Zurich has only 400,000 inhabitants, but it is the largest city in Switzerland. The size doesn’t matter in this case as Zurich is a global financial center and banking hub. Many mistake it for the capital of Switzerland (the capital is Bern), and for a good reason: it’s a quintessential Swiss city and at the same time very international. It is also a city with a very natural mixture between ancient history and very modern life at every step.
It is sitting on the shores of Lake Zurich and banks of river Limmat, the setting that reminds very much of Geneva. Unlike Geneva, which is reflecting French culture, Zurich is predominantly influenced by its Swiss-German heritage.
Main attractions in Zurich
There are plenty of attractions in Zurich, both inside the city and in the immediate surroundings. We are listing here only the top 20-25 of them.
Lake Zurich. Located on the south side of Zurich and stretched over 40 km in a banana shape, this lake is popular for boating and swimming. Very popular during summer with hikes and mountain views.
Grossmünster. Landmark 12th-century cathedral in Zurich, one of the four churches in the city. The legend mentions its name all the way to the 8th century. Fraumünster Church. An 11th-century church, built on remains of the abbey from the 10th century. Featuring stained glass decoration by Marc Chagall.
Bahnhofstrasse. The main pedestrian street in Zurich is lined with high-end shops and designer boutiques. Swiss National Museum. Founded in the 19th century, this museum exhibits Swiss history, crafts, and furnishings. Featuring many interactive exhibits. Uetliberg. Mountain above Zurich, famous for hiking and beautiful view of the city and Zurich Lake.
Kunsthaus. Established in the 18th century, this gallery host major European artworks from the 15th century to the present. Zoo Zürich. Considered as one of the best zoos in Europe, this zoo, established in 1929, is home to over 300 species. Lindenhof hill. Original city center on the hilltop, featuring views and outdoor chess boards.
St. Peter Church. The historic church, fourth by size in Zurich, features a large tower clock. Zürich Opera House. Opened in the 19th century, this neo-baroque venue hosts opera, theater, and ballet plays. FIFA World Football Museum. Football-related exhibits are hosted in a newly opened museum. Also available: a sports bar, eateries, and a library.
Felsenegg. Vantage point above Zurich, with views overlooking a valley and a restaurant. Paradeplatz. A famous square at the Bahnhofstrasse in downtown Zürich. It’s one of the most expensive pieces of real estate in Switzerland. Chinese Garden. Located lakeside, this garden oasis features a pond, bridges, and pavilions.
Polybahn. Victorian-era funicular railway connecting Central Square in Zurich with ETH polytechnic university. Bürkliplatz. A town square, named after Arnold Bürkli, a famous Zurich engineer, and is one of the central points of the road and public transportation. Le Corbusier House. The last building was designed by the famous architect, a steel and glass multi-color design, open to the public.
From other attractions in Zurich, we recommend: the Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich, Zürich Wilderness Park, Cabaret Voltaire, and Museum für Gestaltung Zürich.
Top things to do in Zurich
There are numerous attractions that we didn’t mention in our list as this is a quick spotlight, but if you have time for some additional activities, we can recommend the following: River and lake cruise, there are some sightseeing and some nice dinner cruises available, day trips to various cities within Switzerland, several options to go for a hike in the Alps, or just enjoy mountain views, and, of course, go for shopping for famous Swiss chocolate, cheese, and watches.
Read more: Tours from and within Zurich
Festivals and events in Zurich
Zurich has fairly lively events and festival schedules during the year, especially during Christmas time. Here are some top recommendations.
Antigel Festival (February), International Geneva Motor Show (March), Geneva Marathon (May), Museum Night (May), Lake Sailing Regatta (June), Montreux Jazz Festival (June-July), Geneva Lake Parade (July), Geneva Festival (August), Christmas Festival (various events from November through January).
Read more: Festivals and events in Zurich
Interesting facts about Zurich
- Several surveys have been conducted finding that Zurich is the best city in the world in terms of quality of life.
- Every museum has a story to tell and it’s dedicated to something but Zurich has a museum that is dedicated to nothing, the No Show Museum.
- Many international corporations have branches in Zürich. Google has its largest European office in downtown Zurich.
Read more: More interesting facts about Zurich
Best time for flights to Zurich
The peak season for flights to Zurich in July, August, and December. The low season for purchasing tickets is February, June, and November.
Zurich is served by Zurich Airport (ZRH). Direct flights to Zurich are offered by 46 airlines.
Top hotels offers for Zurich
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