Discover the hidden gems and outdoor adventures of Things to do in Zürich, Switzerland. Unwind with relaxing activities and explore the city’s culture.
Fun Fact
Did you know that Zürich has over 1,200 fountains, with some of them providing free drinking water? So, don’t forget to bring a reusable bottle while exploring the city!
Discovering Zürich’s Best-Kept Secrets: An Off-The-Beaten-Track Guide
Zürich is known for its luxury shopping, world-class banks, and Swiss architecture. The adventurous traveler will find a treasure trove of hidden gems beneath its glossy surface. This off-the-beaten-path guide will show you Zürich’s best-kept secrets, from hidden parks to hidden restaurants.
First on the list is Niederdorf, a lovely district in the city center. Colorful buildings, old shops, and eccentric bars line small alleys here. Visit Dada’s birthplace, Cabaret Voltaire, and Cafe Henrici for a local beer.
Lindenhof Hill, a tranquil refuge in the city, is next. The city and Limmat River are visible from this hilltop park, which offers a calm escape from the crowds. Picnic under the linden trees or visit the medieval castle remains to learn about Zürich’s history.
The Freitag Tower, created entirely of recycled shipping containers, is a unique experience. This distinctive building has a concept store, cafe, and rooftop terrace with city views. Try climbing on the building’s side at the Freitag Climbing Tower.
Last but not least, visit the Kunsthaus Zürich, a world-class museum of modern and contemporary art. The works of Ferdinand Hodler, Alberto Giacometti, Pablo Picasso, and Edvard Munch are on display at this museum.
Savoring the Flavors of Zürich: A Foodie’s Delightful Tour of the City
Zürich may not be as famous for its gastronomy as other European cities, but its dynamic food culture will impress even the pickiest eater. This foodie’s guide will take you on a delicious tour of Zürich’s top restaurants and markets, from traditional Swiss meals to cosmopolitan delicacies.
First up is the Freitag Cafe in the landmark Freitag Tower. This quaint cafe serves locally sourced sandwiches and salads, freshly brewed coffee, and handcrafted pastries. The terrace overlooking the Limmat River and city is the cafe’s feature.
Swiss Chuchi serves authentic Swiss food. This charming restaurant in the Old Town provides cheese fondue, rösti, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal in cream sauce). Drink local white wine or a cold lager to wash it down.
Zuri-Maki, a Japanese restaurant, is more international. This stylish Japanese restaurant serves fresh sushi rolls, sashimi, and other dishes. The Zuri-Maki roll, loaded with salmon, avocado, and crispy tempura flakes, is the restaurant’s specialty.
Bürkliplatz’s weekly farmers’ market is the last thing to see. Fresh fruit, handmade cheeses, handcrafted jams, and other local delicacies are available here. Try Züri honey, created by bees that gather nectar from the city’s parks and gardens. You can also buy freshly made bread, pastries, and other delights to eat on the move or take back to your hotel.
The Dolder Grand Hotel’s La Soupière restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Modern French food is served at this exquisite glass-domed restaurant. Roasted duck breast with caramelized endives and blackcurrant sauce and lobster bisque are highlights.
Stepping Back in Time: Zürich’s Most Fascinating Historical Landmarks
Zürich has many historic landmarks that reveal its past. The Grossmünster, a Romanesque church from the 12th century, is one example. This cathedral has beautiful stained glass windows and a crypt where the city’s patron saints are buried.
The Fraumünster, a 9th-century church erected by Louis the German, is another Zürich monument. The church’s stained glass windows were designed by Marc Chagall in the mid-20th century. The windows’ brilliant blues and reds captivate and make a lasting impression.
For Zürich and Swiss history buffs, the Swiss National Museum is intriguing. The museum’s neo-Gothic architecture houses exhibits from prehistory to the present. The museum’s impressive Swiss folk art and huge weaponry and armor collection are highlights.
The Museum Haus Konstruktiv offers an insight into Zürich’s recent past. This modern art museum houses an extraordinary collection of abstract and geometric art from the 20th and 21st centuries in a former power station. Contemporary art shows are also held in the museum.
Zürich’s Green Oasis: Exploring the City’s Stunning Parks and Gardens
Despite being a busy city, Zürich has several attractive parks and gardens that give a tranquil respite. The Botanical Garden, with over 7,000 plant varieties from around the world, is one of the city’s most popular green spots. The garden hosts several exhibitions and events and has a lovely palm house.
In the 1990s, Zürich developed the Chinese Garden as a symbol of its affinity with China. The garden has traditional Chinese architecture and landscaping, and visitors can stroll around the lake, see the flora and wildlife, or sip tea in the teahouse.
Uetliberg Mountain is perfect for energetic vacationers. Visitors can trek or bike to the summit of this beautiful mountain to see the city and its surrounds. At the summit, you may dine at many restaurants and cafes while taking in the breathtaking view.
Finally, the Lindenhof is a historic park with a stunning perspective of the city’s old center. Visitors can play chess on the big chessboard or just relax in this calm park.
Captivating Art and Culture: Zürich’s Must-Visit Museums and Galleries
Zürich is famed for its rich culture and history, and many museums and galleries offer a fascinating look at the city’s artistic past and present. Switzerland’s most significant art collection is at Kunsthaus Zürich. The museum has a rich collection of Swiss art from the 19th and 20th centuries with works by Monet, van Gogh, and Picasso.
The Museum Rietberg in Zürich showcases non-European art and culture. A beautiful collection of ancient Chinese pottery and complex masks and sculptures from around the world are on display at the museum.
Contemporary art enthusiasts should visit the Migros Museum. This cutting-edge museum features a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year featuring emerging artists from around the world. Visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the museum’s bookshop and café.
Finally, abstract and geometric art from the 20th and 21st centuries is featured at the Haus Konstruktiv. The museum, housed in a former power station, has an extraordinary collection of works by prominent artists including Max Bill and Richard Paul Lohse and frequent exhibitions by modern artists.
Conclusion
Zürich is a city that has much to offer in terms of its hidden gems and delicious cuisine. From the quaint neighborhood of Niederdorf to the towering Freitag Tower, and from the traditional Swiss cuisine of Swiss Chuchi to the international flavors of Zuri-Maki, there is something for every traveler and food lover in this beautiful city. So pack your bags, grab your appetite, and get ready for a truly unforgettable experience in Zürich.
Zürich is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature. With its stunning historical landmarks, beautiful parks and gardens, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that this city is such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Zürich.
Zürich is a city that is rich in culture and history, and its museums and galleries offer a fascinating glimpse into its artistic past and present. Whether you’re a fan of classical art, contemporary art, or non-European art, there is sure to be a museum or gallery in Zürich that will capture your imagination and leave a lasting impression.
FAQs
Is 7 days in Switzerland enough? ›
Planning Your Trip to Switzerland
In one week, you could see Geneva and Zürich, other iconic cities like Bern and Lucerne, and spend more time in Switzerland's beautiful mountains. Two weeks is enough time to see more than just the popular destinations, seeing places such as the Swiss National Park (southeast).
- Day 1: Arrive at Zurich Airport and visit Rhine falls. ...
- Day 2: Lucerne: Mt. ...
- Day 3: Lucerne to Interlaken: Jetboat and Harder Kulm. ...
- Day 4: Interlaken: Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe & Visit to Trümmelbach Falls. ...
- Day 5: Interlaken to Zurich. ...
- Day 6: Departure.
Zurich is located in the heart of Europe and is an important economic, cultural and social centre of Switzerland. With its unique location on Lake Zurich, the Alps on the horizon, the numerous local recreation areas and its urban diversity, the city offers an attractive environment to live and work.
How much would a 7 day Switzerland itinerary cost? ›The average price of a 7-day trip to Switzerland is $1,642 for a solo traveler, $2,423 for a couple, and $3,125 for a family of 4. Switzerland hotels range from $80 to $374 per night with an average of $144, while most vacation rentals will cost $180 to $510 per night for the entire home.
How much does it cost to spend 7 days in Switzerland? ›| Switzerland Packages for 6 Nights 7 Days | Day/Night | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Swiss Paris Delight Group Departure 2023 Package | 7 Days/6 Nights | ₹1,78,646 |
| European Extravaganza (Europamundo) Package | 7 Days/6 Nights | ₹1,95,241 |
| Soulmate Special - Highlights of Swiss Package | 7 Days/6 Nights | ₹1,72,725 |
For budget travelers, the average daily cost to travel in Switzerland is 80-100 Swiss Francs. Bear in mind that those travel costs include accommodation, food, local transportation, and attractions.
What is the best way to see Switzerland? ›Train – Train is the best way to travel in Switzerland and is the most preferred method for locals. It's economical and efficient. Bern to Geneva (a two-hour ride) costs 50-95 CHF. The two-hour trip from Zurich to Interlaken is 54-96 CHF, while a one-hour trip from Zurich to Bern is 40-75 CHF.
What is the best way to get around Zurich? ›The best way to get around Zurich's neighborhoods is on foot or by bike. If you get fatigued, you can take the city's efficient tram system. From Zurich Airport (ZRH), you can also take a cost-efficient Swiss Federal Railways train the 6 miles into Zurich.
Is Zurich easy to navigate? ›Changing flights at Zürich is easy and straightforward, with short routes between its three terminals. Terminals A and B/D are located under one roof and connected by the Airside Center shopping/dining complex. Passengers can walk between gates and there are also moving walkways.
What is important in Zurich? ›Grossmünster is one of the city's most important churches as it was the centre of Switzerland's Protestant Reformation back in the 16th century. The Romanesque cathedral dates back to 1230, and was supposedly built on the graves of Zurich's patron saints, Felix and Regula.
What is Zurich most famous street? ›
Bahnhofstrasse. The Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's most exclusive and famous shopping destination. Boutiques, jewelers, department stores and high street fashion stores line the elegant avenue.
Why is Zurich so popular? ›Zurich is a beautiful city in Italy whose glass is completely filled with exotic places and exclusive fashion. Zurich is famous for its incredible architectural designs and fashion sense all over the world that is evident in culture from the very beginning of ancient times.
What is best month to visit Switzerland? ›Generally, the best time to visit Switzerland is in the spring/early summer and in the early fall, April through June or September and October. This is when you're unlikely to battle thick tourist crowds and enjoy some of the most pleasant weather.
How much is a cup of coffee in Switzerland? ›Across all regions, coffee in Switzerland costs an average price of 4 Swiss Francs.
Why is Switzerland so expensive to visit? ›In summary, high Swiss prices are largely down to a lack of competition, one sided, sometimes exclusive, territorial wholesale agreements on some imports, and import restrictions on products in protected industries, farm products in particular.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Switzerland? ›Book at least 4 weeks before departure in order to get a below-average price. High season is considered to be June and July. The cheapest month to fly to Switzerland is April.
Can I use my debit card in Switzerland? ›Credit cards and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. The most common are Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Maestro. It is advisable to check in advance what fees apply to transactions abroad. Another option is contactless payment via Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Do I need to carry cash in Switzerland? ›Whether you plan on skiing the Matterhorn or exploring the historical Basel Munster church, you'll need to organize your travel money before you arrive in Switzerland. Switzerland accepts credit cards, debit cards and cash, with plenty of ATMs available throughout the country.
Do Americans need visa for Switzerland? ›For US citizens, Switzerland is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S. citizens may enter Switzerland for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Do I need a visa to go to Switzerland? ›You must submit a visa application to a Swiss consulate or embassy, preferably at least two months but no longer than six months before you travel. In certain cases, you can submit your application via the online visa system.
How many days in Zurich is enough? ›
How Many Days in Zurich? Compared to other European cities, Zurich isn't huge. You can spend 2 days in Zurich to see most of the city's highlights or spend three days in Zurich to include a day trip out of the city.
How much is a good meal in Switzerland? ›How much should I budget for food in Switzerland? If you eat out every meal during your Switzerland trip, I would budget about CHF 25-35 for lunch and CHF 40-50 for dinner per person including drinks. If you picnic, I would budget about CHF 10-15 per person per meal.
What is the coldest month in Switzerland? ›The lowest temperatures usually occur between December and February in all parts of Switzerland. At most measurement sites, January is generally the coldest month of the year. The greatest variability in temperature is found in winter.
How can I save money on food in Switzerland? ›- Try out cheaper foods. Buying cheaper foods is an easy way to save money. ...
- Buy the sales. Special promotions can save you money. ...
- Shop by red dots. ...
- Try out other shops. ...
- Collect loyalty rewards. ...
- Redeem coupons. ...
- Make it yourself instead of buying ready-made. ...
- Shop at farm stalls.
#1 Matterhorn
Let's get this one out the way first! Of all the most beautiful places in Switzerland on this list, the Matterhorn is without a doubt, the most famous of them all. Situated in the very heart of the Swiss Alps, the iconic pyramid peak rises out of the mountain range, dominating the surrounding landscape.
Lucerne (or “Luzern”) is the most beautiful city in Switzerland, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in all of Europe! This striking medieval town sits on the edge of scenic Lake Lucerne and looks up at some of the most impressive mountain peaks in the country. When visiting Lucerne, it's nice to slow down.
What is a typical Swiss breakfast? ›In Switzerland, breakfast typically includes bread, butter or margarine, marmalade or honey, maybe some cheese or cereals, plus milk, cold or hot chocolate, tea or coffee. Lunch may be as simple as a sandwich or a birchermüesli or it could be a complete meal.
Do you tip in Switzerland? ›In Switzerland, the guest is not obliged to tip. In many restaurants, however, it is customary to pay a tip. This amounts to approximately 10 percent or it is rounded up to a round amount.
What is the most common dinner in Switzerland? ›Switzerland's most famous culinary tradition is Swiss Fondue, a fun way to get social at the table with friends and family. The bubbling pot arrives at the table, an addictive sauce of Emmental, Gruyere and white wine, which is enjoyed with cubes of bread, steamed potatoes, gherkins and pickled onions.
Is it walkable in Zurich? ›Zurich is Switzerland's largest city but also is very compact and easily walkable.
Can you Uber in Zurich? ›
Reserve a ride with Uber in advance in Zurich
Complete your plans today by reserving a ride with Uber in Zurich. Request a ride up to 30 days in advance, at any time and on any day of the year.
The Glacier Express. The Glacier Express is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Do you need a Covid test to enter Zurich? ›Are COVID-19 tests required to travel to Switzerland? Testing is not required.
Is English enough in Zurich? ›English is the most commonly spoken non-national language in Switzerland. It is regularly spoken by 45 percent of the population in Switzerland although it is more prevalent in German parts of the country than French and Italian. It is also more widely spoken in Switzerland's big cities such as Geneva and Zurich.
Do taxis in Zurich take credit cards? ›Tips for your taxi in Zurich
Licensed taxis will accept all major credit/debit cards.
How many days are enough in Switzerland? You should at least spare a week top explore Switzerland in all its glory. However, if you want to plan for a short trip 3-4 days are enough to explore the main attractions.
How many days do we need in Switzerland? ›Wondering how many days are enough in Switzerland? 5 days in Switzerland is enough to explore the highlights that the country has to offer. Keep a city as your base (like Zurich or Geneva), and then travel via trains/tours or choose a city to stay overnight as you go through the day by day itinerary.
Is 1 week enough for Switzerland? ›Switzerland is a small country compared to many of its European neighbors, but you'll still need more than a week to take it all in. If a week is all you've got, this itinerary will give you a taste of the best the country has to offer, taking you from cities to mountains and medieval towns to sparkling lakes.
Is a week enough to visit Switzerland? ›Of course you can't see all of Switzerland in a week, but with the help of the country's smooth highways and speedy rail connections, you can introduce yourself to its “greatest hits.” One week provides just enough time to visit the cultural hubs of Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Lausanne, and Geneva, and to take in a few ...
Which month is best to visit Switzerland? ›The best time to visit Switzerland is between April and October, though winter sports enthusiasts may prefer December to March. The country has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions. The spring months of March to May bring Alpine blooms, flowering trees and cows heading out to pasture.
What month is the best time to go to Switzerland? ›
Generally, the best time to visit Switzerland is in the spring/early summer and in the early fall, April through June or September and October. This is when you're unlikely to battle thick tourist crowds and enjoy some of the most pleasant weather.
How much does it cost to spend 10 days in Switzerland? ›How much does it cost for a trip to Switzerland? A 10 day trip to Switzerland will cost one anywhere between INR 200,000 - 250,000 which includes travel, visa, accommodation, sightseeing and activities for one person.
What is the best way to tour Switzerland? ›Train – Train is the best way to travel in Switzerland and is the most preferred method for locals. It's economical and efficient. Bern to Geneva (a two-hour ride) costs 50-95 CHF. The two-hour trip from Zurich to Interlaken is 54-96 CHF, while a one-hour trip from Zurich to Bern is 40-75 CHF.
What are the COVID-19 rules for Switzerland? ›COVID-19 restrictions
Switzerland has lifted all COVID-19 pandemic restrictions – there are no social distancing or mask wearing measures in place. There is no mandatory isolation requirement if you test positive for COVID-19.
English is the most commonly spoken non-national language in Switzerland. It is regularly spoken by 45 percent of the population in Switzerland although it is more prevalent in German parts of the country than French and Italian. It is also more widely spoken in Switzerland's big cities such as Geneva and Zurich.
How much does it cost per day to visit Switzerland? ›The cost to travel to Switzerland is a personal number that's entirely dependent on your budget and where you prioritise spending it. In total, you can expect to spend around $110 to $580 USD per person per day on a visit to Switzerland.