Things To Do
in Uster

Uster, Switzerland is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Greifensee, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant community. The town is well-connected to Zurich, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Uster boasts a mix of historical sites and modern amenities, providing a perfect blend of culture and leisure.

Visitors can enjoy lush parks, scenic walking paths, and a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Uster
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Uster Castle, an impressive historical landmark that dates back to the 13th century. After exploring the castle, take a leisurely stroll along Lake Greifensee.

afternoon
:

Head to the Stadtpark for a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the local shops in Uster's charming town center.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, trying traditional Swiss dishes, followed by a relaxing evening walk along the lakeside.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike on the nearby Uster Mountain, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum Uster to learn about the town's history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a café nearby.

evening
:

Experience Uster's nightlife by visiting a local bar or pub, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍺Beer$6
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Night in a hotel$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural history and charming architecture.
  • Proximity to Zurich for additional attractions.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger Swiss cities.
  • Higher cost of living than some other European destinations.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Uster

Visit one of these nice places.

Uster Castle

A beautiful historic castle providing stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

Lake Greifensee

The serene lake is perfect for capturing sunsets and reflections of the mountains.

Stadtpark

A picturesque park filled with flowers and greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Uster

Uster offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Swiss cuisine and international flavors. Must-try local dishes include Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, Rösti, and various cheese fondue options. The town hosts food markets where visitors can sample local produce and street food vendors offer quick bites for those on the go. For dietary restrictions, many restaurants provide vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Uster Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

A creamy veal dish served with Rösti, a Swiss potato specialty.

Must-Try!

Rösti

Crispy fried grated potatoes, often served as a side dish.

Cheese Fondue

Melted cheese served with bread for dipping, a classic Swiss dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Uster Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls throughout the town offer quick bites including bratwurst and pretzels.

Climate Guide

Weather

Uster experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging around 0°C (32°F). Summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Swiss culture; late arrivals can be seen as disrespectful.

Greetings

A friendly 'Grüezi' (hello) is customary when meeting locals.

Respect for Nature

Being respectful of nature and public spaces, such as not littering, is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Uster is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Uster

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather brings crowds to the lake for swimming, picnicking, and hiking.

Autumn

The foliage transforms into vibrant colors, creating picturesque landscapes perfect for hiking.

Winter

Cold weather with snow may limit outdoor activities, but the town offers cozy indoor options and festive holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Uster at Night

Uster's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Swiss cities, but it offers a cozy atmosphere with several bars and pubs. Many establishments host live music and local events, making it a great place to socialize with both locals and fellow travelers. The nightlife tends to be quieter during the weekdays, but weekends can be lively, especially in popular spots.

Hiking in Uster

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Uster Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for various skill levels.

Greifensee Circular Trail

A scenic trail around Lake Greifensee, perfect for a leisurely hike or bike ride.

Airports

How to reach Uster by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Located about 20 km from Uster, Zurich Airport is the largest in Switzerland, offering a wide range of international flights and excellent transport links to Uster.

Getting Around

Walkability

Uster is a walkable town, with pedestrian-friendly streets and many amenities within walking distance. The town center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are numerous parks and lakeside paths for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town is home to a diverse population, with many families and professionals living in the area.

Commuters

Many people from Uster commute to Zurich for work, contributing to the town's vibrant community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs engaging in various competitions.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is widely followed, with local teams attracting enthusiastic support during the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Uster is generally manageable, with efficient public transportation options including trains and buses connecting the town to Zurich and beyond. Public transport is reliable and punctual, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Uster.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly pasta and salads.

Gluten-Free Choices

Many eateries have gluten-free options available upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has a high standard of healthcare. Uster has several clinics and hospitals equipped to handle various medical needs. Emergency services are efficient, and pharmacies are readily available for minor health concerns.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide