Although Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city, it charmingly blends the historical feel of this European country with the best aspects of modern elegance. The city is nestled in a picturesque environment offered by the Swiss Alps; Zurich has a bouquet of experiences that range from world-class museums and shopping along Bahnhofstrasse to outdoor sports around Lake Zurich. Be it culture, history, or leisure, Zurich has it all. Here, we show you the best things to do in Zurich—from must-see attractions to places that make this a wonderful city.
1. Bahnhofstrasse: Take a Walk Down One of the World’s Most Famous Shopping Streets
Bahnhofstrasse is the famous shopping boulevard in Zurich, running from Zurich’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, to Lake Zurich. It is often described as one of the most exclusive shopping streets in the world, with high-end labels such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada showing off the best of their collections. Even if high-end shopping isn’t on your agenda, a walk down Bahnhofstrasse is a must for its tree-lined streets, posh boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
Insider Tip:
Paradeplatz—Banking District is one of the major crossroads along Bahnhofstrasse. It is a great place to people-watch. Take a stop at the famous confectionery and café, Sprüngli, to try the best Swiss chocolate and the tasty pastry called Luxemburgerli macarons.
2. Old Town (Altstadt): A Journey Through Time
Zurich’s Old Town, Altstadt, is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with medieval buildings, shops, cafés, and hidden squares. Exploring Altstadt is like taking a trip back in time, with every turn revealing a piece of Zurich’s history. Key attractions include the Grossmünster, an early Romanesque Protestant church dating back to the 12th century, and the Fraumünster, known for its stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.
Don’t Miss:
Lindenhof Hill: This small park, right in the heart of Altstadt, offers stunning views over the Limmat River, Old Town, and Grossmünster. It’s a quiet place to take a break and soak in the historic atmosphere.
Niederdorf: The pedestrian part of Altstadt is very attractive, especially for its fashionable bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
3. Lake Zurich Cruise: A Picturesque Getaway
The natural charm of the city extends to Lake Zurich, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and a peaceful retreat from the city. A boat cruise on the lake offers a different perspective of Zurich’s beauty. Several boat tours are available, ranging from short rides to full-day tours that take you to charming towns by the lake, such as Rapperswil, known as “The Town of Roses.”
Pro Tip:
If you visit Zurich in July or August, don’t miss the chance to swim in Lake Zurich or visit one of the public lidos in town. Mythenquai and Seebad Enge are popular spots for a day of swimming and relaxation.
4. Discover Zurich’s Museums: A Cultural Journey
Zurich is home to many museums that cater to a variety of interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs. Popular museums include:
- Kunsthaus Zurich: This art museum houses masterpieces by renowned Swiss and international artists, including Picasso, Monet, and Chagall, as well as Swiss artists Alberto Giacometti and Ferdinand Hodler. Kunsthaus Zurich is a must-see for any art lover.
- Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich): If you’re interested in Swiss history and culture, this museum provides an in-depth look into Switzerland’s past, from ancient times to modern artifacts.
- Rietberg Museum: Located in a lovely park, the Rietberg Museum focuses on the art and culture of non-European civilizations, with collections from Africa, Asia, and Oceania.
Fun Facts:
With more than 50 museums and over 100 galleries, Zurich has something to capture the imagination of every visitor.
5. Uetliberg Mountain: How to See Zurich at Its Best
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to Uetliberg Mountain. This mountain stands 871 meters above sea level and offers stunning panoramic views of Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the distant Swiss Alps. The mountain is easily accessible via a short train ride from Zurich’s main station, followed by a scenic hike to the summit.
Once at the top, you can take in the views from the observation tower or dine at the Uto Kulm restaurant. Uetliberg is a popular spot for biking and hiking in summer and a favorite for sledding in winter.
6. Explore Zurich Zoo: A Day Filled with Fun for Families
If you’re traveling with children or simply love animals, Zurich Zoo should be on your list of places to visit. The zoo welcomes more than 2 million visitors each year and is home to over 360 species. The zoo’s displays are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats. The star attraction is the impressive indoor tropical rainforest, Masoala Rainforest, where visitors can walk among lush vegetation and observe exotic animals up close.
In addition to being an entertaining visit, Zurich Zoo is known for its conservation and sustainability efforts, making it a valuable educational experience for guests of all ages.
7. Rhine Falls Day Trip: Europe’s Largest Waterfall
A short train or car ride from Zurich will take you to Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. Located near the town of Schaffhausen, the falls are a breathtaking sight, with the Rhine River plunging 23 meters (75 feet) over the rocks. There are several observation platforms that provide excellent views, and for the more adventurous, boat trips are available to the base of the waterfall.
Insider Tip:
Be sure to visit nearby Laufen Castle, which offers additional views of Rhine Falls and houses a small museum with information on the history of the area.
8. Swiss Cuisine: A Gastronomic Fairy Tale
No trip to Zurich is complete without indulging in Swiss cuisine. Zurich’s culinary scene is a mix of traditional Swiss dishes and modern gastronomy. Some must-try dishes include:
- Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: A Zurich specialty made with thin slices of veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, often served with Rösti, a Swiss potato pancake.
- Fondue: While Fondue is traditionally associated with the Swiss Alps, many Zurich restaurants offer this popular melted cheese dish.
- Swiss Chocolate: Zurich is home to some of the best chocolate in the world. A visit to a chocolatier like Confiserie Teuscher or Läderach is a dream come true for chocolate lovers.
For a unique dining experience, try Kronenhalle, a legendary restaurant where famous artists like Picasso and Chagall once dined. Original artworks adorn the walls, making it feel like you’re dining in an art gallery.
9. Discover the Parks and Gardens of Zurich: Countless Green Oases
Zurich is home to numerous parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy nature. Some of the most famous include:
- Zurich Botanical Garden: With over 15,000 plant species, this garden is a peaceful oasis where you can stroll among exotic plants, greenhouses, and ponds.
- Chinese Garden: A beautiful park gifted to Zurich by its Chinese sister city, Kunming. It offers tranquility through traditional Chinese architecture, complete with bridges and water features.
- Belvoir Park: One of Zurich’s oldest and most picturesque parks, offering stunning views of Lake Zurich and the city.
Conclusion
Be it cultural enrichment, outdoor activities, or simply relaxation, Zurich is a brilliant city that embodies it all. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and world-class attractions, Zurich is a place that will leave you spellbound the moment you set foot within its precincts. Whether wandering through the charming Old Town, gazing out from the top of Uetliberg, or indulging in luscious Swiss chocolate by the lakeside, Zurich has countless memories waiting for you.
