ETH Polyterrasse
A classic viewpoint with wide views over Zurich, the Limmat, and even the Alps on clear days. Sunset is especially beautiful here.
Travel tipCome on a clear late afternoon for the best photos.
Zurich travel guide
SwitzerlandBasics
CountrySwitzerland
Time zoneEurope/Zurich
CurrencyCHF
Official language(s)German
Be prepared for changing weather by packing various clothing options, and using public transport can be very convenient.
Places to visit
Swiss National Museum
A major museum showcasing Swiss history, culture, and crafts. It sits right next to Zürich main station, making it easy to fit into a city itinerary.
Travel tipGreat for a rainy day and very easy to reach on foot from the station.
Rietberg Museum
Zurich’s leading museum for non-European art, with collections from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Its park-like setting adds to the visit.
Travel tipCombine the galleries with the gardens and allow at least 1–2 hours.
Uetliberg
A classic viewpoint overlooking Zurich, Lake Zurich, and even the Alps on clear days. It is also popular for hikes and walks.
LocationUetliberg, 8143 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationUetliberg
HoursOpen 24 hours daily (access times may vary by transport)
AdmissionFree
Travel tipVisit on a clear day for the best views. Bring a jacket, as it can be windy near the summit.
Grossmünster
A landmark Romanesque church in Zurich, famous for its twin towers. It is closely tied to the history of the Swiss Reformation.
LocationZwingliplatz 7, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationZürich Hauptbahnhof / Helmhaus
HoursDaily 10:00–18:00 (may vary by season)
AdmissionChurch free; tower ticket required
Travel tipClimb the tower for city views. It pairs well with a walk through the old town.
Zürichhorn Park
A large lakeside park on the eastern side of Lake Zurich, ideal for walks, picnics, and swimming. It is a relaxing public space to enjoy the lake scenery.
LocationZürichhorn, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationZürich, Hornbach / Zürich Tiefenbrunnen
HoursOpen 24 hours daily
AdmissionFree
Travel tipIt gets especially busy in summer for swimming and picnics. The lakeside path makes it easy to combine with a visit to Kunsthaus.
Kunsthaus Zurich
A prominent art museum in Switzerland showcasing a variety of artworks, including contemporary art.
Hours10:00 - 18:00
AdmissionFree
Travel tipCheck for free entry on certain days!
Lindenhof
A beautiful viewpoint intertwined with history and stories of Zurich.
Hours09:00 - 18:00
AdmissionFree
Travel tipTake a leisurely stroll and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
Lake Zurich
A beautiful lake offering great natural scenery, popular for water sports in summer.
HoursOpen 24 hours
AdmissionFree
Travel tipGreat for family trips, and boat tours are recommended.
Bahnhofstrasse
Europe's most expensive shopping street, lined with luxury brands and boutiques.
HoursShopping 09:00 - 20:00
AdmissionFree
Travel tipAvoid visiting during Sundays and public holidays when it's most crowded.
Food to try
Hiltl
Zurich’s famous vegetarian restaurant group, popular with both locals and visitors. It’s a solid choice for a lighter lunch or casual meal.
Travel tipTry to avoid peak lunch hours if you dislike waiting.
Café Schober
A historic café and patisserie in the old town, great for desserts and hot drinks. It is known for its cozy interior and classic tea-time atmosphere.
LocationMünsterhof 8, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationZürich Helmhaus / Paradeplatz
HoursDaily 08:00–19:00 (may vary)
AdmissionCoffee/cake around CHF 8–20
Travel tipWeekends can fill up quickly, so an early visit is best.
Helvetia Bratwurst
A popular sausage spot in Zurich, good for a quick and filling street-food-style meal. The sausages served with crusty bread are the highlight.
LocationNiederdorfstrasse 17, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationZürich Hauptbahnhof / Rudolf-Brun-Brücke
HoursDaily 11:00–22:00 (may vary)
AdmissionSausage menu around CHF 10–20
Travel tipA good choice for a simple meal. There may be a queue at lunchtime.
Zum Kropf
A traditional Swiss restaurant in Zurich’s old town, good for local atmosphere and classic dishes. It is known for Zurich-style veal specialties.
LocationRindermarkt 24, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationZürich Helmhaus / Zürich Paradeplatz
HoursDaily 11:30–23:00 (may vary)
AdmissionMain dishes around CHF 25–45
Travel tipEvening hours can be busy, so reservations are helpful.
Events
Zurich Main Station Christmas Market
A large winter Christmas market with decorations, snacks, and gift shopping. It has a festive atmosphere and is enjoyable even on cold days.
WhenEvery year in November to December
Travel tipIt gets very busy in the evening, so daytime or early evening is more relaxed.
Street Parade
A major electronic music parade held through central Zurich and along the lakefront. It is one of the best ways to experience music, performances, and a citywide festival mood.
Whenaround August each year
LocationSechseläutenplatz / Innenstadt, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationZürich Stadelhofen / Bellevue
HoursAll day on the event date (varies by year)
AdmissionFree
Travel tipIt gets extremely crowded, so book accommodation early.
Knabenschiessen
A traditional Zurich festival featuring a shooting competition, rides, and a lively local fair atmosphere. It is a great way to experience local culture in a family-friendly setting.
Whenaround September each year
LocationAlbisgüetli, 8045 Zürich, Switzerland
Nearest stationTriemli / Zürich Wiedikon
HoursDuring the event period (varies by year)
AdmissionFree entry; some attractions are paid
Travel tipIt can be crowded, so public transport is recommended.
Zurich Christmas Market
A cozy winter festival featuring stunning Christmas markets.
WhenEvery December
Travel tipAvoid visiting on weekends as it can get crowded.
Zurich Art Exhibition
An event to appreciate contemporary art pieces.
WhenHeld every September and October
Travel tipIt's recommended to buy tickets in advance.
Zurich Festival
A festival filled with cultural vibes, celebrated primarily by locals.
WhenHeld every August
Travel tipCheck the schedule of various performances in advance.
Zurich Music Festival
A festival to enjoy a variety of music genres.
WhenHeld every June to August
Travel tipCheck the schedule as it may vary depending on the location.
Subway lines
S18: Esslingen → Zürich Stadelhofen
Basic travel phrases (English)
Hello
Hello · Greeting
Thank you
Thank you · Thanks
Nice to meet you
Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you
Have a great day
Have a great day · Wishing a good day
Welcome
Welcome · Welcome