Zurich Travel Guide
Zurich pairs banking-world polish with a surprisingly playful lakeside soul. Switzerland's largest city sits where a crystalline river meets a mountain-fringed lake, its medieval old town threaded with cobbled lanes, guild houses and church spires. Clean, efficient and expensive, it also boasts a lively arts scene and easy escapes into Alpine nature.
Zurich — Highlights in photos
Top things to do
Old Town (Altstadt)
A warren of medieval alleys, guild houses and boutiques straddling the Limmat river. Wander without a map and cross the bridges to compare the two riverbanks.
Lake Zurich Promenade
The lakefront is made for strolling, swimming and boat-watching with Alps on the horizon on clear days. In summer, join locals for a dip at one of the public lidos.
Bahnhofstrasse
One of the world's most exclusive shopping streets runs from the station to the lake. Even window-shopping is a spectacle; ride the tram if your feet tire.
Grossmünster
The twin-towered Romanesque church where the Swiss Reformation began. Climb the Karlsturm tower for a fine view over the rooftops for a small fee.
Fraumünster
This church is famous for its luminous stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall. Photography inside is restricted, so simply sit and take in the colours.
Uetliberg Mountain
Zurich's local mountain offers panoramic views over the city, lake and distant Alps. Take the S10 train up and walk the ridge trail known as the Planetary Path.
Lindenhof
A tranquil, tree-shaded hilltop square with one of the best free views over the old town and river. Locals play giant chess here, so linger a while.
Museums & entry info
Kunsthaus Zürich
Switzerland's most important art museum, strong in Giacometti, Munch and modern masters. Entry is around 23-24 CHF; the collection is free on Wednesdays, but check hours online.
Swiss National Museum
A fairy-tale castle-like building tracing Swiss cultural history from prehistory to today. Tickets are about 13 CHF; confirm opening times as it closes Mondays.
Museum Rietberg
Switzerland's only museum dedicated to non-European art, set in lovely parkland. Around 14-19 CHF depending on exhibitions; verify hours before visiting.
FIFA Museum
An interactive celebration of world football with trophies, memorabilia and games. Entry is roughly 26 CHF; check the schedule as hours vary seasonally.
Signature experiences
A Lake Zurich Boat Cruise
Glide across the lake past villas, vineyards and distant peaks. Short round trips are covered by the ZVV day pass, while longer cruises cost around 8-25 CHF.
Swimming at a Badi
In summer, Zurich's river and lake bathing spots become the city's social heart. Entry to public lidos is a few francs, and some riverside Badis turn into bars at night.
Swiss Chocolate Tasting
Sample and shop world-class chocolate at historic confectioners and the Lindt Home of Chocolate nearby. Museum entry is around 15 CHF and includes generous tastings.
Sunset from Uetliberg
Ride up the local mountain for golden-hour views over the illuminated city and lake. The trip is covered by a standard transit pass, making it a cheap thrill.
What to eat
Zurich's cuisine mixes hearty Swiss-German dishes with cosmopolitan flair, and cheese features heavily.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for lake swimming and outdoor life, with long, warm days. Winter is cold but festive and offers quick access to Alpine skiing.
Zurich's trams, buses, trains and even boats are integrated into one ZVV ticketing zone and are famously punctual. The city is compact and walkable, and a day pass often pays for itself quickly.
Traveler tips
- Zurich is very expensive, so budget accordingly and use supermarkets and tap water to save money.
- A ZVV day pass covers trams, buses, trains, boats and the Uetliberg trip, offering great value.
- Tap water is pristine and free from the many public fountains, so carry a bottle.
- Shops close early on weekdays and are shut on Sundays, though the station shops stay open.
- Swiss punctuality is real, so arrive on time for tours and reservations.