Things to Do in Zurich

Zurich's medieval heart stretches across both banks of the Limmat River, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, guild houses dating back centuries, and hidden courtyards. The Niederdorf on the eastern bank buzzes with restaurants and nightlife, while Lindenhof on the west offers the city's best panoramic viewpoint. Wander past centuries-old fountains, ornate church facades, and charming squares that tell the story of Zurich's evolution from Roman settlement to modern financial capital. Free to explore and endlessly photogenic.

The stunning 40-kilometer lake defines Zurich's character and lifestyle. Crystal-clear alpine water fills the crescent-shaped lake, surrounded by the distant Alps on clear days. Locals swim in the lake from numerous lidos and beaches during summer, while year-round boat cruises offer stunning city and mountain views. The promenades along both shores are perfect for jogging, cycling, or evening strolls. On weekends, the lakefront comes alive with paddleboarders, sailors, and picnicking families.

One of Europe's most important art museums, the Kunsthaus houses an outstanding collection spanning from medieval religious art to contemporary installations. The 2021 David Chipperfield-designed extension doubled the exhibition space, now showcasing masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Giacometti, and an exceptional collection of Swiss art. The museum's Rodin sculptures and comprehensive Dada collection honor Zurich's role in the birth of the avant-garde movement. Allow extra time for the sculpture garden.

Housed in a fairy-tale castle-like building beside the main train station, the Swiss National Museum presents Switzerland's cultural history from prehistory to the present day. The remarkable collection includes Gothic altarpieces, medieval weaponry, reconstructed period rooms, and multimedia exhibits on Swiss democracy and identity. A striking modern extension connects to the historic building, creating an architectural dialogue between old and new. Free admission on the first Sunday of each month.

Zurich's iconic twin-towered Romanesque cathedral dominates the city skyline and played a central role in the Protestant Reformation under Huldrych Zwingli in the 16th century. Climb the 187 steps of the Karlsturm tower for breathtaking panoramic views over the Old Town, Lake Zurich, and the distant Alps. Inside, discover the austere Protestant interior, modern stained glass windows by Sigmar Polke, and the atmospheric crypt. A must-visit landmark that encapsulates Swiss religious and cultural history.

Zurich's local mountain rises 870 meters above sea level, offering spectacular 360-degree views of the city, lake, and Alpine panorama. Just a 20-minute train ride from the city center, Uetliberg provides year-round outdoor activities: hiking and mountain biking in summer, sledding in winter. The Planet Trail to Felsenegg features scale models of the solar system along a scenic ridge walk. The summit observation tower and restaurant reward the climb with stunning vistas and hearty Swiss cuisine.

One of the world's most exclusive shopping streets stretches 1.4 kilometers from the main train station to Lake Zurich. This elegant tree-lined avenue is home to flagship stores of luxury brands from Rolex to Chanel, traditional Swiss watchmakers, and the famous Sprüngli confectionery. Window shopping costs nothing, and the street's festive Christmas lights are world-renowned. Beyond luxury, discover the historic Paradeplatz, Swiss banking headquarters, and countless cafés perfect for people-watching.

A paradise for chocolate lovers, this interactive museum in Kilchberg (15 minutes from central Zurich) tells the story of Swiss chocolate from cocoa bean to finished confection. The centerpiece is the world's largest free-standing chocolate fountain at over 9 meters tall. Visitors enjoy unlimited chocolate tasting throughout, interactive exhibits on chocolate production and history, and the chance to create personalized chocolate bars. The adjoining shop offers the complete Lindt range at factory prices.