Things To Do
in Urdorf

Urdorf is a charming municipality located in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland, known for its peaceful residential neighborhoods and proximity to the vibrant city of Zurich. Nestled at the foot of the Uetliberg mountain, it offers beautiful natural scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy easy access to public transportation, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas.

Urdorf combines the tranquility of suburban life with the convenience of urban amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Urdorf
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for a traditional Swiss breakfast, followed by a stroll through the scenic parks in Urdorf.

afternoon
:

Take a short train ride to Zurich and explore the historic Old Town, visiting landmarks like the Grossmünster and the picturesque Lake Zurich.

evening
:

Return to Urdorf for dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Swiss cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk in the quiet neighborhood.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Head out early for a hike on the Uetliberg mountain, enjoying panoramic views of the Zurich area.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch at the summit and then descend to visit the nearby botanical garden in Zurich.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a casual dinner at a local pizzeria, followed by drinks at a cozy bar in Urdorf.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Night$150
🥖Loaf of Bread$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Zurich for urban exploration.
  • Beautiful natural scenery with outdoor activities.
  • Safe and family-friendly environment.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be expensive in terms of dining and accommodation.
  • Public transport may be less frequent on weekends.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Urdorf

Visit one of these nice places.

Uetliberg Mountain

Offers stunning panoramic views of Zurich and the Alps, ideal for capturing breathtaking sunrise and sunset photos.

Lake Zurich

A picturesque lake with scenic walking paths and beautiful reflections of the surrounding cityscape.

Historic Old Town Zurich

Charming streets with medieval architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Zurich's history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Urdorf

Urdorf offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases traditional Swiss flavors. Visitors can indulge in local dishes and explore various dining options, from cozy cafes to fine dining.

Urdorf Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish, similar to hash browns, often served as a side or topped with ingredients like cheese or eggs.

Must-Try!

Fondue

Melted cheese served in a communal pot, perfect for dipping bread and enjoying with friends.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Urdorf Market

A local market held weekly, featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Urdorf experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in January, which can see snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with pleasant temperatures and occasional rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Swiss people value punctuality highly; it is considered polite to be on time for appointments and meetings.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially in the evenings and on Sundays.

Greeting Customs

When meeting someone, a firm handshake is common, along with greeting them politely in German.

Safety Guide

Safety

Urdorf is considered a safe place for both residents and visitors. However, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are reliable and accessible, with the local police station and hospitals available for urgent care.

Tipping in Urdorf

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% at restaurants. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's also good to have some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and hikes.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for enjoying lakeside activities and picnics in the parks.

Autumn

The foliage changes color, providing beautiful scenery for photography and outdoor walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountains, as well as festive holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Urdorf at Night

Urdorf has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few local bars and cafes that offer a cozy atmosphere. For a more vibrant experience, many residents venture into nearby Zurich, where there are numerous clubs, bars, and live music venues catering to various tastes. You can find everything from intimate lounges to lively dance clubs, making it easy to enjoy a night out after exploring the town.

Hiking in Urdorf

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Uetliberg Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Uetliberg, offering stunning views of Zurich and the surrounding mountains.

Zurich Oberland Trail

This scenic trail passes through beautiful landscapes and small villages, perfect for a day hike with varying levels of difficulty.

Airports

How to reach Urdorf by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Located approximately 15 km from Urdorf, Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Urdorf is a highly walkable area, with many amenities located within walking distance of residential neighborhoods. Well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths make it easy to explore the town on foot, and public transport options are readily available for longer distances. The proximity to parks and green spaces enhances the walkability, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Urdorf is primarily inhabited by Swiss families and professionals who appreciate the peaceful suburban lifestyle.

Expats

There is a growing community of expats, particularly those who work in Zurich, attracted by the town’s quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Switzerland, with local clubs and community leagues actively engaging residents.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a favored sport during the winter months, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Urdorf is generally light, with easy access to public transportation options, including trains and buses connecting to Zurich and surrounding areas. Public transport is efficient and reliable, making it a preferred choice for commuting. The local road network is well-maintained, but congestion can occur during peak hours, especially on routes leading to Zurich.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Urdorf.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check for cheese-based items in Swiss cuisine.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are becoming more available in restaurants, but it's best to inquire ahead of time.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Urdorf is accessible and of high quality, with local clinics and hospitals providing a range of medical services. Emergency services are efficient, and residents have access to comprehensive health insurance plans. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide