Things To Do
in Zürich

Zürich is Switzerland's largest city and a global financial hub, known for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled on the shores of Lake Zürich and surrounded by mountains, it offers stunning natural beauty alongside urban sophistication. The city boasts a diverse population and is a melting pot of languages, cultures, and cuisines.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of history, art, and modern amenities in a picturesque setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Swiss National Museum to learn about the country's cultural history. Afterwards, take a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town (Altstadt), admiring the medieval architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then visit the Grossmünster, a historic Protestant church known for its twin towers. Spend the afternoon wandering around the Lindenhof hill for panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant and try some fondue. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakefront or explore the nightlife in the nearby district of Niederdorf.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit Kunsthaus Zürich, one of Switzerland's most important art museums, showcasing works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. Afterward, relax in the beautiful Botanical Garden.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a food market like the Zürich Street Food Festival, then take a tram to Uetliberg mountain for breathtaking views of the city and the Alps. You can hike along the trails there.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Wrap up your day with a boat cruise on Lake Zürich to admire the city lights from the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$5
🚍Single tram ticket$3
🛏️Hostel bed per night$50
🚌Airport transfer$35

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and picturesque landscapes.
  • Rich cultural and historical attractions.
  • Excellent public transportation system.
  • High cost of living and dining.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Zürich

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Zürich

The picturesque lake offers stunning views and is ideal for sunset photography.

Lindenhof

A peaceful hilltop park with panoramic views of the Old Town and the Limmat River.

Uetliberg Mountain

A popular hiking spot that provides breathtaking views of Zürich and the surrounding Alps.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zürich

Zürich offers a delightful culinary scene that combines traditional Swiss dishes with international flavors. From cozy cafés to gourmet restaurants, there are options for every palate and dietary need.

Zürich Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

A classic dish of sliced veal cooked in a creamy white wine sauce, typically served with Rösti (Swiss-style grated potatoes).

Must-Try!

Fondue

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

Rösti

Crispy fried potatoes, often served as a side dish, but can also be enjoyed as a main course.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zürich Street Food Festival

A vibrant market featuring diverse food stalls offering everything from local specialties to international street food.

Helvetiaplatz Market

A bustling weekly market with fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zürich experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and blooming flowers, while autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Swiss culture, so always respect appointment times.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Switzerland is known for its tranquility; keep your voice down in public transport and other shared spaces.

Environmental Respect

Switzerland places a strong emphasis on cleanliness and environmental conservation; always dispose of waste properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zürich is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates. However, like any urban area, visitors should practice common sense, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Zürich

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are popular in shops and restaurants.

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 city exploration.

Summer

Warm weather attracts locals and tourists to the lake for swimming, picnics, and festivals.

Autumn

Beautiful fall foliage can be seen in parks and along the lake, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

While it can be cold, Zürich transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and snow-covered landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Zürich at Night

Zürich's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with options ranging from chic bars to lively clubs. The city has a variety of districts, each offering unique atmospheres. The Old Town is known for its cozy pubs and wine bars, while areas like Zurich West host trendy clubs featuring live DJs and dance floors. There are also plenty of late-night venues for those looking to enjoy the local music scene.

Hiking in Zürich

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Uetliberg Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads from Zürich to the summit of Uetliberg, offering stunning views of the city and the Alps.

Zürich Wildpark

A scenic area to hike with well-marked trails, where visitors can observe native wildlife in a natural setting.

Airports

How to reach Zürich by plane.

Zürich Airport (ZRH)

Located about 13 km north of the city center, this major international airport connects Zürich with destinations worldwide, making it easy for travelers to access the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zürich is highly walkable, especially in the Old Town where narrow streets and pedestrian zones make exploring on foot enjoyable. Public transport options complement walking, making it easy to navigate between different parts of the city. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within a short walking distance of one another.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Swiss Nationals

The majority of the population consists of Swiss nationals, who are known for their cultural pride and emphasis on punctuality.

Expats

A significant number of expatriates from various countries live in Zürich, contributing to its multicultural environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Zürich, with local teams like FC Zürich and Grasshopper Club Zürich drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is another favorite, with the ZSC Lions being the main team representing the city in the National League.

Transportation

Traffic

Zürich has a well-organized public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to get around the city without a car. Traffic congestion can occur during rush hours, but the public transport system is reliable and efficient. Cycling is also popular, and there are bike lanes throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zürich.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and there are dedicated vegetarian and vegan eateries.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants provide gluten-free options; it's advisable to check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has a high-quality healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and clinics readily available in Zürich. Emergency services are efficient, and the city is well-equipped with medical facilities. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide