Looking for some things to do on your trip to Zurich (one of my favorite cities!)? Perfect, because I am sharing some of my top hotspots.
With over 1200 water fountains, a pretty lake and a lively nightlife scene, The Switzerland city makes for the perfect holiday destination. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that they have yummy fondue too!
The Best Places to Visit, Attractions and Things to Do in Zurich
1. Photograph the Gerold Cuchi Umbrellas
Hidden along the streets of Zurich’s Geroldstrasse is a popular Instagram/hangout spot called the Gerold Chuchi. What attracts locals and visitors alike to this trendy restaurant (aside from its delicious homemade ‘Gerold Borger’ and pasta) are the 50 or so colorful and uniquely designed umbrellas hanging in the alley.
2. Relax at Thermalbad & Spa Zurich
Looking at Zurich’s rooftops from above is one of the best sights you can see here. But getting to enjoy the views while sitting in a pool is a whole new experience in itself.
Housed in a former brewery along Brandschenkestrasse is a peaceful and relaxing spot called the Thermalbad & Spa. The place features a large Roman-Irish style thermal bath, a scenic rooftop infinity pool offering panoramic views of Zurich, as well as different pools and steam rooms with varying temperatures.
For treats and refreshments, you can head over to their Bistro lounge where they serve a variety of healthy snacks and different hot/cold drinks that will satisfy your palette.
3. Eat Fondue
Fondue is a traditional Swiss dish that typically consists of melted cheese, wine, and seasonings, which is served in a communal pot and eaten by dipping bread into the cheese mixture. Being one of Switzerland’s most famous national dishes, it’s only fitting that tasting this cheesy delight is at the top of your things to do in Zurich list.
The city’s Old Town (specifically at Hotel Adler) is home to its oldest fondue restaurant, Swiss Chuchi. Since 1953, this cozy restaurant has proudly served traditional fondue and authentic Swiss cuisine to visitors and locals alike. They also have other types of fondue like Moitié-Moitié-Fondue (Half-half fondue) and Fleischfondue (meat fondue,) as well as an assortment of side dishes and drinks that go well with the dish.
You can get your fondue fix at Swiss Chuchi, Raclette Stube or Le Dezaley. Or, for a more unique experience take one of these tours:
4. Attend the Street Parade
Imagine yourself surrounded by a sea of vibrant floats, pulsating beats, and live performances that will have you dancing the night away. Sounds pretty fun, right? If that’s the case, don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of one of the world’s most vibrant techno music festivals: Zurich’s Street Parade.
Held every August, the Street Parade is not just a festival, it’s an experience like no other. The parade itself is a vibrant and lively event that will transport you to a world of music and celebration. The floats are adorned with lights and decorations, and the DJs and performers will keep you dancing all night long. And best of all? It’s FREE (except for the drinks and food.)
The Street Parade route stretches for approximately 2.4 kilometers, starting at Utoquai in Seefeld and winding its way along the picturesque shores of Lake Zurich, crossing the Quaibrücke and Bürkliplatz, before finishing in the neighborhood of Enge.
5. Day Trip to Interlaken
Interlaken is a popular destination for day trips from Zurich. Known as Switzerland’s adventure capital, you can enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like river rafting, paragliding and skiing/snowboarding during the winter.
Of course, Interlaken has its fair share of ‘quieter’ but equally exciting activities like hiking the surrounding mountainside or alpine meadows, visiting the local museums, and enjoying the panoramic views from the Harder Kulm viewpoint near the town.
There are several ways to get to Interlaken, like riding a car or a bus. The most popular way, however, is riding a train, which takes you from Zurich to Berne or Lucerne and then to Interlaken.
6. Enjoy Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich is one of Switzerland’s largest lakes, offering endless opportunities for adventure – swimming, sailing, boating, picnicking, and more.
Visitors can explore the lake on board one of 17 boats (two of which are paddle steamers) and visit the “Golden Coast” to the north and the “Rose Town” of Rapperswil to the east, as well as three islands Lützelau, Ufenau, and Saffa Island.
During summer, the lake becomes a bather’s paradise with outdoor facilities in Wollishofen, Mythenquai, Enge, Utoquai, and Tiefenbrunnen. You can also enjoy different water activities like swimming, stand-up paddling (SUP), wakeboarding, wakesurfing, waterskiing, sailboating, canoeing, kayaking, and sunbathing on the lake’s shores.
7. Explore the Old Town
Typically walking through a historic old town would not make one of my bucket lists, but exploring the beautiful Altstadt is one of the top things to do in Zurich. The Old Town (or ‘Die Alstadt’ in German) is a historic part of the city filled with renowned landmarks like the twin towers of Grossmunster, St Peter Church (the oldest church in Zurich,) and other hidden-away places that make walking its cobbled streets a mini-adventure of its own.
One such place is the Niederdorf, a famous promenade along the River Limmat’s right bank known fondly by the locals as ‘Dorfli.’ Here, the streets come alive with shopping and entertainment, with hidden gems of stores tempting you to explore and indulge in a shopping experience like no other. As the sun sets, Niederdorf transforms into a vibrant nightlife district, attracting a diverse crowd with its lively bars, street performers, and a pulsating energy that fills the air.
For a more in depth experience, take the Zurich Extended City Tour from Get Your Guide where you will begin by seeing all the major attractions.
8. Get a Drink at Jules Verne Panorama Bar
Jules Verne Panorama Bar is a small but lively bar located on top of the Brasserie Lipp at the heart of the city. What makes this the perfect spot for visitors (and romantics alike) are the spectacular city views, paired with some delicious cocktails and wines (like the Boulevardier and Gin Fizz) and their French-inspired cuisine.
Due to limited seating (they only have around a dozen or so tables), it’s best to book a table in advance. The drinks and food can be a little bit on the pricier side, but the panoramic views you can see from the bar are definitely priceless.
9. Go to Landesmuseum
Standing next to Switzerland’s largest railway station Hauptbahnhof is a museum dedicated to the country’s cultural history, the Swiss National Museum (or in German, Landesmuseum.) They house a vast collection of over 870,000 artifacts, showcasing the country’s history and culture through fine arts, everyday objects, and more, making it a must-see destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Some of the museum’s highlights include the Great Hall (a grandiose space showcasing Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage), the Collections Gallery (an exhibition for Swiss furnishings), the Armoury Tower (houses a collection of weapons and armor), and the Coin Cabinet (holds about 100,000+ coins, medals, banknotes, stamps, and more).
10. Go to the Tram Museum
Learn and experience the rich history of Zurich’s tram system at the Zurich Tram Museum! Founded in 1967 and run by the Verein Tram Museum Zürich association, this museum is located at the former tram depot, Tramdepot Burgwies. Here, you can explore an impressive collection of 20 preserved and operational tram cars, as well as get an insight into how the city’s transport network has changed throughout the years through guided tours and hands-on facilities.
You’ll also get the chance to take a ride on the exciting “Tram Route 21” – an occasional historic service that runs between Burgwies and the city center on the last weekend of every month (except December.) With a half-hourly frequency in the summer and hourly frequency in the winter, during museum opening hours, it’s the perfect opportunity to relive the past and discover the evolution of transportation in Zurich. And don’t forget to visit the Museum Shop, where you can find a wide selection of books, postcards, models, and souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your visit.
11. Go to the Zoological Museum
Next is a fascinating natural history museum at the University of Zurich: the Zoological Museum. It was established in 1833 (same time as the university), and comprises two floors with over 1500 animal specimens and 1000 fossils.
Visitors (especially the kids) will love how interactive the museum is. From hearing the sounds of the animals to touching their fur to looking at insects through a microscope (and more), you will surely be in for a world of immersion.
They also host temporary special exhibits where they’ll dive into exciting topics about animals like their recent “Chicken – a Dinosaur Legacy.” Most of their special exhibits are in German, but there are some hosted in both German and English, so it’s something worth checking into during your visit.
12. Hang Out at the Flussbad Oberer Letten Badi
Why go to the beach when you can get your dose of vitamin “sea” (or rather, river) at the heart of the city? Located just a stone’s throw away from Zurich Main Station and the National Museum, the Flussbad Oberer Letten Badi is a popular riverfront spot along the Limmat River.
Featuring a 400-meter (1312 ft) long swimming channel and a 2-meter (6.5 ft) high diving platform, two beach volleyball courts, and changing rooms, it’s the perfect place to beat the heat or soak in the sun during the hot summer days.
With plenty of restaurants and kiosks around the area, like the Panama Bar & Grill and Stazione Paradiso, you’ll have many options for delicious meals and drinks you can dig into.
13. Indulge in Swiss Chocolate
What better way to indulge in some authentic Swiss chocolate than in the country that makes them, Switzerland (or should I say, Sweet-zerland?) Sweet tooths and chocoholics will surely go over the moon with the different chocolate shops in Zurich, like Laderach, Confiserie Sprüngli or Max Chocolatier.
However, if you’re looking to immerse yourself more into the world of chocolate, don’t miss a visit to one of the world’s most popular Swiss chocolate brands: the Lindt Home of Chocolate.
During May to September, you can book a tour where you’ll be accompanied by a Lindt Maitre Chocolatier as you go around the factory and learn about the history of chocolate, interact with different multimedia exhibitions, and get to taste their very own Lindt chocolate at the tasting area.
14. Ogle Fraumunster Church
Fraumunster Church is one of Zurich’s well-known landmarks, best known for its five large stained windows called the Chagall Windows, which depict different scenes from the Bible. The church is owned by the Evangelical Reformed Church of the Canton of Zurich and serves as one of the city’s four main churches (the others being the Grossmunster, Prediger, and St. Peter.)
Aside from the Chagall Windows, there are other equally impressive sights in the church, like the North transept’s 9-meter tall stained glass by Augusto Giacometti and a 6959-pipe organ, the largest in the Canton of Zurich. You’ll also find relics and exhibitions at their crypt museum, located at the oldest part of the church.
15. Eat Sausage at Zeughauskeller
Zeughauskeller is a restaurant in Zurich with a rich history of its own. Built in 1487, it was once an armory (zeughaus) where different weapons were stored and created, including a legendary crossbow belonging to Wilhelm Tell, a Swiss folk hero.
Today, the Zeughauskeller is a popular meeting place where you can enjoy traditional Swiss dishes and beers, including their best-tasting sausages paired with their famous potato salad. There’s even a whole page on the menu dedicated to the meaty delight!
Try the sausage sampler, Zeughauskeller Wurstspiess, where you will be able to test a selection of their finest. Don’t forget to order a Eidgenoss, a ginormous flaming beer, but be prepared to be video taped by all the surrounding tables as they watch the show.
16. Ride the Dolderbahn
The Dolderbahn is a 0.8 mile-long (1.3 km) railway that starts from the District 7 suburbs of Hottingen and Fluntern in Zurich and goes up and down the steep slopes of Adlisberg Mountain. It is one of the oldest railways in the city, originally made as a funicular/cable railway in 1895 before converting into a cog-based one in 1973.
The train ride takes you to scenic views of the city and mountainside (especially at the front.) The trains can run the track’s length in around 5-6 minutes (with a few stops along the way) while carrying a maximum of 100 passengers. At the top station, you’ll see a 40,000-square-meter 5-star hotel called the Dolder Grand, which is an impressive sight in itself.
The woodland at the hilltop is also a popular place for hiking and biking, offering visitors to get in touch with nature. To the eastern side of the hilltop is a 33-meter (108 feet) observation tower called the Loorenkopf, which makes for even more panoramic views.
17. Ride the Funicular Rigiblick
Another great way to see Zurich from a higher vantage point is by taking the historic Funicular Rigiblick. Open since 1901, it is one of two funiculars in the city (the other one being Polybahn funicular), and connects Zurich to a station on Zurichberg Hill.
The steep trip up is short (only 385 meters), however the sights you can see are definitely worth it. At the top station, you can go on a walk and discover some of what Zurichberg has to offer, like delicious eats at the Bistro in Sorell Hotel Rigiblick or a theater show at the adjoining Theater Rigiblick.
18. See a Show at the Zurich Opera House
The Zurich Opera House (also known as Opernhaus Zurich) is one of the city’s most well-known landmarks, located next to Lake Zurich on Sechseläutenplatz. It has been the home of the Zurich Opera (since 1891) and the Zurich Ballet. Sharing its premises is the Bernard-Theater Zurich, another popular entertainment theater.
With a seating capacity of only 1,100 seats, it is one of the smallest opera houses in the world. Regardless, it has hosted world-class theater performances, ballet dances, concerts, and more within its beautiful, neo-rococo style interior. It’s definitely no wonder regulars and new people come here in droves when a show comes up (which you should too!)
19. See Grossmunster Church
The Grossmunster Church is one of four major churches in Zurich, located in the city’s Old Town along the Limmat River. It is also one of the most recognizable landmarks of Zurich, thanks to its twin towers that form a part of the city’s skyline. As a bonus, you can climb the east tower (for a fee,) where you’ll have yet another breathtaking view of the cityscape.
Aside from its impressive architecture, other highlights of this Romanesque-style Protestant Church include the stained glass windows made by Sigmar Polke (a renowned German artist,) the Romanesque crypt, and the Reformation museum.
20. Take a Rhine Falls Tour
The Rhine Falls is a large waterfall located on the Rhine River, near the town of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. It is the largest waterfall in Europe by volume and is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and scenic views. It is located about 29.14 miles (46.9 km) north of Zurich and is easily accessible by car or train.
The falls are approximately 150 meters wide and 23 meters high, and the water flows at a rate of up to 600 cubic meters per second. The falls are surrounded by a large park, which includes walking trails, observation decks (especially in Laufen Castle), and other facilities. There are also boat tours available that take visitors close to the falls, providing an up-close view of the rushing water and the spray.
Keep in mind that the falls can be quite crowded during peak tourist season (around summer), so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Additionally, the falls can be seen in different lighting conditions and it’s worth visiting more than once.
Here’s some top tours for Rhine Falls:
21. See St. Peter’s Church
Another major church coming from the Old Town of Zurich, St. Peter’s Church is considered one of the most important churches in the city known for its architectural and historical significance.
The church is the oldest parish church in the city, with a history dating back to the 12th century. The current building, which was built in the Gothic style, dates back to the 15th century and features a tall spire, ornate stained-glass windows, and beautiful frescoes.
Another notable feature is its church clock, which is the largest church clock face in all of Europe. The church also holds several notable gravestones on its walls, including that of Zurich’s first mayor, Rudolf Brun, and pastor J.C. Lavater.
22. See the Animals at Zoo Zurich
Let’s take a break from the sights of the city and into Zurich’s ‘wild’ side at the Zoo Zurich. Located east of Zurich at Zurichberg, it is the third oldest zoo in Switzerland, having opened its doors in 1929.
Zoo Zurich has over 380 animal species (around 4600+ individual animals).. These include koalas, zebras, Galapagos turtles, and the recently discovered Goodman’s mouse lemur.
One of the zoo’s highlights is its penguin parade, where cute Emperor penguins waddle their way around the zoo daily at noon (conditions permitting.).
23. See the Collections at Kunsthaus
Situated in Zurich’s Old Town is Kunsthaus Zürich (Zurich Museum of Art,) one of Switzerland’s most important art museums. It boasts an impressive range of art collections from different eras and styles, ranging from the Middle Ages to modern times.
The collections are separated into different categories, such as the Old Masters Collection, Swiss Art, Contemporary Art, and many more, featuring works from renowned artists like Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Alberto Giacometti.
You can also see art flowing outside the museum, like Auguste Rodin’s Gates of Hell in front of the entrance, an eight-ton bronze sculpture inspired by the first part of Dante’s Divine Comedy, Inferno.
24. Spend the Afternoon in Grindelwald
Grindelwald is a picturesque mountain village located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland. Like Interlaken, it is also one of the most popular day trip destinations while in Zurich.
Surrounded by mountains, Grindelwald has a wide range of trails like the Lake Bachalp Trail and Gacier Canyon Trail, which treat hikers with scenic mountain and alpine views.
Other activities include paragliding, skiing/snowboarding (during winter,) and going on a train ride on the Jungfrau Railway, which takes you to Jungfraujoch (also known as the “Top of Europe”).
25. Go Inside the Glass Biodomes at the Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens at the University of Zurich offers a nice, quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They have over 7,000 different plant species giving life and color to their grounds, especially during spring when flowers are in full bloom.
One of its most striking features are its three glass biodomes, each with a distinct environment that help exotic plants thrive and grow. Some notable plants include the Window Leaf (Tropical Lowland Rainforest House,) Welwitschia (Tropical Dryland House,) and Brunfelsie (Mountain Rainforest House).
26. Take a Cruise on the Limmat
Embark on an exciting journey through the heart of Zurich as you cruise along the sparkling waters of the Limmat River. This vital waterway is not only a lifeline for the city, but also a gateway to a host of historical and cultural treasures. Surrounded by picturesque parks and gardens, a cruise on the Limmat offers a unique and thrilling perspective of the Old Town’s landmarks and hidden gems.
Aboard a motorized boat (with glazed roofs, by the way!), the typical cruise will take you along the Limmat, starting from the Swiss National Museum all the way to Lake Zurich and back again. Many tours, like the City Sightseeing Tour with Lake Cruise, will lump a great city tour with the cruise which makes for a great afternoon!
27. Take in the Epic View from Lindenhof Hill
When it comes to panoramic views of Zurich’s bustling cityscape, Lindenhof Hill, located at the heart of the city, will surely deliver. Climb to the summit and be awestruck by the sights that await you – the imposing spires of the Grossmünster Church, the serene beauty of the Fraumünster Church, and the charming, winding streets of the Old Town. Of course, the natural beauty of the Limmat River and the surrounding mountains are nothing short of breathtaking.
28. Take in the View from Buerkliplatz
Buerkliplatz is a town square/dock located along the banks of Lake Zurich. It’s a popular meeting place and a hub of activity and offers a great view of the city and the lake.
From the square, you can see the Limmat river, the Grossmünster Church, and the Fraumünster Church, two of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You can also see the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most famous shopping streets in Zurich.
The square is also surrounded by cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal while admiring the view. There are also several benches and seating areas where you can sit and relax.
29. Tour Museum Rietberg
The Museum Rietberg is an art museum specializing in non-European art and culture, and is one of the most important museums of its kind in Europe. The museum’s collection includes over 50,000 objects from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, dating from ancient times to the present day.
The collection is divided into several areas, including African art, Asian art, and American art. It has one of the largest collections of Indian art outside of India, and it also has an important collection of Chinese art, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, and jade objects. Other highlights include works from Polynesia, the Americas, and the Pacific, as well as pieces from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
You can find the museum near the Rieterpark, a beautiful park in the city, and it’s easily accessible by public transportation. The museum is open to visitors every day except for Monday, and it offers a variety of tours and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
30. Tour the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum
Step back in time at the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum, located in the heart of Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse. This fascinating museum delves into the intricate world of horology and the art and history of clock and watchmaking.
With a collection of over 250 watches and clocks spanning various periods and styles, from ancient sundials to elegant pocket watches, this museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of timekeeping.
31. Visit Bellerive Museum
The Bellerive Museum is a museum dedicated to the Applied Arts in Zurich. Their collection comprises over 15,000 pieces from Europe, USA, and modern Japan, all made from different mediums such as glass, ceramics, textiles, and furniture.
The museum’s collection was once housed in a stunning villa along Lake Zurich before moving to a new location at Toni Areal in 2017. The former villa is now the home of the Zurich Center for Architecture.
32. Drink Whiskey at the Old Crow
For those looking for a taste of some of the Old Town’s finest drinks will find it at the Old Crow. With over 1600 spirits (most of which are rare and exclusive) including 800 whiskeys, you’ll have no trouble picking your poison.
Aside from the usual drinks and cocktails, you may also find your new favorites from their rare and forgotten concoctions, like Downtown Switzerland, Hellboy, and Once In A Blue Moon. Add to that the Old Crow’s simple, cozy atmosphere, and you’re in for a drinking experience like no other.
33. Eat at the World’s Oldest Vegetarian Restaurant
Did you know that Zurich is home to the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world? Founded in 1898, Haus Hiltl has served delicious veggie goodness for over a century to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. It is located in Sihlstrasse in Zurich and is currently run by the fourth generation of the Hiltl family.
You can choose from a wide selection of vegetarian dishes at their a la carte menu, from seasonal ones like Carrot Lax Tatar to Indian and Asian cuisine like Palak Paneer and Thai Curry. You can also dig in buffet-style by trying out their popular Hiltl buffet, featuring over a hundred home-made vegetarian dishes from around the world.
34. Visit the FIFA Museum
Get ready to score a goal and discover the magic of football (soccer) at the FIFA Museum. This 38,000 square foot museum features exhibits on the history of the FIFA World Cup. This includes the winners, the players, the trophies, and the venues, as well as interactive exhibits on the science of football and the future of the sport.
The museum also offers a variety of multimedia experiences, including virtual reality, a film theater, and a children’s area, making it a great place for families and football fans of all ages.
35. Visit the Urania Observatory
Let’s explore the celestial wonders of the universe at the Urania Observatory—the ultimate destination for stargazers. This public observatory, nestled in the city’s Lindenhof quarter, welcomes visitors to soak in the beauty of the night sky and expand their knowledge of the cosmos.
The observatory has several telescopes, including a powerful telescope that is used for research and public viewing. Visitors can observe the night sky through the telescope and learn about the planets, stars and galaxies. They also have a planetarium, which offers shows and lectures on astronomy and space science, as well as a science center with interactive exhibits, games, and other hands-on activities.
36. Visit the Zurich Christmas Markets
Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive magic of Zurich’s renowned Christmas markets, also known as Christkindlimärt! With over 140+ dazzling stalls, these markets are a beloved tradition in the city that will transport you into the holiday spirit with their vibrant colors and endless possibilities for Christmas cheer.
Experience a plethora of thrilling activities and sights, from shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, indulging in delicious traditional foods and drinks, to being entertained by mesmerizing performances.
The Christmas markets usually open late November and stay open until December 24th. They are located at different spots around the city, with the most famous one at the Zurich Main Station. Other locations include the Christmas market on the Sechseläutenplatz town square, and the Christmas market at the Old Town.
37. Window Shop on the Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most famous shopping streets in Zurich, known for its high-end shops, luxury boutiques, and designer labels. The street starts at the main train station and runs for about 1.4 km through the heart of the city, ending at Lake Zurich. It’s considered one of the most prestigious and expensive shopping streets in the world.
The street is home to several international luxury brands such as Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Chanel and many more. In addition to luxury brands, there are also a variety of local boutiques, jewelers, and specialty shops that offer a unique selection of items.
Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s a great place to stroll and admire the window displays, and get a sense of the city’s latest trends and styles. The street is also surrounded by historical buildings, so it’s an interesting place to see the architecture and the mix of old and new.
38. DRINK FROM A WATER FOUNTAIN
There are over 1200 unique fountains located around the city of Zurich, most of which spew drinkable water 24 hours a day. There is no need to purchase bottled water, just stick your water bottle under one of the flowing spouts and drink from an iconic Swiss fountain.
39. RELAX ON THE PATIO OF FRAU GEROLDS GARTEN
Located next to the train tracks, the trendy Frau Gerolds Garten is a meeting place for locals and visitors alike. The grounds house a garden, small shops, a cafe and beer bar. It’s a little bit of Bohemian meets college dorm meets urban garden.
The bar is made of shipping cargo boxes, plus you can lounge at picnic tables, on large cushioned stairs or at a bistro set near the fresh garden. It is the perfect setting to enjoy a beer on a warmer Swiss night.
40. DRINK ABSINTHE WHERE DADAISM WAS BORN
Dadaism is an artistic and literary movement that born out of a distaste for political and cultural values of the time. And Cabaret Voltaire is where this art form all started. Head over, drink a glass of absinthe (a potent green aniseed-flavoured liqueur) and take a peek at the newest exhibitions.
41. RIDE A CABLE CAR FOR THE PERFECT VIEW OF ZURICH
One of the best known vantage points for a spectacular view of Zurich is from the Felsenegg lookout. But, you must take the one and only aerial cable car to get there. Once at the top, not only can you take in the view, you can also hike the several trails and enjoy a meal at the cafe. This excursion is included in the Zurich Extended City Tour from Get Your Guide.
Every part of this vibrant city has something to offer, and there’s always the chance to create lasting memories. From exploring the Old Town’s streets to exciting day trips to nearby towns to eating delicious fondue, there is no shortage of things to do in Zurich.
Best Time to Visit Zürich: The best time to visit Zurich is from June to August due to the beautiful weather (average high temperature is around 21°C). On sunny days, take advantage of the outdoors, and have fun outside during the brisk evenings.
Where to Stay in Zürich: It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. Hotel Adler Zürich is a great choice in the Zürich. For something on the less expensive side, try Saint Georges Hotel located in Zürich. For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich. Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com. If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to VRBO that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Best Tours in Zürich: You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator, and here are some of the top ones:
- From Zurich: Private 4 Countries in 1 Full-Day Tour
- Zurich: Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour
- From Zurich: Day-Trip to Interlaken
Traveling Soon? Use my Favorite Resources for Booking Your Trip!
Book Your Flight
Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine, because it checks dozens of airlines so you can easily find the best fare deals. You can also select ‘cheapest month’ to find the lowest fares for your destination (I use this all the time!).
Book Your Accommodations
I use both Booking.com and Expedia for hotels, because each offers a couple different hotel choices and I like to compare the reviews on each one. If you have a group or are looking for more of a home atmosphere, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Book Your Rental Car
If love the freedom to explore like I do, driving from place to place is the best option! I always book with Discover Cars for the best prices and top brand options.
Book Some Fun Tours!
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engines for cool bucket list experiences! Each one can have different tours, so check both—why limit yourself, right?
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation, an injury, or (ugh) theft, things happen. That’s why I recommend never leaving the country without travel insurance. Here are my faves: Safety Wing and World Nomads.
Get Packing & Travel Essentials Ready
Check out the Bucket List Journey Amazon Store to find all my favorite travel essentials. Everything from Packing cubes, to travel adapters and toiletry containers to walking shoes.
*Lastly, check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety information.
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Eat Traditional Fondue in Switzerland
I plan to go and checked out your link for the adapter. The page in Amazon it took me to speciifically stated it does NOT work in 4 countries, Swiss being one. Please change this so others don’t inadvertantly order this adapter and find it does not work for their electronics.
It actually has the two round prongs that are used in Switzerland, it doesn’t have the 3-prongs that is also sometimes used (though I’ve never had to use a 3-prong one there). But, I have added that one too just in case! Thanks for letting me know!
The city view from the cable car is really amazing. And boat tours. Probably the best memories you can bring from Zurich.