Things To Do
in Zollikon

Zollikon is a picturesque municipality located on the shores of Lake Zurich, just a short distance from the city of Zurich. Known for its serene atmosphere and stunning lake views, Zollikon combines urban convenience with a touch of nature. The area is characterized by beautiful residential neighborhoods, lush parks, and a vibrant local culture.

It's an ideal destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Switzerland while being close to the cultural attractions of Zurich.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Zurich, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art galleries and museums, including the nearby Zurich Museum of Design to appreciate Swiss artistry.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying Swiss specialties while watching the sunset over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a hike up to the nearby Zurichberg mountain for panoramic views of the city and lake.

afternoon
:

Spend time at the Zollikerberg park, picnicking or simply relaxing in the green surroundings.

evening
:

Check out a local bar or café for some live music and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$15
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful lakeside views and parks
  • Proximity to Zurich's cultural attractions
  • Safe and friendly community
  • Higher cost of living compared to other regions
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Zollikon

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Zurich Promenade

Capture stunning views of the lake and mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Zurichberg Mountain

A great spot for panoramic shots of Zurich and the surrounding landscape.

Zollikon Park

A beautiful park with lush greenery and flower beds, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zollikon

Zollikon offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, blending traditional Swiss flavors with modern cuisine.

Zollikon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A crispy Swiss potato dish, often served with various toppings like cheese or eggs.

Must-Try!

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Thinly sliced veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zollikon Farmer's Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zollikon experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C, while summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 20°C to 25°C. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in spring and summer. Autumn (September to November) brings cool temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is very important in Swiss culture; always strive to arrive punctually.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and places to respect others' peace.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when greeting someone; say 'Grüezi' (hello) in Zurich.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zollikon is considered a safe place for both residents and tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Zollikon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, but service charges are often included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash in Swiss Francs is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather invites locals and tourists to enjoy the lakeside, parks, and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Fall foliage provides stunning landscapes, and the weather remains pleasant for hiking and walking.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow; enjoy winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Zollikon at Night

Zollikon's nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, with a mix of bars, restaurants, and occasional live music venues. The lakeside area often hosts events, and the proximity to Zurich offers numerous options for late-night entertainment. Whether you prefer a quiet drink with a lake view or lively music, Zollikon provides options for all preferences.

Hiking in Zollikon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Uetliberg Trail

A popular hiking trail leading to Uetliberg mountain, offering stunning views of Zurich and the lake.

Pfannenstiel Trail

This scenic trail runs through forests and meadows, providing a great experience for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Zollikon by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Located approximately 15 km from Zollikon, Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland, offering numerous flights to destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zollikon is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, especially along the lakefront. Many amenities such as restaurants, shops, and parks are within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore without needing a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Locals

The local population is primarily Swiss, with a mix of expatriates and long-term residents contributing to the cultural diversity.

Students

With nearby educational institutions, a significant number of students reside in the area, adding a youthful energy to the community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is hugely popular, with local clubs and community games attracting many fans.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey enjoys a strong following, especially during the winter months, with local teams competing in leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zollikon is manageable, with good connections to Zurich via public transport. Trains and trams frequently run, making it easy to access the city. However, during rush hours, traffic can become congested. It's advisable to use public transport whenever possible to avoid parking issues.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zollikon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries can accommodate gluten-free diets, but ask staff for specific options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has a high standard of healthcare, and Zollikon is no exception. Local medical facilities are well-equipped, with several clinics and hospitals nearby in Zurich. In case of emergencies, always have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs, as medical services can be expensive.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide