Things to do in Zurich
Welcome to Zurich
On the tip of Lake Zurich in the foothills of the Bernese Oberland lies Zurich. With its historic churches and cobbled alleyways, Switzerland’s largest city is straight out of a fairy tale. But look closer and you’ll see a vibrant, modern city whose districts are abuzz with creativity. Visiting Zurich Old Town and taking a Lake Zurich cruise are among the top things to do in town. For travelers less pressed for time, the city’s contemporary art galleries, Bahnhofstrasse boutiques, and Dolderbahn mountain railway aren’t to be missed. And of course no trip to Zurich is complete without a visit to the Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Shop, located just outside of city limits. For the adventurous set, Alpine activities range from Mt. Titlis and Mt. Pilatus cable car rides to Jungfraujoch and Grindelwald day trips.
Top 15 attractions in Zurich
Lake Zurich (Zürichsee)
Rhine Falls (Rheinfall)
Zurich Old Town (Altstadt)
Lindt Home of Chocolate
Bahnhofstrasse
Grossmünster Church
Mount Rigi
Fraumünster Church
Lindenhof
Paradeplatz (Parade Square)
Felsenegg
National Museum Zurich (Landesmuseum Zürich)
Mt. Titlis
Appenzell
Limmatquai
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A local’s pocket guide to Zurich
Born and raised in Zurich, Sílvia has lived in Lisbon for over a decade now. The only way to get back in her good graces if you’re running late is by bringing along a piece of cheese.
learn how to say grüezi (hi). Swiss people appreciate punctuality but also politeness.
starts with a walk by Augustinergrasse and includes stops at Lindenhof Square and Fraumünster Church. Then, cross the river and head to the lake. From Bellevue to the Chinese Garden, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.
Swiss chocolate, what else? Zurich is a paradise for chocoholics.
get to grips with the two sides to the city. Discover traditional Zurich in Niederdorf—locals call it “Dörfli,” or “little village”—and modern, cosmopolitan Zurich on Viadukt shopping street.
head to Üetliberg. Take the train or hike up to enjoy the view of the city and—of course—the lake. If the weather plays nice, you might even catch a glimpse of the Alps.
Zurich is not Switzerland’s capital. It is the country’s biggest city but the capital is actually Bern.
People Also Ask
Switzerland's largest city, Zurich is often misidentified as the capital, though this de facto title belongs to Bern. Nonetheless, Zurich is a world-famous financial center, drawing visitors with its upscale shopping opportunities, Old Town charms, picturesque lake, and montane surroundings.
...MoreFrom all-night parties and fondue restaurants to laid-back lake cruises and Alpine hiking, there's always something to do around Zurich. The Old Town is worth a wander too, while the Kunsthaus, FIFA Museum, and Swiss National Museum are all great options for a rainy day.
...MoreYes. Two days is enough time to experience Zurich's best. Get your bearings on a city tour, then visit a museum before reenergizing over fondue. Afterwards, dance on Langstrasse or discover the alternative industrial areas. Next day, take a morning cruise, then ascend Uetliberg for a birds'-eye view.
...MoreNo. Because Switzerland is a confederation, it technically doesn't have a capital city. However, Bern is widely considered to be the de facto capital, as it's where the Swiss parliament meets and several embassies are situated. Banking center Zurich is often nicknamed the financial capital of both Switzerland and the world.
...MoreSwimming—in lakes, rivers, and outdoor pools known as badis—is a popular Swiss summer pastime. Summer is also ideal for exploring Uetliberg, Zurich's home mountain for hiking, biking, and picnics. In the city, Old Town terraces and Zurich West industrial zone are popular, while Zürichhorn open-air cinema offers evening entertainment.
...MoreYes. Zurich is among the world's most expensive cities, but there are ways to save. Locals often get their meals to go, eating by a picture-perfect lakeside or park spot. Deals like certain city passes include entry to attractions along with travel.
...MoreZurich information
Number of Attractions | 27 |
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Number of Tours | 461 |
Number of Reviews | 10,833 |
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