Hey everyone! Whether you’re a Zürcher durch und durch, exploring from elsewhere in Switzerland, or a tourist soaking up our awesome city, this is your go-to guide for all things Zurich.
Must-See Zurich: The Classics (Even We Locals Appreciate!)
These are the landmarks that put Zurich on the map. For our visitors, they’re essential. For us locals, a friendly reminder of why this city is so special:
Lake Zurich (Zürichsee): is the heart of the city!
Take that lakeside stroll (Seepromenade), hop on a boat tour on Lake Zurich for stunning city and (on a good day!) Alpine views. Enjoy a picnic on the lake shore or explore the Zürichsee by paddleboat for example at at Bootsvermietung Enge or at Lago Zürich Bootsvermietung. Make sure to check out a different Badi (public lido) for a swim!
My tip: My favorite lake cruise is The Short Lake Cruise which starts at Bürkliplatz and takes 1.5 hours. The reason I love this one is because the views are amazing, the duration is perfect- not too long not too short and the ship nicer than the mini lake cruise plus it has a restaurant so you can grab a glass of wine while soaking in the view.
Also there are some fun theme cruises you can enjoy like Sunday brunch, Japanese food cruise and more.
Grossmünster & Fraumünster: Those iconic towers!
Climb the Grossmünster for panoramic views -count it as a leg day! With plenty of stairs but the view is great. Climbing up the tower costs 5.- for adults and 2.- for kids.
In addition, you can visit the Fraumünster is famous for its breathtaking Chagall windows. You can admire the Fraumünster from outside- if you don’t want to pay the entrance. Also, I love the inner court which you can enter free of charge.
Little sidenote: Climbing up the Grossmünster for views is amazing but I was also a tini-tiny bit disappointed that they have metal barriers in front of the view.
Old town & Lindenhof: That iconic viewpoint over the Limmat!
After exploring the old town make sure to stop at Lindenhof- one of the locals’ favorites! Perfect for a picnic, a photo, or just chilling. Locals, a quick escape for some peace. Visitors, get that classic Zurich old town shot from here. Also if its your first time in Zurich check out the Bahnhofstrasse: Zurich’s famous shopping mile.
My tip: Go to one of the chocolate stores, grab several pralines you didn’t try before and enjoy a chocolate tasting experience with view. My favorite stores are: Jacot Chocolaterie and Max Chocolatier.
Other options are Confiserie Sprüngli, Confiserie Honold, Läderach. Some stores with great selection of bean to bar chocolate are Schwarzenbach in the old town and The bridge in Europaallee.
A bit farther from the old town you can find an excellent bean to bar vegan chocolate by Kürzi Kakao. I was a little skeptical about it in the beginning but I’m not kidding when I tell you that it’s one of the BEST chocolate you’ll ever try.
Uetliberg: Zurich’s home moutain
For fantastic views over the city go to Uetliberg, the local mountain. There are hiking trails if you feel sportive or you can take the train up. The panorama is incredible and easily accessible plus there is a restaurant and a hotel at the top.
My Tip: if you plan to combine both the cruise trip and an escape to the Uetliberg consider getting the 9 O’Clock day pass which will allow you to travel freely ans have these activities included.
Lindt Home of Chocolate
Visiting the Lindt Home of Chocolate is an excellent idea! You can go for the tour and enjoy unlimited chocolate tasting from chocolate fountains to chocolate tasting game. Or you can combine it with a chocolate workshop where you create your own chocolate! Perfect for rainy days or times when it’s way to hot outside.
Only word of cation: Make sure to book your tickets in advance they tend to sell out really quickly.
Discovering Zurich’s Hidden Gems
Chinese Garden (Chinagarten Zürich):
Seriously, this place is a little slice of serenity. A gift from our sister city Kunming in China, the Chinese Garden in Zurich is all about beautiful architecture, calming water features, and just a really peaceful vibe. If you need a break from the city buzz, this is your spot. The entrance is free of charge!
Giacometti Frescoes in a Police Station:
The “beautiful police station”– The entrance hall is adorned with stunning, vibrant frescoes painted by Augusto Giacometti. It’s an unexpected burst of art in a functional space. It’s usually accessible during office hours – definitely a unique art in public spaces Zurich find. Entrance: Free of charge but make sure to check the visit times on their website.
Chasing Views with Funiculars:
The Rigiblick funicular takes you up to stunning views over the city and lake. And then there’s the super central Polybahn, a charming little red funicular that zips you from Central up to the ETH Zurich university. This one is very short but the view over the city is super nice. Also, you can combine it with a visit to the Zoological museum for example which is free of charge.
he Botanical Garden:
For all you plant lovers (and even if you just appreciate some greenery!), the Zurich Botanical Garden is a treat. Wander through different ecosystems, check out the tropical greenhouses, and just enjoy the sheer plant diversity in Zurich. It’s a great way to connect with nature without leaving the city. Plus, it’s a free activity!
Zurich Opera House:
Of course, catching a world-class opera, ballet, or concert here is a great experience. But for a different activity, consider a guided tour! You can often go behind the scenes at the Zurich Opera House, exploring the set workshops, costume ateliers, and soaking in the history and architecture. Price: 15.- which I found totally worth it.
Where to Eat: Food, Food & Food
The food scene in Zurich is very multicultural and you can always find new spots and inspirations on my Instagram.
If you’re looking for a spoiling brunch, check: Collective Bakery, Être, The Artisan, Bank, Babu’s Bakery, The Bite, Café Europa.
If you fancy a spoiling meal you can check the Michelin Guide or Falstaff and for more casual bites I recommend checking Züri isst.
Where to Stay: Locations, Hotels & Apartments
Depending on your budget there are different accommodations to choose from! If you’re looking for a fancy spot close to the lake and the old town you might want to consider Baur au Lac or for a smaller gem: Hotel Alden Splügenschloss. A bit farther from the city but still gorgeous are The Dolder Grand, Alex Lake Zurich and Uto Kulm- The top of Zurich.
For budget friendly option you can go for the 25hours Hotel Zürich, The Crowne Plaza or the citizenM Zürich.
Last but not least: for Aparthotels you can check Vision Apartments Zurich and Numa Stays.
As usual I’m always thrilled to hear from you if you think that there are some other things that should have made it to this post! So let me know and I’ll be happy to include them 🙂
1 Comment
That’s useful, thank you!