Zurich, Switzerland
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
1/5
Transport Links
Top 20
5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
1/5
Transport Links
Top 20
5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
At a glance
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is renowned for its stunning sights, diverse activities, and the picturesque Lake Zurich.
Party
Zurich boasts a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and nightclubs. The Langstrasse district is particularly lively, perfect for experiencing the city’s party scene. However, be aware that nights out in Zurich can be quite pricey.
Sightseeing
Zurich boasts numerous must-see sights, including the iconic Grossmünster and the picturesque Lake Zurich. For panoramic city views, climb Uetliberg. Additionally, a stroll through the colorful Old Town reveals its charming beauty.
Relaxation
While Zurich may not be known for relaxation, it offers plenty of calming options. Unwind at Lake Zurich’s beaches, enjoy a leisurely boat ride, or explore the serene, mountainous countryside for a peaceful retreat.
Value
Zurich is one of the world’s most expensive cities, so it’s not ideal for budget travelers. To save, book accommodation early and consider the Zurich Card and Swiss Travel Pass for discounts on transport and attractions.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Located 10 km north of the city, Zurich Airport is Switzerland’s largest. The train is the most efficient way to reach the city, though buses, taxis, and regular trams are also available.
Train
Switzerland’s train network is among the best in Europe, and Zurich’s station connects efficiently to nearby towns and major cities like Lucerne, Basel, and Bern. However, train travel in Switzerland can be expensive.
Drive
While Zurich’s public transport is excellent, renting a car is ideal for exploring the region. However, for a weekend city trip, it’s best to avoid driving due to city center congestion.
Experiences
Zurich offers a wide variety of unforgettable experiences. Enjoy water activities on the pristine Lake Zurich or marvel at the stunning Rhine Falls. Additionally, visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate for an unforgettable chocolate experience.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich is a must-visit, offering a range of activities from sightseeing cruises to boat rentals. The lake’s crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming, or you can relax on one of its serene beaches.
Best visited in summer for swimming. Boat tours start from CHF 10; advance booking recommended for cruises.
2. Discover Zurich's Old Town
Zurich’s Old Town is a charming mix of colorful houses and narrow, cobblestone streets. Explore its cozy cafes, bars, and restaurants, and don’t miss Augustinergasse, one of the most beautiful streets in the city.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones. Many cafes offer outdoor seating for people-watching.
3. Walking Tour of Zurich
A walking tour is the best way to immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich history. You’ll visit key landmarks like Grossmünster and St. Peter’s Church while learning fascinating stories about the city.
Guided tours are available daily; prices start at CHF 25. Consider joining a free walking tour for a budget-friendly option.
4. Experience Rhine Falls
Just north of Zurich, near the German border, Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe and a breathtaking natural wonder.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Boat tours to the falls’ base are available for CHF 8.
5. Explore Zurich's Museums
Zurich boasts an impressive array of museums. The Landesmuseum, the Zoological Museum, and the FIFA Museum are top picks. Art lovers should explore the city’s excellent galleries as well.
Many museums offer free entry on specific days. Check online for discounts or combined museum passes.
6. Hike Up Uetliberg Mountain
Uetliberg, Zurich’s local mountain, offers an exhilarating hike with rewarding panoramic views of the city and Lake Zurich.
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike. The summit can also be reached by train for those who prefer a more relaxed visit.
7. Visit Grossmünster Church
Grossmünster, with its iconic twin towers, is Zurich’s most famous landmark. The historic church also offers spectacular views of the Old Town from its towers.
Climb the tower for CHF 5 to enjoy the best view of Zurich. The church is open daily; check timings as they may vary.
8. Shop on Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s premier shopping street, lined with high-end boutiques and flagship stores. It’s the city’s bustling commercial heart.
Visit in December to enjoy the festive Christmas lights. Most stores open until 7 PM on weekdays.
9. Visit Lindt Home of Chocolate
The Lindt Home of Chocolate is a dream for chocolate lovers. Tour the world’s largest Lindt shop, explore the interactive museum, and join a chocolate-making workshop.
Workshops can fill up quickly; book in advance. Admission to the museum is CHF 15.
10. Relax in Rieterpark
Rieterpark is Zurich’s largest urban park, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Stroll through its expansive green spaces and explore the historic Rietberg Villa.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns. The park is free to enter and open year-round.
1. Explore Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich is a must-visit, offering a range of activities from sightseeing cruises to boat rentals. The lake’s crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming, or you can relax on one of its serene beaches.
Best visited in summer for swimming. Boat tours start from CHF 10; advance booking recommended for cruises.
2. Discover Zurich's Old Town
Zurich’s Old Town is a charming mix of colorful houses and narrow, cobblestone streets. Explore its cozy cafes, bars, and restaurants, and don’t miss Augustinergasse, one of the most beautiful streets in the city.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones. Many cafes offer outdoor seating for people-watching.
3. Walking Tour of Zurich
A walking tour is the best way to immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich history. You’ll visit key landmarks like Grossmünster and St. Peter’s Church while learning fascinating stories about the city.
Guided tours are available daily; prices start at CHF 25. Consider joining a free walking tour for a budget-friendly option.
4. Experience Rhine Falls
Just north of Zurich, near the German border, Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe and a breathtaking natural wonder.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Boat tours to the falls’ base are available for CHF 8.
5. Explore Zurich's Museums
Zurich boasts an impressive array of museums. The Landesmuseum, the Zoological Museum, and the FIFA Museum are top picks. Art lovers should explore the city’s excellent galleries as well.
Many museums offer free entry on specific days. Check online for discounts or combined museum passes.
6. Hike Up Uetliberg Mountain
Uetliberg, Zurich’s local mountain, offers an exhilarating hike with rewarding panoramic views of the city and Lake Zurich.
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike. The summit can also be reached by train for those who prefer a more relaxed visit.
7. Visit Grossmünster Church
Grossmünster, with its iconic twin towers, is Zurich’s most famous landmark. The historic church also offers spectacular views of the Old Town from its towers.
Climb the tower for CHF 5 to enjoy the best view of Zurich. The church is open daily; check timings as they may vary.
8. Shop on Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s premier shopping street, lined with high-end boutiques and flagship stores. It’s the city’s bustling commercial heart.
Visit in December to enjoy the festive Christmas lights. Most stores open until 7 PM on weekdays.
9. Visit Lindt Home of Chocolate
The Lindt Home of Chocolate is a dream for chocolate lovers. Tour the world’s largest Lindt shop, explore the interactive museum, and join a chocolate-making workshop.
Workshops can fill up quickly; book in advance. Admission to the museum is CHF 15.
10. Relax in Rieterpark
Rieterpark is Zurich’s largest urban park, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Stroll through its expansive green spaces and explore the historic Rietberg Villa.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns. The park is free to enter and open year-round.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Get the Zurich Card
The Zurich Card provides free public transportation and discounts on popular attractions, making it a great value for visitors.
6.
Use Zurich’s Public Transport
Zurich’s public transport network is highly efficient, with reliable buses, trains, and trams connecting the entire city.
2.
Language in Zurich
The official language in Zurich is German, though many locals also speak English.
7.
Switzerland is Outside the EU
Switzerland isn’t part of the EU, so check your phone plan and travel requirements before visiting.
3.
Swiss Travel Pass
The Swiss Travel Pass allows unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat throughout Switzerland, perfect for exploring beyond Zurich.
8.
Carry Change for Bathrooms
Public bathrooms often require a small fee, so carry a few Swiss Francs in change.
4.
Visit Zurich Year-Round
Zurich offers something for every season, from summer outdoor activities to winter Christmas markets.
9.
Tipping in Zurich
Tipping isn’t mandatory in Zurich, but it’s appreciated. Service staff are well-paid, so tip only if you wish.
5.
Book Accommodation Early
Zurich is expensive, so booking your accommodation well in advance can help you find better deals.
10.
Swiss Franc is the Currency
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF), which is closely valued to the Euro, but not the same.
6.
Use Zurich’s Public Transport
Zurich’s public transport network is highly efficient, with reliable buses, trains, and trams connecting the entire city.
7.
Switzerland is Outside the EU
Switzerland isn’t part of the EU, so check your phone plan and travel requirements before visiting.
8.
Carry Change for Bathrooms
Public bathrooms often require a small fee, so carry a few Swiss Francs in change.
9.
Tipping in Zurich
Tipping isn’t mandatory in Zurich, but it’s appreciated. Service staff are well-paid, so tip only if you wish.
10.
Swiss Franc is the Currency
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF), which is closely valued to the Euro, but not the same.