10 tips when visiting Zurich
Tips for your city trip to Zurich
1. Discover the historic city centre
Start your adventure in Zurich in the Old Town. This is a great place to explore on foot. Stroll through the picturesque streets, discover the characteristic bridges and take in the view of the crystal-clear Limmat River, which, with its gondolas, is sometimes reminiscent of Venice. A visit to one of the iconic churches is a must. Highlights include the imposing Romanesque Grossmünster and the Fraumünster, famous for its beautiful stained glass windows, including those by the famous artist Marc Chagall.
2. Unwind in the Chinagarten
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Zurich, Zürichhorn Park has a number of cultural hotspots that are well worth a visit. Be sure to visit the Chinese Garden, a gift from the city's twin city, Kunming. You can relax among pine and plum trees and bamboo in this beautiful, well-tended garden with a pond. And a big plus: admission is free! Feeling hungry? Chinese specialities are sold just outside the garden walls.
3. Take a dip in the Limmat
On summer days, life in Zurich takes place in and around the water. The city has had a rich bathing culture since Roman times. You can take a refreshing dip or enjoy a drink at the Badis, public swimming pools on the Limmat River or Lake Zurich. Try swimming against the current at Unterer Letten or admire the Frauenbad, a beautiful art nouveau bathhouse on Stadthausquai.
4. Explore Zurich by bike
Do you want to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time? Rent a bike or e-bike at the Velostation Europaplatz near the main train station. With an upgraded Zürich Card, you can also use the PubliBike shared bikes unlimitedly. Very convenient! For more information, visit zuerich.com.
5. Visit the Rote Fabrik
On the south side of Zurich, right on the water, you will find one of the city's most special hotspots: the Rote Fabrik. This red brick factory building, covered in graffiti, is a must-see. A silk weaving mill until 1940, the complex is now an alternative cultural centre for art, concerts, film and theatre. You will also find the fine and affordable restaurant Ziegel oh Lac, right on the lake.
6. Discover history at the Landesmuseum
Right next to the central station you will find the Landesmuseum Zurich, the Swiss National Museum, with exhibitions on Swiss history from its origins to the present day. They start with archaeological finds from prehistoric and Roman times and end with collections on modern themes such as recycling and migration. Be sure to spend some time here in the evening. From mid-July to early September, enjoy delicious cocktails and live music at the Summer Festival Rundfunk.fm in front of the museum starting at 17.00 hrs.
7. Admire Le Corbusier's latest work
Next to the Chinagarten you will find the Pavillon Le Corbusier – a must for architecture lovers. Completed in 1967, this striking concrete, steel and glass structure was the last work of the famous French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier. From the outside, the pavilion is striking for its use of primary colours and its almost floating roof. Inside, the open spaces and interesting views are fascinating. Free admission with the Zurich Card.
8. Shop sustainably at Freitag
You are probably familiar with Freitag's unique and colourful bags. But did you know that this sustainable brand originated in Zurich? In 1993, the Freitag brothers developed their first bag made from old truck tarpaulins, bicycle tyres and seat belts. The recycled bags have since become world renowned. Their flagship store, made from nineteen used shipping containers, is well worth a visit. Right next to the Freitag shop, you enjoy a nice cold beer in the garden of Frau Gerolds.
9. Have lunch at the water's edge
After a refreshing dip in the Limmat, it is time for a cool drink and a tasty lunch. Sit under the colourful parasols at the Stazione Paradiso open-air bar. Delicious focaccia is served from this old Berlin S-Bahn carriage, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. More information at: stazioneparadiso.ch. Another fine spot for a drink along the Limmat is Nude, the café of the Tanzhaus, a major centre for contemporary dance. Enjoy the sunny terrace and an extensive seasonal menu at weekends.
10. Dine with a view of the Alps
The Üetliberg is Zurich's landmark mountain and is easily accessible. Take the S10 train from the main station and you can reach the summit in 20 minutes. This is the perfect starting point for a nice hike, such as the six-kilometre-long Planets Route. Stop at the Üetliberg lookout for an ice cream or a refreshing drink. Want to dine with a view of the Alps? You can at the restaurant Uto Kulm. Here you can enjoy traditional dishes and local wines.
Travelling by train is quick and comfortable
Zurich is easy to reach by train from the Netherlands. ICE International will take you from Amsterdam Centraal to Zurich in just one-way.