Zurich was at the very top of my list on my first solo trip to Switzerland and became the starting point for my seven-day Switzerland itinerary. What I didn’t expect was how quickly it would turn into one of my favourite cities to explore.
From wandering medieval Old Town streets and swimming along the lake to discovering creative neighbourhoods and scenic viewpoints, Zurich strikes a rare balance between culture, nature, and modern city life. It’s a place that feels both effortlessly livable and endlessly interesting.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, using the city as the gateway to a longer Switzerland adventure, or stopping by before heading into the Alps, this guide shares the best things to do in Zurich, plus practical travel tips and FAQs to help you plan your trip with confidence.
🗺️ Plan your ultimate Swiss adventure stress-free with this one-week Google Sheets Switzerland itinerary, complete with maps, transport tips, accommodation suggestions, and a budget tracker.
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Tips for Visiting Zurich, Switzerland
Before you dive into all the best things to do in Zurich, it’s helpful to get a few key tips and essentials that will make exploring the city smoother, easier, and more enjoyable.
Short on time? Here’s a quick guide with key Switzerland travel tips to help you save time, money, and stress on your next trip.
Short on time?
Here are my top recommendations for your next Switzerland trip:
💸 Save money: Use a Wise travel card to spend in multiple currencies with real exchange rates and low conversion fees.
🗺️ Save time with my digital one-week Switzerland travel itinerary template.
🙇🏻♀️ Stay organised: Plan every part of your trip, from itinerary to packing list, with my Ultimate Notion Travel Planner Template. It’s the exact system I use to streamline my travel prep, and it’s perfect for visual planners who want everything in one place.
🗺️ Save hours planning your Zurich trip with this interactive Notion guide, complete with +50 places, map coordinates, tips, and booking links
🛤️ Getting Around Switzerland: Order a Swiss Travel Pass to get unlimited public transport across Switzerland’s national transport network.
🗺️ Tours: Pre-book tours, skip-the-line passes and cultural experiences using Klook, GetYourGuide, and Viator.
🛌 Accommodation: Find the best deals and filter by reviews on Booking.com.
🏥 Travel Insurance: Never leave home without it. World Nomads offers reliable coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost items.
📶 Staying Connected: Get instant access to data with Airalo eSIM.
Getting Around Zurich
Zurich is incredibly easy to navigate, thanks to its well-organised and highly reliable public transport system. Services run frequently throughout the day, and punctuality is taken seriously — even ferries on Lake Zurich operate like clockwork. With such strong connections across the city, getting from place to place is straightforward and often surprisingly scenic.
Quick Overview
- Trams are the most convenient way to move around the city centre and are ideal for short trips between attractions.
- The S-Bahn train network links Zurich with nearby towns, panoramic viewpoints, and nature spots just outside the city.
- If you prefer to explore at a slower pace, walking is perfect for the Old Town and lakeside promenades, where many highlights are clustered close together. In fact, most of Zurich’s top sights are either walkable or just a quick tram ride away.
Zurich’s transport system operates under a single network (Zurich Transport Association – ZVV), meaning the same ticket can be used across trams, buses, trains, boats, funiculars, and cable cars within the city. This integrated setup makes travelling around Zurich seamless, even for first-time visitors.
Zurich Transport Passes
To make the most of your time in Zurich, there are passes that are worth considering to save you money and time for your trip. If you plan to explore extensively, consider these options:
Zurich Card
For travellers planning to explore extensively, the Zurich Card offers excellent value. It includes unlimited second-class travel on all public transport within the city for either 24 or 72 hours, allowing you to hop on and off without needing to buy separate tickets.
One particularly helpful perk: the Zurich Card also covers travel between Zurich Airport and Zurich Main Station (Zürich HB) in both directions during the card’s validity period. If you’re arriving in Switzerland via Zurich Airport, this can save you money straight away and make your arrival into the city completely stress-free.
In addition to transport, the Zurich Card provides:
- Complimentary or reduced entry to museums and cultural attractions
- Discounts on city tours, lake cruises, and select experiences
- Extra savings at partner shops and restaurants
🎫 The card can be purchased digitally through the Zürich City Guide app, online, or at ticket machines throughout the city.
Planning day trips or longer travel?
If Zurich is part of a wider Swiss adventure, the Swiss Travel Pass may be a better option. It offers unlimited travel across Switzerland’s national transport network (train, bus and boat), along with free access to more than 500 museums and reduced fares on mountain railways. It’s particularly useful if you’re visiting multiple regions or cities during your trip.
When to Visit Zurich in Switzerland
Zurich is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit really depends on your budget, crowd tolerance, and what you want to experience.
Best Time to Visit Zurich
Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is the most popular time to visit. Summer brings long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and lively energy across the city. June and July are especially enjoyable for outdoor cafés, lake cruises, swimming spots, and music festivals, though July can feel busier due to school holidays. August is packed with events, including Swiss National Day celebrations on August 1 and the iconic Street Parade around Lake Zurich.
For many travellers, the sweet spot is late May, June, September, and early October. During these months, you’ll find fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and better availability for accommodation. Autumn also brings golden foliage around Lake Zurich and wine-related events in October, making it a favourite for food and wine lovers.
🏨 Staying in Zurich overnight? Consider these accommodation options:
Luxury: Hotel Baur au Lac
Mid Range: Hotel Limmathof
What season is best to visit Zurich?
Spring (April–May) is a lovely time to visit as the city wakes up from winter. April is quieter and hosts the traditional Sechseläuten spring festival, while May offers mild weather and fewer tourists. Be aware that the weather can be changeable, especially earlier in the season.
Winter (December–March) is colder and darker, but still charming. December is a highlight thanks to festive Christmas markets, the fairy-tale Märlitram, and cosy cafés. February and March are calmer in the city, while alpine destinations are at their busiest.
The least popular period is November, when fog and rain are common, though it’s also one of the quietest and most affordable times to visit.
No matter when you go, pack layers — especially if you plan to visit the Alps, where the weather can change quickly. Whether you’re swimming in the lake in summer or sipping mulled wine in winter, Zurich offers something special in every season.
✈️ Make sure you pack these 27 must-have travel essentials before heading off on your next trip.
Budget Tips for Visiting Zurich
Zurich is known for being expensive, but there are plenty of ways to explore the city without breaking the bank.
💰 Save Money in Zurich With These Budget Tips 💰
🚋 Get around for less: The Zurich Card is a must for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy unlimited public transport, discounted or free entry to many museums, and special deals at shops and restaurants.
Feeling more active? Rent a bike—it’s cheap, fun, and a fresh way to see the city.
🌳 Enjoy free experiences: Zurich is packed with no-cost activities. Stroll along the lakeside promenades, hike nearby trails, or relax by the river. Refill your bottle at any of the city’s 1,200+ public fountains. Culture lovers will enjoy 1,300+ public art pieces, free church visits, and scenic viewpoints—all without spending a franc.
🍴 Eat and shop smart: Supermarkets like Coop and Migros offer affordable meals and snacks. Pick up picnic supplies and enjoy a meal in one of Zurich’s many green spaces. With a little planning, you can experience the best of Zurich while keeping your budget intact.
10 Best Things to Do in Zurich in One Day
If you’re planning a one-week Switzerland itinerary, Zurich makes for a great starting point or city stop. With its mix of historic streets, cultural highlights, and scenic spots, there’s plenty to explore even in a single day. Here’s a roundup of the best things to do in Zurich to help you make the most of your time in the city.
Explore Zurich Old Town (Alstadt)
Exploring Zurich’s Old Town is a must and easily one of the best things to do in Zurich, especially for first-time visitors. Stretching across both sides of the Limmat River, the historic centre is a charming mix of narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and lively squares.
Between Lindenhof, Niederdorf, and Grossmünster, winding alleys lead past historic guild houses, charming squares, and cafés that give Old Town its character. In Niederdorf, history and modern life come together — boutique shops, restaurants, and cafés sit alongside centuries-old buildings. By day, it’s ideal for exploring and sightseeing; by night, the streets buzz with lively bars and evening energy.
A stroll here is like stepping back in time while still enjoying all the comforts of a modern city, making it an essential stop on any Zurich itinerary.
📌 Niederdorf is walkable from the train station and is a car-free area.
Walk Along Bahnhofstrasse
No visit to Zurich is complete without a walk along Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s most famous street and one of the world’s top shopping avenues. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, the boulevard is perfect for people-watching and soaking up the city vibe.
The street stretches 1.4 kilometres (just under a mile) from Zurich Main Station to Lake Zurich, lined with department stores, boutique shops, and high-end brands that get progressively more exclusive as you approach the lake. It’s hard to imagine, but this bustling luxury street was once a stinky city moat. After the railway station was built in 1854, the area was transformed into the elegant avenue we see today.
Along the way, you can stop at cafés to rest your feet and enjoy the scene, browse Swiss flagship stores, or just admire the mix of historic architecture and modern design. Bahnhofstrasse also makes for an easy walking route if you’re heading between the station and the lake, so it’s simple to pair with other Zurich highlights.
Go Swimming in Zurich
Swimming is a beloved part of Zurich life, and the city has a rich bathing culture that dates back to Roman times. In summer, locals flock to the “Badi” — Zurich’s open-air public baths — to cool off, sunbathe, and socialise. These historic bathhouses, some of which have been around since the 19th century, are well-equipped with changing rooms, showers, and sunbathing areas, making them perfect for a relaxed day by the water.
For a more adventurous option, try swimming in the Limmat River. Many Zurich residents even use the river current to commute during summer! Popular entry and exit points include near the Dynamo arts and leisure centre, down to the Oberen Letten pier.
Whether you choose a lakeside Badi or a river swim, taking a dip is one of the best things to do in Zurich on a warm summer day — a refreshing, authentic local experience that makes the city feel alive.
Take a Boat Cruise on Lake Zurich
For a relaxing way to see Zurich and its scenic surroundings, a boat cruise on Lake Zurich is hard to beat. You can choose from short loops around the city or longer routes that stop at charming lakeside towns — all while enjoying the calm waters and stunning views.
The city’s boat fleet includes classic steamboats, motor vessels, and Limmat boats, all well-maintained and perfect for a leisurely ride. For something extra special, try one of the “Dream Boat” experiences, such as a fondue cruise, dinner cruise, or breakfast boat, offering a unique way to enjoy Zurich from the water.
Most scheduled cruises run daily and range from 1.5 to 4 hours, making it easy to fit into your itinerary. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass (Flex) or GA travelcard, your ticket is fully covered, and seating is free — no reservation required.
A boat cruise is one of the best things to do in Zurich if you want to take in the city and countryside without rushing.
💸 Maximise your Zurich itinerary without breaking the bank: 💸
- Glide across Lake Zurich on a scenic boat cruise and satisfy your sweet tooth at the Lindt Home of Chocolate.
- Explore the city at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour, complete with an audio guide and Lake Zurich cruise.
- Discover all of Zurich’s top sights in a day with a coach tour, soar over Lake Zurich and the Alps on an aerial cable car, and cruise the lake by ferry.
Visit Grossmünster Church
Opening hours: Change throughout the year (1 March to 31 October: 10 am to 6 pm | 1 Nov to 28 Feb: 10 am to 5 pm)
The Grossmünster is Zurich’s iconic landmark, and no trip to the Old Town is complete without visiting it. Its twin towers dominate the skyline, and a climb up the Karlsturm — 187 steps from the nave — rewards you with sweeping views of Zurich rooftops, Lake Zurich, and the Alps in the distance.
Inside, there’s plenty to admire. Highlights include the Romanesque crypt, intricate capitals, stunning stained glass windows by Augusto Giacometti and Sigmar Polke and the impressive bronze doors by Otto Münch. Guided tours are also available if you want a deeper dive into the church’s history. Whether you’re here for history, art, or the view, Grossmünster is a must-see stop and one of the best things to do in Zurich.
Tips for visiting: Admission is CHF 5 for adults, CHF 2 for children and students, and free with a Zurich Card, which also grants free access to the Karlsturm.
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Plan the ultimate Swiss adventure with this one-week Switzerland Itinerary Google Sheet. Save hours of research with day-by-day routes, +75 clickable map links, transport tips, accommodation suggestions, and a handy budget tracker.
Discover Lindenhof Viewpoint
Lindenhof is one of Zurich’s most historic corners, offering a serene escape in the heart of the city. Perched on a hill that was once a Roman settlement, it provides sweeping views of the Limmat River, Grossmünster, and the Old Town rooftops — making it an ideal spot to pause, take photos, or simply enjoy the city from above.
When I was travelling on a budget, I picked up lunch from Coop and sat here to soak in the views — a simple, free way to experience the city. You can also fill up your water bottle at the Lindenhof fountain, Hedwigbrunnen.
Whether you stop by for a relaxed lunch break or to catch a golden sunset, Lindenhof is a must-see spot that blends history, cityscape, and calm in one visit.
Visit Lindht Home of Chocolate
General Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday (10 am to 7 pm) | Check operating days here.
For a sweet stop in Zurich, the Lindt Home of Chocolate is a must-visit. Part museum, part chocolate playground, it takes you on a journey from cocoa bean to melt-in-your-mouth Swiss chocolate. Highlights include a 9-meter chocolate fountain, interactive exhibits, and panoramic views of the production line.
You can also taste a variety of Lindt chocolates to your heart’s content — the perfect reward after exploring the city. Audio-guided tours explain the history of chocolate in Europe and the artistry behind each bar. Tickets can be booked for general entry or a guided tour, and it’s open daily with advance booking recommended. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking for a fun, immersive experience, this stop is one of the best things to do in Zurich for a deliciously memorable visit.
💸 Get the most for your money in Zurich! 💸
- Book ahead for a guided Lindt Home of Chocolate tour and entry ticket
- Combine chocolate and cruising with a Lindt Museum visit + Lake Zurich boat cruise
- See it all in one day: explore city highlights, enjoy a lake cruise, and finish with Lindt chocolate delights.
Visit Kunsthaus Zurich
Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm Tuesday to Sunday
Art lovers shouldn’t miss Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland’s top art museums. Its collection spans Swiss masters like Alberto Giacometti and Fischli/Weiss, Impressionists, Expressionists, and contemporary icons such as Warhol, Rothko, and Beuys. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, the combination of light-filled galleries, striking architecture, and curated exhibitions makes it a rewarding stop.
The museum spans two buildings: the historic Moser building and the modern David Chipperfield extension, opened in 2021. Highlights include the largest collection of Munch paintings outside Norway, immersive installations like Pipilotti Rist’s “Turicum Pixelwald,” and a “Garden of Art” connecting the museum to its neighbourhood.
Tips for visiting:
- Admission is CHF 31 (concessions CHF 24), but free with a Zurich Card for the permanent collection.
- Special exhibitions may cost extra. Guided tours, workshops, and temporary exhibitions make each visit unique.
Whether you’re here for classic art, contemporary installations, or just to enjoy the striking museum design, Kunsthaus is one of the best things to do in Zurich for a cultural dose in the city.
Ride the Polybahn to Polybahn Terrace
Opening hours: Mon to Fri (6:30 am to 9:00 pm), Sat (7:30 am to 9:00 pm) & Sun (9:00 am to 9:00 pm)
For a quick and historic way to enjoy one of Zurich’s best viewpoints, hop on the Polybahn funicular. Affectionately called the “Polybähnli,” this little red funicular has been connecting Central Station to the Polyterrasse — between the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the University — since 1889. The ride takes just 100 seconds, but the views at the top are worth lingering over.
From the terrace, you can enjoy sweeping panoramas of the Old Town rooftops and Lake Zurich. The funicular itself is a piece of living history: restored in the 1990s, it still charms locals and tourists alike, including the many students who use it daily.
Tips for Visiting:
- The funicular is free with a Zurich Card.
- Walk from Zurich Main Station across the Limmat to Central for easy access.
- The Polyterrasse is a perfect spot for photos, a coffee break, or simply taking in the city from above.
Visit Uetliberg, Zurich’s Mountain
For scenic views over Zurich, Uetliberg is the city’s must-visit “mountain.” Standing at 871 meters (2,858 feet), it towers above the city and offers panoramic vistas of the rooftops, Lake Zurich, and, on a clear day, the Alps. In November, the summit often rises above the city’s fog, creating a magical contrast between misty streets below and a sunlit peak.
Uetliberg is popular year-round: in summer, it’s a hub for hiking and mountain biking, while winter transforms some trails into scenic toboggan runs, perfect for a fun snowy adventure.
Practical tips for visiting:
- Travel time: ~29 minutes from Zurich Main Station, ~48 minutes from Zurich Airport.
- The journey is fully covered by the Swiss Travel Pass or Zurich Card.
- Trails and lookout points are well-marked, making it easy for families or casual walkers.
- Don’t miss the toboggan run if visiting in winter — a local favourite surrounded by forested beauty.
Whether you’re seeking peace in nature, panoramic city views, or outdoor adventure, Uetliberg is a perfect escape from the urban buzz and easily ranks among the best things to do in Zurich.
🗺️ Explore Zurich Stress-Free with This Notion Guide 🗺️
Save hours of planning with my interactive Zurich travel guide on Notion! Get +50 must-visit spots with exact map coordinates, tips for each place, booking links, and a fully customisable Notion template.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Zurich
Is Zurich worth visiting?
Absolutely. Zurich combines historic charm, natural beauty, and modern city life. From Old Town streets and Uetliberg views to art at Kunsthaus and chocolate at Lindt Home of Chocolate, there’s plenty to explore. Even in a day, you can experience the city’s highlights, making it a great stop on a one-week Switzerland itinerary.
How many days do you need in Zurich?
2–3 days is ideal to see key attractions, enjoy Lake Zurich, explore neighbourhoods like Niederdorf and fit in a hike or swim at Uetliberg or the Limmat. The city is compact and walkable, so you can cover a lot without feeling rushed.
Is Zurich expensive?
Yes, Zurich is one of Europe’s pricier cities. Costs can be managed with public transport passes like the Zurich Card, free attractions like Lindenhof, swimming at the Badis, and budget-friendly meals from supermarkets. Even simple experiences, like a lunch by the Limmat, can be affordable and scenic.
What is Zurich best known for?
Zurich is famous for its financial centre and high quality of life, but also for Lake Zurich, historic Old Town, cultural attractions, and efficient public transport. Highlights include museums like Kunsthaus, scenic viewpoints, lively neighbourhoods, and local experiences like chocolate tasting or river swimming.
Can you visit Zurich without a car?
Yes. Zurich is extremely public-transport-friendly, with trams, buses, trains, and the Polybahn making it easy to explore. The city centre is walkable, and day trips to Uetliberg or the lakes are simple by train, so a car isn’t necessary.
📝 Other Resources You Might Find Helpful 📝
- Downloadable 7-Day Switzerland Travel Itinerary & Map
- Save time and planning with a Downloadable Notion Travel Template
- Downloadable Zurich Travel Map Guide
- How to Visit Velaris in Zermatt, Switzerland
- Don’t miss this city in Portugal for your next trip to Europe
Travel Planning Resources
Power Adaptors : I always recommend buying a universal adaptor so you can use it in any country (great for future travels), and it offers extra ports for USB cables to charge your devices.
Accommodation 🛌: I book all my accommodation in Europe through Booking.com. They have a wide selection of accommodations worldwide, with flexible booking options and great deals. If you join their Genius Loyalty program, you can also get discounts on selected stays.
Attractions & Tours 🌟 Klook and GetYourGuide are my preferred platforms for local tours and activities in Korea. They make it easy to compare tours, book experiences and the best deals. You can also download their mobile app, where you can easily access your bookings on the go.
Easy Car Rental 🚗 Get hassle-free car rentals on DiscoverCars with a wide selection, competitive prices, and great customer service. Often it’s cheaper than booking direct, and you can compare a large range of suppliers to check if you’re getting the best price.
Stay Connected 📶 wherever you go by easily and affordably purchasing an eSim for all your travels. Thanks to Airalo, you’ll get instant access to data, and you don’t need to physically swap a plastic SIM card every time you’re travelling to a new country.
Travel Insurance 🛡️ I use World Nomads for overseas travel insurance. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’ll be covered for unexpected events and plan a worry-free journey.
Camera Gear 📸: If you’re curious about the camera gear I’ve used for my photos, find out what’s in my camera bag here.
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