Book Flights to Zurich (ZRH)

The largest city of Switzerland, Zurich has many sides; a global financial centre, an historic city dating back to Roman times, a river city with the Alps far in the distance. Whatever it is to you there’s bound to be much to see and do both in this charming Swiss city and outside it in the beautiful countryside of Switzerland. The industrial area of Zurich-West has become a centre of modern art, avant-garde theatre and lively nightlife, and Zurich has been dubbed as a "New Berlin". Old warehouses host galleries, bars and gourmet restaurants and the new soundscape of old factory workshops varies from jazz to electronic music. Our Zurich travel guide picks out the best things to see and do in Zurich on your next Swiss adventure.

SIGHTS IN ZURICH

The central feature of Zurich has to be the Limmat river which lazily flows northwards from Lake Zurich, upon which the city sits. Clear and calm water provide many opportunities to enjoy yourself, from a ferry ride to a swim in the lake at one of the many beaches or for boating on the lake itself. One of Zurich’s most famous sights is the Grossmünster church. For over 800 years it has stood watch over the city and its twin towers are an easily identifiable landmark during your wanderings around town. Sitting across the river is its companion church the Fraumünster, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.

The Swiss National Museum gives visitors a unique insight into the history of this small country and of Zurich itself from ancient times to the modern day. To see Switzerland’s best collection of art head to the Kunsthaus Museum where you can admire classic pieces alongside contemporary Swiss works. Top your day off with a beautiful view over the city and to the alps by riding the Polybahn up the hill from the central town square to a hilltop neighbourhood.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO NEAR ZURICH

• Basel – Situated near both France and Germany is this quaint old town that is also the undisputed art capital of Switzerland. Near Zurich, this is a worthy day trip for sightseeing.
• Vaduz – Due to Switzerland’s relatively small size you can easily make an international day-trip. The capital of the miniscule Liechtenstein, it is a small but interesting town nestled among mountains and hills.
• The Alps – Switzerland is synonymous with the Alps and Zurich is the perfect gateway for exploring this natural wonder. The nearest mountains are around an hour away and with a slightly longer drive you can access some of the world’s best skiing. Breathtaking sightseeing near Zurich.
• Geneva – Playground of the rich and famous, Geneva is 3 hours away from Zurich by car, situated on a pretty lake ringed by high hills.

SHOPPING IN ZURICH

Switzerland is a prosperous country known for its high standard of living so naturally prices are quite high and shopping in Zurich can be quite expensive. If you can look past this you can enjoy some fine shopping throughout the city, especially if you’re after luxury goods.

• Bahnhofstrasse - Zurich’s main shopping thoroughfare and a constant hive of activity. Pedestrianised for the most part, you can find the best of Swiss luxury goods here; fashion, watches and eye-wateringly expensive jewellery.
• Old Town - A sight to see in itself, the Old Town’s winding cobblestone alleys host luxury shops and international brand names alongside small art galleries and high-end design boutiques.
• Christmas markets – If you’re in Zurich at Christmas time you’re in for a treat at one of the many Christmas markets that spring up when the nights are long and dark. Enjoy mulled wine and Christmas delights among the many market stalls.

FOOD & DRINK IN ZURICH

Zurich’s cuisine is representative of Switzerland’s as a whole but with a few local specialities mixed in that are must-tries. Food & drink in Zurich is rich and hearty and reminiscent of neighbours France and Germany.

• Fondue – Probably the most icon of Swiss dishes, a pot of melted (preferably) Swiss cheese into which a party of friends can dip bread, meat or vegetables.
• Raclette – A close cousin of Fondue except the cheese is melted onto cooked potatoes in purpose-built oven.
• Zürcher Geschnetzeltes – Sautéed veal served with creamy mushrooms and potato rösti. A Zurich classic.
• Cheese – One of Switzerland’s most well-known culinary exports, there are a variety of cheese that are distinctly Swiss - Gruyère, Appenzeller and Emmental are especially well-known. Enjoy with some nice wine.
• Bircher muesli – Found worldwide and on every Swiss breakfast table, you can try the original recipe right here in Zurich.

TRANSPORT IN ZURICH

Zurich’s transport system (ZVV) is known as an efficient, reliable and safe way to get around the city. It covers all main forms of transport found in the city. Multi-day cards are especially useful for getting around town.

• Trams – The easiest way to traverse Zurich’s compact city centre. Serving all areas of interest for tourists, it’s quick and easy to hop on and off.
• Buses – Covering the areas that trams can’t reach, buses are frequent and found in all important areas. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding.
• Boats – Not only do boats provide beautiful views of the city from the water, they are also great for moving up and down the Limmat river and to lake Zurich itself. Functioning mostly in the summer.
• Trains – The S-Bahn system runs like a Swiss watch taking passengers out of Zurich centre. You can reach other parts of Switzerland and other countries with ease.
• By foot – Zurich is compact and easy to walk around. Some parts are hilly though so consider using public transport if you don’t want to climb up and down hills.