What is there to do in Zurich?

For travelers looking to get the most out of their vacation in the Switzerland’s largest city, there is no shortage of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for museums and historical sites, outdoor activities and great views of the city or even just a relaxing day in the city park, you’ll find something to do in Zurich.

Museums in Zurich

The Swiss city is home to some of the most interesting museums in Europe. Immerse yourself in local history, culture, and art at the Museum of Design, the Kunsthaus Zurich, the Swiss National Museum, the Rosengart Collection and the Zurich Historical Museum.

The recently renovated Avanza Bank Arena, former residence of the Aktienbank Zurich and host of numerous cultural events, is also worth visiting. And at the Zurich Zoological Museum, you can view a range of wildlife specimens and specimens of extinct species.

Outdoor Activities in Zurich

There are plenty of outdoor activities to be enjoyed in Zurich. Head up to the Uetliberg Mountain, a low mountain range located outside the city that offers great views of the alps and lake Zurich as well as plenty of hiking trails.

If you prefer to stay near the city, take a stroll around Lake Zurich, enjoy a picnic at Platzspitz Park, take a boat ride on Limmat River, or rent an electric boat and explore the area around Uetliberg Mountain. You can even go swimming or ice skating during the winter months while enjoying interesting architecture during your visit to various landmark buildings like the Grossmünster Church, Fraumünster Church, and St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Food and Drinks in Zurich

The local cuisine in Zurich is a mix of German and Swiss dishes, but you’ll also find plenty of international options as well. Some must-try dishes include Zurchergeschnetzeltes (sliced veal in creamy mushroom sauce), Bratwurst, Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef), Geschnetzeltes (veal), Rosti (hash browns), and Rösti (potatoes).

When it comes to drinks, beer and wine are popular choices, but don’t forget to try some of the local delicacies such as Bernrieder beer or Zurich Spritzer. The city also has some excellent cocktail bars, including Trouvaillé or Jules Verne Bar & Lounge.

Shops and Markets in Zurich

The city’s shopping district is one of the largest in Switzerland, so whether you’re looking for luxury boutiques or local market stalls, you’ll find something for everyone in Zurich’s city center. The most popular shopping areas are Bahnhofstrasse and Niederdorf. Both areas have a wide selection of shops, ranging from designer boutiques to souvenir shops and department stores, along with cafés and restaurants for a bite to eat when you’re all shopped out!

Zurich also has some great flea markets and farmers’ markets, such as the Markt Löwenbräu, Markthalle Zürich, Marktplatz Altstetten, or the weekly Wochenmarkt in front of the Opera House – perfect for picking up some locally made souvenirs or gifts!

ZurichCard Save On Attractions Transportation and Dining in Card

The ultimate way to get the most out of your visit to Zurich is to get a ZurichCard. This all-in-one card offers great value for money with discounts on more than 50 attractions, dining, and transportation services in Zurich. As one of the top attractions included with the card is unlimited public transportation using buses, trams, trolley buses, boats and trains.

With the ZurichCard you can also get discounts on dozens of restaurants around town, as well as access to exclusive special offers for concerts and experiential tours – perfect for anyone interested in getting more out of their experience in Switzerland’s largest city! So whether you’re a first time visitor or a frequent traveler, be sure to check out the ZurichCard – the ultimate way to save money on your trip to Zurich!

In conclusion – there’s something for everyone in the city of Zurich! From discovering local history at one of its many museums, to outdoor activities at its parks and trails or tasting its delicious local food – there’s absolutely something for everyone here! And don’t forget to check out the ZurichCard, which will give you access to exclusive attractions, discounts on restaurants and special offers for events – for an even more enjoyable trip to Zurich!

An Insider’s Guide to Zurich: Discovering the Heart of Switzerland

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a haven for travelers seeking a perfect blend of modernity and history. However, the standard tourist spots can sometimes feel clichéd and overexplored. As an insider, let me take you on a journey through the city’s hidden gems, local cuisines, cultural experiences, fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems That Only Locals Know

When visiting Zurich, a walk along the Limmat River is a must. It is a beautiful spot for photography and also a popular area for people watching. Yet, only a few locals know that the riverside is home to a small but charming garden known as Stadthausanlage. This botanical paradise has colorful flowers, giant trees, and a tranquil pond, making it a perfect place for a stroll.

Another hidden gem is the Schindler factory. The famous Swiss architect, Le Corbusier, designed this building. The interior is a work of art, with an open central courtyard lined with colorful brise-soleil balconies. Plus, on the rooftop, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Fascinating Food Culture

Traditional Swiss cuisine is a perfect reflection of the country’s geography and history. Zurich’s food culture has evolved over the last few centuries. Dominated by hearty meat dishes and cheese fondues, Zurich’s cuisine is worth a try. Two excellent traditional restaurants that stand out are “Zunfthaus zur Zimmerleuten” and “Kronenhalle.”

Besides traditional food, Zurich’s culinary offer is diverse. One of the best Thai restaurants in the city is ‘Blue Monkey,’ where the kitchen creates delightful and authentic Thai dishes. For the veg-lovers, Hiltl serves up a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Don’t forget to try some chocolate from Lindt, a Swiss chocolate brand, that has built its reputation globally.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, and Music

Zurich is brimming with cultural experiences, among which are the Zurich Film Festival and the Zurich Opera House. During the film festival, the city buzzes with cultural fervor, showcasing the best of international cinema. It is a real treat for film lovers.

For those who enjoy classical music, Zurich Opera House is a must-visit. It has a rich history tracing back to the 19th-century, where icons like Richard Wagner and Gustav Mahler performed.

Alongside the cultural events, the city has various stunning art collections, the most notable being the Kunsthaus. Here one can find works from great artists like Monet, Chagall, and van Gogh.

Local History: Captivating Stories From Zurich’s Past

One fascinating story has to be that of Huldrich Zwingli, a Swiss Reformation leader. His statue can be found in the Wasserkirche church in Zurich’s city center. Another interesting insight is about the city’s strategic importance during WW1 and WW2. The Swiss government had various military secrets stashed away, and its banks played a significant role in financing both sides at different times.

The city’s streets and alleys also hold many tales, from the struggles of the working-class to famous revolutionaries. Discover Zurich’s past with a guided tour, or on your own terms by strolling around the city.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

Find your inner peace by visiting the beautiful forests and hills surrounding Zurich. Visit the nearby Uetliberg mountain for beautiful sunsets and hikes in the woods. Another suggestion is visiting Lindenhof, a hilltop park. Here you can find a stylish chess stand and watch locals playing for hours against each other.

Lastly, a unique experience that will leave you speechless is a trip to the Old Botanical Garden. Despite being only a few meters from the city center, it’s so secluded that you won’t feel like you’re in Zurich anymore. This garden is full of exotic plants and presents a tranquil environment.

Zurich is much more than just a picturesque city in Switzerland. It is a place where both history and modernity meet to create a unique and authentic cultural experience. Somewhere that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a longing to return.