Zurich Travel Guide
Zurich is a tidy lakeside city with a medieval old town, excellent public transport and the Alps on the horizon. Calm, clean and rather expensive.
- Best Time
- May to September
- Ideal Length
- 2 days
- Getting Around
- Tram, train and on foot
Planning Your Trip to Zurich
Zurich is rarely the reason people go to Switzerland, but it is a strong city break in its own right. The old town is small and handsome, the lake is clean enough for swimming in summer and the public transport is almost absurdly punctual. It is also an excellent base for the Alps, with mountain railways, Lucerne and the Rhine Falls all within easy reach. Costs are high, so plan a couple of meals as picnics, and take advantage of lunch menus. Two relaxed days in town, followed by a day in the mountains, is the format that works best.
Best Time to Visit Zurich
May to September is the sweet spot for most visitors. Here is how each season actually feels.
Spring
Mild and improving, with blossom on the lakeshore. Mountain tops may still hold snow.
Summer
Warm and sunny, with swimming in the lake and the river. The most popular season for hiking in the nearby Alps.
Autumn
Clear, crisp days with colorful foliage, and a good time for lake walks and mountain excursions.
Winter
Cold and sometimes foggy in town, with Christmas markets. Ski resorts are a train ride away.
How Many Days in Zurich?
2 days
Zurich's core sights fit comfortably into two days. Many visitors use it as a base for day trips to the mountains or Lucerne, which would add a day or two.
Zurich Neighborhoods
Pick the area that matches the kind of trip you want, and you will rarely need to cross town.
Altstadt (Old Town)
Narrow lanes, guild houses and the twin towers of the Grossmünster. Central, handsome and easy to walk.
Lindenhof
A small hilltop square with a view over the old town and river.
Zurich West
A former industrial district turned into a creative area of galleries, bars and converted warehouses.
Niederdorf
A pedestrian quarter with cafés, shops and a livelier night scene.
Seefeld
A calm lakeside district with parks, restaurants and swimming spots.
What to Do in Zurich
A Lake Cruise
Boats cross Lake Zurich, with views of the city and the surrounding hills.
Bahnhofstrasse
The famous shopping street leading to the lake, even if you only window shop.
Grossmünster Tower
Climb the twin towers of the Romanesque church for views over the old town.
Swimming in the Limmat
In summer, locals float down the river and use the city's lake and river baths.
Uetliberg
A short train ride and walk gives a panoramic view of the city, lake and Alps on a clear day.
Kunsthaus Zurich
One of Switzerland's major art museums, with works from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Swiss Chocolate and Cheese
Try fondue and raclette in a traditional restaurant, and chocolate from a local chocolatier.
A Day in the Alps
Lucerne, Mount Rigi or the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen are all within easy reach by train.
Getting Around
Trams, buses and boats are punctual and cover the city, and the old town is best on foot. The airport is a short train ride from the main station. Swiss trains reach mountains and other cities quickly, which makes day trips easy.
Practical Tips
- Ask if your hotel includes a local transport pass, as many do.
- Tap water is excellent and the public fountains are drinkable.
- Shops close earlier than elsewhere in Europe and many are closed on Sundays.
- Eat lunch as your main meal. Set menus are better value.
Zurich Travel FAQ
How Many Days Do You Need in Zurich?
Two days covers the highlights. Add more time if you plan day trips to Lucerne, the Alps or the Rhine Falls.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Zurich?
May to September is the best for weather, lake swimming and hiking. December is lovely for Christmas markets.
Is Zurich Walkable?
Yes, especially the old town and lakeside. Trams are quick and reliable for longer distances.
Is Zurich Expensive?
Yes, Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Lunch menus and picnic-style meals can ease the cost.
Plan Your Zurich Itinerary
Tell us when you are going, who is coming and what you love. We will build a day-by-day Zurich plan around it, ready in about twenty minutes.