Top Things to Do in Zurich, Switzerland’s Cultural & Financial Capital

Welcome to Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city and one of Europe’s most livable destinations. Known for its pristine streets, wealth of culture, and vibrant lifestyle, Zurich offers the best of both worlds—urban sophistication and natural beauty.
 

Whether you’re strolling along Bahnhofstrasse, exploring the art scene in Kunsthaus Zürich, or swimming in Lake Zurich, this dynamic city has something for everyone—from business travelers to backpackers.

📍 Where is Zurich?

Region: North-central Switzerland

Canton: Zurich

Population: ~440,000

Language: Swiss German (English widely spoken)

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

🏙️ Why Visit Zurich?

🌆 Explore a well-preserved Old Town with medieval charm

🏞️ Enjoy lakeside walks and boat cruises on Lake Zurich

🖼️ Discover a world-class art scene and contemporary museums

🛍️ Shop along the famous Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive retail streets

🚵 Hike or cycle up Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic city views

🍽️ Dine in Michelin-starred restaurants or cozy local bistros

🎉 Experience Zurich’s lively nightlife and annual events like Street Parade

🗺️ Top Attractions in Zurich

1. 🏛️ Old Town (Altstadt)

The heart of Zurich is its Old Town, a maze of narrow alleys, medieval buildings, and vibrant plazas.

Highlights include:

Grossmünster Church (twin towers, city views)

Fraumünster Church (Chagall windows)

St. Peter’s Church (largest clock face in Europe)

Wander along Niederdorfstrasse for shops, cafes, and street performers

2. 🚤 Lake Zurich (Zürichsee)

Stretching over 40 km, Lake Zurich offers scenic beauty, water activities, and peaceful promenades.

Boat cruises depart regularly from Bürkliplatz

In summer, enjoy:

Swimming at Strandbad Mythenquai

Paddleboarding and kayaking

Lakeside picnics and sunset views

3. 🎨 Kunsthaus Zürich

One of Switzerland’s most important art museums with a rich collection of European masters and Swiss artists.

Artists include: Monet, Picasso, Chagall, Alberto Giacometti, and more

Expansive new wing opened in 2021

Don’t miss the Swiss contemporary art and rotating exhibitions

4. 🛍️ Bahnhofstrasse

One of the world’s most luxurious shopping streets, Bahnhofstrasse is a shopper’s paradise.

High-end brands: Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Rolex, Cartier

Department stores and boutiques

Seasonal lights and festive displays in December

5. 🌄 Uetliberg Mountain

The city’s very own “home mountain,” Uetliberg offers stunning views over Zurich and the Alps.

Easily accessible by train (20 mins from HB)

Hiking and biking trails

Uto Kulm hotel and restaurant at the summit

Visit in autumn or after snowfall for magical scenery

6. 🏛️ Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)

This castle-like building houses exhibits on Swiss cultural history, traditions, and artifacts.

Great for understanding Swiss heritage

Ideal for families and history buffs

Located next to Zurich Main Station (Hauptbahnhof)

7. 🏙️ Zurich West

A former industrial zone transformed into a hub of modern art, food, and nightlife.

Visit Frau Gerolds Garten, an urban garden and hangout

Shop at Im Viadukt, boutiques under a railway viaduct

See a show at Schiffbau, a performing arts venue

Iconic photo op: Prime Tower, Zurich’s tallest skyscraper

8. 🧠 ETH Zurich & University District

ETH Zurich: One of the world’s top technical universities (Einstein studied here)

Beautiful views from the Polyterrasse

Ride the short but scenic Polybahn funicular

🏨 Where to Stay in Zurich

🌟 Luxury

The Dolder Grand – Iconic 5-star hotel on a hilltop overlooking the city

Baur au Lac – Lakeside opulence since 1844

Park Hyatt Zurich – Modern elegance with top-tier service

🏡 Mid-Range

Hotel Glockenhof – Stylish and central

Hotel Adler Zurich – Boutique charm in Old Town

25hours Hotel Langstrasse – Quirky, creative, and ideal for young travelers

💰 Budget

Hotel Marta – Clean and affordable in a central location

Zurich Youth Hostel – Budget-friendly with good facilities

easyHotel Zurich – No-frills option in the Langstrasse area

🍽️ Where to Eat in Zurich

Zeughauskeller – Traditional Swiss cuisine in a historic armory

Haus Hiltl – The world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant

Kronenhalle – Legendary spot with art by Picasso and Chagall on the walls

Restaurant Lindenhofkeller – Elegant dining with Zurich classics

Street Food Market Zurich West – Global bites in a lively setting

🚉 Getting to Zurich

By Air: Zurich Airport (ZRH) is Switzerland’s busiest international hub

10 minutes to city center via train

By Train:

From Lucerne: 45 min

From Bern: 1 hour

From Geneva: 2.5 hours

By Car: Well-connected highways, but parking is limited and expensive in the city center

🚌 Getting Around Zurich

Trams and buses are fast, clean, and efficient

Zurich Card offers unlimited transport and museum discounts

Bikes and e-scooters are popular and widely available

Walking is enjoyable and often the best way to explore the Old Town

📅 Best Time to Visit Zurich

📸 Top Instagram Spots in Zurich

📍 Lindenhof Hill overlooking the Old Town

📍 Quaibrücke bridge at sunrise or sunset

📍 Grossmünster towers

📍 Lake Zurich promenade

📍 Uetliberg panoramic point

📍 Bahnhofstrasse during Christmas lights

🧭 Suggested 1-Day Zurich Itinerary

Morning

Explore the Old Town, starting at Niederdorfstrasse

Visit Grossmünster and climb the tower

Coffee with a view from Lindenhof Hill

Afternoon

Stroll or cruise on Lake Zurich

Visit Kunsthaus Zurich or Swiss National Museum

Shopping along Bahnhofstrasse

Evening

Dinner in Zurich West

Sunset from Uetliberg or drinks at a rooftop bar

🎉 Zurich Events & Festivals

Zurich Street Parade (August): One of the world’s biggest techno parades

Sechseläuten (April): Spring festival with the burning of the “Böögg” snowman

Zurich Film Festival (September): Celebrates international cinema

Christmas Markets (Nov–Dec): Old Town and main train station turn festive

🧠 Fun Facts About Zurich

Zurich has more than 1,200 fountains, many of which provide drinkable water

The city ranks consistently among the top 3 for global quality of life

Zurich is home to over 50 museums and 100 galleries

In the early 20th century, Zurich was the birthplace of the Dada art movement

🧳 Traveler Tips

Use the Zurich Card for savings on transport and attractions

Tap water is drinkable and fountains are everywhere

Sundays are quiet: many shops are closed

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory—rounding up is common

✨ Final Thoughts: Why Zurich Should Be on Your Travel Radar

Zurich may be known globally as a financial center, but dig deeper and you’ll find a city rich in culture, history, and natural splendor. From scenic lakeside strolls to immersive art experiences and bustling nightlife, Zurich offers something for every type of traveler.

Its seamless blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, makes Zurich a perfect starting point—or grand finale—to your Swiss adventure.