Traveling to Zürich? This travel guide will give you all the information you need. From what to see and do to where to eat, where to stay, plus a lot of practical travel tips.
Whilst Zürich is almost too small to be considered a city by any other country’s standards, don’t be fooled – there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.
In fact, this is the case for most Swiss cities and in many ways adds to their charm.
This complete travel guide to Zürich will take you from one end of the city to the other, highlighting some of the most popular spots and also a few of my own personal favorites.
The first piece of advice I could give anyone going on a trip to Zürich is simple: don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path!
Traveling to Zürich – Everything You Need to Know
Sights to See in Zürich
1. The Main Event: Grossmünster*
No postcard or picture of Zürich would be complete without the Grossmünster towers standing proudly in the background.
The inside of this church is somewhat understated, but climb to the top of the towers and you won’t be disappointed by the spectacular views.
2. Fraumünster*
Fraumünster is a smaller church with a rich history and an ancient crypt museum. It is set on the edge of the lively Münsterhof square.
What really makes the church special are the beautiful stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti — they’re a must-see, even if you don’t spend long inside.
And since it’s right in the old town, I recommend combining a visit here with a stroll around Münsterhof and the nearby narrow streets filled with cafés and boutique shops.
3. Lake Zürich
Zürich wouldn’t be a Swiss city without a lake.
And with boat trips, a Chinese garden, and plenty of cafés to choose from, Lake Zürich has a lot to offer at any time of year.
In summer, locals love to go for a swim or relax at one of the many ‘Badi’ (public lakeside baths), while in winter a walk along the promenade with the snow-capped Alps in the distance is just as magical.
Whenever I need a break from the city, I simply head down to the lakeshore — it’s one of the best places to enjoy Zürich like a local.
4. Lindenhof Hill
The perfect place to get some quiet time, Lindenhof Hill is my favorite spot in Zürich.
It also offers you some prime photo opportunities (you guessed it, of those lovely Grossmünster towers) or the chance to simply watch the world go by.
5. Niederdorf
Cross over the Limmat River on your way down from Lindenhof and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the old town – Niederdorf.
Lined with eateries, bars and shops, Niederdorf is a lovely place to wander through and take in the atmosphere.
Tip: Some eateries and bars open on Sundays but not all. Check them on Google Maps for opening hours.
6. Bellevue / Zürich Opera House
Once you reach the end of Niederdorf, you’ll be met with a sea of people and traffic.
Bellevueplatz is home to many businesses, cafés, and the best part: the Opera House.
If the magnificent façade of the Opera House sparks your interest, you can book a behind-the-scenes tour to see where the magic happens.
7. Book a Tour of Zürich
if you really want to get to know the city one of my best tips is to book a tour.
There is this great city tour that includes a cruise and a visit to the Lindt chocolate museum for some delicious chocolate tasting!
Or, if you’d rather not join a group tour, this private tour around Zürich in a tuk-tuk is a lot of fun!
8. Üetliberg
A short train journey from the main train station (around 25 minutes) will take you on an adventure to Zürich’s very own mountain.
Although it’s nowhere near as impressive as the other mountains Switzerland has to offer, you won’t be disappointed by the views from the top of Üetliberg.
The Best Cafés in Zurich
There aren’t too many places to grab a coffee – Zürich definitely has more bars than cafés. But the cafés that they do have are well worth a visit.
1. Babu’s*
This is my all-time favorite café. A big claim, I know, but after your first visit, you’ll see why.
Babu’s caters from your on-the-go working breakfast to your after-work apéro – and everything in between.
The place itself is always packed, so if you do have your heart set on trying it out, make a reservation!
2. Café des Amis*
A little piece of Paris in the heart of Zürich.
Café des Amis is particularly famous for its weekend brunch, which ranges from traditional French pastries, bread, and Swiss cheese to a lighter birchermüesli.
The cafe is only a short tram journey from the main station.
3. Café & Conditorei 1842*
Set in the heart of Niederdorf, Conditorei 1842 is about as idyllic a café as can be.
It opened in 1842, hence the name.
Stepping into the café for the first time is like being transported back in time; velvet curtains, a grand piano, and the most delicious cakes make for a very grand afternoon.
The Best Restaurants in Zürich
1. Zeughauskeller*
This restaurant was formerly a storage place for weapons, and legend has it that the crossbow of national hero William Tell was once stored here.
Zeughauskeller is a must-visit for any tourist visiting Zürich (and for many locals).
The restaurant offers traditional Swiss food, and dining here is more of an experience than just a meal out!
2. Hiltl*
A bit of a claim to fame for the city, Hiltl is credited as the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant.
Service is a ‘help yourself’ affair and you can enjoy rooftop views from the Dachterrasse branch!
3. Saigon
If you fancy something a bit more exotic than traditional Swiss delicacies, Saigon is the place to be.
The restaurant itself is small and minimalist, and the selection of Vietnamese food on offer is delicious –it does fill up quickly so time your visit well!
Tip: if you love fondue and wine, check out this Fondue & Wine Tuk-Tuk Tour. A unique way to experience Zürich!
The Best Bars in Zürich
1. Raygrodski
Potentially the most hipster bar to ever exist.
There is something captivating about the atmosphere in Raygrodski, even if you can’t really hear yourself think.
The extensive cocktail list strays from the classics in favor of creative mixes and presentations.
If you have your heart set on visiting this bar at the weekend, reserve a table – it WILL be busy!
2. Jules Verne Panorama Bar*
This bar really is something special.
Boasting a panoramic view of the city and almost too many drinks to choose from, this is the perfect place to go for celebratory drinks and a must-see for tourists traveling to Zürich.
As a result of its reputation, it is a bit pricey… but well worth it.
3. Frau Gerolds Garten
At first glance, you might mistake Frau Gerolds for a scrap yard that someone has tried to dress up with fairy lights.
In theory, you wouldn’t be completely wrong. But once you step through the gate you’ll be fascinated by the wonderland that awaits you.
From the popup stores and outdoor bars to the quirky terrace with views over Hardbrücke, this place is certainly something special.
Museums in Zürich
A visit to one of Zürich’s many museums could just turn that boring rainy day around. Here are my top 3:
1. Landesmuseum*
The Swiss National Museum where you can learn all about Swiss history and traditions. The museum is closed on Mondays.
2. FIFA Museum*
One for the football fans – includes a detailed history of football as well as classic memorabilia. The museum is closed on Mondays.
3. Kunsthaus Zürich*
This art museum plays host to one of the most important art collections in Zürich. With a little bit of everything, it’s sure to please every art enthusiast. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Shopping in Zürich
Zürich might not be the first place you think of for a shopping spree, but it is home to one of the world’s most expensive shopping streets: Bahnhofstrasse.
The street is a designer lover’s dream; lined with shops including Cartier, Tiffany’s and Chanel, but also with more affordable shops including Zara and H&M.
Where to Stay in Zürich
If you are only traveling to Zürich for a few days I’d recommend staying in the city center.
Two popular hotels in the center of Zürich are citizenM and Hotel Schweizerhof. Both are good 4-star hotels that you can easily reach from the train station.
But, for a small city, Zürich has a good selection of hotels, plus a few guesthouses and hostels.
I would recommend using Booking.com to find a place to stay in Zürich.
Practical Tips for Visiting Zürich
1. Travel Passes
The Zürich Card gives you free travel on buses, trams, trains, boats, and cable cars in Zürich, plus discounts on many museums and other activities around the city.
For those of you who fancy exploring the rest of Switzerland, pick up a Swiss Pass (available for various lengths of time) and enjoy unlimited travel around the country. The only thing you may have to add is a supplement for cable cars to explore the mountaintops.
2. Money Money Money
The rumors are true: Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world.
Don’t come here expecting a cheap city break to Zurich – that’s not what this part of the world is about. It’s all about the experience.
3. Sundays in Zurich
Like in a lot of European countries, Sunday is a family day in Switzerland.
In Zürich (and in most other cities and towns in Switzerland), almost everything is closed on Sunday.
But, shops and restaurants in train stations and airports as well as the places marked above with an * will remain open.
4. Swiss German
Brushing up on the German you learned in school/uni will only get you so far in Switzerland.
The famous Schwiizerdütsch (Swiss German) is far from easy to learn or understand, and also varies between Cantons.
Luckily, most locals also speak High German and English, so there shouldn’t be too much pointing and miming!
I hope you found this guide to Zürich helpful and have a great trip!
Also Read:
- 10 Places to Visit for the Best Views in Switzerland
- Interview With an Expat About Life in Zürich
- 4 Lesser-Visited European Capitals Worth Traveling to
- How to Plan a Perfect Trip
A Complete Travel Guide to Zürich on a Map
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