The 10 things to do in Zurich

Visit Zurich: what are the best things to do and see in this vibrant city, the economic capital of Switzerland?

It has gone to Switzerland, a land of wealth and diversity whose cultural heritage has nothing to envy its European neighbours. It is in Zurich, the country’s economic capital, that we take you! As an eventful metropolis on the waterfront, with the snow-covered Alps, Zurich offers a unique combination: over 50 museums, a lively nightlife, public baths on the lake and river in the heart of the city... Nothing's missing.

We strongly advise you to discover the vibrant heart of this city which, nestled at the foot of the Alpine mountains, illustrates by its incredible dynamism and cultural footprint. Are you wondering what to do in Zurich? This is where:

1. The churches

True emblems of the city, churches are an integral part of the city’s history landscape. If you’re a fan of Romanesque architecture, the famous Grossmunster church should delight you! Considered one of the main places of Protestant reform, the place is full of historical anecdotes, many of which are connected to France!

Did you know that it was under the command of Charlemagne that the first part of the building was built?

Don’t miss out on discovering the Fraumünster convent and its impressive stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall, as well as the church of Saint-Pierre and its watch, the largest in Europe. You can't visit Zurich without missing its fabulous churches.

They are also on the programme of the Zurich City Tour a guided tour of the city's must-sees.

2. Museums

Are you wondering what to do in Zurich? In terms of culture, the city is not in the rest. Art lovers, nature lovers and history enthusiasts will be at the angels! The Swiss National Museum is home to the largest collection of historical objects in the Swiss nation. Built in 1898 by Swiss architect Gustave Gull, he is inspired by the style of French Renaissance castles.

A great opportunity to dive into the daily life of the different generations that marked the history of the country. The Museum of Fine Arts has one of the most important art collections in Switzerland. In the autumn of 2021, the latter opened the new building, thus becoming the most important museum in Switzerland. On his side, Museum für Gestaltung will delight fans of design and architecture.

Another cultural visit that will be appreciated by young and old will be the WOW Museum in Zurich. Here, twelve rooms of illusions allow everyone to astonish, to play with shapes, sizes, and to alter all the usual perceptions. A source of fun that makes you the promise of a moment apart!

3. The summit of Uetliberg

The highest point of the city, the summit of Uetliberg is 871 m above sea level. A summit that you can reach by taking the train from Zurich Central Station, because access to cars is prohibited. Then take 10 minutes.

If you would like to take a little hike from the Uetliberg, the “world trail” will lead you to Felsenegg, one of the most beautiful views of Zurich. The trail materializes the distances in the solar system, and each step you will take will be a million kilometer. This two-hour walk connects the sun to the dwarf planet Pluton, passing through the other eight planets.

Finally in the summer, take one of the many marked trails that will lead you to the top, from which you can admire a magnificent panoramic view of the roofs of Zurich, its lake and the Alps! You can also enjoy a sublime sunset in front of which it is even possible to share a dinner. In winter, these trails turn... into a sledge trail!

4. Shopping in the streets of the city

From the finest chocolate shops, to the trendy or traditional shops of the old town to the local and urban labels of Zurich-West: in Zurich, each neighbourhood is a shopping experience in itself.

A street on the other hand should particularly attract your attention, Bahnhofstrasse ! It could be compared to the Champs-Élysées avenue as luxury shops follow. Renowned as one of the most expensive streets in all of Europe, and stretches over 1.4 km of more luxurious boutiques than others.

And if you choose to visit Zurich in winter, you will undoubtedly fall under the charm of Christmas markets!

5. Swiss gastronomy

Visiting Zurich is also an opportunity to discover the finesse of Swiss cheese and chocolate. In fact, Switzerland has a world-renowned reputation for the unparalleled quality of its chocolates, which it owes in part to the Sprüngli confectionery in Zurich. Still today, Sprüngli specialties known all over the world, such as Luxemburgerlis, pralines and truffles, as well as many other very popular sweets, are made from traditional recipes. Do you want to penetrate the scenes of another great name in the middle? Direction Lindt Home of Chocolate welcomes you: here, more than 500 m2 promises a gourmet and rewarding experience.

Switzerland also has a strong and ancestral cheese tradition. Nowadays, cheeseries and alpages from Switzerland produce nearly 800 varieties of cheese without counting fresh cheeses... Let yourself be tempted by a tasting of Swiss gruyère, appenzell or Stadtkäserei of Zürich.

If you are a fan of vegetarian gastronomy, know that Zurich is home to the world's oldest vegetarian restaurant: Le Hiltl. A family ensign, the restaurant created in 1898 to remain simple and faithful to its values, and the managers will gladly tell you the history of the 5 generations who have been led the restaurant.

For the most greedy, choose a Gustative Tour With fondue, your taste buds may not recover!

6. Bathing at the Oberer Letten

If you set foot in Zurich in the summer season, this is the must-see place you will not miss under any reason! Located along the Limmat River that runs through the city and close to the central railway station of Zurich, this swimming area is a way to stop time!

Here, swimming corridor and diving await you, in a certain agitation, caused by its free entrance. If you prefer peace, you can borrow a book in one of the lockers of the Bühl Foundation and take a sunbath on one of the terraces/restaurants that are present there.

7. Lake Zurich

If you're wondering what to do in Zurich, go on the side of its beautiful lake, 42km long, and crescent. Its banks are particularly appreciated by residents and visitors. Surrounded by parks and gardens, the lake is very pleasant in summer, for a picnic, swimming, jogging or simply to take a bowl of fresh air.

A 3 km walk starts in Bellevue and ends in Tiefenbrunnen. Boat cruises on the lake are also offered, including special gastronomic cruises with the ZSG (Zürichsee Schifffahrtsgesellschaft), ideal for exploring the city otherwise.

8. The Schipfe district

This is an absolutely perfect place for a strolling afternoon in Zurich. The Schipfe district, a former area of shipyards and located on the left bank of the Limmat, has become so peaceful today that you will no longer feel the agitation of Zurich.

In the heart of paved and colourful streets, you will enjoy the intergenerational atmosphere that emerges from this historic quarter. Children, young lovers or couples of older persons animate the places of their softness. A real little corner of paradise.

9. Les Alpes Suisses

The Alps are in Zurich what nature is in Switzerland: indispensable for your stay! On your trip, enjoy a one-day trip to the mountainous mountains. From Brünig pass to Bernese Oberland, discover the heart of the Alps in its simplest device: out of the beaten, authentic and nature trails.

Enjoy this day apart in a majestic setting to inspire you in various activities, whatever the season! In summer, the trails can be devalued in ATV or observed from clouds through paragliding. In winter, ski and sled dog walks will open your arms.

10. Urban surf

Slip lovers, be ready! For this last must, Hawaii is invited to the heart of Zurich! With a unique installation in the heart of West Zurich, you can now enjoy surfing without leaving the city.

Close to the urban garden “ Frau Gerolds Garten”, the “Urban Surf Platform” opens its doors to beginners and professionals! On the menu, an atmosphere chill with music and free entry for anyone who wants to excite in front of the show offered by surfers.

A little common but increasingly appreciated outing, by locals and tourists! Your boards!

How to go to Zurich?

For obvious ecological reasons, you can only be advised to take the train to go to Switzerland. However, this is also possible by road and air.

By train

The train is the best way to travel to Zurich: you just have to comfortably install yourself in your seat and you will arrive in the city centre without a train change. There is free WiFi on board, which will allow you to prepare your stay or look at your current series. And in addition, the train is an ecological alternative to the plane!

From Paris, the TGV Lyria propose 6 daily roundtrips to Zurich in 4h04 . The rate is 49€ single go to STANDARD class . Departures are from Paris Gare de Lyon and the TGV passes by Dijon. With the Covid crisis, 4 to 5 A/R daily are maintained. Aboard trains, trains health measures are put in place for the safety of passengers: obligatory mask, further cleaning of contact areas, efficient ventilation system...

With a limited budget, the bus is also an economic alternative.

By plane

We might think the plane is always faster. However, if you take the time to go from door to door, the story is no longer the same! From Paris, for example, the plane requires 4 to 5 hours: 1 hour to go to the airport + 1 hour to wait + 1 hour to fly + 30 min to reach the city centre of Zurich, which is roughly equivalent to the time of the train which has the advantage of leaving and arriving in the city centre.

However, the aircraft can actually be a much better option if you leave from another city. You will be able to find out about the price of a ticket through a flight comparison such as Skyscanner.

Located 10 km from the city centre, Zurich Airport is very well served: train, tram, shuttle, taxi... You just have to make your choice!

By road

In case you prefer to travel by car to take the time to contemplate the alpine mountains, several routes are available to you. That's it. the A5 , the A6 or by N4 then the A3 , you will cross the Franco-Swiss border near Mulhouse. On average, your journey will last between 06:30 and 07:30 for a distance of about 600 km.

Finally, if you have a limited budget, think about the bus: a very good alternative to go to Zurich to less costs.

Where accommodation in Zurich ?

The city offers its visitors numerous luxury, charming or unusual accommodations, in the middle of the city or around. We strongly advise you to book as soon as possible to prevent the best accommodation from being complete. There will be for all budgets, from the youth hostel to the 5-star luxury hotel!

If you're a fan of the lively and warm neighborhoods, the Niederdorf district located in the old town will be the ideal choice for you. If, on the other hand, you want your stay in Zurich to laugh calmly and serenity, then we recommend the Lindenhof district more. Also located in the old town, the place has sublime views of the historic gems of the city.

From luxury hotel rooms to small charming accommodations, you will necessarily find your happiness by taking a look at a Compare hotels , or by shitting an unusual ground foot on Airbnb.

With its rich historical and cultural past, its splendid monuments, its breathtaking beauty, its tasty and varied gastronomy, and the legendary hospitality of its inhabitants, Switzerland will seduce you.