What to do in Zurich?

Zurich, where tradition and modernity intertwine amidst a backdrop of lakes and mountains, is much more than a financial hub! As the economic capital of Switzerland, the city captivates with its rich culture, fine gastronomy, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Lying along the Limmat River and overlooked by the majestic Alps, this vibrant metropolis offers a multitude of experiences: medieval alleyways in the old town, lively lakeside promenades, museums, galleries, public baths, and unique spots for hiking or relaxing by the water Are you wondering what to see and do in Zurich for your next visit? You're in luck, because here I present to you the 16 best activities not to be missed!

History, gastronomy, diverse landscapes, authentic towns and villages... There are actually plenty of great reasons to explore Switzerland! If you're planning to spend a few days in Zurich, the economic and financial capital of the country, you can easily combine a good portion of all these discoveries

Zurich is a city of human scale, making it quite easy to get around and discover all the points of interest in the city: museums, historical center, and of course the lake! If you travel in summer, you can even swim in the clear waters of the Limmat River.

Located at the foot of the Alps, the city is also a great starting point for many outings and activities, including hiking trails, cruises, excursions to the Rhine Falls, Interlaken, or Grindelwald, and culinary outings to the village of Appenzell

To discover my selection of the best activities to do on site, I highly recommend continuing to read this article!

It's impossible to explore Zurich without admiring its historic churches, true symbols of the city. St. Peter's Church, the Town Hall, the Grossmünster, and the Fraumünster reveal themselves as you visit, providing a fascinating glimpse into local history and architecture.

If you appreciate Romanesque architecture, the Grossmünster is a must-see. Considered a key site of the Protestant Reformation, this 13th-century structure is said to have been built on Charlemagne's orders and now houses a museum dedicated to this significant period. Its two towers dominate the city and offer breathtaking views of Zurich and the Alps.

On the other side of the Limmat, the Fraumünster delights with its stunning stained glass windows by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti. This historic site combines art and spirituality in a unique atmosphere ✨

Finally, St. Peter's Church stands out for its impressive clock, the largest in Europe, while the surrounding neighborhood is filled with architectural treasures and charming alleys to explore.

Zurich is a true paradise for shopping enthusiasts, with Bahnhofstrasse being one of its main commercial arteries! ️ Over 1.4 km long, this iconic street, often compared to the Champs-Élysées, features luxury boutiques, department stores, and high-end fashion retailers. Considered one of the most expensive streets in Europe, it invites you to leisurely stroll past the windows of the biggest brands.

The Limmatquai, which runs alongside the old town and the river of the same name, also provides a perfect setting for shopping and relaxation From Bellevue to Central, this promenade lets you admire the Grossmünster, the Wasserkirche, and the Town Hall, while discovering trendy boutiques under the arcades. Many historic restaurants, housed in former guild buildings, serve typical Zurich specialties, adding a local touch to the experience.

Finally, the Niederdorf, or > for the Zurich locals, immerses you in the city's historic heart. Its narrow alleys, charming courtyards, and hidden shops create a unique atmosphere. Pedestrian-friendly by day, it transforms into a lively district at night with its bars, bistros, and street performers At the end of August, don't miss the >, a vibrant annual festival with DJs, stalls, tastings, and shows!

At the end of Bahnhofstrasse, you will find Paradeplatz, the closest square to Lake Zurich, a favorite spot for Zurich's elite. This corner of the old town is home to the Sprüngli confectionery, a luxury chocolatier since 1836, where locals love to meet for coffee accompanied by the famous Luxemburgerli macaroons A stop I highly recommend if you're a dessert lover!

Schipfe, located between the Limmat and Lindenhof, is one of the oldest districts in Zurich. Its name comes from >, which referred to the movement of boats going in or out of the water, as it was once a transshipment site for goods ⛴️ Today, this former shipyard district has become a peaceful place to wander. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, Schipfe is also popular for its paved and colorful alleyways!

To make sure you don't miss anything in Zurich's Altstadt and to learn more about over 2,000 years of local history, feel free to join a guided tour of Zurich's old town You will find several options at various budgets, and some also include combined activities. Here's my little selection:

It's hard to imagine a stay in Zurich without enjoying its lake At 42 km long and crescent-shaped, it provides an ideal setting for relaxation.

From Bürkliplatz, the view of the Alps is stunning. Its shores, adorned with parks and gardens, attract both locals and visitors, especially in summer. Picnicking, swimming, jogging, or just taking a walk, there's something for everyone.

Know that a combined ticket for around €47 allows you to enjoy a lake cruise in Zurich after a bus tour around the city. Admire the snowy mountains, elegant villas, and the most beautiful sites before sailing on calm waters with a unique panorama of Zurich and the Alps

The summit of Uetliberg, known as > among Zurich locals, offers a panoramic view of the city and the lake ️ It reaches an altitude of 871 meters and is accessible by train from Zurich's main station, with a 10-minute walk from the stop. From Uetliberg to Felsenegg, expect about a 2-hour hike.

In summer, several marked trails lead to the summit, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Zurich, its lake, and the Alps. It's also a great spot for a sunset dinner. In winter, the trails turn into a sledding hill!

The Alps are a must-see during your stay in Zurich! An excursion into the mountains, from the Brünig Pass to the Bernese Oberland, offers an authentic and natural backdrop. Depending on the season, various activities are available. In summer, you can go mountain biking or enjoy a paragliding session. In winter, skiing and dog sledding are also available!

The Alps are by no means the only natural treasure you can discover during your trip to Switzerland! In the Zurich region, you can also easily reach the iconic Rhine Falls, which constitute the largest waterfall in Europe With its 150 meters wide, 23 meters high, and no less than 600 m3 of water flowing every second, this natural site is truly impressive and is one of the must-do excursions from Zurich!

You will find several options departing from the city, ranging from classic excursions to combined activities that allow you to visit multiple significant sites in one day. To assist with your search, I have selected some of the most popular options below Moreover, if you're unsure when to visit Switzerland to appreciate this unique spectacle, know that the best time to visit the Rhine Falls is during the summer, although it is possible to visit at any time of the year

On hot days, cooling off in the Limmat River, in the center of Zurich, is a very popular option. The Flussbad Oberer Letten offers a swimming area with a 400-meter canal, perfect for relaxing ⛱️ Additionally, sports enthusiasts can enjoy beach volleyball and petanque courts located on the opposite bank!

However, if you prefer tranquility, you can also relax on one of the terraces to enjoy the sun or borrow a book from the available lockers. A bar and restaurant are also on site for those who wish to dine or refresh themselves.

For thrill-seekers, Zurich offers a unique experience with its surf platform in the heart of Zurich West! Located near the urban garden >, this facility allows you to surf right in the city, whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer.

The vibe is laid-back, with music playing in the background and free access for those who just want to watch the surfers. This original activity is popular with both locals and visitors. A must-try!

Visiting Zurich also means savoring its culinary delights! The city is renowned for its exceptional chocolate quality, particularly thanks to the Sprüngli confectionery I mentioned earlier. A famous spot for its Luxemburgerlis, pralines, and truffles made according to traditional recipes.

For an even more indulgent experience, don't miss the Lindt Home of Chocolate. This 500 m² space dedicated to the world of chocolate is the perfect place to discover fascinating facts through multimedia exhibits. And of course, you can also sample some local chocolate!

Switzerland is also famous for its cheeses With nearly 800 varieties, you can taste classics at local cheese shops, such as:

Finally, if you enjoy vegetarian cuisine, you'll be well taken care of, as Zurich is home to the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world, Hiltl, which has been open since 1898. This family restaurant immerses you in the history of five generations dedicated to vegetarian gastronomy

If you're a foodie and want to spend some time during your stay exploring local cuisine, here are some of the most popular activities! ⬇️

If you have time and a flexible budget, leave Zurich for a day combining culture and Alpine landscapes at Mount Titlis and Lucerne After a short tour of Lucerne with a guide and some free time to explore the old town, you will head to Engelberg before ascending to the summit of Mount Titlis with the rotating Rotair cable car

A spectacular view of the Alps awaits you, as well as a crossing on the Titlis Cliff Walk, the highest suspended bridge in Europe! The Ice Flyer chairlift will bring you closer to the frozen crevasses, and you can even enter an ice cave

In winter, between December and March, you can also try skiing on beginner slopes or slide down on inflatable rings! The Snow Park staff at Titlis provides equipment and supervises activities. Accessible from €181 per person, it will be a memorable day filled with discovery and excitement!

The Swiss National Museum, built in 1898, represents a journey through Swiss history A true castle inspired by French Renaissance architecture, it houses the largest historical collection in the country, immersing visitors in the lives of various Swiss generations. Its architecture, as imposing as it is, enhances the immersive experience that this place provides.

For a ticket to the Swiss National Museum, expect to pay starting from €14 per person. It will give you access to all permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a visit to the Château de Prangins and the Swiss History Forum in Schwyz.

Next to Enge station, the FIFA Museum is a true pilgrimage site for football fans! ⚽️ With 3,000 m² of exhibition space, you can explore the history of this sport through interactive displays, including exclusive items like the original World Cup trophy and a giant pinball machine to challenge young and old alike. For a ticket to the museum, count €27 per adult and €15 for children.

The Rietberg Museum, located in the beautiful Rieterpark, is a place where history and nature meet. This neoclassical mansion houses a unique collection of non-European works, including Aztec sculptures and Tibetan bronzes.

The park, one of the largest in Zurich, offers a spectacular view of the lake and the Alps, making the visit even more memorable. You might catch a glimpse of it during an open-top bus tour available from €23 per person. The circuit traverses parks, museums, and historical sites, including a pass by the Rietberg Museum in Rieterpark

With one of the most important art collections in Switzerland, the Zürich Kunsthaus will delight art enthusiasts. Since 2021, its new building makes it the largest art museum in the country. It offers a vast selection of works, ranging from classics to contemporary art, and stands out particularly for its collection dedicated to Alberto Giacometti, one of Switzerland's greatest surrealist artists.

With over 95,000 works, the museum covers all major artistic movements, from Impressionists to Expressionists. Its richness and modern architecture make it an unmissable cultural center. To obtain an entry ticket, visit the museum's official site.

Zurich generally has a moderate climate, with relatively mild winters, even cold, and average minimum temperatures around -2 °C in January. Although rain and cold can make visits more difficult, the snowy landscapes surrounding the city offer a special charm In summer, maximum temperatures hover around 24 °C in August, with cool nights.

For visiting Zurich, I recommend going in spring or autumn, but if you want to explore the mountains and enjoy winter sports, winter is still ideal! ⛷️

To travel to Zurich from France, you will have several options available, varying in speed and accessibility:

Zurich offers a wide range of accommodations suitable for all tastes and budgets. However, I recommend booking in advance to secure a place in the best establishments, especially during peak season. If you're looking for a place to stay during your visit, here are 3 accommodation options where to sleep in Zurich:

The MEININGER Hotel Zürich Greencity is located 3.3 km from the Rietberg Museum and offers comfortable rooms with a shared kitchen, a bar, a terrace, and private parking. It also features a 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi. You can stay from €53 per night in a dorm, ideal for travelers looking for simple and practical accommodation

Located right in downtown, just 300 meters from the Fraumünster Church and 600 meters from the Zurich Opera, the Green Marmot Capsule Hotel Zürich is a good option for budget travelers. This unique concept offers comfortable and air-conditioned individual or double capsules. It is perfect for travelers seeking an innovative experience and a central location. Expect to pay from €87 per night.

The Motel One Zürich is ideally located near Bahnhofstrasse and Paradeplatz, just 600 meters away. With double room nights starting from €171, this accommodation offers modern amenities including TV and free Wi-Fi.

And there you have it, this guide to Zurich is coming to an end! With all these activities and suggestions, you are all set to discover the city and fully enjoy your stay If you have the chance to explore other great cities in Switzerland, I also have a guide of good addresses where to sleep in Geneva if you're interested