7 Mandatory topics during a visit to Zurich
Visit Zurich: What is the best way to do and see this vibrant city, the economic capital of Switzerland?
We head to Switzerland, a country of wealth and diversity whose cultural heritage has no envy of its European neighbours. I'll take you to Zurich, the country's economic capital! As an event metropolis on the waterfront, with the snow-capped Alps as a backdrop, Zurich offers a unique combination: over 50 museums, a lively nightlife, public baths by sea and river in the heart of the city – there is nothing missing.
I strongly recommend you to discover the vibrant heart of this city, which is located at the foot of the alpine mountains and is known for its dynamism and incredible cultural character. Wondering what to do in Zurich? Here it goes long:
1. Marvel at the churches of Zurich
The churches are true landmarks of the city and are an integral part of the city's historic landscape. Walking through the city centre, you will discover the two towers of the Grossmünster, the landmark of the reformed church of Ulrich Zwingli. You can climb the southern tower, the Karlsturm, over 187 steps (admission CHF 5) and enjoy a magnificent view over Zurich from above. Also worth a visit is the Fraumünster with its impressive stained glass by Marc Chagall and Giacometti and the St. Peter's Church with the largest clock in Europe. You can't visit Zurich without missing out on its fabulous churches.
2nd. Stroll through the museums of Zurich
Wondering what to do in Zurich when it rains? When it comes to culture, the city cannot be surpassed. Art lovers, nature lovers and history buffs will be in heaven! The Swiss National Museum, housed in a medieval building in the centre of Zurich, opposite the main railway station, houses the largest collection of historical objects in the Swiss nation. A great opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily lives of the different generations who have shaped the history of the country. The Kunsthaus has one of the most important art collections in Switzerland, while the Museum of Design will delight lovers of design and architecture. These are only three larger of about 50 museums.
3rd. Enjoy the view from the top of the Üetliberg
The highest point of the city, the Üetliberg summit, rises to 871 m above sea level. This summit can only be reached by train (the S10) from Zurich Central Station, as access by car is not allowed. The walk from the mountain station to the summit takes about 10 minutes. In summer, take one of the many marked paths to the summit, from where you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the rooftops of Zurich, the lake and the Alps! In winter, if there is enough snow, these paths are turned into a toboggan run!
4th. Shopping in the streets of the city of Zurich
From the finest chocolates, watches and jewellery in the famous Bahnhofstrasse, to trendy or traditional shops in the old town, to local and city labels in Zurich West: in Zurich, every district is a shopping experience in its own right. And if you decide to visit Zurich in winter, you will no doubt be captivated by the Christmas markets!
5th. Taste Swiss gastronomy
A visit to Zurich is also an opportunity to discover the delicacy of Swiss cheese and chocolate. In fact, Switzerland is known worldwide for the unparalleled quality of its chocolate, a reputation it owes, among other things, to the Confiserie Sprüngli in Zurich. The world-famous specialities of Sprüngli such as Luxemburgerlis, chocolates and truffes as well as many other popular sweets are still made according to traditional recipes.
Switzerland also has a strong and centuries-old cheese tradition. Today, the cheesedries and alpine pastures of Switzerland produce almost 800 cheeses, not including cream cheese… Let yourself be seduced by a tasting of Swiss Gruyére, Appenzeller or Vacherin… For sweet cats: Opt for a fondue (melted cheese in which bread pieces are trolled) in an appropriate restaurant, your taste buds may not recover!
6. Walk by the lake
If you're wondering what to do in Zurich, go to its beautiful, 42 km long crescent-shaped lake. Its banks are particularly popular with locals and visitors. The lake lined with parks and gardens is very pleasant in summer, for a picnic, for swimming, jogging or just for a breath of fresh air. A 3 km long hike starts in the Bellevue and ends in Tiefenbrunnen. There are also boat trips on the lake, ideal to discover a completely different view of the city. The ZurichInsider.com tip here: You can swim on the right side of the lake at The Mythenquai for free in the lake without having to go to a bathing establishment. There is also a park with sunbathing lawn. In summer you can see many employees of the surrounding offices who spend their lunch break here.
7. Hiking in the Swiss Alps
For Zurich, the Alps are what nature is for Switzerland: indispensable for your stay! Enjoy a day trip to the mountains during your trip. From the Brünig Pass to the Bernese Oberland, discover the heart of the Alps in its simplest form: away from the beaten track, authentic and natural.
Where can I stay in Zurich?
The city offers its visitors numerous luxurious, charming and unusual accommodations, in the city center or in the surrounding area. I strongly advise you to book as early as possible to avoid the best accommodation being fully booked. From the youth hostel to the 5* luxury hotel, there is something for every budget! You can find a cheap hotel in Zurich by searching on a hotel comparison portal (tripadvisor.com, holidaycheck.de).
Switzerland will help you with its rich historical and cultural past, its magnificent monuments, its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, its tasty and varied gastronomy and the legendary hospitality of its people. Seduce. You are still wondering what to do in Zurich?
I hope I was able to make you more interested in Zurich with the 7 obligatory topics during your visit to Zurich. Discover more on ZurichInsider.com – Zurich from the inside.
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