Okay, let’s talk about July in Zurich. This is one of those months when the city truly feels alive, buzzing with this incredible energy from morning until long after the sun sets over the lake.
I’ve been making my list of absolute must-do events and I thought I’d share it with you, so here we go:
For a Dose of Classic Zurich Fun: The Seeüberquerung
There’s nothing quite like the energy of the annual Lake Swim. The entire city seems to pause to watch thousands of brave souls swim the 1.5km from Mythenquai to Tiefenbrunnen. Full disclosure: I’ll be the one staying very dry on the shore, cheering everyone on with a drink in hand! The sense of community is amazing. When: Wednesday, July 2nd
For the Food Explorers: The Street Food Festival
You have until July 6th to catch this and I’m definitely planning to eat my way through it again this week! The Street Food Festival at Hardturmplatz is a food lover’s paradise. The variety had just changed again and I love that one minute you’re trying Korean hot dog, the next you’re having Argentinian empanadas. The hardest part is deciding what to get.
My Tip: Go with friends and follow this one simple rule: everyone orders something different, and everyone shares. It’s the only way to taste as much as possible without exploding! When: Now until July 6th
For Music, Dancing, and Amazing Food: Caliente!
Europe’s biggest Latin festival, Caliente! completely transforms the city into a vibrant party. For three days, the air is filled with the sounds of salsa, samba, and reggaeton. My plan is always the same: arrive with an empty stomach and an open mind and attack the food stalls. When: July 4th – 6th
For the Football Fans (and everyone else!): The UEFA Women’s EURO
You don’t have to be a die-hard football fan to get swept up in the excitement of the Women’s EURO. The atmosphere across the city is going to be absolutely electric. The main Fan Zone at Europaallee will be the heart of the action, but I’m also really excited about the smaller public viewings. Places like Frau Gerolds Garten, Micas Garten, and Zum frischen Max are some of my favorite summer spots anyway and watching a match there with a cool drink will be perfect.
My Tip: The Fan Zone is about more than just football; there will be concerts and food, making it a great place to hang out even if you’re not glued to the screen. I’m planning to check out one of the five games being played right here in Zurich!
For a Truly Magical Evening: Opera for All
This is, without a doubt, an amazing Zurich tradition. There is something magical about grabbing a blanket, packing a little picnic (prosecco is a must for me!) and joining thousands of people on Sechseläutenplatz to watch a live opera broadcast from the Opera House next door. And the best part? It’s completely free. It’s an evening that feels both grand and incredibly intimate at the same time.
My Tip: Get there early to claim a good spot! It fills up fast. I like to bring some candles (in a jar for safety) to make it extra cozy as the sun goes down. When: Saturday, July 12th
For That Perfect Summer Night Out: Allianz Cinema
What’s more summery than watching a movie on a giant screen right on the shores of Lake Zurich? Allianz Cinema is my go-to for a relaxed, romantic night out. As the sky turns pink and the film starts, it just feels so nice!
My Tip: Tickets for popular movies can sell out ridiculously fast. I always check the program as soon as it’s released and book my must-see films in advance online. When: July 17th to August 17th
Phew! What a month it’s going to be. Now, the big question for you: what’s your #1 plan for July? Am I missing anything absolutely essential? Let me know in the comments! 👇
2 Comments
great summery, thank you for sharing.
With pleasure!