’ll find the charming town of Rapperswil, affectionately known as the “City of Roses.” Rapperswil is home to a stunning castle, which, along with the quaint houses lining the shore, often casts a beautiful reflection on the surface of Lake Zurich.

The town truly comes alive in the summer, with vibrant flowers adding a splash of color to its medieval charm.

Rapperswil and Ufenau Island are nestled at the southern tip of Lake Zurich. While it’s about a two-hour boat ride to reach this picturesque corner of the lake, the journey is well worth it for the enchanting sights that await.

14. Zurich is Irresistibly Instagrammable

You’ve already seen how Zurich offers a wealth of attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers.

But did you also know that Zurich boasts some of the nicest architecture in Europe? Yes, Zurich is home to many buildings that are so exquisite and elegant that you’ll want to snap a photo of them.

Whether you’re a hobbyist photographer or just a curious explorer, these buildings in Zurich will give you plenty of reasons to visit the city. Especially since Zurich has a mix of medieval and modern architecture, you’ll have more options to admire and capture. For the beautiful medieval structures, you can check the previous sections of this blog post where I mention the churches and other landmarks of the city.

By the way, the Swiss National Museum has an amazing architecture too! For modern architecture, you may check the buildings listed in the post from  ArchDaily .

Here are some you can use as inspiration:

Are you in search of picturesque destinations that are perfect for your Instagram feed? Look no further than the enchanting locales of Colmar in France, the mystical Black Forest in Germany, and the charming towns of Franconia, such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Bamberg . And let’s not forget the idyllic villages nestled in the south of France . These places are so breathtakingly beautiful, they seem to have leapt straight out of a fairy tale.

15. Zurich Has Easy Access to The Best Destinations in Switzerland

Finally, one reason to visit or even stay in Zurich is its strategic location. While accommodations in Zurich might be a bit on the pricier side, the convenience it offers, especially in terms of transportation, is a significant advantage.

Zurich’s proximity and train connections to some of Switzerland’s top destinations make it an ideal base for exploration. Navigating from Zurich to other attractions via public transportation is a breeze.

However, if you prefer guided tours to avoid any hiccups, or if you’re keen on meeting new people on group tours, consider checking out the offers by GetYourGuide. They also provide skip-the-line passes and free public transport rides among other perks.

Best Time to Visit Zurich

Zurich is a destination for all seasons, with each one offering something unique to match your interests. But if you ask me, there’s something special about being in Zurich during a festival. It’s an opportunity to experience the city in an extraordinary way and create unforgettable memories.

Spring in Zurich is a season of start of outdoor adventures, and cultural festivities.

During this season, the trees and shrubs along the streets and lakeside promenade are adorned with fresh blooms, painting the cityscape with a palette of colors. The weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from a cool 45°F (7.22°C) to a warm 69°F (20.56°C).

Spring can be a perfect time to explore the city and its surroundings. Spring is also when Zurich’s outdoor life comes alive. The garden terraces and weekly markets are bustling with activity. And if you’re up for some adventure, the hiking paths around Lake Zurich are just waiting to be explored.

However, spring weather can be a bit of a tease. One moment it’s sunny, the next it could be raining. So, pack your suitcase with layers to be ready for all eventualities. When it comes to day trips, spring is a fantastic season to explore beyond the borders of Zurich.

But do keep in mind the weather and lingering snow. If you’re planning a day trip, I’d recommend visiting smaller towns and charming villages first. These places are perfect if you’re into sightseeing or just want to take it easy. Save the mountain excursions for later when the weather is more favorable.

While spring is not as crowded as summer, there can still be a fair number of tourists. Especially during events like Sechseläuten, Zurich’s traditional spring festival held in April.

In summary, summer in Zurich offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and lively events. The weather is usually pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 24°C, perfect for enjoying the outdoors. You can take a dip in Lake Zurich or the River Limmat, hike in the nearby hills and mountains, or simply relax at an outdoor cafe.

There are also plenty of events to keep you entertained.

From open-air concerts and movies to theater evenings, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention, the Street Parade and Zürcher Theater Spektakel are two major festivals that take place during the summer.

Summer is also the perfect time to venture out from Zurich and discover the wonders of Switzerland. Imagine yourself ascending Mount Titlis, strolling through the quaint streets of Lucerne, or standing in awe of the mighty Rheinfall, Europe’s largest waterfall. And if you’re up for an adventure, you can even take a day trip from Zermatt to Jungfraujoch, known as the Top of Europe!

However, do keep in mind that Zurich can get quite crowded in July and August. This could mean higher prices for hotels and flights, and reservations might be harder to come by.

You can easily immerse yourself in this spectacle by taking a leisurely hike up to Uetliberg or by enjoying a peaceful walk along the shores of Lake Zurich. And yes, it’s a great time for outdoor activities like hiking, and you can also enjoy the culinary specialties and wines that are unique to this season.

However, do keep in mind that the weather can be a bit unpredictable. It starts to get chilly and there can be more rain, and occasionally snow at high elevations. Fog often appears during this season.

Also, while most tourists are gone by late September, Swiss schools have fall breaks for 1-2 weeks between end of September and mid-October, so some mountain resorts can get busy during this time.

When it comes to day trips from Zurich in the autumn, you’re in for a real treat! There are several destinations that become even more photogenic with the lovely hues of autumn leaves. While popular attractions in the Swiss Alps are always a hit, visiting less crowded villages could offer you some uniquely stunning photo opportunities.

In terms of temperature, autumn in Switzerland is from September to November. Temperatures slowly go down from 20 degrees Celsius in September to 9 degrees in November. October is the driest month in Zurich, and chilly fall air—the average high is 56 degrees F (13 degrees C)—lends a crispness to the scene.

And don’t forget about the cultural events! Here are several events in Zurich during the autumn season such as the Zurich Film Festival, DAZ – Digital Art Zurich, and Expovina Wine Fair.

If you don’t mind the cold and love a festive atmosphere, Zurich in winter could be a great choice for you! Zurich is a winter wonderland during the colder months, and it’s a great time to visit if you enjoy a festive atmosphere.

The city is beautifully decorated and there are Christmas markets all over the place. You can also attend special events like Advent for Children and light festivals. If you’re into sports, you can try out winter activities like skating, skiing, and tobogganing.

However, do keep in mind that the weather can get quite cold. The average temperature in January is around 1.1°C (33.9°F), so make sure to pack warm clothes! Of course, one of the best things about visiting Zurich in winter is that it’s not as crowded. You’ll find it easy to get a table at a restaurant or use public transportation.

How Long to Stay in Zurich

The duration of your visit to Zurich largely hinges on your plans for exploring Switzerland.

If you’re considering using Zurich as your main base, as I suggested earlier, a three-day stay would be ideal. This would allow you ample time to discover Zurich and venture out to one or two other Swiss locations.

Now, if you’re looking to just skim the surface, get a feel for the city, and visit the main attractions like the historic Old Town, Lake Zurich, and Swiss National Museum, then 1 to 2 days should do the trick. You should stay at least 2 days in Zurich to experience what it is like at night.

But if you’re someone who likes to dive deep and experience all that a city has to offer — from museums to churches, from nightlife to shopping districts — then I’d recommend a 3-day stay in Zurich. This gives you enough time to not just visit but truly experience these places.

Where to Stay in Zurich

When you’re visiting Zurich, deciding where to stay can really shape your experience. Here are some areas you might want to consider:

• Old Town (Altstadt) : It’s right in the heart of Zurich, so you’ll be close to major attractions like Fraumünster Church and Bahnhofstrasse. But keep in mind, it can get a bit crowded and might be a bit pricier due to its central location.
• Langstrasse : If you’re someone who enjoys a vibrant nightlife, Langstrasse is the place for you. Once known as Zurich’s red-light district, it’s now a bustling neighborhood with lots of affordable hotels. Just remember, it can get a bit noisy at night.
• Enge : If you’re traveling with family or just love being close to nature, consider staying in Enge. It’s a lush neighborhood located along the western shores of Lake Zurich. However, it might not have as many nightlife options as other areas.
• Riesbach : For those who appreciate stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, Riesbach is a great choice.
• Zurich West : This former industrial area is now a trendy district filled with creativity. It’s also quite budget-friendly, making it a good choice for travelers on a budget.

Speaking of budget-friendly areas, both Langstrasse and Zurich West offer affordable accommodations.

Discover the best hotel deals in Zurich with my recommended hotel finder . It comes with a map feature, making it a breeze to locate hotels in the areas I’ve mentioned.

How to Get to Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a breeze to get to, thanks to its excellent connections. Here’s how you can reach Zurich.

If you’re flying in, you’ll likely land at Zurich Airport, which is a quick 10km (6 miles) hop from the city center. From there, you have a few options:

• Train : The quickest way into the city. Trains leave the airport every 5-10 minutes and will get you to the main station in about 15 minutes.
• Tram : A slower but scenic option is tram line number 10. It takes about 35 minutes.
• Taxi or Private Transfers : If you prefer a door-to-door service, taxis or private transfers are available, though prices and waiting times can vary.

If you’re already in Switzerland and want to visit Zurich, hopping on a train is your best bet. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) connects Zurich with all major Swiss cities.

Zurich isn’t just well-connected within Switzerland — it’s a major hub for trains throughout Europe. You can catch a direct train from several cities outside Switzerland, including:

• Germany : Cities like Mannheim, Stuttgart, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin
• Austria : Cities like Innsbruck, Salzburg, Vienna
• France : Cities like Paris, Dijon
• Italy : Cities like Milan , Verona , Genoa, Bologna

Getting Around Zurich

Zurich is compact, so walking or biking is a great way to explore. But, of course, there are the public transportation and driving options.

Public Transportation in Zurich

If you’re going a bit further, the public transportation system is top-notch. It includes trams, buses, trains, and even boats! You can grab tickets from machines or use transport passes.

And hey, if you’re up for a little adventure to explore the city, why not rent an electric scooter or bike? And don’t forget about the boat tours on Lake Zurich.

What I like so much about Zurich’s public transportation? It’s super punctual. If the display says the tram will arrive at 11:05, you can bet it will be there on the dot!

Now, if you’re planning to explore, consider getting a Zürich Card .

It not only gives you unlimited 2nd class travel on all forms of public transportation in the city, but also offers free or reduced admission to dozens of museums, a discounted walking tour, and even a cruise on the Limmat River.

If you’re comfortable with German (or have a handy translate option), the ZVV mobile app is great for searching routes.

And here’s a cool fact: all the transportation companies in Zurich are united under the Zurich Transport Association (ZVV). That means one ticket gets you access to all forms of transportation in the city network – including boats, funicular railways, and cable cars.

Driving in Zurich

If you’re thinking about driving, keep in mind that while it’s possible, traffic and parking can be a bit of a hassle.

If you’re planning to drive around Zurich, here are three parking spots you might want to consider:

• Parking Zürich AG : This one’s right in the city center, so it’s super convenient if you’re planning to explore the heart of Zurich. But keep in mind, its central location might make it a bit pricier.
• Parkhaus Urania : This parking garage is open 24/7 and has a nifty guidance system that’ll lead you straight to your parking space. It’s also smack dab in the middle of the city, so it’s perfect for sightseeing. Just remember, convenience comes with a cost – parking fees here can be a bit steep.
• SHELL HARDAU : This is a well-known brand and it’s open from 7:00 to 22:00 from Monday to Friday. But remember, it’s not open all the time, so you’ll need to plan your parking times accordingly.

Just a heads up – parking regulations in Zurich are pretty strict. It’s generally best to stick to marked parking places or park-houses in the city. 

Learn more about traveling to Zurich by Car .

Outside of Zurich

Now, if you’re planning to visit places like Lucerne, Interlaken, St. Moritz, Winterthur, Rheinfall, Saint Gallen, or Chur from Zurich, here’s the scoop:

All these places are accessible by train or car.

Lucerne is about 52.6 kilometers away, Interlaken is around 119 kilometers away, St. Moritz is about 203 kilometers away, Winterthur is just 26 kilometers away, Rheinfall is approximately 48 kilometers away, Saint Gallen is around 85 kilometers away, and Chur is about 119 kilometers away.

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and might be handy if you’re planning to visit multiple places in one day.

But remember to check the driving rules in Switzerland and make sure your driver’s license is valid there before you hit the road.

That said, Switzerland’s public transportation system is excellent. So, if you’d rather sit back and enjoy the ride, hopping on a train is a fantastic option.

Where To Next After Zurich?

After you’ve soaked in the sights of Zurich, here’s where you can head next:

• Lucerne  is a charming city known for its preserved medieval architecture and it sits amid snowcapped mountains on Lake Lucerne.
• Interlaken , located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is a haven for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
• Lauterbrunnen , set in a valley featuring rocky cliffs and the roaring Staubbach Falls, is a sight to behold.
• Grindelwald , a village on the foot of Eiger, is a popular gateway for more outdoor fun in the Jungfrau Region.
• Also from the Alps:  Kandersteg  is the resort village closest to the awe-inspiring Oeschinensee.
• Along the pre-Alps: Gruyères  is a medieval town known for its cheese.
• Another top destination in Switzerland: Zermatt , a mountain resort renowned for skiing, climbing and hiking is another great destination. It is the village which has the best views of the Matterhorn .

More in the Swiss Alps region, you have  Sion , the capital of the canton of Valais,  Thun , a city located where the Aare River flows out of Lake Thun, and  Montreux , located on Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps. Don’t miss out on  Brig  for its spectacular views of Pennine Alps.

Finally, round off your Swiss adventure with visits to other cities like  Geneva , known for its Red Cross headquarters and United Nations office;  Bern , the capital city of Switzerland known for its medieval city center; and  Basel , known as a hub for art and history lovers.

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Zurich Airport Guide

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Explore

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

Guide to Lake Zurich

Day Trips From Zurich

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in Zurich

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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How To Spend A Perfect Long Weekend In Beautiful Zürich, Switzerland

• Destinations
• Switzerland
• Types of Travel
• Weekend Getaway

Zürich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a cosmopolitan metropolis packed with great culture, a significant art scene, superior food, and handsome architecture. The city is super easy to get around by either strolling the hilly streets or taking the efficient trams. Three to four days is ideal to fully explore this Swiss city.

Besides being surrounded by the luscious green hills of the Swiss Plateau, Zürich is blessed with two, sparkling waterways, Lake Zürich and the Limmat River, giving the city an added natural beauty. Use our travel guide below to plot out how to best spend your time in the city of Zürich.

Pro Tip: Swiss German, a specific German dialect, is the official language of Zürich, but English is spoken in almost all the shops, restaurants, and hotels. 

Activities On Lake Zürich

Take advantage of the vast, clear Lake Zürich, measuring 34 square miles, by partaking in some of the fun activities. 

1. Swimming

During the summer months, the city sections off parts of the lake for swimming along with bathhouses where you can get a locker and a towel for a small fee. If you are brave enough to bear the cold, take a swim in the winter months, where you can also warm up afterward in a sauna around the Enge area of the lake. 

2. Boat Rentals 

Close to the centrally located Zürich Opera House is Lago, a platform where you can rent a motorboat or paddleboat. You also have the option of hiring a skipper to navigate a private yacht rental. 

Pro Tip: You don’t need to have a boating license to rent a motorboat. 

3. Stand-Up Paddle Boarding/SUP

If you are the more adventurous type, rent a paddle board from Supswiss , and glide away on the lake. 

There’s a wide variety of cruises and cruise boats that cross Lake Zürich and the Limmat River. Tours last anywhere from 50 minutes to a full day. There are also specialty voyages such as a cheese fondue cruise, literary cruise, brunch cruise, and murder mystery cruise. The Lake Zürich Navigation Company is the main company that organizes cruises on Lake Zürich. 

Cycling on the perimeter of Lake Zürich is another terrific way to see the highlights of Zürich as well as the luxurious mansions and villas lining the lake. You can also see the Glarus Alps. At the end of your journey, you can relax in the thermal baths. There’s a two-stage route covering 32 miles in total. 

Pro Tip: If you have an afternoon to spare, hop on the tram to take the train to Uetliberg . The hour journey up the alpine mountain is worth it for panoramic views of the city and an idyllic view of Lake Zürich. In addition to a bird’s eye view, the mountain offers hiking, biking, and toboggan trails.

The Old Town

One of the unmissable highlights of Zürich is the Old Town, or Altstadt . Put on your most comfortable and sturdiest rubber-soled shoes or sneakers and explore the quaint, cobblestone streets, buildings, and homes with colored facades and towers dating back as far as the 13th century, ancient water basins and fountains, old-world cafés and restaurants, and small boutiques and individual shops. There are four sections of the Old Town: Lindenhaus, Rathaus, Hochschulen, and City which cover both sides of the Limmat River.

6. Lindenhof

One of the oldest parts of Zürich is the Lindenhof, which is lined with linden trees and is traced back to Roman times of the 1st century B.C. Rathaus is the original city hall of Zürich from the 1300s, and the current structure was constructed in the 1700s, incorporating Baroque and Renaissance architecture. 

7. Café & Conditorei 1842

Take a break during your walk and indulge in a sumptuous pastry at Café & Conditorei 1842 . The tea salon, café, and confection shop have been a local favorite since — you guessed it — 1842. Specialties include its famous, sinfully rich hot chocolate topped with fresh whipped cream.

8. Churches

Here, you can see some of the most famous buildings and churches in Zürich, including the double towers  Grossmunster  and  Peterskirche , which features  the largest clockface  in Europe. One of the most stunning places in Zürich , the Fraumünster (Minster of Our Lady) church is known for its green spire, enormous organ with 5,793 pipes, and stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.

If you’d like to take a guided walking tour to see the best Old Town has to offer, this 2-hour tour is one of the most popular with tourists and locals alike.

Pro Tip: A visit to Zürich’s Old Town wouldn’t be complete without checking out the haute-couture shops along Zürich’s world-famous Bahnhofstrasse . This pedestrian and tram-only street is a super-luxe shopping strip. For more affordable shopping, visit the Niederdorf  area of Old Town.

Zürich West

A former industrial and red-light district, Zürich West has been transformed into an epicenter of shopping, dining, and arts. It is home to theaters, contemporary architecture, art galleries, residential living, and nightlife.

9. IM VIADUKT

Shop regional and imported foods at IM VIADUKT , a former railway viaduct that now houses unique shops, restaurants, and a Markthalle full of food vendors.

Chocolate, Chocolate, And Even More Chocolate 

Just the mere mention of Switzerland immediately conjures up the word chocolate. Swiss chocolate is famed the world over and on almost every corner of Zürich, there’s a chocolate shop waiting for you to try. 

10. Lindt Home Of Chocolate

Even a die-hard chocoholic will be impressed with a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate museum and chocolate factory. Lindt Home of Chocolate opened in 2020 and is the largest museum of its type in the world. The centerpiece of the vast, 65,000 square-foot complex, is an astounding, 30-foot-high chocolate fountain in the white marble lobby of the museum, where 1,500 liters of liquid chocolate flows off a giant gold whisk onto a truffle.

A winding marble staircase takes you through the various levels of the museum where there are interactive displays. You will learn about the origins and the thousands year old history of the cacao bean, first developed in South America and the Amazon, how chocolate made its way to Europe, how the chocolate industry in Switzerland was developed in the early 1800s, and how milk chocolate was invented in Switzerland in 1879. You also get to see the latest technology in how chocolate is produced and the best part of your visit is the unlimited chocolate tasting during the tour. There’s a café and restaurant with chocolate treats, hot chocolate, and an enormous store selling every variation of Lindt chocolate you can imagine.

Pro Tip: The Lindt Home of Chocolate is about a 20-minute bus ride from the city center. Take the #165 bus from the Bürkliplatz stop to the Lindt & Sprüngli stop. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes. You can pre-purchase your tickets here .

11. Sprungli

Sprungli is one of the top chocolate and confectionery brands in Zürich. The flagship store on the Paradeplatz includes a café and restaurant. Peruse the dozens of showcases featuring chocolate pralines, truffles, and milk, white, and dark chocolate bars with varying cacao percentages. A non-chocolate, signature specialty at Sprungli is Luxemburgerli, a bite-size macaron in over a dozen flavors. 

12. Max Chocolatier 

Located on a small street in the Old Town, Max Chocolatier produces super high-quality handmade chocolates in small batches. 

Zürich is the birthplace of the Dada art movement. The “anti-aesthetic” movement is said to have received its funny name in 1916 when a group of war resisters and young artists randomly chose it from a dictionary at Hugo Ball’s Cabaret Voltaire, aka history’s wildest nightclub . It is no surprise then, that the city is home to some incredible museums.

13. Kunsthaus Zürich

The largest and most significant art museum in Switzerland, Kunsthaus Zürich houses centuries of artworks from the Middle Ages all the way to contemporary, 21st-century works. In addition to works by Swiss artists such as Alberto Giacometti, you can also see pieces by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, and Marc Chagall.

In 2021, the Kunsthaus Zürich expanded with a new wing dedicated to works from the 1960s and it also contains the Emil Bührle Collection, which is one of the most prized and important art collections in Switzerland. Together, the two structures now constitute the largest art museum in Switzerland. 

Pro Tip: Don’t leave without laying eyes on Andy Warhol’s Big Torn Campbell’s Soup Can (Vegetable Beef) .

Editor’s Note: Due to a fire, the museum is only partially open as of November 2022.

14. Le Corbusier House 

The Pavillon Le Corbusier is the last building designed by groundbreaking architect Le Corbusier. In 1960, Heidi Weber, a Swiss interior designer, art patron, and gallery owner, enlisted Le Corbusier to build a museum in Zürich, and she used her own money to finance the construction. Opened in 1967, over the next 50 years Weber ran the museum and funded its upkeep and exhibitions. The stunning steel and glass building with bright-colored panels sits on a grassy knoll surrounded by tall trees. 

Pro Tip: Stroll through the streets near the Le Corbusier House and discover beautiful Art Nouveau mansions and homes from the late 20th century. 

15. Swiss National Museum

Learn about Swiss history and culture at the Swiss National Museum or Landesmuseum Zürich . With exhibits for all ages, it is conveniently located next to the Zürich Hauptbahnhof (train station).

16. FIFA Museum

Sports fans may want to check out the FIFA Museum , where three floors of exhibits are dedicated to the world’s most popular sport, fútbol (aka soccer), and its governing body. You can even see the FIFA World Cup Trophy!

Editor’s Note: The FIFA World Cup Trophy is currently at the FIFA World Cup competition in Qatar and will return to the museum after its completion in December 2022.

Restaurants And Cafés

There’s an eclectic range of cuisine in Zürich’s restaurants and cafés including traditional Swiss, French, Thai, Japanese, and German cuisines.

Restaurant Zum Kropf 

A 15th-century house with rich wood paneling and hand-painted ceilings and murals is the backdrop for Restaurant zum Kropf , which serves traditional Swiss dishes such as leberknödelsuppe (liver dumpling soup), bratwurst sausages, boiled beef, wiener schnitzel, apple strudel, and an extensive beer menu. 

Razzia 

A grand cinema from 1920 has been converted into an uber-cool, contemporary restaurant. Razzia serves a stylish menu of Asian fusion cuisine with Thai touches. Diners can peer into the open kitchen and enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine in the connecting chic bar and lounge. 

Café Bar ODEON

Café Bar ODEON is a legendary, Art Nouveau-style coffee house from 1911 and is known for its roster of intellectual elite clientele of artists, writers, musicians, and poets including Somerset Maugham, Erich Maria Remarque, Toscanini, and Albert Einstein. 

Hotels 

Ameron zürich bellerive au lac.

The ideal location of AMERON Zürich Bellerive au Lac , facing Lake Zürich, is close to the opera house and downtown. It is also within walking distance to the Old Town. The rooms and public areas are a pleasant combination of Art Deco and contemporary design. Room amenities include a king-size bed, free bottled water, heated bathroom floors, a safe, a Nespresso machine, and air conditioning. 

La Réserve Eden Au Lac Zürich

In the super luxury, five-star hotel category, La Réserve Eden au Lac Zürich is at the very top. World-renowned architect and designer Philippe Starck converted a 100-year-old hotel directly on Lake Zürich into a stylish recreation of an exclusive yacht club. La Reserve Eden au Lac has only 40 rooms, mostly with views of the lake, and amenities include a separate dressing room, a Nespresso machine, a safe, and luxury toiletries.

The Eden suite, measuring a spacious 850 square feet, has a king-size bed, a living room, and four balconies that face the lake. The La Muna restaurant on the sixth floor with wood floors, beams, and walls has the feel of an intimate chalet and has 360-degree views of Lake Zürich and the city. In warmer weather, the restaurant extends outside with a tree-lined terrace. 

Bonus Tips For Visiting Zurich

Download the Zürich Card to your smartphone to enjoy unlimited “second class” travel for 24 or 72 hours. This includes travel by train, bus, tram, and cable car within Zürich and its surrounding region. It will even cover your train ride to the city center from Zürich Airport. The Zürich Card also offers discounts on admission to attractions such as museums and activities such as tours.

Guided Tour

If you are short on time and want to see as much of Zürich as possible, this tour includes an educational bus ride through the city, a boat cruise on Lake Zürich, exploring the Lindt Home of Chocolate, and touring the Zürichberg district.

Check The Exchange Rate

The current exchange rate of the Swiss franc (CHF) to the U.S. dollar is $1.05, but be prudent when planning your trip as Zürich can be on the expensive side.

Related Reading:

• 7 Key Tips For Skiing Switzerland’s Beautiful Jungfrau Region
• 7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting The Swiss Alps
• How To Spend 3 Perfect Days In Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

Home » Destinations » Cities & Villages

50 Best Things to Do in Zurich

• Eastern Switzerland
• Zürich City

• Last Updated: 22 Sep 2023
• By Tanya, Founder of Swiss Family Fun

If you buy something through a link here, we may earn a commission. See our disclosure policy . Note that p rices and opening times may change without notice.

Zurich isn’t just a place I call home; it’s a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered by travelers like you. From scenic lakeshores to world-class museums, delectable Swiss chocolate to architectural marvels,  Zurich promises to delight and enchant at every corner.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, our curated list of activities takes you straight to the heart of our city’s culture, cuisine, and character. 

I’ve included both popular “must see” sights and low key experiences that give you a sense of the culture and local lifestyle. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and let’s explore the fun-filled experiences that await you in Zurich. 

Zurich walking tour

Lake cruises, food lovers, sporty activities, parks for relaxing, fun for kids, rainy day in zurich, day trips from zurich, night-time activities, frequently asked questions.

Zurich is a very walkable city, with most landmarks centered in a relatively small area. If you want a flexible schedule, try my self-guided Zurich walking tour that wander the cobblestone lanes of the old town. I also have chocolate walking tour , which visits a bunch of chocolate shops as you explore the old town, particularly nice if you have kids in your group.

Plan about 90 mins to 2 hours, depending on how many stops you make at various landmarks and shops.  

If you want to learn as you walk, you may find it more fun (and efficient) to join a guided walking tour , in which you’ll learn all about the rich history of this city and region.

Zurich Tourism offers a 2 hour guided walking tour in English. It costs CHF 25/adult, 50% discount with Zurich Card. We also like Free Walk Zurich , where you don’t have to sign up beforehand and you can tip what you want.

If you don’t have time or energy for a full walking tour, we suggest visiting a few of the most popular landmarks and viewpoints from our list below. See also all our favorite Zurich photo spots .

1. Grössmünster cathedral

The twin towers of the Grossmünster define the skyline of Zurich city. This Romanesque-style cathedral is the rumored site where Charlemagne discovered Zurich’s patron saints’ graves. If you can manage the 187 steps, we suggest climbing the tower for fantastic views across the city and Lake Zurich.

Cost: free to enter church, CHF 5 to climb tower

Location: Zwinglipl. 7, 8001 Zürich

Open: daily 10:00 – 18:00

Website : grossmuenster.ch

2. Fraumunster cathedral & Münsterhof square

This stunning church, originally founded in the 9th century, boasts a modern twist with its stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall. The windows are best enjoyed in the mornings, when light streams in through the colorful glass. You pay a small fee to tour the catherdral and crypt museum, with audio guide included.

Just outside the cathedral, the Münsterhof square is a great place to relax and watch the world go by. There are a few cafes with outdoor seating, including excellent coffee at ViCAFE, and free chairs in the middle of the square.

Cost: CHF 5 which includes an audio guide. Free with Zürich Card.

Location: Stadthausquai 19 8001  Zürich

Open: Mon to Fri 10:00 – 18:00, open Sundays after services until 18:00

Website: fraumuenster.ch

3. Lindenhof park

This quiet park on a hill in Zurich’s old town has one of the best views of the city. It’s elevated position provides panoramic views of Zurich’s charming old town, the Limmat River, and the distant Swiss Alps. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, selfies, or a relaxing picnic.

This hilltop oasis is not only known for its lush greenery but also its rich history, dating back to Roman times. As you explore Lindenhof, you’ll discover remnants of ancient Roman and medieval settlements, including old walls and pathways.

My favorite part is the Hedwig fountain, which commemorates the women who, in 1292, successfully fooled the invading army by dressing up in battle armor, making it look like Zurich was well defended although most men were away fighting elsewhere.

Location: see on map

4. Augustinergasse

My favorite street in Zurich is Augustinergasse, a narrow cobblestone lane in the old town. It’s filled with quaint boutiques, charming cafes, and unique shops that offer a glimpse into Zurich’s rich cultural heritage.

It’s also one of the most photographed spots in Zurich and well worth a slow stroll. If you’re lucky, the fountain at the end of the lane will be filled with flowers by the nearby floral shop.

5. St Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church in Zurich is one of the city’s oldest churches, dating back to the 9th century. Its most distinctive feature is the giant clock face, the largest in Europe at 8.7 meters in diameter, adorning the church tower. You can see this clock from all over Zurich, a fun way to tell the time.

You can only climb the tower as part of a private tour, which can be arranged on their website.

Location: St.-Peter-Hofstatt 8001  Zürich

Open: Mon to Fri 8:00 – 18:00, Sat 10:00 – 16:00, Sun 10:00 – 17:00

Website: www.st-peter-zh.ch

6. Niederdorf neighborhood

Niederdorf is the lively and historic heart of Zurich’s Old Town, known for its vibrant atmosphere and charming cobblestone streets. It’s a bustling neighborhood filled with a diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

As you wander through Niederdorf, you’ll encounter a mix of historic buildings, including medieval and Baroque architecture, creating a captivating backdrop for your exploration.

It’s our favorite place to window shop and meet friends here for dinner and drinks. You can simply wander along Niederdorstrasse as far as you like, as it stretches from Central to Bellevue. One of the nicest squares is Hirschenplatz , which has lots of cafes with outdoor seating.

7. Bellevue & Sechseläutenplatz

This large plaza in front of the Zurich opera house is the heart of the city. Many events are held here, including a Christmas market, fairs, concerts, circus, and most notably, the spring Sechseläuten festival, which includes a traditional burning of a snowman to see how hot summer will be. When you visit, there might be some fun going on here.

Even without an event, it’s one of the nicest places to lounge and people watch. There are lots of chairs scattered around, with sun umbrellas on the hottest days. We often take our visitors here after getting bratwurst to go at the nearby Sternen Grill.

See Sechseläutenplatz on map .

8. Polybahn funicular train and Polyterrasse viewpoint

One of the nicest views of Zurich is from the terrace in front of the famous ETH Zürich, the university Einstein attended. From the old town, you can ride a vintage funicular train, called the Polybahn, up the hill.

Then a short walk to the terrace and viewpoint. To continue your tour of Zurich, you can ride or walk back down to the old town.

Cost: This ride is included with the Zürich Card or Zürich day pass.

Location: Polybahn starts at Limmatquai 144, 8001 Zürich near Central tram stop. See Polyterrasse on map .

9. Uetliberg – Zurich’s mountain

We always take our visitors to Uetliberg, which is a small mountain on the southwest edge of Zurich city. You can ride a train to the top, where there is a panorama viewpoint of the city, lake, and alps in the distance.

From Zurich HB main station, ride the S10 train to the Uetliberg stop, about 20 mins. Then a short walk uphill to the viewpoint over Zurich. If you are sporty, you can hike up Uetliberg instead of taking the train.

At the top, there is a safely fenced viewpoint, a tower to climb (small fee), and a restaurant at the hotel.

Time: about 90 mins, including travel time round trip

Cost 2023: CHF 17.60 round trip from Zurich HB. Free with ZürichCARD.

Open: year round / train runs every 20 mins from 6:15, last train down at 22:58

Learn more about visiting Uetliberg .

10. Lake Zurich promenade

A visit to Zurich city is not complete without a stroll on the lakeside promenade. As Zurich city is set on the northern tip of Lake Zurich, activities near, on and in the water are a big part of city life.

At a minimum, we suggest starting at Zurich Bellevue and walking south along the lake. There are a couple of cafes along the way and, in good weather, food carts for snacks and ice cream.

You can walk about 20 mins to Zurichhorn, where you’ll find many places to lounge along the water and enjoy long views down the lake to the mountains. There are also large grassy fields, a playground, and a lakeside beer garden.

If you don’t want to walk back, you can catch a boat at Zürihorn , bus at China Garten or tram at Höschgasse . These are all covered the a city day pass or ZürichCARD.

Time: plan for about 60 mins

Learn more about this Zurich lakeside walk . See more Zurich city walks .

Zurich has many interesting museums, but here are my top three to consider if you are visiting for only one day. These are also a great choice for a rainy day .

11. Swiss National Museum (aka Landesmuseum)

If you are interested in Swiss history and culture, this excellent museum next to the Zurich HB train station is a great place to start. It is full of excellent multimedia presentations and interactive displays that walk you from the ancient origins of this land all the way to modern days.

It’s a huge museum, which a somewhat confusing layout. If you want to skip straight to the relatively modern history that covers the world war era, ask the docents to point you to the “History of Switzerland” exhibition.

They usually have a “History of Switzerland” guided tour in English on the last Sunday of the month (included with entrance fee). Best to book ahead .

Time: plan for about 1.5 – 2 hours

Open: Tue-Sun 10:00 – 17:00 / Thurs open until 19:00 / Closed Mondays

Cost: CHF 10/adult, free under age 16. Free with Zürich Card.

Location: Museumstrasse 2, Zürich – next to Zürich main station

Website: www.landesmuseum.ch

12. Kunsthaus – Zürich art museum

Zurich has a surprisingly good art collection for a relatively small city. It boasts some of the best exhibitions and collections in the world, with pieces ranging from Old Masters to Impressionism and Contemporary Art. In 2021, they opened a new wing, making it Switzerland’s largest art museum.

The Kunsthaus houses many famous pieces as well as important Swiss artists you may not be so familiar with. It is also home to the extensive and controversial Emil Bührle Collection .

The café in the new wing has delicious croissants and a delightful interior, perfect for your Insta story.

Time: plan for about 2 hours

Open: Tues – Sun 10:00 – 18:00, Thur until 20:00, closed Mondays

Cost 2023: CHF 23/adult, free under age 17, free on Wednesdays, free every day with Zürich Card. Extra for temporary exhibits.

Location: Heimplatz 1, Zürich / tram stop: Kunsthaus

Website: www.kunsthaus.ch

13. FIFA Museum

Zürich is the official FIFA headquarters and home to a fantastic museum dedicated to the sport. The beautiful, modern museum is filled with World Cup memorabilia, historical and cultural exhibits, player stories, and much more.

Many exhibits include engaging interactive multimedia displays that make the experience fun for both fans and newbies. Kids will particularly enjoy the life-sized pinball style football games and creative art corner.

They have an excellent audio guide and the displays are very informative. But if you want a more personal touch, book a guided tour .

See our review of the FIFA Museum .

Time: about 2 hours

Cost: CHF 24/adult, CHF 14/child, under 7 free. Book tickets here . Discount with Zurich Card. 

Open: Tues – Sun 10:00 – 18:00 / Closed Mondays

Location:   Seestrasse 27, 8002 Zürich / tram stop: Zürich, Bahnhof Enge

Website: www.fifamuseum.com

Water is a big feature of Zurich city, as it sits on the north end of Lake Zurich and the Limmatt river cuts directly through the old town. So doing a boat cruise is a great way to see some of the city and environs.

This map from the Zürichsee brochure shows the short cruises we suggest below. You can also use boats to reach some attractions, like Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg.

14. Limmat river cruise

This little boat cruises along the Limmat river, where you can see some of the most beautiful Zurich landmarks like the Grossmünster cathedral. From the Zürich main station, it’s a 30 min trip down river and along the lake to Zürichhorn, a nice lakeside park.

If you have time, we suggest get off the boat at Zürichhorn , where you can enjoy refreshments at the beer garden with lake views. Then you can ride the boat back to the city.

Or you can walk back to the city along the lovely lakeside promenade. The walk takes about 25 mins to reach Bellevue, where you’ll find restaurants and trams connecting to all parts of the city.

The boat has a glass roof, so you have unobstructed views. It is air conditioned. It has room for one wheelchair, but strollers must be folded.

Time: 30 mins one way, 55 mins round trip

Cost: CHF 4.40/adult round trip, CHF 14/child6-16, under 6 free. Free with Zürich Card and Zurich city day pass.

Open: daily April – late October / departs every 30 mins from 10:50 – 17:20 (until 19:50 in July & Aug)

Location: board boat on Limmat river near Zürich HB main station, stop: Zürich Landesmuseum

Website: www.zsg.ch

15. Short lake cruise

The “Short Lake Cruise” is a 90 min loop around the north end of Lake Zurich. This is a good choice if you want to spend more time on the water or want a break from walking. You can hop on & off the boat at any of the stops.

We suggest combining this with a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate, which is at the Kilchberg ZH stop . Then get back on the boat and continue the cruise back to Zurich.

There are also many dining cruises, like the Brunch Cruise , which runs on Sundays, and Cheese Fondue Cruise , which runs in fall and winter. You need to book ahead for these special cruises.

Time: 90 min loop

Cost: CHF 8.80/adult round trip, CHF 4.40/child 6-16, under 6 free. Free with Zürich Card.

Open: year round / departs every 30 mins from 10:30 – 18:30 (until 19:50 in July & Aug)

Location: Zürich Bürkliplatz ferry dock / tram stop: Bürkliplatz

16. Boating on Lake Zurich

You can rent small boats to cruise around the top of Lake Zurich. They offer row boats, pedal boats, and slow motor boats – no boating license required. They have boats that fit up to 5 people, children allowed and life vests provided. You don’t need a reservation. 

Cost: from CHF 25 – 200

Locations: Hafen Enge at Mythenquai 25, 8002 Zürich – bootsvermietungenge.ch Bellevue at Utoquai 6, 8008 Zürich – lago-zuerich.ch

Here are our favorite ways in Zurich to introduce our visitors to Swiss chocolate.

17. Zurich chocolate shops

Switzerland is famous for its chocolate and Zurich is a great place to eat it. I have a self-guided chocolate walking tour that visits over a dozen chocolate shops in the city.

If you only have time to visit one, the most popular is Sprüngli , which has many locations across the city including the train station. The biggest and best location is at the Paradeplatz tram stop on the Bahnhofstrasse.

However, my favorite is Max Chocolatier ( Schlüsselgasse 12, 8001 Zürich ), a small artisan boutique with interesting flavor combos for its chocolate pralines. If you can’t afford a whole box, it’s totally acceptable to buy just a couple pieces to eat straightaway.

If you prefer chocolate bars, which last longer and are easier to pack for gifts, definitely go to the Schwarzenbach and Berg and Tal in the Niederdorf. They sell small batch local chocolate brands like Garcoa, La Flor, and Taucherli.

18. Fancy hot chocolate

Indulging in a luxurious cup of hot chocolate is a fun way to enjoy Swiss chocolate while relaxing in a charming café atmosphere with locals.

Most cafés make their hot chocolate from powdered mixes. So it’s important to visit one of the nicer cafés and coffee shops that make theirs from high quality shaved chocolate.

Our favorite in the city center is Sprüngli at Paradeplatz , which has a lovely care and excellent chocolate shop. It’s very popular for breakfast on weekends, so make a reservation, particularly if you have a group larger than 4. A close second is Café & Conditorei 1842 in a building from the 13 th century ( see on map ).

We always order our hot chocolate “mit Schlagrahm,” aka whipped cream, sometimes served on the side so you can spoon it in slowly.

See more Fancy Hot Chocolate in Zurich .

19. Lindt Home of Chocolate

The Lindt chocolate factory has a delightful visitor center just 20 min by bus or boat from Zurich city. It’s full of beautiful and educational interactive multimedia exhibits, where you’ll learn everything about Swiss chocolate from bean to bar. You also get to eat a lot of chocolate during the tour.

You should definitely  book ahead as time slots can sell out, especially on weekends. You could also book a guided tour that includes a bus tour of Zurich, boat ride to Lindt and chocolate museum visit.

See our Lindt Home of Chocolate article .

Time: about 3 hours including travel time

Cost 2023: Museum entrance & audio guide – CHF 15/adult, CHF 10/child 8-15, under 7 free. Discount with Zurich Card. Best to book ahead .

Open: daily year round 10:00-18:00

Location: Schokoladenplatz 1, 8802 Kilchberg

Website: lindt-home-of-chocolate.com

20. Farmer’s market

On Tuesdays and Fridays, you can visit the farmer’s market at Zürich Bürkliplatz, right near the lake. It’s a great place to see seasonal produce and watch efficient Swiss locals work their magic.

Open: Tuesdays and Fridays 6:00 – 11:00

Location: Zürich Bürkliplatz

Cost: free to visit. If you want to purchase food, note that some vendors only take cash.

21. Gourmet groceries

Browsing grocery stores is one of my favorite things to do when I travel. It can be a fun way to learn about the culture and try new things.

Zurich has a few high-end groceries where you’ll see a dizzying array of delicious food and definitely get sticker shock. Globus is a fancy department store with a gourmet grocery on the basement floor. I mostly visit just to browse, but occasionally I’ll treat myself or buy fancy gifts for friends. Schweizergasse 11, 8001 Zürich

Jemoli is another luxury department store, also with a grocery in the basement, just a block away from Globus. I love admiring their produce and visiting their cheese cave. They’ve given up their lease and will close in 2023. So visit while you still can. Seidengasse 1, 8001 Zürich

For regular groceries, you can visit Coop St Annahof on the Bahnhofstrasse. Bahnhofstrasse 57, 8001 Zürich

22. Markthalle IM VIADUKT food hall

Markthalle IM VIADUKT is a fun food hall with lots to eat on the go. This area also has nice restaurants, bakeries, and boutique shopping. It’s a bit outside the city center, but easy to reach with tram 13 from Zurich main station. Viaduktstrasse, 8005 Zürich

23. Food festivals

Zurich has several food festivals a year with lots of food trucks serving a wide variety of interesting things to eat. These are a fun and casual alternative to traditional restaurants in the city. Perhaps one will be going when you vist.

• Street Food Festival – two week festival in mid June with lots of food trucks at an outdoor venue
• Street Food Park – usually a couple times a year (April and Nov) at the Zurich main station
• FOOD ZURICH – two week festival in mid September with 100+ events including special dinner events, tastings, cooking courses, kitchen battles, etc.
• Christmas markets – lots of food stands at the Christmas markets all over the city, late November to Christmas Eve

24. Summer swimming

If you visit Zurich in summer and we’re having a heat wave, you may want to spend the afternoon or evening cooling off with the locals in the lake or rivers.

There are many great places to swim, some free, some with an entrance fee with more services. Below are a few I suggest to visitors, called “Badi” in Swiss German. See more Zurich swimming .

Oberer Letten river

For a unique experience, you can float down the river at the Oberer Letten swimming area. This official swimming area has changing rooms, toilets, food, and lots of places to lounge along a long stretch long stretch of the Limmat river.

You can jump in anywhere. But many people walk up river and float to the end of the swimming are, then walk back up and float again.

Location: Lettensteg 10, 8037 Zürich

Strandbad Mythenquai

If you have children, the Mythenquai is a safe and fun place to swim in the lake. It has a long stretch of sandy beach and shallow areas for wading. It also has diving platforms and floats in the deeper water where you can lounge and jump into the water.

There’s lots of grassy areas with shade and a wading pool and playground for kids. It has a café, changing rooms and toilets.

Cost: CHF 8/adult

Location: Mythenquai 95, 8002 Zürich

This boat dock is an unofficial free swimming area is popular with locals. You can walk past the boats to a long concrete walkway, where people sit and lounge in the sun. Near the northern end, there are a couple metal rungs on the side of the walkway making it easy to get in and out of the water.

25. Bike riding

Cycling in a city can be a fun way to see a lot in a little amount of time. Zurich Tourism offers an E-Bike city tour , which is a 17 km ride through many interesting parts of the city. It costs CHF 25/adult (age 16+ only) for a 2h15 tour, including the bike.

Zurich and other Swiss cities have a self-service bike sharing program called PubliBike. Using a mobile app, you can rent bikes at many depots across the city. These are best for short rides under 30 mins. Without an annual subscription, a 30 min ride costs CHF 3.50/ regular bike and CHF 5.50/E-Bike.  Learn more about Publibike .

Zurich city has free and inexpensive bike rentals through the “Züri rollt” program. You can pick them up spontaneously. But best to reserve online (at least 48hrs in advance) if you have your heart set on it.

Cost: free to CHF 30/day

Location: bike rental shop at the Zurich HB main station, near Europaplatz – Kasernenstrasse 100, 8004 Zürich

Open: daily 8:00  21:30

Website: www.stadt-zuerich.ch

But as someone who lives in Zurich and bikes in the city every day, I must warn you that Zurich is not the best city for cycling. The bike lanes are not well organized, disappearing frequently with no clear way to continue safely. Also most of the old town is not possible with bikes. Also fines can be stiff for breaking the rules (even accidentally), like riding on sidewalks or pedestrian only lanes.

If you want a longer ride outside the city, you may enjoy riding along the Limmat river, which is a lovely wide dirt path used by pedestrians and cyclists. See route here .

26. Hike up Uetliberg mountain

If you like to hike and don’t have time for a day trip to the alps, hiking up Uetliberg is a fun way to get some exercise and nice views. It’s a bit of a tough climb, gaining about 280m over about 2 km to reach the top. You can hike down to make it a loop or ride the train down to the city. I hike there a few times a year in all seasons.

See Three Trails from Zurich to Uetliberg

For more ideas, see my Best Nature Walks near Zurich .

If you need a quiet place to relax, Zurich has many public parks and nice spots along the lake to escape the buzz of the city. Here are a few of our favorites.

27. Platzspitz park

If you have a little time to kill before catching your train, this park is conveniently located just north of the Zurich main station. In the 1980s, this park was infamous for rampant drug use. But today this beautiful park is a delightful place to picnic in the shade and enjoy the breeze floating off the nearby Limmat river.

In summer, one of our favorite gelato shops, Gelati 1998, often has their truck here. We love every flavor but if they have blood orange or black sesame, you should definitely try it.

See Platzspitz on map .

28. Zürichhorn & Chinagarten

Zurichhorn is a beautiful park located on the eastern shores of Lake Zurich with views of the alps in the distance. It’s at the end of a long lakeside promenade, starting at Bellevue. At Zurichhorn, you’ll find large grassy lawns bordered by big trees, where many people go to picnic and kick the ball around with friends. See Zurichhorn on map .

My favorite spot is the hidden pond with stepping stones, particularly lovely in fall when golden leaves fall into the water.

There’s a very nice an enclosed playground with swings, slides and water play. For a fee, you can visit “Chinagarten,” a meticulously landscaped Chinese-inspired garden with a pond.

Along the water, you’ll find the Fischergarten beer garden, with one of the nicest views of the lakeside cafes.

29. Arboretum & Rentenwiese

This lakeside park with a big open lawn is very popular for picnics and barbeques and lawn games. On hot days, many people will jump in the water here, though it’s not my favorite swimming spot since there are a lot of boats and swans here. See Arboretum on map .

Along the water, you’ll find many benches with friends chatting, workers taking their lunch break, and impromptu aperos. At the south end of the park, there’s a bird sanctuary with indoor and outdoor enclosures. 

Here are a few of our favorite things to do with kids in the city.

30. Puzzle trails

Foxtrail is a scavenger hunt, where you follow clues and solve puzzles as you wander the city. Our family has done several Foxtrails all around Switzerland. It’s been a fun way to keep the kids entertained while we see and learn interesting things.

In Zurich city, I would suggest doing one of these trails that visit the old town: Aristoteles, Hera, or Odysseus. Book Foxtrail here .

With Sato Code, you use an app on your phone to find hidden clues around the city and solve puzzles to keep progressing on the trail. We’ve done both Sato Code trails in Zurich and enjoyed the puzzles more than Foxtrail.

But instead of the main landmarks of the city, you see more of the real Zurich neighborhoods. If that appeals to you, I’d definitely recommend it. You don’t have to book ahead and you can do it any time of day, which is good if you need an impromptu activity to fill some time. You’ll need a WiFi connection and a phone for each participant. Book Sato Code here .

31. Wow museum

This fun museum has a series of rooms with a variety of fun optical illusions and activities. Some rooms have mirrors, patterns and lights that distort reality. Others rely on camera tricks and let you send the resulting pictures and animations to your phone. It’s fun for all ages. See our review .

Cost 2023: Adult CHF 23, discount with Zürich Card

Location: near Zurich main station – Werdmühlestrasse 10, 8001 Zürich

Open: every day except Tuesdays / generally 10:00 – 20:00

Website: www.wow-museum.ch

32. Escape rooms

If the kids need a treat after good behavior on a sightseeing tour, there are lots of fun Escape Rooms in Zurich city. We like  The Escape near the Zürich main station. We’ve done the Submarine and Bank Robbery rooms, which were perfect for older kids and teens. All instructions were in both English and German. The cost usually ranges from CHF 35-50/person for a 1 hour game. Most games are best done with 2-4 people. Here are a few more escape rooms in the Zürich area:

• ActionWorld
• ROOM Escape Room
• Adventure Rooms

33. Zürich Zoo

If you need something just for the kids, Zürich has an excellent zoo a short tram ride from the city center. They have several nature-like habitats including an elephant park, indoor rainforest, and savanna for large African animals like giraffes and rhinos.

Cost 2023: CHF 30/adult, CHF 15/child 6-15, under 6 free, CHF 80/family, 10% discount with Zürich Card

Location: ride Tram 6 to final stop “Zoo”, then short walk. See on map .

Website: zoo.ch .

34. More Zurich museums

Zurich has many museums that are a great choice for a rainy. Above, I already mentioned the Swiss National Museum, Kunsthaus, and FIFA Museum. If you need more indoor spaces, here are a few more we recommend:

• Museum für Gestaltung – Swiss museum of design
• Helmhaus – free museum with rotating modern art exhibits
• Zürich Tram Museum – all about public transport
• Mühlerama – an old mill turned into a museum about grain and bread making
• Museum Rietberg – focused on traditional and contemporary arts from cultures outside Europe

Be aware that many museums are closed on Mondays. For more indoor ideas, you can see my full list of Rainy Day Ideas for Zurich .

35. Thermal baths

In Zurich, we love the Hürlimannbad & Spa , which has a warn rooftop pool with great views of the city. We recommend doing the Roman-Irish Spa Ritual, where you move through a series of ten stations.

Location: Brandschenkestrasse 150, 8002 Zürich , near Bahnhof Enge train station

Cost 2023: entry only CHF 42/adult, entry + spa ritual cHF 68/adult

Book here .

36. Cozy cafes

If you need a place to warm up and take shelter, Zurich has many nice cafes where you can easily spend enjoy an hour or so with yummy treats in a nice atmosphere. Here are a few of our favorite cafes near the city center.

Near the Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, the entrance of Milchbar is filled with twinkle lights, making you feel like you are walking into a magical fairyland. The indoor seating is near big windows, so you don’t feel isolated. Much of the outdoor seating is covered, so you can sit there even on a rainy day and under blankets in winter.

If you’re not getting coffee, we like their hot chocolate and fresh ginger tea with honey. They have lots of savory and sweet snacks. We’re partial to their twice-baked almond croissants, but they don’t always have them.

Website: www.milchbar.ch

Address: Kappelergasse 16, 8001 Zürich (tram stop: Paradeplatz )

Open: Mon – Fri 6.30 – 22.00, Sat 8.00 – 22.00, Sun 10.00 – 18.00

Cafe Henrici

This cool café is a warm and welcoming place, frequented by both locals and tourists. If you’re not a coffee purist, we suggest one of their fun “coffee creations” like the Diablo Espresso Macchiato, with chili, cacao, vanilla and cinnamon.

We usually get their delicious Flammenküchen, a good snack to share. We also like their bagels, the best in Zürich we think. If you want dessert, their apple strudel with vanilla sauce is also quite tasty.

Website: www.cafe-henrici.ch

Address: Niederdorfstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich

Open: Mon – Fri from 8:00 | Sat – Sun from 9:00

Babu’s Bakery & Coffeehouse

Although you may have to wait for a table, Babu’s Bakery is still a favorite for meeting friends on a cold day. I usually order their tea service with scones and cream with fresh lemon ginger mint tea. But I also love their lemon poppy seed cake and carrot cake.

Address: Löwenstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich

Open: Mon – Fri & Sun 9:00 – 17:00 | Sat 8:00 – 18:00

Website: www.babus.ch

Café & Conditorei 1842

Started in 1842, this traditional café in the Niederdorf is oft visited by tourists, as most guidebooks mention it. I like taking visitors here because it has that old European feel in addition to the tasty treats.

They are known for their hot chocolate, apparently made with fresh milk and cream brought daily from the farm, definitely reflected in the price. I like their lemon tart though my guests usually order the strudel, if available 

Address: Napfgasse 4, 8001  Zürich

Open : Mo-Fr 9:00 – 17:00 | Sat-Sun 9:00 – 19:00

Website: www.cafe1842.ch

If you have time to kill near the Zurich main station, it’s a short walk to the Bridge food hall, which has a variety of gourmet food stalls, good coffee, best croissants (SERI), friendly bar, and lots of seating in cozy corners. I always get a slice of pizza from Flour & Water.

Address: Europaallee 20, 8004 Zürich

Open : Mon-Sat 10:00 – 22:00

Website: www.bridgezurich.ch

If you want to see more than Zurich city, there are many easy day trips to see other Swiss highlights like mountains, charming villages, waterfalls, etc. Since these day trips require 4 -8 hours, you won’t have time for much else if you are only in Zurich for only one day.

Below are a few day trips we recommend most often. See also our full list of Best Day Trips from Zurich .

37. Rhine falls

One of the most popular day trips from Zurich is visiting the Rhine falls, the largest volume waterfalls in Europe. It’s about a one hour journey by train or car to reach the falls. You pay a small fee to walk on a secure stairway right along the roaring water. You can also ride a little motor boat to the center of the falls and climb some stairs to a rock right in the middle of the action.

Many like to combine the falls with a visit to nearby Stein am Rhein, a well-preserved medieval village along the Rhine river. Book this combined tour .

38. Cable car ride near Zurich

If you want a quick Swiss alps type of experience, the Felsenegg cable car is just a 20 min train ride from Zurich main station. It’s a fun ride up the mountain to 800m, where you’ll get panorama views across the city, lake and to the alps in the distance. Then a five minute walk through the forest to a restaurant , with a big terrace overlooking the lake. Kids can enjoy the playground, while you soak in the views.

To get there, ride the train from Zurich to Adliswil station. Then a 10 min walk to the cable car station, following the yellow signs for Felseneggbahn ). Learn more .

Location: Felsenegg cable car –  Zelgstrasse 80, 8134 Adliswil  

Cost: Zürich Card covers this journey, including train and cable car. Otherwise, buy a 24 hour ticket to Felsenegg, which should include four zone: 110, 150, and 155.

Duration: plan for about 2 hours, including round trip transport

39. Boat ride to charming town

If you like being on the water, you might enjoy a longer cruise on Lake Zurich, ending in Rapperswil, a small town on the lake with a castle.

Time: about 4 hours including cruise, walk around village, and train back to Zurich

Cost: CHF 8.80/adult round trip, CHF 4.40/child 6-16, under 6 free. Free with Zurich Card.

40. Cheese factory

If you love cheese, you can do an easy day trip from Zürich to this cheese factory and visitor center in Appenzell region. The interactive displays make learning about Swiss cheese making fun. You can also watch live cheese making on the factory floor. Kids will enjoy the games inside the museum and outdoor playground. See our  Appenzell Cheese Factory review .

Website:  www.schaukaeserei.ch

Location:   Dorf 711, 9063 Stein

Cost:  Adult CHF 12 / Child CHF 7 / under 6 free

Open:  daily 9:00 to 17:30

Spectacular Mountain Views

If you want mountain views with minimal effort (e.g. no hike), we usually send visitors to either Mt Pilatus or Mt Rigi. You would start your day with a train ride from Zurich to Lucerne, about a 45 mins journey. Then a boat ride on Lake Lucerne to the base of the mountain and a cogwheel train ride up to the viewpoints.

We like Pilatus for the dramatic cliffs and fun extras like the alpine slide. You might prefer Rigi if you want a more relaxed alpine atmosphere or if you have a fear of heights.

41. Mt Pilatus Golden Round Trip

From Lucerne, you ride a boat about 1 hour to Alpnachstad. Then you transfer to a very steep cogwheel train up to Mt Pilatus, a rocky peak with a big panorama terrace, restaurant and short hikes to other viewpoints.

You can ride a cable car down the other side of the mountain. We suggest a short stop at Frakmüntegg to ride the 1.3 km long summer toboggan. Learn more about Pilatus round trip .

Time: plan for minimum 8 hours round trip from Zurich

Cost 2023: CHF 111.60/adult for Pilatus Round Trip from Lucerne. Discount with Swiss Travel Pass and other travelcards.

42. Mt Rigi Round Trip

From Lucerne, you enjoy a boat cruise to Vitznau, where you change to a cogwheel train that brings you the Rigi Kulm viewpoint at 1798m. You can easily and safely wander around the mountain top to enjoy panorama views.

There’s a restaurant with an outdoor terrace. If you want to stretch your legs, you can do a short or long walk down to a lower station, then catch the train back down to the boat.

Cost 2023: CHF 123/adult for Rigi Round Trip from Lucerne. Book here . Free with Swiss Travel Pass. Discount with other travelcards.

If you prefer a guided tour, you can book a bus tour from Zurich that visits Rigi and Lucerne.

43. Hiking near Zurich

If you want a proper hike in the Swiss alps, it’s just a 60-90 min train ride from Zurich to many fantastic mountain hikes. Here are a few of my top suggestions for first time visitors to Switzerland.

For a challenging hike, our first choice would be the Pizol 5 Lake Hike . This 10 km loop visits beautiful alpine lakes in a dramatic mountain landscape.

For a short and easy hike, we love the Flower Trail at Flumserberg , a 40 min loop with mountain views. This mountain resort also has a lot of fun extras if you want more than just a hike, including an alpine coaster, ropes course, and theme trails for kids.

If you are on a tight budget, we suggest hiking along Walensee lake to a big waterfall (great for Apr – June). It’s more affordable than many other hikes because it does not require an expensive cable car. You can customize the length of this trail by including a boat ride, which we definitely recommend if your budget can manage it.

If you are with kids, we suggest the Pizol Heidi trail , which is short and easy mountain trail with fun activities with a Heidi theme. See more Hikes near Zurich for Kids .

If you need something very close to Zurich city , you can do the Uetliberg panorama trail that follows the ridge just west of the city, just 20 min from the city by train.

See more Hikes Near Zurich .

44. Mountain Coaster

If you or the kids want action adventure, the Flumserberg FLOOMZER summer toboggan is the closest mountain coaster to Zurich and one of the best in Switzerland. This rail guided coaster is 2000m long, with lots of twists, turns, and loops. You hike or ride a chair lift to reach the coaster.

Time: plan for at least 4 hours with travel from Zurich, more if you want to hike

Cost 2023: CHF 14.50 coaster without lift, CHF 22.50 coaster with lift / discount for children

Open: mid June to late October daily 10:00 – 16:45

Location: Tannenboden , about 90 min by train & gondola from Zürich (round trip CHF 70/adult)

Website: www.flumserberg.ch

See more Swiss mountain coasters .

If you want to shop, for yourself or gifts for family and friends, here are the best places in the city.

45. Bahnhofstrasse – Luxury Brands

The Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world, filled with many luxury brands like Chanel, Hermes, Prada, Louis Vuitton. Along the way, you’ll also see familiar brands like H&M and Zara as well as cafés and department stores. See Bahnhofstrasse on map .

Even if you have a small budget, it’s entertaining to window shop and see what the top 1% buys. Most of these stores have security guards and often long lines of outside, as browsing is carefully controlled.

This street starts directly in front of the Zurich main station and stretches all the way to Lake Zurich. Trams also go along the street, so you can easily get back to your starting point when your feet get tired.

Many locals (including me) come here to do their regular shopping so this street can be very crowded on weekends, particularly on Saturdays. Note that stores are closed on Sundays.

If you need a shopping break, we suggest the Globus Roof Garden , Hiltl Dachterrasse (rooftop café), or Milchbar , which has a quiet courtyard. The best nearby coffee is at ViCAFE at Münsterhof, which has outdoor seating with umbrellas.

46. Switzerland souvenirs & gifts

If you want high quality Swiss handcrafts, best to visit Schweizer Heimatwerk , which has classic Swiss gifts like carved wooden figures, cow bells, housewares, and more. There are two locations in the city at Uraniastrasse 1, 8001 Zürich and Bahnhofstrasse 2, 8001 Zürich .

In the train station and along the Limmat river, there are a couple gift shops that have typical souvenirs like T-shirts, hats, key chains, postcards, and the like.

47. Food gifts

For an easy and inexpensive Swiss gift, you can’t go wrong with chocolate. The easiest option is Sprüngli, which has many locations in the city, train station and airport. They have attractive gift boxes filled with delicious chocolate. Or you can have them hand pack a pretty box with your custom selections. For more chocolate options, see my Chocolate Walking Tour .

Sprüngli sells another popular Zurich treat called Luxembourglis, which are mini French macaron cookies. Zurich locals often give these as gifts to friends, colleagues, teachers, etc. They need to be eaten within a day, so best to buy on your way to the airport.

Teuscher has chocolate boxes with pretty Zurich pictures, which make a very nice gift. Bahnhofstrasse 46, 8001 Zürich .

48. Rooftop bars & nightclubs

If you want to keep the party going, Zurich has lots of fun bars with excellent cocktails. If the weather is nice, we suggest one of the rooftop bars with a view, like The Nest at Storchen Hotel or George Bar & Grill . See more rooftop bars .

Although Zurich isn’t the most exciting city for nightlife, it does have many clubs for music and dancing that attract the party crowd. Here are a few you might like:

• Hive Club.  Legendary techno club in Zurich’s industrial district with hip electronic music and cool light installations. www.hiveclub.ch • Geroldstrasse 5, 8005 Zürich
• Kaufleuten.  A bit more classy than most clubs with a restaurant, bar, lounge, nightclub and concert venue near the city center. kaufleuten.ch • Pelikanpl. 18, 8001 Zürich
• Supermarket.  Modern club in Zurich-West focused on electronic music. www.supermarket.li • Geroldstrasse 17, 8005 Zürich
• Mascotte.  Vibrant nightclub near Bellevue with a diverse music selection, from hip-hop and R&B to house and EDM. It’s a hotspot for both locals and tourists. mascotte.ch •   Theaterstrasse 10, 8001 Zürich
• Zukunft.  Iconic underground club near Langstrasse known for its international and local DJs, with cutting-edge electronic music events. www.zukunft.cl • Dienerstrasse 33, 8004 Zürich

See more Zurich nightclubs .

49. Movies in English

If you want some entertainment after a full day of sightseeing, many of the Zurich movie theaters show movies in the original language with subtitles. The two biggest cinema chains are Blue Cinema and Arena . You can see the schedule for all Zurich cinema on Search.ch . Look for the E/d/f code, which indicates the film is in English with subtitles in German and French.

50. Live Performances

If you’d like to see live entertainment, here are the main venues. Tickets typically must be booked months in advance.

• Tonhalle for symphony performances
• Opernhaus for opera and ballet
• FC Zurich for pro soccer matches
• ticketcorner.ch for more performance (though most are in German)

Should you get a Zürich Card?

Zurich offers a city pass that includes free transportation in the city, free boat cruises, as well as discounts on museums, attractions, and select restaurants. You can purchase it for 24 or 72 hours. If you plan to ride the trams and visit at least one museum per day, the card pays for itself.

Zürich Card Cost: 24 hour ticket – CHF 27/adult, CHF 19/child age 6-16 – buy here

A regular tram day pass costs CHF 8.80 and most museums cost about CHF 15 – 25. To get the maximum value from the 24 hour Zurich card, I would visit Uetliberg, Lindt Home of Chocolate, and the Swiss National Museum.

You can also buy the Zurich Card in person at the airport, tourist info at Zurich HB main station, or transport ticket machines. You can also download the Zurich City Guide App and purchase the card through the app. Learn more .

Activities for limited mobility

If members of your group have limited mobility, here are some activities that minimize the walking:

• Tuk-tuk city tour. Ride instead of walk to all the important sights and get interesting info from your driver. Book here .
• Boat tour. There are few boat cruises on Zurich lake that leave from the Bürkliplatz ferry dock in the city. This is easily reached by tram from the main train station. We suggest the Short Lake Cruise , which is a 90 min round trip.
• Guided bus tour. You start with a bus tour around Zurich city, then a boat ride on Zurich lake, then a visit to Lindt Home of Chocolate. Book here .
• Accessible museums. The Swiss National Museum has two wheelchairs that can be reserved for free

Where to park in Zurich

It can be expensive and difficult to find parking spots in Zurich city. Most metered street parking is usually limited two hours, so it’s more convenient to use a parking garage.

You can see a list of city parking garages with hourly rates on https://www.parkingzuerich.ch/ We typically suggest Hohe Promenade, which is quite centrally located at Rämistrasse 22A, 8001 Zürich . Expect to pay about CHF 4/hour.

If you plan to park in metered parking, we suggest EasyPark Mobile app , which allow you pay the meter from your phone.

Where to store luggage in Zurich

There are many lockers in the Zurich HB main station. Near the ticket office on the main floor, you’ll see a luggage symbol pointing down the escalators.

There are lockers of different sizes to fit a wide variety of luggage. You can pay by card on the machine, which prints out a receipt to scan later to open the locker. Instructions are in English. Learn more .

There is also luggage storage at the Zurich airport. Learn more .

Where to stay in Zurich

Here are a few Zurich hotels we suggest. Most have family suites that fit four people.

Hotel Glockenhof Zurich – This hotel has family suites. It’s right in the center of town, great location. See on map .

Engimatt City & Garden Hotel – this hotel is in a quiet neighborhood, a short tram ride from the city center. They also have family suites. It’s a 5 min walk to a big shopping center with a grocery, coffee shops, cinema (in English), and train station. 

Hotel Alexander Zurich – They have family rooms that include one double and one single bed.

Aparthotel Adagio Zurich City Center – They have 1 BR apt with kitchenette, a double bed and sofa bed for the kids. A bit pricey, but depending on the dates it can be better than booking two rooms.

Meininger Hotel Zurich Greencity – This place is quite affordable. It has a quad room with two single beds (pushed together to make a double, quite common in Europe) and two bunk beds. Reasonable price. It’s on the edge of the city, but quick train ride to town. Maneggstrasse 41, 8041 Zürich See on map .

ibis Zurich City West – this one is budget option a little outside the center of town. The neighborhood is a bit industrial but it has a quick tram connection in the center of town and has lots of cool restaurants nearby.

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Hi! I’m Tanya and our family has been living & hiking in Switzerland since 2005, collecting dozens of fun hikes and activities for all ages and abilities. More about us…

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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

Zurich Itinerary: 24 Awesome Things to Do in Zurich in 48 Hours

Heading to the land of gooey cheese, elegant watches, decadent chocolate, and Roger Federer? Here is my 48-hour Zurich Itinerary of fun, cheap, and free things to do in Zurich for the perfect weekend.

Grüezi! That’s the first word I learned when I arrived at Zurich airport’s passport control. After asking the officer to repeat himself slowly so I could hear each syllable, he started explaining that it means ‘hello’ in the Zurich dialect adding that it changes slightly in pronunciation as you head towards Bern. Lesson number one. Tick!

The lady at the information desk added a few more tidbits of linguistic insights. She explained that to say ‘thank you’ they use the French Merci , but, as she put it “to sound more german” they add on vilmal ‘very much’. So, after fifteen minutes of landing in Zurich, I knew how to correctly greet and thank someone. Later on, I’ll shall some more useful travel phrases.

During my weekend in Zurich, I used these two phrases during every interaction; instantly making each conversation more personal. Pro tip: If you want to break the ice with someone in a foreign country, ask them about their language. Their eyes will light up!

Already from these brief encounters with the airport staff, I had a feeling that I was going to enjoy Zurich a lot. Things got even better once I actually saw the charming city itself.

Getting to Zurich

With only a ninety minute flight time from London, getting to Zurich is easy and a great destination for a weekend getaway.

Having snapped up super cheap flights using Skyscanner’s travel planner tool , making the decision to visit Zurich was a no-brainer. (I recommend setting up Skyscanner price alerts to keep track of when prices drop on your bucket list destinations).

Get Yourself a ZürichCARD

The best way to see any city is with a city pass in tow. They are both convenient and great money savers. When in France’s capital; you’ll get free entrance to the Louvre with Paris Pass , or fast track entry into the Tower of London with London Pass . With ZürichCARD you get unlimited travel (including to/from the airport) which practically pays for itself, not to mentioned the free or reduced admission you get on Zurich’s museums and river cruises.

The Zurich tourism board were kind enough to provide me with a  ZürichCARD , but regardless of which I would’ve bought anyway as it’s such great value for money.

Available for either 24 hours or 72 hours, the card is only CHF 24 (USD 25 / GBP 17.50) or CHF 48 (USD 50 / GBP 35) respectively. Considering that alone, the entrance fee to the Swiss National Museum is CHF 10, and a one 24-hour transport pass is CHF 5.20. You can see how it quickly adds up.

If your time is limited, then these top things to do in Zurich will ensure you see and experience the best of the best. Zurich is very manageable on foot so you’ll be able to knock off most of these places in a morning. Only a couple of places require a short tram ride to reach.

Map of Zurich Itinerary

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

1. See Chagall’s famous stained glass windows at Fraumünster Church

Located in Zurich’s Old Town are the famous Chagall windows inside Fraumünster Church.

The Russian-French artist, Marc Chagall, created five beautiful stained glass windows that bathe the chapel in a rainbow of light. Installed in 1970, each of the five strikingly modern windows features a dominant colour and depicts a Christian story in a very typical Chagall style.

Fraumünster was founded in 853 by King Louis the German, and this church with its convent was inhabited by the female members of the aristocracy of Europe.

Also, see the cloister where you’ll find a series of frescos by Paul Bodmer.

Entrance: CHF 4

2. Peek inside Stadthaus

Some places just have to be seen for no other reason than for their beauty. Stadthaus, or Town Hall, is one of them.

Located next to Fraumünster, the neo-Gothic Stadthaus was built at the end of the 19th century when the city’s inhabitants exceeded 100,000. Zurich suddenly became a large city following incorporation of other local areas and therefore required a suitable Stadthaus.

But the real drawcard is its elegant multi-level hall in Italian Renaissance style. Head to the top floor for the frescos of old Zurich.

It’s closed on Sundays and closes at noon on Saturdays. So be sure to visit first thing.

Entrance: Free

3. See Ganymed’s Sculpture

Since 1952, the impressive sculpture by Hermann Hubacher of Ganymed has adorned the Bürkliterrasse overlooking Lake Zurich.

In Greek mythology, the young boy of Zeus is abducted and taken to Mount Olympus. Ganymed, the handsome king’s son, was abducted by Zeus and taken up to the top of Mount Olympus.

However, the statue does not depict this abduction, instead, it symbolises man’s desire to ascend Mount Olympus. With an outstretched hand, Ganymed pleads with Zeus, the father of the gods (appearing as an eagle), to take him there.

This work of art is inspired by ancient mythology but artist Hubacher emphasised that his sculpture was “not a Greek Ganymed but rather a Swiss one”.

4. Step Back in Time on Lindenhof Hill

Lindenhof Hill will leave you with some of the most picturesque photos of your trip. Being the highest point in Zurich, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the entire city including Old Town, Grossmünster Church, and the Limmat river.

In the summer, there are plenty of concerts and festivals, and year-round you’ll most likely see a group of people playing chess.

Lindenhof was also the spot of numerous historical events. In the 4th-century, a Roman fort stood on Lindenhof – and in the 9th century, the grandson of Charlemagne built a regal palace here as a place of residence.

5. Get a Panoramic View over Zurich from Grossmünster

Without a doubt, the view from Karlsturm (Charles Tower) at Grossmünster is unlike any other view in the city centre.

Climbing up the 187 stairs from the nave you’ll be rewarded with splendid views from the panorama platform over Zurich’s old town and the lake.

Grossmünster Church is a former monastery built on the graves of the city’s patron saints, Felix and Regula, and is the site of the first secondary school, which according to legend, was founded by Charlemagne. You can see his statue on top of the south tower, the Karlsturm.

Tower Entrance: CHF 4

6. Take a Trip around the World at Museum Rietberg

The Museum Rietberg is the only art museum of non-European cultures in Switzerland and is the third-largest museum in Zürich.

Here you’ll find a range from enchanting sculptures from Africa to Buddhist art from Asia and cult objects from the South Sea and America.

In addition, a collection of intricately carved Swiss masks can also be seen.

Entrance: CHF 14 or CHF 4 with ZürichCARD

7. Be Charmed by Rennweg and Augustinergasse Street

The pedestrian-only area of Niederdorfstrasse is full of charming streets such as flag-lined Rennweg.

The name Rennweg was likely derived from “Rain”, meaning hillside, referring to its location running below Lindenhof.

In the Middle Ages, Rennweg was the widest street in Zurich and was especially distinguished from other streets and alleyways in Zurich due to its straightness. The Rennwegtor gate stood at its lower end as part of the city fortifications.

Today, Rennweg is the second most exclusive shopping area in Zurich after the Bahnhofstrasse.

8. Admire Rathaus on Lake Limmat

Rathaus, or City Hall, is another great photo op.

A city hall has stood on this site for over 700 years ago. The third and present building replaced the previous wooden building in the late 17th century.

From the Münsterbrücke (bridge) you get a beautiful view of the south side of the city hall and can see that it is actually built right over the water.

Largely still in its original condition, Rathaus has Baroque elements with some features in the Renaissance style. A mix of these styles can also be seen inside the building, where historical objects and works of art are exhibited telling the story of Zurich’s political history.

9. Head up to Polyterrasse

Hungry for another perspective of Zurich? Then head up to to the panorama terrace in front of the main building of the Federal Institute of Technology. Here you can enjoy even more superb views of the city.

10. End the Day with a Rooftop Spa

Located in Zurich’s B2 Boutique Hotel + Spa is a spa experience you won’t forget.

Located in the century-old stone vaults of the former Hürlimann brewery is the fresh thermal water bubbling straight from Zurich’s «Aqui» source. My muscles literally dissolved in its 35ºC+ (95ºF) water after a long day of walking.

Choose from either the thermal baths, Irish-Roman spa, or for spectacular views, head up to the 4th floor for the rooftop spa.

Thermal bath CHF 36 Irish-Roman spa ritual CHF 60

10% off with ZürichCARD

11. Dig in at the World’s Oldest Vegetarian Restaurant at Haus Hiltl

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Hiltl is the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant. Naturally, as a veggie going once was not enough. I dined there twice!

Hiltl was founded in 1898 and has been serving the best vegetarian buffet in Zurich ever since. The restaurant is massive and can easily accommodate the crowds it continually draws, even after 100+ years of business.

There are over 500 mouth-watering dishes on offer as well as the a la carte restaurant. But it’s their famous buffet that most people come here for.

Every gram counts in determining the cost of your meal, so choose wisely.

Get a “Culinary Surprise with Zurich Card”.

12. See the Masterpieces at Kunsthaus

Get your dose of art with the most important art collection in Switzerland.

Kunsthaus was my favourite art museum in Zurich due to its awesome and varied collection of works, especially on the impressionists.

All the big names are here with the largest Edvard Munch collection outside of Norway. Key works by Picasso, Monet and Chagall and the expressionists Kokoschka, Beckmann and Corinth are all here.

Pop art is also featured alongside works by Rothko, Merz, Twombly, Beuys, Bacon and Baselitz.

In addition to works by Alberto Giacometti, the Kunsthaus Zurich contains medieval sculptures and panels, paintings from the Dutch and Italian Baroque and highlights of the Swiss 19th and 20th-century era.

Also here are some of Zurich’s own artists and contemporary Swiss painters such as Pipilotti Rist, Peter Fischli and David Weiss.

Entrance: CHF 23 or CHF 18 with ZürichCARD

13. Ascend Uetliberg, Zurich’s Very Own Mountain

So, I have this thing with wanting to ascend the high points wherever I am. Mostly for the killer views but also to orient myself with the surroundings and get a fresh perspective on things.

As Zurich’s very own “mountain” sitting 2,850 feet above sea level, I wanted to save Uetliberg til last. And more precisely, to watch the sunset.

It had been a wonderful sunny day, but by 7 pm it was raining and windy. Stubbornly, I decided to push on. Getting to the top by train and a 10-minute walk to the summit was the easy part.

Already the views were spectacular but there was still the tower to climb. Drenched, windswept, one broken umbrella, and CHF 2 later, I was at the top of the tower clenching onto the railing as I took photos of the beautiful storm clouds and two rainbows which appeared.

There’s more to Uetliberg that the lookout point. There’ also a restaurant, hotel and in the summer you can go on the well-marked hiking routes, a mountain bike route. There is also a Planet Trail, a two-hour walk from Uetliberg to Felsenegg (Adliswil) which takes you on a fascinating tour through a model of our solar system.

14. Cruise down Limmat River

Take a leisurely boat ride along the River Limmat and drink in the gorgeous views of Zurich’s Old Town.

Entrance: CHF 9.40 or CHF 4.70 with ZürichCARD

15. Get the facts on a Free Walking Tour

Got a spare 90 minutes? Running each day from Paradeplatz at 11 am, get to know the city by taking a free walking tour with freewalk.ch . It covers the key spot in the city including Paradeplatz, Fraumünster, Lindenhof, Grossmünster, Niederdorf plus other hidden places.

16. Get your Swiss Souvenirs

Directly below Grossmünster at Teddy’s Souvenir Shop you will find a large selection of souvenirs and gift ideas. This place has a wonderful wooden clock collection.

Flash your ZurichCard for a 10% discount.

17. Learn About Switzerland’s History at the Swiss National Museum

As one of the most important art museums of cultural history in Europe, the Swiss National Museum showcases the most significant events of the last twenty centuries, all the way from prehistory to ancient times and the Middle Ages.

The museum itself is a magnificent work of art, with dozens of towers and courts and incredible multimedia and interactive displays. Make sure go out the back to Platzspitz Park for a stroll in the gardens.

Allow at least two hours to properly explore the Swiss National Museum.

Entrance: CHF 10 or Free with ZürichCARD

18. Get closer to Nature at the Botanical Gardens

Covering more than 53,000 square meters, the Botanical Gardens has over 9,000 plant and flower species. This is a must see for any age, and great for the family.

This is not so much a tourist attraction as a place where you can see the locals sunbathing on the grass, having a picnic or watching the frogs in the large pond.

Don’t miss the glass biodomes that house a variety of exotic tropical plants.

19. See the Edgy Side of Zurich at Viadukt

More than just a trendy neighbourhood, Viadukt is an ode to creativity and architecture seeing as its shops and restaurants are housed inside the arches of the disused, 550-feet long railway viaduct.

Factories have been transformed into theatres, shipyards are now art galleries, mills currently house pop-up shops. The art, design, food, culture, shopping and architecture are the centre of attention in this former industrial zone.

20. Eat Fondue

Fondue was invented as a way to use stale bread and aged cheese in the cold winter Swiss months when fresh produce was unavailable. It is now one of the most recognisable Swiss dishes.

Get your fondue fix at Swiss Chuchi, Raclette Stube or Le Dezaley. Or, for a unique experience take a cheese fondue cruise along the lake.

21. Have a drink at Clouds Bar

Want a drink to go with that view? Head up to Cloud Bar where you’ll have a magnificent view of Zurich’s city centre and lake. The bar also has an adjacent restaurant if you get hungry!

22. Relax on the Patio of Frau Gerolds Garten

Located next to the train tracks near Viadukt, Frau Gerolds Garten is a trendy meeting place for locals and visitors alike. The grounds house a garden, small shops, a cafe and beer bar.

The bar is made of shipping cargo boxes, plus you can lounge at picnic tables, on large cushioned stairs or at a bistro set near the fresh garden. It is the perfect setting to enjoy a beer on a warmer Swiss night.

23. See the Gerold Cuchi Umbrellas

Head over to the Kreis 5 district to photograph the artsy umbrellas hanging over the patio at Gerold Cuchi restaurant. The colourful canopy consists of over fifty umbrellas each with a unique design: polka dots, stripes, plaids and vibrant florals.

24. See Europes Largest Clock Dial at St. Peter’s Church

That’s right! Prague may have its famous astronomical clock, but Zurich is home to Europe’s largest timepiece – for now!

Located in the heart of the Old Town, St Peter’s Church stands adjoined to a medieval watchtower built for the local fire brigade. A clock face was put on the tower in 1366, and for centuries the marvellous façade served as the standard for local Zurich time. With a diameter of 8.64m, the dials of this Zurich landmark hold the record for Europe’s largest church timepiece — for now.

The clock tower of St. Peter had been for centuries Zürich’s ‘official local time’, and all public city clocks had to conform to it. The church clock of St. Peter has the largest tower clock face in Europe, the outer diameter of each of the four church clocks measures 8.64 meters (28.3 ft), the minute hand 5.73 meters (18.8 ft), the hour hand 5.07 meters (16.6 ft), and the minute crack of the large pointer measures 0.455 meters (1.5 ft).

So, that’s it! The only question now is, what will you see visit first?

Staying Longer? Take a Day Trip from Zurich

• Eiger – Jungfrau Glacier
• Interlaken – Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland
• Black Forest and Rhine Falls
• Heidiland and Liechtenstein Tour
• Swiss Alps: Jungfraujoch and Bernese Oberland
• Switzerland Countryside and Traditions Tour
• Bern Day Trip
• Mount Titlis
• Lucerne and Stanserhorn Including Funicular Railway, Aerial Cable Car and Train Ride

Heading to Switzerland? Download my free German-Swiss Travel Phrase guide here.

Where to Stay: Accommodation in Zurich

Whether you’re on a budget or want to splash out, there are loads of great accommodation loads in Zurich.  For an experience like no other, I can’t recommend enough  B2 Boutique Hotel + Spa . The staff were friendly and professional, the breakfast was wonderful, and the spa facilities are unmatched especially the rooftop infinity spa.

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Over to you!

Have you visited Zurich?  What other things would you recommend doing in Zurich? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Thanks Michele for this amazing list of Things to Do in Zurich. I have heard a lot about Zurich old city beauty and places to visit around, like Mount Titlis, Rhine Falls, Lucerne and Engelberg, etc. Since it’ll be our first time in the city, I’m thinking to book city sightseeing tours in advance using online platforms out there. What you think?

Hi Rachel, my pleasure 🙂 Sure! I would definitely recommend checking out Viator . I always book my day trips through them.

Hey Michele

Thanks for a great article. Will definitely put Zurich on my bucket list. I love the historical facts and language tips you provide.

Hey, thanks so much Basil. So glad you enjoyed it and found it interesting 🙂

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Maddy's Avenue

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

Two Days in Zurich, Switzerland: The Perfect Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arriving for 2 Days in Zurich

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

ARRIVING VIA AIRPLANE

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

ARRIVING VIA TRAIN

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

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

ARRIVING VIA BUS

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

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

Where to Stay in Zurich

Overall, the four best neighborhoods to stay in are:

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

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

These are my top accommodation recommendations in each price bracket.

Best Luxury Hotels

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

Best Mid-Range Hotels

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

BEST budget OPTIONS

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

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

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

What to Do in Zurich in 2 Days

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

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

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

Day 1 of 2 Days in Zurich

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

#1 Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

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

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

#2 See the views from Grossmünster

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

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

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

#3 Stop by Lindenhof Hill

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

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

#4 Check out Fraumunster

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

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

#5 Walk Bahnhofstrasse

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

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

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

This is also a great people-watching spot!

#6 Eat Fondue

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

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

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

Day 2 of 2 Days in Zurich

#7 Spend Time at Lake Zurich

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

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

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

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

#8 Peak at Uetliberg Mountain

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

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

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

#9 Visit a Museum (or Two!)

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

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

Where to Eat in Zurich in 2 Days

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

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

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

What to Pack for Zurich

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

Quick Zurich Tips

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

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

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

QUICK FACTS ABOUT ZURICH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Maddy Cornelius

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

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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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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Zürich

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Zürich, Switzerland's largest city, is a delightful and fascinating place for tourists. Its many attractions and things to do include dozens of museums, a well-preserved old town filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings, and enough art - both in and out of museums - to keep art-lovers happy for a week.

Zurich's tradition of liberal thinking and active intellectual life attracted leading figures that included Georg Büchner, Vladimir Lenin, James Joyce, C. G. Jung, and Thomas Mann, and this tradition continues into modern times. Although it buzzes with business activity, Zürich is one of the finest Swiss cities to visit and is perfectly arranged for sightseeing on foot.

The city is also a good base for visiting many other fascinating places in Switzerland and the nearby Black Forest region of Germany . In fact, a number of these make good day trips from Zürich. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in Zürich.

1. Niederdorf and the Old Town

2. ride the train up the uetliberg, 3. play on lake zürich, 4. kunsthaus zürich (museum of fine arts), 5. bahnhofstrasse and the bahnhof, 6. fraumünster, 7. lindenhof, 8. limmatquai and the rathaus (town hall), 9. schweizerisches landesmuseum (swiss national museum), 10. grossmünster (great minster), 11. fifa museum, 12. zurich zoo, 13. zurich-west, 14. rietberg museum, 15. st. peter's church, 16. bellerive museum, 17. confiserie sprüngli: a confectioner's café, 18. zurich christmas markets, where to stay in zurich for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to zurich, zurich, switzerland - climate chart.

In the midst of this modern financial powerhouse of a city is a neighborhood filled with historic charm, its narrow streets rising steeply on the east side of the river. The Niederdorf area is one of the medieval streets and squares, a lively place to visit, with boutiques, restaurants, and cafés.

Heading up Münstergasse, you'll come to the Napfgasse, with the Brunnenturm, which was headquarters of the Lombard money-changers in the 14th and 15th centuries. Haus zum Napt , at number 6, has a fine interior with rooms furnished in Renaissance style.

On Spiegelgasse, at number 17, is a house where Lenin lived in 1917. In this street, at Cabaret Voltaire, Hans Arp and Tristan Tzara launched the Dada art movement in 1916. Spiegelgasse runs east into the Neumarkt , where you'll find the Shoemakers' Guild House, now a theater, and the Hans zum Rech , dating from the Middle Ages and showing how decorative styles changed over the centuries.

Step inside at least to see its courtyard and the model of Zürich in 1800. The interior preserves painted walls and ceilings from the 17th century and fine ornamental ironwork. The 13th-century Grimmenturm, at number 27, was originally a residence. In these streets, you'll find antiques shops and boutiques, as well as cafés and restaurants.

You can get an overview of the Old Town's warren of charming streets, as well as an orientation of the layout of the city, on the two-hour Zurich Highlights Tour . After riding through the Old Town and hearing the historic commentary from your guide, you'll board the Dolderbahn railway to climb into the hills of the Zurichberg district for views of the Old Town and lake.

For the best views of the city and the lake, follow locals to their favorite weekend aerie, the 871-meter Uetliberg. Southwest of Zürich, the Uetliberg is the most northerly summit in the Albis ridge, easy to reach by the Uetlibergbahn, a mountain railroad that runs year-round from Selnau station to the upper station. From here it is a 10-minute walk to the summit.

The broad walkway is well lit at night and leads to the summit restaurant, a glass-enclosed space with beautiful views of the city lights below. Daytime views from the lookout tower stretch across the Valais, Bernese, and Glarus Alps, with the Black Forest to the north and the Säntis to the east. From here, an easy ridge walk to the Felsenegg takes a little more than an hour, where a cableway descends to Adliswil.

You can return to Zurich by the Sihltalbahn. Riding to the Uetliberg at night for a dinner of fondue and views of the city with its lights reflected in the snow is one of the locals' favorite things to do in Zürich in the winter.

The focal point of Zürich, and a favorite playground for tourists and locals is the long Lake Zürich. The entire shore is lined with promenades and parks, where local residents catch the sun, jog, picnic, and swim in the lake.

The favorite way for tourists to enjoy the lake is on one of the many cruises that reveal beautiful views to the Glarus Alps. Look for the steamer landing at Bürkliplatz, at the point where the Limmat flows from the lake. The Quaibrücke crosses the river to connect Bürkliplatz with Bellevueplatz.

About 1.5 kilometers from Bellevueplatz is the beautiful Zürichhorn Park , built for the National Exhibition in 1939. Here, you'll find a restaurant; a Chinese Garden ; and a boat landing for the Limmatschiff , a boat that runs from the National Museum along the river to the lake, ending at Zürihorn.

On the opposite shore, Strandbad Mythenquai is a public beach, part of the Seeuferanlage promenades that were built between 1881 and 1887. The 820 feet of sandy shore has diving boards, children's pools, lawns for sunbathing, barbecue sites, and a self-serve rental station for paddleboards.

A large flea-market is held every Saturday on Bürkliplatz from May until October with as many as 500 vendors, including antiques dealers and hobby traders.

One of Europe's top art museums, the Kunsthaus is run by the Zürich Society of Arts and traces its history back to a society of artists founded in 1787. While it has large collections of works by several artists - more paintings by Charles Munch than any other museum outside of Oslo and Europe's most important collection of Monet's works outside of Paris - the emphasis has always been on showing the highest quality works by an artist over the largest quantity.

The Kunsthaus is especially strong in Impressionists, Post-Impressionists, and Modern schools, beginning with the forerunners and early Impressionists Delacroix, Corot, Courbet, and Manet. Two of the most beautiful of the large water lily canvases are at the center of the Monet exhibit. Both Cézanne and van Gogh are represented by paintings from the end of their careers - van Gogh's painted in the final days of his life. An entire room is filled with characteristic dreamlike works of Marc Chagall.

Landmark works of Mirò, Max Ernst, Magritte, and Salvador Dali represent the Surrealist artists, and Matisse is featured both as a sculptor and painter. As you might expect, there are numerous works from the Dada school, begun right here in Zürich. Earlier periods are well represented, with important collections of exceptional paintings from the Dutch golden age, the Flemish ( Rubens and van Dyck ), Italian Baroque, and the Venetian Settecento periods.

Again, the emphasis is on landmark works, such as Domenichino's first great landscape painting of the Baptism of Christ, considered a milestone in landscape painting. Obtaining works of living artists is an important mission, and on the ground floor, you'll find changing exhibits of contemporary sculptures.

Address: Heimplatz 1, Zürich

Official site: http://www.kunsthaus.ch

Zürich's "Main Street" is the busy pedestrianized Bahnhofstrasse, stretching from the main train station (bahnhof) to the Bürkliplatz at the head of the lake. The 1,200-meter street is one of the most attractive shopping streets in Europe, enlivened by fountains, public art, trees, and distinguished buildings.

Although many of the shops that line it are filled with furs, fashions, jewelry, and other high-end goods, their smartly decked windows and the buildings themselves make it a popular place for everyone to stroll. The middle section of the street was built in 1867 after the filling in of an old moat, the Fröschengraben; the parts towards the lake and the station were built a few years later.

Among the interesting buildings are several dating from the turn of the 20th century: the Weber building (number 75), re-built in 1912 and 1928, and the Jelmoli department store complex at Seidengasse 1, originally designed with a skeleton in iron. Notice especially the 1913 facade of the Peterhof and Leuenhof building.

In the basement of Bahnhofstrasse 31, the Uhrenmuseum Beyer Zürich displays a large collection of watches and clocks, ranging from sun, oil, and water-clocks to Swiss clocks with wooden wheels and Nuremberg pendulum clocks. In the lower part of Bahnhofstrasse is the Paradeplatz , with the palatial 1876 headquarters of the Schweizerischen Kreditanstalt and the Hotel Savoy Baur en Ville, built in 1838 and reconstructed in 1978.

In the 18th century, there was a cattle market on the Paradeplatz, and later it was used as a parade ground. The imposing Bahnhof itself is an attraction, its soaring hall lined with shops and cafes, with more in the giant mall underneath. Zurich's largest Christmas market is held inside the Bahnhof.

Often mistranslated to Church of Our Lady, the name of the protestant Fraumünster actually means Women's Church, referring to the founding of an abbey here in 853 for aristocratic women of Europe by the Emperor Ludwig for his daughter, Hildegard. Until the high Middle Ages, the head of the convent was also governor of the city.

The church is a three-aisled, pillared basilica with a Gothic nave built from the 13th to the 15th centuries, a Romanesque chancel, and an Early Gothic transept with high vaulting. In the undercroft, you can see remains of the crypt of the 9th-century abbey church.

Although the church itself is worth seeing, what makes it one of Zürich's most popular tourist attractions is the beautiful set of five stained-glass windows in the chancel created by Marc Chagall in 1970. From left to right, the vividly colored windows show Elijah's ascent to heaven, Jacob, scenes of Christ's life, an angel trumpeting the end of the world, and Moses.

The rosette in the southern transept is also the work of Marc Chagall. In the north transept is another impressive stained glass window, The Heavenly Paradise, created by Augusto Giacometti in the 1940s. The abbey itself was demolished in 1898 to make way for the Stadthaus, but the Romanesque and Gothic cloister survives, with 1928 paintings by P. Bodmer illustrating the legend of the convent's founding and the city's patron saints, Felix and Regula.

Address: Münsterhof, Zürich

Between the Bahnhofstrasse and the left bank of the Limmat, the western half of Zürich's old town rises steeply to the quiet tree-shaded Lindenhof. This is where the Romans built their fortified settlement in the fourth century to defend against migrations from the North. Five centuries later, the grandson of Charlemagne built a palace here as a royal residence.

Long after remains of these structures had all but disappeared, some incorporated into buildings around the park, the site was still used for important ceremonies; in 1798 the oath confirming the Helvetic Constitution was taken here. Today, it's a tree-shaded park with benches, chess players, and tourists enjoying the sweeping views across the river and Old Town.

Along the Limmatquai, a popular riverside shopping street, are a number of elegant old guild-houses with sumptuous interiors reflecting the wealth of the guilds which governed the town until 1789. Many of them now house restaurants, so you can get a look inside at the 1719 Haus zur Saffran (number 54); the 1660 Haus zur Rüden (42); and the two-storied Haus zur Zimmerleuten (40) from 1709, with a beautiful oriel window.

Zürich's Town Hall, the Rathaus, is easy to spot, as it overhangs the river and is supported on wide arches at the east end of the Rathausbrücke. Constructed between 1694 and 1698, the massive Late Renaissance building has rich sculptured decoration and a Baroque ceremonial hall that is well worth seeing.

At the end of Münsterbrücke stands the Late-Gothic Wasserkirche , once entirely surrounded by the River Limmat. It was not connected to the land until 1839 when the Limmatquai was constructed. Built onto the north side of the church is the 1794 Helmhaus with an open fountain hall in which special exhibitions are held.

A castle-like building with neo-Gothic flourishes houses an excellent museum showcasing the cultural history of all Switzerland. It is by far the most important collection of Swiss historic and cultural artifacts - more than 820,000 of them, covering a wide range of subjects from prehistory through the 20th century.

The archaeological collections, with artifacts discovered in Switzerland that date from about 100,000 BC to about AD 800 are among the finest in Europe. Entire collections cover works of gold- and silversmiths, textiles, costumes, metalwork, jewelry, watches and clocks, scientific instruments, rural life, carriages and sleighs, musical instruments, crafts, and industrial antiquities.

The medieval wall paintings are particularly interesting, as is the collection of old stained glass. The Armory Tower exhibits an important collection of arms and armor.

Displays follow four themes: early migration and settlement, religious and intellectual history, political history, and the economic development of Switzerland. The Collections Gallery provides an overview in 20 displays showing Swiss handicrafts and products.

A series of reconstructed period rooms, for which the museum is best known, shows furnishings and decorative arts in room settings following the evolution of living spaces through the centuries as needs and tastes changed. Swiss furniture from the 20th century is displayed as well, highlighting the contrasts.

Address: Museumstrasse 2, Zürich

Official site: https://www.landesmuseum.ch/en

Standing in an open terrace above the river, Zürich's principal church dominates the city skyline with its twin towers. Built between the 11th and the 13th centuries, it is a Romanesque three-aisled galleried basilica with a chancel over a crypt that dates from about 1100. The upper levels of the towers date from 1487, but the domed tops were added in 1782.

High on the south tower on the river side is a seated figure of Charlemagne, who is believed to have founded the order to which the church originally belonged. You can see the badly weathered original of the statue in the crypt; the outside one is a copy.

Be sure to see the two modern bronze doors done in 1935-36, the sculptured Romanesque capitals, remains of Gothic wall-paintings, and the Late Romanesque cloister from about 1200. The three vividly colored stained-glass windows in the choir were designed by Augusto Giacometti in 1933.

Football (soccer to Americans and Canadians) is the world's most popular sport, played in every country, and the FIFA Museum tells the story of its world governing body, and of the World Cup. The emersive experience begins with giant video screens showing football played in countries throughout the world.

At the 13-meter-long Time Line exhibit, visitors can watch the sport grow as country after country joined.

The largest exhibition space is devoted to the FIFA World Cup Gallery, filled with mementoes and history of the two most important competitions: the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women's World Cup. The highlights for fans are a close-up look at the glittering World Cup Trophy and a film with the most memorable moments from World Cup Finals.

Address: Seestrasse 27, Zürich, Switzerland

Official site: https://www.fifamuseum.com/en/

More than 360 different animal species live in the exotic world of the Zurich Zoo, one of the finest in Europe. Animals live as close to their own environments as possible: snow leopards amid the rocky Himalayan landscape, penguins swimming in chilly water, and you can spot flying foxes from a canopy walk amid 13,000 square meters of tropical rainforest.

In the Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park, you can watch the Asian elephant family play with their baby and swim in their multi-environment outdoor complex, which was designed to resemble their natural Thai habitat. Trams and trains run to the zoo from the main train station and the Paradeplatz.

Address: Zürichbergstrasse 221, Zürich

Official site: https://www.zoo.ch/en

Reinventing itself from a former industrial area, Zurich-West is now a trendy district for contemporary art, design, shopping, and dining with an informal vibe and cheeky charm.

The main gathering point is under the arches of the railway viaduct, built in 1894 and known as Im Viadukt. The arches are now filled with designer shops, boutiques, a food market, and restaurants, and the 500-meter-long urban space alongside it is the place to stroll.

Kunsthalle Zurich and Migros Museum both feature contemporary art, the latter of them with a focus on social issues. The former shipbuilding plant, the Schiffbau, is the major venue for performing arts and music.

A Neoclassical villa modeled on the Villa Albani in Rome (it's said to be an exact copy) houses the outstanding collection of Baron Eduard von der Heydt. The villa was built in 1857 for a German industrialist and was a meeting place for Zürich intellectuals.

It is Switzerland's only museum of non-European art, with collections that include Indian sculpture, Tibetan temple pictures and bronzes, Chinese grave decorations, Buddhist stele, and Asian ceramics and jade. There are also arts from the Pacific, the Near East, and North America, along with a collection of African carvings, masks, and bronzes.

The villa sits in beautiful Rieter Park , an English landscape garden with walking paths.

Address: Gablerstrasse 15, Zürich

Official site: www.rietberg.ch

South of the Lindenhof in the part of the Old Town that lies on the west bank of the Limmat, St. Peter's Church stands on a little hill. The oldest parish church in Zürich, it has an early 13th-century Romanesque choir under the tower and a Baroque nave with three-aisles and galleries.

You can see the original 9th-century foundation underneath the chancel. In 1538, the church acquired the largest clock dials in Europe, 8.7 meters in diameter, and still holds that record.

Address: St.-Peter-Hofstatt, Zürich

The astonishingly broad collections in the Bellerive make it Switzerland's most important museum of applied arts. The diverse exhibitions that display these explore various topics and themes, moving seamlessly between art and design and through various historical periods.

The Bellerive is especially strong in works across all media from the Art Nouveau era, with particularly valuable examples of ceramics. Other specialties include textiles, modern ceramics, and marionettes handmade by 20th-century artists. There are 200 historic musical instruments in the collections.

Address: Höschgasse 3, Zürich

Sprüngli House was opened in 1856, and today, the confectioner's café on Paradeplatz is a favorite stop for locals and tourists. One look at the stacks of temptations in the window, and you'll be drawn inside to at least feast your eyes on the beautifully displayed truffles (made fresh each day), bonbons, cakes, and their signature macarons, called Luxemburgerli.

The retail shop is on the street floor, while the upstairs café-salon serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon desserts in genteel surroundings.

Address: Bahnhofstrasse 21, Zürich

The month of December is an exciting time to visit Zurich, when streets and squares - even the train station - are filled with kiosks selling holiday foods, gifts, decorations, and works by local craftspeople. Amid the stalls in Werdmühleplatz is the Singing Christmas Tree , a pyramid-shaped platform of evergreen boughs where rows of red-clad children sing Christmas carols.

At Bürkliplatz, visitors can create their own Christmas candles, and throughout the markets are carousels and amusements for children.

One of Europe's largest Christmas markets fills huge Bahnhof, whose main hall becomes a glittering world of lights, highlighted by a 50-foot Christmas tree decorated entirely by Swarovski crystal ornaments. The tree showcases more than 6,000 ornaments from the year's latest and from past years.

A short boat ride on Lake Zurich to Medieval Rapperswil adds a Christmas market featuring a wide variety of local foods.

Most of Zurich's top-rated attractions lie close to the Limmat River, between the Bahnhof (main train station) and Bürkliplatz, where the river flows from the lake. Connecting these two points on the west side is the broad Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's most fashionable shopping street. Rising from the other side of the river is the Old Town of narrow streets and squares lined with Medieval and Renaissance buildings. These highly-rated hotels in Zurich are all in this central area:

Luxury Hotels :

• Often found on the "Best Hotels in Europe" lists, Baur au Lac is known for great service and its elegant, spacious rooms overlooking the lake, as well as for its Michelin-starred Pavillon restaurant.
• Not as close to the Old Town, but near the lake and the main shopping area, Park Hyatt Zurich is in the heart of the financial district.
• A grande dame with Old World style (and free high-speed internet), the uber-elegant Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich faces the Bahnhof but rooms are very quiet.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the center of the Old Town and close to shops and restaurants, Hotel Adler offers guests free breakfast and in-room soft drinks amid a contemporary décor.
• Higher in the Old Town and on a tram line, Hotel St. Josef also includes a free continental breakfast.
• Farther from the Old Town, Zurich Marriott Hotel is on the riverbank, about a 10-minute walk from the Bahnhof.

Budget Hotels:

• Just behind the station and on a tram line, Walhalla Hotel overlooks the river and includes a good breakfast buffet.
• Limmathof faces the main station from across the river, at the edge of the Old Town.
• In the atmospheric Old Town, citizenM Zurich rooms feature refrigerators and extra-long beds.

Sightseeing Tours :

• If you have limited time, a great way to see the city's top sights is on a Zurich City Highlights with Felsenegg Cable Car Ride tour. This half-day guided excursion takes you on a luxury coach to see top attractions, such as the old town, Swiss National Museum, Fraumunster Church, and Bahnhofstrasse, and includes a scenic ferry ride across Lake Zurich. After seeing all the city sights, ride a cable car up Felsenegg for a bird's-eye view of the Alps and the mountain towns below.
• Another option, the half-day Great Tour of Zurich , adds a trip along the lake to the lovely lakeside town of Rapperswil, with a return by boat (April to October) or train in the winter. After a bus ride past Zurich's top sights, the tour in Rapperswil includes its beautiful rose gardens and deer park, as well as free time to shop or explore on your own.

Day Trips :

• Zurich is surrounded by exciting day trip options, and the most convenient way to experience them is to join a guided tour. One of the most popular is the Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe Day Trip . This full-day tour takes you through the beautiful countryside of the Bernese Oberland and on a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, where you can enter the heart of a glacier and admire the spectacular UNESCO-listed Alpine wilderness from the Top of Europe.
• If you want to expand your horizons and visit two countries in one day, the Heidiland and Liechtenstein Tour from Zurich is an excellent option. This full-day tour visits the top sights in Zurich; the medieval castles of Rapperswil; the verdant Swiss Alps setting of the classic Heidi stories; and Vaduz, capital of the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein.
• Lucerne is also within day-trip distance of Zurich, and the Mount Pilatus Summer Day Trip from Zurich takes you on a fascinating tour of this picturesque city as well as up the 2,132-meter summit of Mount Pilatus. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views over the snow-capped mountains before descending on the world's steepest railway. Top off your tour with a peaceful cruise across Lake Lucerne.

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10 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Zurich

Zürich or Zurich is the largest city, a global center for banking and finance, lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. The picturesque lanes of the central Altstadt (Old Town), on either side of the Limmat River, reflect its pre-medieval history.

Zurich is famous for luxurious lifestyles, high-end shopping, and fancy chocolates.

Why visit Zurich

Zurich has for years ranked among the world’s top cities in terms of quality of life. Permanently settled for around 2000 years, the history of Zurich goes back to its founding by the Romans.

Cultural diversity

Zurich is a mixed hub for railways, roads, and air traffic – both Zurich airport and railway station are the largest and busiest in the country.

Zurich is a culturally and ethnically diverse city – 31% of the city’s population are foreign nationals, 39% are born abroad and 61% have a migration background. The most important sector in the economy of Zurich is the service industry, which employs nearly four-fifths of workers.

The City’s current strategy prioritizes culture that reaches Zurich’s diverse mix of citizens, ranging across age, ethnicity, and neighborhoods.

In order to provide an interesting and compelling cultural program for such a wide range of citizens, Zürich offers a well-balanced range of established cultural venues, temporary project spaces and recurring events.

Visit the bars and club scene

With 500 bars and clubs in a relatively small city, you’ll have many options to go out and have a good time. People of all ages love to go out and socialize in upscale bars like Kaufleuten, Acapulco, a ’70s-themed bar, and Pur Pur.

Zurich’s nightlife offers classy clubs, casual and alternative bars, as well as live-music venues. The main nightlife areas are Niederdorf in the old town, the streets around Langstrasse and Zurich West.

The city’s extraordinary Badi Bars also deserve attention.

Visit Marc Chagall’s stained glass windows in Fraumunster church.

Marc Chagall created 5 windows for the Fraumünster church in Zurich. Today the windows are world-famous and captivate visitors. In the 1970s, Belarussian-born Marc Chagall created a five-part stained-glass window series and a rosette for the chancel of the Fraumünster church in Zurich.

The windows are best seen in the bright morning light as all five stained-glass windows illuminate the entire church.

The Fraumunster Church is located in Zürich’s city center. The church was built in 853.

The Old Town

The Altstadt Old Town is the most beautiful area in Zurich. The Old Town is divided into two parts from the river. Here you can find houses from medieval times, great beautifully presented historic cafes, restaurants, and shops. Here is also the highest concentration of clubs in Switzerland.

This beautiful Historic Centre is home to a number of architecturally impressive buildings.

See the Masoala Rainforest Hall at Zurich Zoo

If you have kids with you you, you’ll want to visit the 36,000-square-foot Masoala Rainforest Hall , known as the only rainforest in Europe. It’s presenting the living species of Madagascar, where you can see wildlife, ferns, rubber trees, insects and even fish.

The Zoo Zürich is a zoo located in Zurich, Switzerland conveniently accessible from Zürich city center. The building costs were financed with donated funds, and the volume of the shelter is 200,000 cubic meters. With the small rainforest ecosystem, the Masoala Rainforest became an actual conservation center with the capability of offer animals and over 500 plant species.

Zoo Zurich operates a tree nursery in the Masoala Rainforest, and it produces over a hundred young trees and bushes that are pricked out in the Masoala Rainforest.

The shopping

Zurich has built up a reputation as a shopping city. Some of the places you have to visit are the Bahnhofstrasse: a pedestrianized street, where you’ll find many world-famous brands as well as large, impressive department stores, Teddy’s Souvenir Shop has a broad selection of traditional crafts and souvenirs from all over Switzerland. In the side streets and alleys of the Old Town, you’ll find interesting stores selling a wide range of unique curios.

Awesome Cuisine

Zurich offers a great selection of restaurants where you can try traditional Swiss dishes or international cuisine.

You can try Guild House for traditional cuisine like Zurcher Geshnetzeltes or you can head up to Zurich West, where you can find many stylish restaurants with impressive décor.

Gateway to explore central Switzerland

Central Switzerland is the cradle of Switzerland where its origins were founded in 1291. The area can be reached quickly and easily from all parts of Switzerland.

You can take so many great day-trips close to Zürich and explore the Rhine Falls (the largest waterfall in Europe), the beautiful and historic city of Lucerne, and endless Mount Titlis. The alps are only a short distance away, and you can often see them in the distance.

  View this post on Instagram   Credit: Elizabeth D’Alessandro, smartphotography.ch A post shared by Street Parade Official (@streetparadeofficial) on Aug 18, 2016 at 12:30am PDT

The annual Street Parade

The annual Street Parade is a must for house and techno music lovers. The Parade is one of the country’s biggest party events on the year and you can see 30 decorated trucks in a 2.4-kilometre route around Lake Zurich.

This is a very large and peaceful plaza with many linden trees and benches that make it perfect for picnics. Great views of the city abound. The Romans royals would stay here when traveling in the region. You can check out the replica Roman tombstone in Pfalzgasse out of the square.

The Switzerland Travel System provides a dedicated range of travel passes and tickets for visitors.

Want to find more sustainable destinations? Check our other posts .

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10 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Meat Consumption

Eating less meat is better for animals, people and the planet.  You can reduce your meat consumption by eating some vegan or vegetarian meals and by reducing the amount of meat you eat in each meal.

World’s leading health organizations now encourage a reduction in the amount of meat people consume. The World Cancer Research Fund recommends we “choose mostly plant foods, limit red meat and avoid processed meat”. A study by Oxford University’s department of public health found that eating meat no more than three times a week could prevent 31,000 deaths from heart disease, 9,000 deaths from cancer and 5,000 deaths from stroke, as well as save billions of dollars.

The cost of meat has risen 10 percent in the last decade. Plant proteins such as lentils, peas or dried beans cost less than the equivalent amount of animal protein. Eating less meat can save you money!

Below you can find the 10 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Meat Consumption

1. Try going meat free for one day a week

Sign up for Meat Free Mondays! This 15% reduction in your meat consumption can be massively beneficial to the environment and your health.

Photo credit: rawpixel.com  from  Pexels

2. Ensure you get enough protein from vegetarian sources instead, like lentils and almonds.

Proteins are essential nutrients for the human body. They are one of the building blocks of body tissue and can also serve as a fuel source. The Recommended Daily Allowance of protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

3. Experiment with new grains and vegetables

Add a variety of new flavours and textures to your meals by trying combinations with new veggies. You can try this  buckwheat garden salad .

4. Look to cuisines from countries with well-known vegetarian dishes such as Indian and Mexican recipes.

5. Buy meat on the bone, as bones not only add extra flavor but can also be used to make stock for another meal – such as chicken noodle soup.

6. Adding a meaty texture to your meal

If you really like your meat, add ‘meaty’ flavors by using dried mushrooms or soya sauce, and ‘meaty’ textures like aubergines following this mushroom risotto recipe.

7. Bulk up meat dishes with beans, grains or vegetable.

Try adding extra carrot into a Bolognese. Or if you are making beef burgers, try putting some cooked lentils into the mixture to make  lentil and beef burgers .

8. Reach for whole and unprocessed snacks rather than vegan junk food

Carrots and hummus or apples with peanut butter rather than cookies – as getting maximum nutrition means you will feel the most satisfied with your meal.

9. Use meat sparingly, and as an extra flavor, such as bacon pieces in this  Braised Red Cabbage .

10. Try substituting your favorite foods for meat-free versions

Instead of pre-packaged sausage rolls, try making these Mushroom Sausage Rolls .

More reasons to reduce your meat consumption

Think of the animals.

Billions of animals are killed for meat each year. Most of them are raised in overcrowded cages, with no room and no access to daylight or fresh air. All farmed animals end their lives with a brutal death. Reducing consumption and eating less meat is a step that helps not only animals but the environment as well.

Animals convert plant protein and energy into meat protein and energy inefficiently. 12 kgs of grain are necessary to produce 1 kg of beef.

This means that the amount of the world’s available nutrients is reducing disproportionally.

Over 800 million people on the planet are suffering from hunger or malnutrition, and the amount of cereal that could be enough to feed three times this number of people is used to feed stocks.

Stop the extinction of species

Agricultural expansion and overfishing are the two major factors causing loss of species and biodiversity. If we do not stop this, in the next 100 years will be a global mass extinction of species.

Check out these article for more tips about how to eat more environmentally-friendly.

Photo credit: Pixabay  from  Pexels

Top 11 Greenest Countries in the World for 2018

The  Environmental Performance Index (EPI) ranks 180 countries on a national and governmental scale, focusing on environmental public health and ecosystem vitality.  By using this system, a comparison is drawn across the 163 countries to identify how they rank against one another in their efforts to go green. Here you’ll find the top 11  greenest countries  in the world for 2018, can you guess where your country rates?

The scoring is based on a scale of 0-100; as a side note, there are only a few countries with an 80 or higher. 

Top 11 greenest countries in the world

Switzerland.

Switzerland has a long-standing tradition of neutrality which has been honored by other European countries, even though both world wars; impressive considering it borders France and Germany. The climate can vary due to the mountainous region which it is famous for. Switzerland has a prosperous economy with a well-developed service sector led by banking industries. It also specializes in high technology and knowledge-based production. It is obvious that with Switzerland being in the second place it scored high marks in many categories though had a very poor showing in terms of air pollution due to vehicle emissions and open-air burning. It’s forestry and biodiversity stood out with 100% ratings for both categories.

The country is one of the greenest countries in the world. They implemented legislation that made it mandatory for all of France to partake in making the country eco-friendly and conserving energy. France has been endowed with very fertile grounds and is one of the top exporters of food and wine.

The country has fewer industries as compared to other countries and this has helped in the reduction of air pollution. Over the years, France has been working on deindustrialization – a move that has seen the environmental state of the country improve as water pollution has been reduced significantly. France has made a change in the way how its resources are used and methods of production to conserve the environment.

Due to its strong commitments to reduce emissions through increased efficiency and renewable energy production, Denmark moves up in the world. Danish society is ranked in the top five of the safest countries. Denmark’s main goal is to create an ‘environmentally sustainable community’. So far, a huge 40% of all energy production has been achieved through wind power, with the hope of 50% of by 2020.

Nearly half of the Danish population do not own a car. Due to the use of renewable energy sources, Denmark has achieved a high EPI score and is the world’s leading wind turbine energy producer and it is in the list of the greenest countries in the world.

Malta gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1964 and since the 1980s has become a transshipment point. It is located in the Mediterranean and has rainy winters and hot dry summers. The country has very limited freshwater resources and has grown increasingly reliant on desalination plants to generate freshwater for consumption. 70% of Maltese energy comes from natural gas and the remaining 30% from renewable sources. Malta was heavily dependent on the oil industry, however, their change to natural gas and work towards the 2030 agenda has placed them in the top 5 most sustainable countries in the world.

The country can only produce about 20% of its food needs and relies heavily on foreign trade to supplement the remaining 80%. Malta scored 100% on its efforts to support clean water availability to the population and another 100% on its efforts to conserve the forests.

Sweden is listed among the greenest countries in the world. The country plans on eradicating the use of fossil fuel by the year 2020. They have embraced the use of renewable energy that is eco-friendly to keep the environment natural and safe from pollution.

The use of renewable energy greatly contributes to the reduction of carbon in the air thus a cleaner and safer environment. The most notable action is the partnership between Sweden and its neighboring countries, especially by taking responsibility to protect the Baltic Sea and protect the ecosystem.

United Kingdom

United Kingdom makes its way among the most eco-friendly countries. The UK always remained one of the higher ranking entries in EPI, although 6th is the all-time high. The UK was the 9th friendliest country in 2012 and remained 12th most friendly in 2014 and 2016.

Britain also had its first day without burning any coal. This is to become a trend in the future as the country focuses on product energy with renewable resources. The country looks forward to losing its last coal plant in 2025.

Luxembourg has made some dramatic changes but had a troubled history maintain its rank in EPI list of greenest countries. An improving labor market, low inflation, and rising house prices are also signals of improvement. Luxembourg has recently used its influence in the financial sector to accelerate global sustainable investment.

As one of the world’s smallest European countries, it comes as no surprise fares relatively well. Luxembourg can improve its ranking for forests, climate and energy, agriculture and air pollution

Among the major actions taken by Austria is putting environmental protection in its social and economic policy agenda.

Austria has also worked hard in sectors such as waste management and chemical as well as air pollution to prevent such pollutants from destroying the environment. Austria has incorporated ecological knowledge in its agriculture to prevent pollution. Also, put measures into place to protect its forest and reduce deforestation. This has been highlighted by the restriction on the use of pesticides. All these have contributed to making it one of the greenest countries in the world.

The Irish government finally did something to improve the living condition by getting rid of rubbish that has festooned rivers, lakes, towns, and the whole country.

Ireland came a long way with making important reforms such as focusing on renewable energy, waste management, and cleaning the air. Ireland produces almost 16% of its energy from renewable sources. It aims to extend this percentage to 40% by 2020.

Moreover, the country has implemented drastic changes to improve the air and water quality. The efforts to preserve biodiversity in the region are also praised worthy, and they show the present power bodies are really concerned about what they are going to leave behind for their children.

Finland was known for high scores of nitrogen emission and other activities that destroyed the environment. However, over the years, improvements have been noted as the country strives to restore its environment to its original state.

Finland has worked hard to make sure greenhouse gases are not produced and that the citizens in the country use renewable sources of energy for production. Wind power has greatly been made use of. Finland has planned to have more than half of its electricity coming from renewable sources of energy.

Iceland was settled by Norwegian and Celtic immigrants in the 9th and 10th centuries. The country has been independent for over 300 years and boasts the world’s oldest functioning legislative assembly which was established in 930. Iceland receives top marks in other rankings as well such as literacy, longevity and social cohesion all first-rate by world standards. Iceland is an island country in the Northern Atlantic Ocean, northwest of England. The name can fool you since the climate consists of mild, windy winters and cool summers. The major environmental concerns are water pollution from fertilizer runoff and inadequate wastewater management.

It has placed focus on the production of electricity and heat by utilizing geothermal landscapes. Iceland has also played a major role in the fight against ocean pollution. It has made sure that the waters are kept clean and fishing is done while prioritizing on protecting the environment.

Photo by  Karan Sharma  from  Pexels

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Zurich vs. Geneva: Which City is Better to Visit?

• January 2, 2023 April 10, 2024

Last Updated on April 10, 2024 by Admin

When it comes to planning a European trip and preferring to see cities rather than hiking the Alps, these two options – Zurich and Geneva – are among the most talked-about. My recommendation would always be to visit the Swiss Alps, as they are without a doubt the crown jewel of Switzerland. However, not everyone is eager or intends to visit those mountains.

In terms of population, Zurich and Geneva are Switzerland’s two biggest cities. These two cities are both well-known around the world. They are among Switzerland’s liveliest, busiest cities, full of restaurants, hotels, and tourists from around the world. However, if you were to decide which city to visit in Switzerland, which would you choose? Would you pick the German-speaking city of Zurich? Or the French-speaking city of Geneva? 

In this article, we will examine Zurich and Geneva in order to determine which city you should visit during your visit to Switzerland. So, without further ado, let’s jump right in. Is it better to visit Zurich or Geneva, Switzerland?  

Overview: Zurich vs. Geneva

The key differences between Zurich and Geneva are as follows:

Cities: Zurich vs. Geneva

Zurich city – switzerland’s financial hub.

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and primary financial center. It has plenty of quiet, green spaces amidst historical monuments, a charming old town, a lake, and a river. Zurich offers a lot to visitors, including museums , trips to the mountains , gardens, a zoo, shopping, and more.

Zurich is located in north-central Switzerland. It is also the country’s hub for rail, road, and air traffic. Its main railway station is the busiest and largest in the country. If you are coming from abroad, you are likely to go through Zurich instead of Geneva.

Geneva City – An International City

Zurich’s counterpart on the French side of Switzerland is Geneva . On the shores of Lake Geneva , it is the second-most populous country in Switzerland and the most populous in the French-speaking part of the country. 

A global city, Geneva is home to numerous international organizations such as the United Nations and the Red Cross. The city is also a major financial center , ranking fifth in Europe after London, Zurich, Frankfurt, and Luxembourg. 

I think visiting either place will be a good experience as both have plenty of hotels, restaurants, museums, and things to do. Zurich will have a fast, efficient, and business-like feel due to its importance as a financial center. On the other hand, Geneva will be similar but with a more international flavor. Zurich is more of a Swiss-German city, while Geneva is a world city.

Zurich is better to visit compared to Geneva for families with children (to visit Zurich Zoo or Technorama for example). The city is also ideal for young, active adults looking for adventure. If you intend to visit Graubünden or the Bernese Oberland later, Zurich will also be a more convenient option logistically.

Geneva will be a better choice compared to Zurich for visitors and couples looking to relax . It boasts a lovely, relaxing setting on Lake Geneva , close to Vevey and Montreux , as well as spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. The Lavaux Wine Terraces, for example, is also a good place to visit while in Geneva. Moreover, if you plan to visit the Valais region afterward, Geneva will be a better choice.

My opinion: I find Geneva and the region around Lake Geneva to be more beautiful than Zurich and its surroundings. In the surrounding area of Zurich, you tend to find mainly residential homes and apartments used by people working there. In contrast, Geneva and its surrounding area have a lot more touristy places to visit, such as Montreux , Lausanne , and Vevey . Furthermore, I also find the Lake Geneva region has better views of the Alps compared to Lake Zurich. For a similar view, you will need to travel around an hour or two from Zurich to either Lucerne or Glarus . Zurich does, however, tend to be the most convenient city to stay in since it is home to the country’s largest airport . The city of Zurich is also very cosmopolitan and offers many restaurants and hotels.

Advantages of Zurich

• Ideal for families with young children. You can visit the Zurich Zoo or Technorama .
• Ideal for young adults who are into adventure, shopping, and nightlife. You can head to Interlaken for more active pursuits later.
• Ideal for those who will proceed to Graubünden ( Engadine region , Flims Laax Falera, Arosa Lenzerheide, Davos).
• Ideal for those who will proceed to the Jungfrau Region ( Wengen , Mürren , Grindelwald ).

Advantages of Geneva

• Ideal for couples looking to relax. Montreux is a well-known spa resort and the Lavaux Vineyards are always pleasant to visit.
• Ideal for those who will proceed to Valais later (Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Crans-Montana, Grimentz-Zinal).
• Ideal for those who prefer a more International City.

Things to do: Zurich vs. Geneva

Things to do in zurich.

While there are many things to do and places to visit in Zurich , we have provided some of the highlights of this city below:

• Visit the Grossmünster and Fraumünster Churches – two beautiful churches located right in the middle of Zurich. These are both easily accessible on foot from the train station. The churches have been witness to Zurich’s reformation period from the Middle Ages onwards.
• Cruise the Limmat River or Lake Zurich – In case you want to reminisce about times past, there are paddle steamers that cruise Lake Zurich. Alternatively, you can take a short cruise on the Limmat River to go from one side of the city to the other.
• Take the Polybahn up to the Polyterasse – To get good views of the city of Zurich, simply take the Polybahn up to the Polyterasse near the University of Zurich and ETH. Alternatively, if you prefer a higher view, you can take the train up to Uetliberg . Upon reaching the top, you will see a panoramic view of Greater Zurich. Both are very easy to get to and can be accomplished in a few hours even if you don’t have much time.
• Explore the museums – Zurich has many museums, some of which are free to visit .  However, I believe that the Landesmuseum is one of the best museums in the city. It is a castle-like museum located directly in front of the Zurich train station. Several permanent exhibits provide insight into Swiss culture. They also have changing collections. Another interesting museum is the WOW museum , in which you can see illusions. If you want to check out the science museum, head over to Technorama . While it’s not too close to the city center, it’s still worth a visit.
• Shopping – We have to mention shopping. Check out the Bahnhofstrasse which is the main street in Zurich. Here you can find watch shops, clothes, chocolates, and more.

Find out what else there is to do in  Zurich  on  GetYourGuide.com .

Things to do in Geneva

While there are many things to do and places to visit in Geneva , we have provided some of the highlights of this city below:

• Visit  St. Pierre Cathedral  – built from 1160 to 1252, this beautiful cathedral was built and used by John Calvin, one of the leaders of the Protestant Reformation. It is regarded as one of Geneva’s most important landmarks.
• Get to know  Geneva’s Old Town  – Geneva’s Old Town is its historic center. Not only will you find Saint Peter’s Cathedral, but also the Bastion Park, the Reformation Wall, the Place du Bourg-de-Four, The Treille Promenade, and more.
• It is indeed possible to stroll along  Lake Geneva  or cruise on it – the largest lake in Switzerland is indeed a place where you can swim in summer, cruise on the boat, or simply stroll nearby. Visit one of Geneva’s landmarks – the water jet called   Jet d’Eau .   Bains des Pâquis is also nearby. 
• Explore the museums – Like Zurich, Geneva also has its fair share of museums. Maison Tavel stands out as an example of medieval civil architecture. There is also the Ariana Museum , which has ancient artifacts, glass, and ceramics. Alternatively, if you are interested in learning more about watches, there is a Patek Philippe Museum . For those who want to explore a bit further, or for those with young children, there is the Aquatis Aquarium-Vivarium in Lausanne.
• Enjoy a walk in one of the parks – The two parks worth mentioning are Parc de la Grange and Parc des Eaux-Vives . These parks have well-tended flower beds, and it’s always a pleasure to walk through them. Come see the flowers when they are blooming.
• Discover the United Nations Building – The Palace of Nations is definitely worth a visit if you want to discover one of the most important diplomatic centers in the world. Tours are available upon request. The nearby Ariana Park is also worth a visit.

Find out what else there is to do in  Geneva  on  GetYourGuide.com .

Hotels: Zurich vs. Geneva

With Zurich and Geneva being two of the biggest cities in the country, you’ll find hotels for every budget. These are the hotels we recommend.

Hotels in Zurich

• Storchen Zürich – Lifestyle Boutique Hotel (5-star) – Located in the heart of Zurich, this boutique hotel even has a boat stop in front of its doors. The hotel is within walking distance of the city’s most popular attractions, including Grossmünster Church, Fraumünster Church, Limmat River, and Lake Zurich. In the summer, enjoy breathtaking views of the Limmat River and Grossmünster Church from the picturesque terrace. The hotel’s classic and modern rooms and suites offer unique views of the picturesque Old Town.
• Dolder Grand Hotel (5-star) – This fantastic hotel is located on the Zürichberg hill overlooking Zurich. Located next to a Cog Railway Station, Dolder Grand has 2 outstanding restaurants, an exclusive spa, fitness facilities, and superior service.
• B2 Hotel Zurich (4-star) – One of the cool things about this hotel is its public thermal bath and spa, which features different swimming pools, a wellness area, and a steam bath, right in the heart of Zurich. In addition to that, it’s located in an old brewery.
• Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich (4-star) – A short walk from Zurich’s main train station, this hotel is a great choice for people who want something stylish and convenient. Schweizerhof Zurich has noise-proof rooms, a great location, and free access to Holmes Place Fitness & Spa next door.
• citizenM Zurich (4-star) – Located in a great location with a fantastic lounge offering free Wi-Fi, this hotel is a fantastic value for money. This modern hotel in the center of Zurich offers friendly service and the quality you would expect from a CitizenM hotel.
• Motel One Zurich (3-star) – I’d highly recommend Motel One to anyone looking for something more inexpensive. Having stayed at Motel One Basel, I am 100% sure that the Motel One hotel in Zurich is just as nice, clean, and affordable. Plus, it’s incredibly close to the train station, Grossmünster, and the heart of the city.

Hotels in Geneva

• Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva (5-star) – Set in a historic building from 1834, Four Seasons is one of the best hotels in Geneva. You can’t go wrong with this hotel with its elegant interiors, fine dining restaurant, indoor infinity pool, spa, business services, and multi-lingual concierge.
• Beau-Rivage Genève (5-star) – With its panoramic views of the lake and Mont Blanc, this elegant 5-star hotel is right on Lake Geneva. Cornavin Train Station is just a five-minute walk away. This hotel has a highly-rated French restaurant called Le Chat Botté.  There is a 24-hour front desk, fitness center, concierge service, a business center, and more.
• Hotel Bristol (4-star superior) – Between Geneva’s train station and the lake, this 4-star superior hotel Hotel Bristol makes a great choice for tourists. This hotel has a wonderful spa area with saunas, a hot tub, and a hammam. Besides that, it’s got a great restaurant called Côté Square.
• citizenM Geneva (4-star) – citizenM Geneva is close to some main attractions, including St. Pierre Cathedral , Jet d’Eau , the Flower Clock, and Geneva Town Hall. The hotel has air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, too. 
• Hotel Bernina Geneva  (3-star) – Located opposite Geneva’s train station, the Hotel Bernina Geneva is a convenient 3-star superior hotel with clean, modern rooms. 
• MEININGER Geneve Centre Charmilles (Hostel) – Although this hostel isn’t in the center of the city, it’s well connected, so you can easily get to all the sights. With 24-hour reception, free WiFi, luggage storage, a washing machine, a dryer, a kitchen, a bar, and a game zone, you’ve got everything you need for your stay in Geneva. 

Summary: Zurich vs. Geneva

Which city you choose will be determined by your needs and wants, as I mentioned. It is generally easier to reach and worth traveling to Zurich first because of its role as an international hub. Geneva may look more relaxing and scenic, but Zurich still can be a worthwhile stopover before going to either the Jungfrau region in the Bernese Oberland or the Bernina region in the Engadine.

If you have already been to Zurich and the other areas mentioned, you can also travel via Geneva . In addition to Geneva, you can also explore the nearby towns of Lausanne , Vevey , and Montreux . And you will be closer to the high alpine setting of Valais. 

I hope we were able to assist you in making your decision. No matter what you decide, we hope you enjoy your stay in Switzerland.

* Disclosure: By clicking on our affiliate links, you may support TouringSwitzerland.com while incurring no additional costs. We appreciate your support!

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Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.

Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.

• Darla Uhl https://www.touringswitzerland.com/author/tswriter/ Cherry Trail in Frick, Switzerland
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The Most Beautiful Views in Zurich

Anyone who wants to take the most attractive selfie with Zurich in the background, is looking for the perfect place for a marriage proposal, or simply wishes to view the City on the Limmat, with all its waterways and parks , from above, should be sure to visit these vantage points in Zurich.

The historically important Lindenhof is a real oasis. It also offers the most beautiful views of the guild houses and the Grossmünster Church.

Jules Verne Panorama Bar

Here, romantics can enjoy a 360° panorama of the city center. And in the Urania Observatory, one floor up, you can reach for the sun, moon and stars.

George Bar & Grill

Three different directions, three different perspectives of Zurich – that can be enjoyed from the terrace of the George Bar & Grill.

This view of the Old Town, Limmat and Lake Zurich is simply awesome: climb up the Karlsturm, one of the two towers of the Grossmünster Church.

Polyterrasse

Students at the ETH have a beautiful terrace with a view. But they are not the only ones – as fortunately it is accessible to the public, too.

On the 35th floor of the Prime Tower, guests are treated to delicious gin creations and a spectacular panorama of Zürich-West.

Freitag Tower

Whether before, during or after purchasing an original Freitag bag, a visit to the roof of the tower is obligatory.

The funicular takes 122 seconds to reach the “Rigiblick” stop, where a hotel, theater and fabulous view are awaiting curious visitors.

The tram trip to the “Zoo” stop and a walk to the Sorell Hotel Zürichberg is rewarded with breathtaking vistas.

A trip up the Uetliberg is an absolute must. And those who dare can climb to the top of the lookout tower and gain an additional 72 meters of view!

Zurich Thermal Baths

Fancy relaxing in warm water while looking out over the city? Not a problem at the Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa.

Käferberg/Waid

One of the most beautiful panoramas of Zurich’s city and lake can be enjoyed from Waid, located between the urban quarters of Wipkingen and Höngg.

Loorenkopf Tower

The Loorenkopf lookout tower can be reached on a walk from Zurich Zoo or the Witikon urban district.

The Felsenegg offers an impressive view over Lake Zurich and the city.

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Zurich on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Travel

If you’ve been eyeing Zurich for your next adventure but have been put off by its expensive reputation, don’t worry. Exploring Zurich on a budget is possible, and I’m here to show you how.

From budget accommodation to cheap eats and free things to do, we’re about to make Zurich affordable.

How expensive is Zurich?

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room: How much should you expect to spend in Zurich?

Well, “Zurich travel budget” is a search term that’s as diverse as it gets because, frankly, your spending can vary quite a bit.

Zurich isn’t shy about its high costs, but here’s what you should generally expect:

• Accommodation : Budget hostels can cost between 50 to 70 CHF per night for a bed in a dormitory. For budget hotels, expect to pay anything from 100 to 200 CHF for a double room.
• Food : A meal in a budget restaurant can cost you around 10-30 CHF. For a meal in a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay 40-60 CHF.
• Transportation : A one-way ticket to Zurich’s efficient public transport system costs about 2.6 CHF.
• Entertainment : Museums and attractions range from 10 to 25 CHF.
• Drinks : A pint of beer in Zurich will set you back about 5-8 CHF.

So, for a budget trip, plan for about 70-100 CHF per day, 100-200 CHF for a mid-range trip, and upwards of 200 CHF for a more luxurious experience.

*1 CHF = 1.09 USD.

Tips to Save Money in Zurich

You can get a Zurich Card for unlimited public transportation and free or discounted entry to most museums and attractions.

If you plan to shop, make sure to claim VAT refunds on your purchases when you leave Switzerland.

Cheapest time to visit Zurich

Planning your visit to Zurich strategically can be a real money-saver. So, when is the best time to visit Zurich on a budget?

The answer lies in the shoulder season – that’s April, May, September, and October for Zurich. The weather is great, tourist crowds are smaller, and prices are down – win-win-win!

Just remember to book your accommodations and flights well in advance to snag the best deals.

Getting Around Zurich on the Cheap

Now, let’s tackle the cheap public transport Zurich dilemma.

Zurich has an impressive network of trams, buses, trains, and even boats that make getting around a breeze.

However, these can add up, especially if you’re planning to move around a lot.

My advice is to go for the Zurich Card – it offers unlimited travel on the city’s public transportation network, including airport transfer, and also grants free or discounted admission to a number of attractions.

If you decide to take day trips from Zurich , renting a car is the best choice. Check your car rental options here .

Walking or biking around the city is another great way to save money while enjoying the beautiful sights.

Budget Accommodation in Zurich

Despite its reputation, you can find cheap places to stay in Zurich.

Hostels like Oldtown Hostel Otter and Zurich Youth Hostel offer good value for your money. They’re quite center and the rooms are decent.

You can save even more if you opt to stay close to the city center and cut down on transportation costs. Check my Where to stay in Zurich guide for detailed tips.

I’ve found that accommodations in the Langstrasse district tend to be cheaper. This area is full of budget hotels and is conveniently located within walking distance of most of the city’s major attractions.

If you’re up for a different kind of experience, try Airbnb. There are plenty of affordable options available, and you’ll get a chance to live like a local. Plus, having a kitchen means you can save on food expenses by cooking some meals at home.

Cheap Eats in Zurich

If you’re a foodie like me, hunting for cheap food in Zurich will be high on your list.

Zurich’s culinary scene has a lot to offer beyond the high-end restaurants. Explore local markets and street food stalls for authentic Swiss cuisine without the hefty price tag.

The Sternen Grill near Bellevue Square is famous for its Bratwurst. Or visit Piadina Bar  for authentic Italian flavors. Check out my list of budget restaurants in Zurich for more tips.

Budget Bars in Zurich

Looking for budget bars in Zurich to unwind after a long day of exploring? I’ve got you covered.

For a lively ambiance and affordable drinks, try Bierhalle Wolf . It offers a great selection of beers without the high Zurich price tag.

Another great spot is the Oliver Twist Pub , especially during their happy hour – you get to save money and socialize!

For wine lovers, head to Frau Gerolds Garten . It’s a charming urban garden and bar that serves reasonably priced wines. Not to mention the location – it’s right next to the famous Prime Tower, offering a great view to enjoy with your wine.

Free Things to Do in Zurich

There are loads of free things to do in Zurich.

Stroll Old Town

Taking a leisurely stroll around the Old Town (Altstadt) is one of my favorite things to do in Zurich.

The narrow, winding alleys are packed with medieval and Renaissance-era buildings, charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

It’s like stepping back in time, and the best part is it’s absolutely free!

See Lake Zurich

Or soak in the stunning view of Lake Zurich!

Whether you choose to stroll along the promenade, lounge in one of the lakeside parks, or even take a refreshing dip during the summer months, you won’t have to spend a penny.

Visit Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden is another free place to visit in Zurich.

With free entry, you can explore thousands of different plant species from around the world. If you’re into photography or just love nature, it’s a must-visit spot.

Hike Uetliberg

Another fantastic free activity is taking a hike up to Uetliberg, Zurich’s local mountain.

It’s a short train ride from the city center (remember the Zurich Card?), and the hiking trails offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and lake below.

Cheap Things to Do in Zurich on a Budget

If you’re willing to spend just a tad, you can unlock a treasure trove of cheap activities in Zurich.

Visit Kunsthaus Zurich

For just 6 CHF, you can visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of the most important art museums in Switzerland.

Its impressive collection features works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Take a boat trip

Fancy a boat trip? For as little as 8.6 CHF, you can take a short round trip to Lake Zurich.

It’s a perfect way to see the city from a different perspective and take some great photos!

Budget Day Trips from Zurich

While there’s plenty to do in Zurich, its central location in Switzerland also makes it a great base for exploring other parts of the country.

Here are some budget-friendly day trips from Zurich that will let you experience more of Switzerland without breaking the bank.

Just an hour away by train, the Rheinfall is the largest waterfall in Europe, and it’s an absolute must-visit.

The entrance is free, but I recommend paying a small fee (5 CHF) to get onto the viewing platform for an up-close encounter.

An hour away by train, Lucerne is a beautiful city with a stunning lake, a charming old town, and the famous Chapel Bridge.

Uetliberg to Felsenegg hike:

Take a train to Uetliberg, hike to Felsenegg, and then take a cable car down to Adliswil, followed by a train back to Zurich.

This is a budget-friendly day trip, costing just around 8-10 CHF for cable car and public transportation, and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Zurich.

Affordable Shopping in Zurich

Zurich is known for its luxury shopping, but there are plenty of places where you can shop without breaking the bank.

Langstrasse:

This street, once notorious, is now a hip and trendy place with vintage shops, boutiques, and second-hand stores that offer affordable prices.

Viadukt Market:

Built under the arches of a viaduct, this market offers a variety of local Swiss products.

It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs, food items, and clothing.

Fleamarkets:

Zurich has several flea markets, such as the one at Bürkliplatz (on Saturdays) and Kanzlei (on Fridays).

Here, you can find everything from antique Swiss watches to vintage clothing and more, often at bargain prices.

Budget Activities for Families in Zurich

If you’re traveling with family, Zurich offers a host of budget-friendly activities that will keep both adults and children entertained.

Zurich Zoo:

Zurich Zoo is a fantastic place for families with many opportunities to observe and learn about animals and their habitats.

The Masoala Rainforest Hall, where you can see animals from Madagascar, is a must-visit.

The Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne:

Though technically not in Zurich, it’s only an hour away and offers interactive exhibitions about all forms of transport – land, sea, air, and space. Kids will love it!

Im Viadukt:

For a unique shopping experience, take your family to Im Viadukt.

It houses numerous boutique shops, eateries, and even a market hall full of fresh produce, all under the arches of a railway viaduct.

Lindt Home of Chocolate:

In nearby Kilchberg, visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate for an educational journey through the world of chocolate, complete with a DIY chocolate-making workshop. Kids will especially love the massive chocolate fountain!

Budget Wellness in Zurich

For those looking to unwind without spending a fortune, there are several budget-friendly wellness options in Zurich.

Thermalbad & Spa Zurich:

Housed in a former brewery, this thermal bath offers a unique spa experience.

The highlight is the rooftop pool with its stunning views over Zurich.

Entrance fees start at 36 CHF, but it’s worth it!

Public Swimming Pools:

During summer, the city’s public swimming pools, or “Badi”, become a hub of activity.

For a small fee (around 7-8 CHF), you can swim, sunbathe, and even enjoy a picnic.

The Flussbad Unterer Letten and Seebad Enge are popular choices.

For a wellness activity that combines exercise and beautiful views, hike up Uetliberg.

The fresh air, green surroundings, and stunning view over Zurich are sure to rejuvenate you.

Final thoughts

Exploring Zurich on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on the best the city has to offer.

From biking around to savoring street food, strolling through the old town, or just chilling by the lake, there’re plenty of things to do in Zurich on the cheap. Happy travels!

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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One Comment

Thank you for sharing those tips. I live in Zurich and have family abroad and therefore always lookout for some new ideas that are affordable.

If I may add to your list: we always tell our family & friends to visiti in the summer months (end of june-mid September) since it’s warm enough to just sit at the laker or river. There are plenty of free and open swimm places, easily reachable and you just can bring your own food/drinks. In Switzerland that’s anyway what we do mostly. We aren’t used to eat out that much but that we would prep some picnic or sandwiches and go anywhere with it. To the lake, to the mountains, you name it.

If you still prefer to eat out, good value for many for families is also a Migros Restaurant (not fancy but often comes with a playground). Otherwise take aways, from migros, coop & co is great.

Groceries fron lidl, aldi and denner are cheaper. Coop is the most expensive.

You can also ride a bicycle in Zurich for free which makes it easier and cheaper to get around.

For good wine, try 169 West (Frau Gerolds Garten, is super expensive because it’s the little Berlin in Zurich)

San Gennaro is a great pizza spot and you get some large & filling pizzas.

Les Halles is also great for mussels. My husband and I usually share a large portion and if you ask nicely you get extra fries for free.

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The Ultimate Guide When Exploring Zurich plus it’s Muslim Friendly.

Switzerland is officially a Swiss Confederation country located in Western and Central Europe bordered by Italy, France, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein. Switzerland is divided into 26 cantons (German, French, Italian, Romansh) depending on their location. Cantons are called the member states of the Swiss Confederation. Interestingly Switzerland doesn’t have an official capital but rather a de facto capital, the city of Bern in the canton of Bern.

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and the capital of the canton of Zurich.  It is the most visited city in Switzerland and home to the largest financial district in the world, despite having only approximately 400,000 inhabitants. They are also a very popular tourist destination for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It is a captivating and beautiful city visited by millions of visitors each year.

Zurich’s train station is Europe’s main railway intersections with over 1,900 connections per day. Intercity trains leave every half an hour and connect many Swiss and European cities by train all within a few hours of each other, such as Paris, Miles, and Munich.  It is also an airline hub for Swiss airlines which makes Zurich an easy to reach the city and a perfect place to visit whether it is for a weekend away or a family vacation.

Positioned in the north-central Switzerland at the northwestern tip of Lake Zürich the official language of Zürich is German, but the main spoken language is the local variant of the Alemannic Swiss German dialect. Zurich has been permanently settled for over 2000 years from the times of the Romans, however, there is evidence of early settlements dating back to 6,400 years B.C.

56 out of the 111 sites of the UNESCO prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps are located in Switzerland. The prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps are a series of settlements in and around the Alps built from around 5.000 to 500 B.C. on the edges of lakes, rivers or wetlands. Many of these prehistoric dwellings today are located under water or have been built on top of them. However many museums have exhibitions with artifacts from the era. These artifacts today present a true to life picture of what life in the Neolithic and Bronze era looked like.

As a Muslim traveller, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding Muslim-friendly attractions. There are plenty of museums, nature exploring and shopping activities ready to please every visitor.

Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich or Zürichsee as it is known in Swiss is a lake extending on the southeast of the city of Zurich. The lake is formed by the river Linth which starts from the glaziers of the Glarus Alps; a form of mountains in the Swiss Alps.

The lake offers beautiful views and creates a tangle of promenades, parks, and gardens which are perfect for exploring during your visit in Zurich. The views and scenery make this beautiful city even more attractive. During the summer many locals and tourist even swim in the lake on designates public beaches and baths. The waters can reach temperatures up to 20C during the hot month of August.  One of the most fun ways of exploring Lake Zurich in the summer months is by taking a boat around its shore. It is definitely a must when visiting Zurich.

Old Town (Altstadt)

One of the most breathtaking places in Zurich must be the Old Town (Altstadt), which is definitely the heart and beauty of Zurich. Striking 19th-century buildings and cobbled streets with a view of the lake make this part of Zurich truly magical. Beautiful cafes, shops, and galleries accommodate you through the small streets and beautiful buildings which inevitably end up by the shores of Lake Zurich.

The old town makes the perfect starting point for exploring Zurich and it is the home to many of the city’s attractions. Highly recommend for you to enjoy the sunset in the Old Town since the glow of the sun alongside the beautiful buildings make a picturesque background drop for photos.

Swiss National Museum

The Swiss National Museum is one of the most important art museums of cultural history in Europe. It is located next to Zurich’s central station and within walking distance from the Old Town and Lake Zurich.

The museum has a large collection of prehistoric pile-dwelling artifacts. Once you step into the museum you are taken on a journey from the prehistoric dwellings to the Middle Ages and all the way up to the 20th century. It also hosts a large gothic and porcelain collection as well as wooden sculptures, panel paintings, and carved altars.

Zoo Zurich is located just above the city of Zurich in Zurichberg and it spans over 27 hectares of land. It is the largest and most visited cultural and educational institution in Zurich. The main objective of the Zoo is not only to provide a fun experience for its visitors but also to get people interested in animals and to encourage them to play an active and important role in nature conservation and protection of animals.

When visiting the Zoo Zurich you must not forget to visit the Masoala rainforest hall which opened in 2004. The attraction takes its name after the Masoala peninsula in Madagascar, which is also the source of the hundreds of different native plants and animals. A great way to explore

The attraction is named after the Masoala peninsula in Madagascar and is the source for the hundreds of different native plants and 60 different native animals in this hall.

Bahnhofstrasse (Station Street)

Time for shopping. Bahnhofstrasse is the main shopping area of Zurich located in the city centre. It is also a home to some of the most exclusive and expensive brands in the world if you can afford it will be one of a kind shopping experience.

A great place to spend a day enjoying the old architectural buildings and strolling around some of the most expensive boutiques and banks in the world. The street is largely pedestrian and starts from Zurich’s main train station taking you to the famous Paradeplatz square, home to some of the most expensive real estate properties in Europe.

Practical Tips

Transportation.

Zurich offers great transportation links not only within the city but also connecting to Zurich airport and other Swiss cities. A large number of locals as well as tourists use the public transport to reach and explore the city. It is easy to navigate, also all locals speak English and they are super friendly if you need help. I would highly recommend using the public transport as it is cheaper than taking taxis and also much safer.

Halal restaurants

Zurich is the most visited city in Switzerland by Muslims, the majority of whom are from the Middle East. The city offers plenty of options for Halal food. Some of the best choices for Halal food restaurants are:

• Yallah Habibi Meinrad-Lienert-Strasse 27, Zurich 8003, Switzerland | Opening times 11:00 am – 12:00 am
• My Kitchen Franklinstrasse 6, Zurich 8050, Switzerland| Opening times: 11:00 am – 2:30 pm 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
•  Bombay Karachi Stampfenbachstrasse 32, Zurich, Switzerland | Opening times  10:00 am – 09:30 pm
• Güven Restaurant & Market Bahnstrasse 80, Regensdorf, Canton of Zurich 8105 | Opening times 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Prayer Facilities

There are several prayer facilities in Zurich so finding a mosque would not be difficult.

• Madhni masjid or Islamic Society Zurich. http://www.masjid.ch/  It is located in Weinbergstrasse 147, Zurich, Switzerland
• Islamic Cultural Association Center | Birmensdorfer Street 273, Zurich 8005

Accommodation

There are plenty of accommodation options for Zurich. Some cheaper than others and it all depends on your budget. If you want to find the best options I always start with Hotels.com and Tripadvisor. 

Best time to travel

There is no off-season in Zurich. The city is beautiful all year around. However, if you do not enjoy crowds, avoid visiting Zurich during spring and summer when prices are higher and there are more tourists.

Zurich is one of my favourite cities in Europe. The views over the alps, lake Zurich and the very friendly locals make it a perfect city to explore and visit over and over again. There is something magical about Zurich because every time you visit you fall in love with this city for different reasons. With many halal food options and places to pray there is not excuse not to visit Zurich this spring.

This post first appreared in Ilma Magazine

Vienna City & Vienna Free Walking Tour Review

Salzburg muslim friendly city guide review; places to see, eat and relax, visiting venice & looking for halal don’t miss this muslim friendly guide for venice, 10 european cities with easy to find halal food for great muslim holidays.

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Here are the top 10 smartest cities in the world — and none are in the U.S.

Smart cities in Europe and Asia are gaining ground globally while North American cities have fallen down the ranks, according to the 2024 Smart City Index released April.

Of the top 10 smart cities on the list, seven were in Europe.

This year's index was produced by the IMD World Competitiveness Center's Smart City Observatory in collaboration with the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO) that's based in Seoul, South Korea.

The report ranks 142 smart cities worldwide based on data analyzed by researchers, as well as survey responses of 120 residents in each city. The study captures an overview of how the infrastructure and technology available in a city impacts the city's performance and the quality of life of its inhabitants.

So, what is a smart city?

According to the IMD , a smart city is defined as "an urban setting that applies technology to enhance the benefits and diminish the shortcomings of urbanization for its citizens."

With very few exceptions, cities in the top 20 are geographically located in areas where social and economic environments are relatively predictable, even against the overall climate of global uncertainties. IMD Smart City Index 2024

The cities that perform well on the list have also developed initiatives that cater to their citizens' overall quality of life.

"Such initiatives have focused on developing green spaces and broadening opportunities for cultural events and social bonding, for example," according to the report.

"In the majority of these leading cities, such efforts have been combined with innovative strategies to attract and retain talent, foster investment in a selective fashion [e.g. pro-sustainability], and tackle long standing issues regarding geographical inequalities and inclusion," the report said.

Here are the top 10 smart cities, according to the 2024 Smart City Index.

• Zurich, Switzerland
• Oslo, Norway
• Canberra, Australia
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Lausanne, Switzerland
• London, England
• Helsinki, Finland
• Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Notably, for the first time since the index's inception in 2019, there is an absence of North American cities in the top 20.

"Using three year moving averages (i.e. comparing a city's average ranking for the period 2021-24 to that of the period 2020-23), a significant number of US cities have been losing ground," according to the report.

"This is the case in particular for Washington DC, Denver, and Los Angeles (-12, -12, and -11 respectively), but also for San Francisco (-9), New York City (-7), and Chicago (-4)."

The highest ranking U.S. city this year is New York City which ranked 34th, followed by Boston at 36th and Washington DC, coming in at 50th place.

While European cities dominated the list, Asian cities are gaining ground too.

Here are the top 5 smart cities in Asia:

• Singapore (5th)
• Beijing (13th)
• Taipei City (16th)
• Seoul (17th)
• Shanghai (19th)

Singapore has consistently ranked among the top 10 positions since the index's inception in 2019. It ranked 7th from 2020 to 2023 — except in 2022 when no rankings were released, and jumped up two positions this year.

Taipei City has also jumped 13 positions over the last year, from 29th in 2023 to 16th this year.

"Cities must design and adopt strategies that can resist the test of a future plagued with growing uncertainties, " said Bruno Lanvin, president of the Smart City Observatory.

"Health-related concerns remain high, while climate-related ones grow even larger; a mix complicated by renewed international tensions. Trust and good governance are growing in importance, and the significance of Al in city design and management is set to increase," he said in the report.

"Counterintuitive as it may sound, Al can help cities to become more human-centric," Lanvin added.

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This Is the Most Affordable Beach Destination in the U.S.

Have fun in the sun for less at Twelvemile Beach in Michigan.

Samantha Bohon, @sbohon1/Courtesy of Travel Michigan

Summer is just around the bend, which may have you dreaming about a beachside vacation. Here's the good news: the vacation can become a reality for much less than you think. 

DIVEIN Travel released its latest study showcasing the top beach destinations for budget-conscious travelers. To create its rankings the team calculated based on factors like dining and beverage prices and the median cost for a six-night stay for two to find the best beaches for the best price for spring and summer travel. 

After looking at all the data, the team named Twelvemile Beach in Michigan the top choice for a budget beach trip. 

"Twelvemile Beach emerges as the most budget-friendly option, offering unparalleled value with the lowest average hotel cost of just $464.31 for a six-night stay," the team stated in its findings, which it shared with Travel + Leisure . Here, the team added, travelers can "enjoy meals for around $20 and beers for $7.50 while basking in the tranquil ambiance of Michigan’s shores." 

According to the National Parks Service , the beach is, you guessed it, 12 miles long and a prime spot for day-use and picnicking in the sun. However, it also noted that visitors need to be "prepared for a long flight of stairs leading from the bluff down to the beach." Pups are also allowed, so long as they are on a leash. 

Following Twelvemile Beach is Mustang Island State Park in Texas, which came in second thanks to its affordable hotel prices, which average $476.94 for a six-night stay. And in third place is Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina, where travelers can expect hotel stays priced at $636.70.  

Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, came in fourth, with a six-night stay running at $651.70, while Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, Maine, rounded out the top with hotel prices averaging $796.67.  

On the other end of the spectrum, Honokalani Beach on the island of Maui in Hawaii ranked as the most expensive, but honestly, it's worth saving up to see this gorgeous place in person one day.

Need more beach inspiration? Check out the 26 most beautiful beaches on earth, then start plotting your getaway.