The old town
Zurich's old town straddles the Limmat river as it flows out of Lake Zurich. On the eastern bank, the Niederdorf area is a maze of cobbled lanes with guild houses, small shops and restaurants. On the western bank, quieter streets climb towards the Lindenhof, a leafy hill with one of the best views over the rooftops and the river.
The city's landmark churches are close together. The twin towers of the Grossmünster rise above the eastern bank, while the Fraumünster on the opposite side is famous for its stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall. St Peter's Church nearby has one of the largest clock faces in Europe.
The lake
Lake Zurich is the city's playground. Promenades run along both shores, and in summer the lake becomes a giant swimming pool. Traditional bathing houses, known as Badis, provide changing areas and wooden decks, and some turn into bars in the evening.
Boat trips on the lake leave from the end of the Bahnhofstrasse, ranging from short circular cruises to longer trips to lakeside villages. On a clear day, the Alps form a stunning backdrop.
Museums and culture
The Swiss National Museum, in a castle-like building beside the main station, tells the story of Switzerland's history and culture. The Kunsthaus Zurich is one of the most important art museums in the country, with a major extension that has increased its exhibition space.
For something different, the FIFA Museum, the Museum of Design and the Rietberg Museum, devoted to non-European art, all offer distinctive collections.
Beyond the centre
Zurich West, a former industrial area, has been reborn as a district of creative businesses, bars and shops. The arches beneath a railway viaduct now house boutiques and a covered market hall. A tall tower of stacked shipping containers, home to a well-known bag brand's shop, is a local landmark.
For views, take the train up the Uetliberg, the city's local mountain, where a walking trail along the ridge looks out over the lake and the Alps.
Getting there
AeroVista flies to ZRH, and trains from the airport station reach Zurich's main station in roughly ten to fifteen minutes. Remember that Switzerland uses the Swiss franc, though cards are widely accepted. Zurich is known for being expensive, so budget accordingly.
Good to know
- Switzerland uses Swiss francs; cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Tap water and public fountains are clean and safe to drink.
- A city travel card can cover trams, buses, trains and lake boats.