On the tip of Lake Zurich in the foothills of the Bernese Oberland lies Zurich. With its historic churches and cobbled alleyways, Switzerland’s largest city is straight out of a fairy tale. But look closer and you’ll find a vibrant, modern city whose districts buzz with creativity. The best things to do in Zurich include visiting the Old Town, taking a Lake Zurich cruise, and strolling along the Limmat River.
If you have time to spare, don’t miss the Swiss city’s contemporary art museums, Bahnhofstrasse boutiques, and Dolderbahn mountain railway. And of course no trip to Zurich is complete without a visit to the Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Shop, located just outside of city limits. For the adventurous set, Alpine activities range from Mt. Titlis and Mt. Pilatus cable car rides to Jungfraujoch and Grindelwald day trips.
July, August, and the wintertime holidays are fun and busy times in Zurich, and prices shoot up accordingly. If you’re looking for a slightly cheaper vacation option, consider out-of-season months like November instead. The biggest date in the city calendar is the Zurich Street Parade in August. Partygoers descend to the lakeside for a huge techno party, complete with a “love mobile” procession of decorated trucks.
Zurich is served by the Zurich Airport and the Zurich Hauptbahnhof train station. It may be Switzerland’s largest city, but Zurich is a walker’s joy, with a compact center and clean, well-signed streets. When your legs do tire, efficient Swiss public transit steps up to help. A Zone 110 ticket covers all public transportation in the city, and is sold via self-service machines. You can also visit a “Ticketeria” for English-speaking advice on the myriad ticket options available.
Summer is pricey in Zurich, and there’s a reason the city is popular at this time. Spending a lazy day at a badi open-air public bath is a key part of Zurich’s summer culture. Zurich has a badi for everyone, from lake beaches and shady spots on the grass to resort-style facilities. Most are private with entry fees around CHF 8 for adults, but you can cool down for free in places like Arboretum Park.
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Born and raised in Zurich, Sílvia has lived in Lisbon for over a decade now. The only way to get back in her good graces if you’re running late is by bringing along a piece of cheese.
learn how to say grüezi (hi). Swiss people appreciate punctuality but also politeness.
starts with a walk by Augustinergrasse and includes stops at Lindenhof Square and Fraumünster Church. Then, cross the river and head to the lake. From Bellevue to the Chinese Garden, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.
Swiss chocolate, what else? Zurich is a paradise for chocoholics.
get to grips with the two sides to the city. Discover traditional Zurich in Niederdorf—locals call it “Dörfli,” or “little village”—and modern, cosmopolitan Zurich on Viadukt shopping street.
head to Üetliberg. Take the train or hike up to enjoy the view of the city and—of course—the lake. If the weather plays nice, you might even catch a glimpse of the Alps.
Zurich is not Switzerland’s capital. It is the country’s biggest city but the capital is actually Bern.
The largest city in Switzerland, Zurich is often mistakenly called the Swiss capital. Nonetheless, Zurich is a world-famous financial center. It draws visitors with upscale shopping streets, Old Town charms, picturesque lake, and mountain surroundings.
...MoreFrom fondue restaurants like Frau Gerolds Garten to laidback lake cruises, there are so many things to do in Zurich. The Old Town is worth a wander to discover traditional Swiss sights. And the Kunsthaus and Swiss National Museum are great options for a rainy day. Don’t miss Marc Chagall’s stained glass windows at the Fraumünster Church.
...MoreYes. Two days is enough time to experience the best things to do in Zurich. Get your bearings on a city center tour, then visit cultural destinations like the Cabaret Voltaire. Afterwards, dance on Langstrasse or discover the alternative industrial areas. The next day, take a morning cruise, then ascend Uetliberg for a bird’s-eye view.
...MoreSwimming—in lakes, rivers, and outdoor pools known as badis—is one of the best things to do in Zurich during the summer. The season is also ideal for exploring Uetliberg, Zurich's home mountain for hiking, biking, and picnics. In the city, Old Town terraces and the Zurich West industrial zone are popular.
...MoreYes. Zurich is among the world's priciest cities, with expensive shops and eye-watering fine-dining restaurants. But there are ways to save. Locals often get their meals to go, eating by a picture-perfect lakeside or park spot. Deals like certain city passes include entry to attractions along with travel.
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