Prepping the to-do list for your Zurich holiday? Don’t forget to add in a mish-mash of everything this Swiss City has to offer. Zurich, being the largest city in Switzerland, offers a plethora of cultural and natural experiences. It has its own lake, overlooks the Swiss Alps, and is peppered with beautiful parks and historic structures. While most prominent financial and economic cities in the world have very little to offer from a tourist point of view, Zurich stands apart with its wide range of eclectic attractions and activities that ensure its visitors never have a dull moment here. Without further ado, let us look at one of the best places to visit in Switzerland – Zurich and what it has to offer to its visitors.
1. Swiss National Museum
Housed within an outstanding 19th-century medieval structure, The Swiss National Museum has been functioning since the 1800s and today houses a magnificent collection that depicts the history of Switzerland. With a new building built next to it, the museum gained a contemporary touch and now offers a better experience with contrasting architecture and displays of objects from the ancient and modern worlds. Located next to the Zurich Main Station, the Swiss National Museum is a popular attraction frequently featured in Zurich city tours and holiday packages.
2. Old Town Zurich
While Zurich is known worldwide as the financial heart of Switzerland, conjuring up images of contemporary buildings, the Old Town of Zurich paints a contrasting picture. Split into two by the Limmat River, the shores of Old Zurich are flanked by historic squares, churches, guild houses, archaic architecture and an eclectic collection of colourful restaurants and cafes, all connected by narrow alleys. The entire township can be explored in a two-hour walking tour that begins at the Zurich Main Station, passing through Niederdorf, Oberdorf, Rathaus, the tall towers of Grossmünster, and finally Augustinergasse and Bahnhofstrasse.
3. Kunsthaus Museum
Known for its splendid and expansive collection of modern art, the Kunsthaus Museum is the ideal spot for art lovers visiting Zurich to spend some quality time looking at the works of Alberto Giacometti, Monet, Picasso, and Chagall. The museum is still undergoing expansion and, once finished, will become the largest art museum in Switzerland.
4. Lake Zurich
One of Switzerland’s ‘Big Five’ lakes, Lake Zurich completes Zurich’s aesthetic feature and lends the city’s ambience a refined, tranquil touch. Nestled amidst a picturesque vista of hills to the southeast of Zurich, the lake is well-known for its prime water sports, including swimming, kayaking, wakeboarding, and sailing, which attract both locals and tourists from spring through summer. Just a short boat trip away are Lake Zurich’s four petite islands, all of which are worth exploring.
5. Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s main boulevard and a world-famous shopping avenue, extends 1.5 kilometres from the main train station to the lake and is dotted with upscale retail stores, jewellery stores, and boutiques. It is known as one of the world’s priciest shopping avenues and is home to high-end labels like Burberry, Bvlgari, Chanel, Dior, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, and more. Head to this pedestrian-only boulevard in Zurich if you are looking for the ultimate luxury retail therapy.
6. Paradeplatz
Paradeplatz – an eloquent square on Bahnhofstrasse, needs a special mention. Set at the juxtaposition of Lake Zurich, Bahnhofstrasse and Zurich Old Town, this central square is home to the headquarters of the popular Swiss Banks and other private sector financial institutions and a spot known for the financial power of Switzerland. Apart from this, this square is known to be the hub of Confiserie Sprüngli – the renowned Swiss chocolate manufacturer-cum-cafe that has lip-smackingly popular macarons and chocolates to satisfy your sweet tooth.
7. Fraumünster Church
Dating back to its origin in 853 as a former abbey then transformed into a church, Fraumünster Church is one of the oldest structures in Zurich to have stood the test of time. It is one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces adorned in steeples, comprises glass windows painted by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti and dominates the scenery as an iconic landmark on the banks of Limmat. As one of the not-to-be-missed things to do in Zurich, make sure to include a visit to this church on your Zurich trip.
8. Zurich Zoo
Did you know that you can see the Galapagos Turtles in Zurich? That’s right! The Zurich Zoo, located in Zürichberg, is the first-ever European wildlife reserve to breed these rare turtles. The zoo is tucked in a bio-sustainable landscape, providing a home to more than 2000 species, some of which are rare and endangered. Here, you can view exotic wildlife such as Goodman mouse lemur, Siberian tiger, Arabian oryx and gazelles, and snow leopards, to name a few. As one of the popular things to do in Zurich with kids, it offers amusement and education as well as an opportunity for young visitors to view Zurich’s wildlife.
9. Chinese Garden
Witness a slice of oriental paradise amid the Swiss charms in Zurich. Chinese Garden gives Zurich an Asian feel while also serving as a symbol of gratitude from Kunming, the city’s Chinese sister city, for the technical support received for the development of Kunming’s drinking water and drainage issues. Located in the Seefeld quarter, this sprawling garden lets you enjoy views of Chinese gates adorned with golden calligraphy, picturesque ponds, and well-kept lawns, including carved archways, hexagon-roofed pavilions, and other artistically created Chinese-inspired features.
10. Bruno Weber Park
Tired of strolling the historic alleys? Stop by the unique Bruno Weber Park, which is situated on the verdant woodlands of Weinberg Hill between Dietikon and Spreitenbach. Over the course of 50 years, Swiss artist Bruno Weber built Bruno Weber Park, which now features unique sculptures, art installations with gargoyles and dragoon constructions, massive towers, and animal mosaics. Visitors can also take in breathtaking views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding countryside. It is a great addition to add a distinct touch to your Zurich tour packages.
11. Lindenhof
Zurich’s Lidenhof is yet another attractive sight to include in popular things to do in Zurich. Having immense historical significance, the hamlet on the top of Linderhof Hill brims with picturesque medieval houses lined along the serene lake. Marking the beginning of a Roman era in Swiss with a historical Roman Castle that once used to occupy the space, it is now converted into a serene township exuding old-world charm. Just a kilometre from Zurich City Centre, a visit to this spot offers a serene break from reality while offering stellar views of Zurich Old Town.
12. FIFA Museum
For soccer fanatics, check out the FIFA Museum, where the best years of football are showcased with props, historical photographs, trophies, documents and more. Located next to Enge train station, this is your chance to explore a place that talks only about football and lets you marvel at the original FIFA World Cup trophy, national team shirts, track the timeline tracing the history of the game, watch iconic moments in FIFA football through cinema, buy authentic merchandise and even play a bit at the unique Pinball.
13. Niederdorf
Set along the banks of the Limmat River, Niederdorf captures the Swiss charm with a laid-back, sleepy ambience. Take a day away from Zurich city and wander the cobbles stone alleys of Niederdorf, where you can go shopping for local products, sip hot chocolate at quaint cafes soaking in the calm vibes, stroll across Chapel Bridge, and take pictures of the charming old buildings to post on social media. The quiet atmosphere transforms into a lively one at night, and you can enjoy live performances along the lakeshores.
14. Beyer Watch and Clock Museum
If you are a fan of horology and have a thing about watches and clocks, then you should definitely visit the Beyer Watch and Clock Museum. Affiliated with the family-run business of Beyer Watches & Jewellery, this unique museum at Bahnhofstrasse 31 exhibits a variety of watches and clocks dating from the Egyptian water clock of 1400 BC to the present-day quartz watches. In this museum, you witness an existential way to understand the path of life by watching the passage of time as represented through the tool that tells time. The museum also offers interactive displays and guided tours that allow visitors to explore the history of horology, art of watchmaking and learn more about timepieces. It is an excellent attraction for people of all ages.
15. Rhine Falls
There are plenty of things to see and do in Zurich, but do not limit yourself to the city sights. Go beyond the borders of Zurich to enjoy scenic day trips to some of the most incredible sights of Switzerland. For instance, take a train ride to the north from Zurich, and you will find yourself marvelling at one of the most stunning cascades known to be the biggest in Europe – The Rhine Falls. This magnificent fall located near the German border is picture postcard-perfect, and the surrounding townships add to its charms. If possible, take a ride on the Rhyfalls Express for a comprehensive experience of this attraction. These trips added to your Zurich package will undoubtedly enhance your Swiss experience.
16. Appenzell District
A day excursion to this charming district just an hour from Zurich City is a great way to add more scenic and cultural elements to your Swiss trip. A guided walking tour of Appenzell District takes you through this cosy township brimming with rolling terrains for hiking trails, parish church, castles, chalet-style colourful houses, and shops lining the car-free streets, with people enjoying a traditional Swiss life. The district is one of the best-known spots to witness time-forgotten cultural traditions like cattle grazing by herdsmen in traditional attire and ceremonial cattle drives.
17. Belvoir Park
Known as the oldest landscaped garden in Zurich, Belvoir is a pretty green slice of nature to enjoy within Zurich. Well-maintained and manicured to perfection, this park is a spacious nature retreat meticulously maintained over the years to nurture the old trees and over 120 species of floral plants surrounding the spacious green lawns. The park is a sight to behold during Swiss summers and springtime visits. Within the park, you can simply stroll and enjoy the idyllic nature or visit the historic Belvoir Park restaurant for an idyllic brunch amid the verdant oasis. There is no admission ticket to visit the park. Hence making it one of the top things to do in Zurich for free.
18. Zurich’s Christmas Markets
Visiting Zurich at Christmas time feels like stepping into a wintry fairytale town. It is the perfect way to enjoy White Christmas and mingle amongst locals in the merriment at Christmas Markets. Zurich’s Christmas Markets pop up in various spots throughout the city, adding a hazy glimmer to the snowy town with glistening fairy lights and huge Christmas trees adorned with fairy lights and baubles. If you are in Zurich in late November and December, don’t miss visiting Zurich Münsterhof, Zurich Main Station indoor Christmas Market, Wienachtsdorf Christmas village, Christmas Market Dörfli, Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Train Station. These are prominent places to immerse into the Christmas flair and sample the best Christmas treats, get souvenirs or simply enjoy the holiday spirit in serene ambiences.
19. Bürkliplatz
Christmas Markets in Zurich are famous, but they pop up only during November and December. However, the local markets of Zurich also maintain a vibrant atmosphere sans the festive decor. The weekly markets at Bürkliplatz Square are perhaps the best place to start shopping as the market offers a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, flowers, herbs and handicrafts. It is also a great place to mingle with the locals and find a bargain. Take some time to admire the beautiful views of Lake Zurich as you prepare for a shopping spree with a stroll along the lake promenade.
20. Uetliberg
Take a nature hike to Uetliberg. Calm and stunningly beautiful, Uetliberg offers a relatively easy way to explore a slice of Swiss mountain paradise within the Zurich city limits. It is worth the trip to see the breathtaking overview of Zurich and beyond from the summit, which is 2850 feet above sea level. During the winter, when the scenery changes because of newly fallen snow, both locals and tourists use this Zurich peak as a place to go sledging and tobogganing. You can engage in additional thrilling pursuits, including motorcycling, camping, paragliding, and more, after you reach the summit. The hilltop has a quaint restaurant – Hotel Uto Kulm on the summit and Hillz Restaurant near the Uetliberg train station, catering to the needs of famished travellers with a menu crafted in Swiss culinary classics.
21. Lindt Home of Chocolate
And last but not least, we conclude this list of popular attractions to visit in Zurich on a sweet note. One cannot visit Switzerland and not indulge in Swiss chocolates, and there is no better way to do it than by visiting the world-renowned Lindt Chocolate, one of Switzerland’s best chocolate brands. For chocolate enthusiasts, the Lindt Home of Chocolate offers an inside look at the entire chocolate-making process, from selecting the best cocoa to turning it into the highest-quality Swiss chocolate. The highlight of the tour is that you get to visit the largest Lindt Chocolate Shop in the world and experience a grand Lindt chocolate fountain! Additionally, you may stop by Lindt Café for a coffee break and indulge in chocolate waffles and other treats. At Lindt Chocolateria, you can even create your own personalised Lindt chocolate. It’s a great spot to enjoy chocolate delicacies and spend time with family and children in Zurich.
Practical Tips for Visiting Zurich
Best Time to Visit
When you would like to visit Zurich totally depends on your travel preference. The city is lively in all seasons. The best time for festive ambience, Christmas markets and winter sports is from November to February. If you are seeking warm, cosy, laid-back relaxation in vibrant nature, the spring and summer are the ideal time to visit. It is recommended to book your accommodations and popular attractions in advance as these are in high on demand during peak seasons.
Transportation
The best way to get around Zurich is by public transportation. For the same, invest in a Zurich Pass, which is an ideal solution to avoid frequently buying tickets and waiting times. Moreover, it also offers free museum visits and discounts on many stores and attractions in Zurich. The second best way is on foot as Zurich has plenty of spaces that are car-free zones and pedestrian-friendly. Also, the walking tours are comfortable and easily cover all the major attractions of Zurich. Download the Zurich City guide app as well on your mobile phone to have an interactive map and other details of Zurich City. However, even if you don’t have a digital map, do not worry, as the city has interactive touch-screen kiosks loaded with city maps for your use at various locations throughout the city.
Language and Etiquette
Zurich is mainly a German-speaking region in Switzerland. However, English is widely spoken, and as a tourist, you would not face any issues due to the language barrier. As for etiquette, Zurich locals are laid-back people, but they value time and take punctuality seriously. So, make sure that you reach everywhere on time to avoid disappointments or missed opportunities.
