Zurich
About Zurich
Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and its financial capital, sitting at the northern tip of Lake Zurich. Despite its reputation as a banking hub, the city pulses with culture — world-class museums, a thriving street-art scene in the Kreis 5 district, and over 50 museums and 100 galleries. The beautifully preserved Altstadt (Old Town) with its medieval lanes sits alongside sleek modern architecture.
The city is also a gateway to the Swiss Alps, with excellent train connections to mountain resorts. In summer, locals swim in the crystal-clear Limmat river and Lake Zurich right in the city center.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF). Cards are widely accepted, but some smaller shops and market stalls prefer cash. 1 CHF ≈ €1.
- Transport: Buy a ZVV day pass for unlimited trams, buses, and boats within the city. The S-Bahn connects to suburbs and the airport efficiently.
- Tipping: Service is included in the bill. Rounding up or adding 5–10% for excellent service is appreciated but not expected.
- Swimming: Zurich has free public "Badis" (lakeshore and river swimming areas) open in summer — bring a towel and join the locals.
- Sunday closures: Most shops are closed on Sundays. Stock up on Saturday or head to the main train station (HB) where shops stay open.
Interesting Places to Visit
Grossmünster
Zurich's iconic Romanesque-style Protestant church dating to the 12th century. Climb the Karlsturm tower for panoramic views over the Old Town and lake. Free entry; small fee for the tower.
Bahnhofstrasse
One of the world's most exclusive shopping streets stretching from the main station to the lake. Even if you're not shopping, the architecture and people-watching are worth the stroll.
Kunsthaus Zürich
One of Switzerland's most important art museums with works by Monet, Picasso, Giacometti, and a stunning new extension by David Chipperfield. The permanent collection alone is worth half a day.
Lindenhof
A peaceful hilltop park in the heart of the Old Town with sweeping views over the Limmat river and university quarter. A favorite spot for locals playing giant chess. Free and always open.
Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)
Located in a fairy-tale castle next to the main station. Covers Swiss history from prehistory to the present. The modern wing hosts excellent temporary exhibitions. Allow 2–3 hours.
Üetliberg
Zurich's local mountain (871 m) reachable by a 20-minute S-Bahn ride. Offers stunning 360° views of the city, lake, and Alps. Excellent hiking trails and a lookout tower at the summit.
Altstadt (Old Town)
Wander the narrow medieval lanes on both sides of the Limmat. Discover hidden courtyards, antique bookshops, and cozy wine bars. The Niederdorf side is lively at night with bars and restaurants.
When to Visit
Zurich has a continental climate with distinct seasons, each offering a different experience:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Excellent choice. Mild weather (8–18°C), blooming tulips along the lake, and the famous Sechseläuten spring festival in April. Fewer tourists than summer.
- Sechseläuten festival with the burning of the Böögg
- Outdoor cafés reopen along the lake
- Clear views of snow-capped Alps from the city
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Warmest season (18–28°C). Perfect for lake swimming, open-air cinemas, and rooftop bars. The Street Parade in August is Europe's largest techno festival.
- Swimming in the lake and river Badis
- Zürich Openair and Street Parade
- Long evenings on lakeside terraces
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Beautiful fall foliage (8–16°C). Wine harvest season in nearby vineyards. The Knabenschiessen folk festival in September. Fog can roll in from the lake in late autumn.
- Knabenschiessen folk festival
- Theater and concert season begins
- Colorful Üetliberg hikes
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cold (−2 to 5°C) with occasional snow. Magical Christmas markets at the main station and Sechseläutenplatz. Easy day trips to ski resorts. Fondue season is in full swing.
- Christkindlimarkt at the Hauptbahnhof
- Singing Christmas Tree at Werdmühleplatz
- Fondue and raclette in cozy restaurants
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Zurich is famously expensive, but there are great options that won't empty your wallet. Here are local favorites:
Zeughauskeller$ – $$
Historic beer hall near Paradeplatz serving hearty Swiss-German dishes since 1487. Excellent sausages, Rösti, and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes. Mains 22–35 CHF (~€20–32). Very popular with locals and tourists alike.
Sternen Grill$
Zurich's most famous sausage stand at Bellevue. The legendary bratwurst with Bürli bread has been a local institution for decades. A filling meal for under 10 CHF (~€9). Standing only.
Hiltl$ – $$
The world's oldest vegetarian restaurant (since 1898). Incredible buffet by weight — fill your plate with curries, salads, and creative veggie dishes. Buffet around 4.80 CHF/100g (~€4.40).
Café Miyuko$
Affordable Japanese-inspired café near the university. Excellent ramen and rice bowls for 16–22 CHF (~€15–20). A welcome break from heavy Swiss food. Cozy interior with a creative vibe.
Raclette Stube$$
Authentic Swiss raclette experience in the Old Town. Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions. Set menus from 32 CHF (~€29). Reserve ahead in winter — it gets packed.
Tibits$ – $$
Popular vegetarian/vegan buffet chain born in Zurich. Pay by weight from a colorful spread of fresh dishes. Great for a quick, customizable meal. Multiple locations across the city.
Wirtschaft Neumarkt$$ – $$$
Charming Old Town restaurant serving refined Swiss comfort food. Excellent wine list and seasonal menus. Mains 28–42 CHF (~€26–38). Book for dinner, walk in for lunch.