Zurich, a city in northern Switzerland, has existed since the medieval age. While it boasts of breathtaking scenic beauty with its lakes and mountains, it is also home to museums, historic churches, opera houses, and quaint alleys – elements close to art and culture.
In short, the city has something for everyone. The list of things to do in Zurich is a rather long one with a variety of options, and here are a few handpicked ones:
Museum of Art
Also called the Kunsthaus Zürich, the Museum of Art is exceptional. It is said to have some of the most important art collections in the country.
This well-equipped location is large, spacious, and beholds the works of popular 20th-century Swiss artist Alberto Giacometti. You can take a tour and notice the specialty of his art form while adoring the works of other contemporary artists.
The center regularly hosts events, and you can find all the details and book your tickets on their website. You get to see and appreciate art and learn the history that lies behind them.
By Roland zh, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Heimpl. 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am – 08:00 pm; Wednesday and Thursday: 10:00 am – 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/KunsthausZH?share | Phone Number: +41442538484
Lake Zurich
One of the main Zurich attractions is Lake Zurich, whose curves and crescent shape make a picturesque view. If you are planning your trip during the summers, one of the best things to do in Zurich is to go swimming in the lake waters.
Walking along the promenade on the east is a great way to discover the beauty of the lake and capture it in your cameras. From cyclists and walkers to skaters, this shore is everyone’s favorite.
You can also take a short boat trip and enjoy the slow and calm vibe that the lake offers to one and all.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/rwqREL6eBnCLRTAz6
Lindenhof
Lindenhof is an old town situated on Lindenhof Hill, and it is a historical site where the Roman tombstone was discovered in 1747. Today, it is one of the tourists’ favorite recreational spots.
It is filled with greenery and excites all history lovers as it had once been home to the Celts, Romans, and Ottonians. Take a stroll in this part of the city and get closer to discovering its past, glimpses of which can still be seen in the streets and homes of this area.
By Roland zh, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/FgZumXRojpjo1fx5A
Felsenegg Lookout
The best part about visiting a beautiful city is enjoying its beauty and capturing it perfectly. For example, Felsenegg Lookout is the best spot to catch a scenic view of Zurich.
You will need to take a cable car to reach the spot, and on reaching the top, it treats you with a view and lets you try different hiking trails and have delicious meals at the cafe.
Located at an altitude of 2,624 ft (800m) above, it lets you capture the perfect view of the city that you will remember for years to come. Visiting this lookout is a very ‘Zurich thing to do’.
By Roland zh, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 8143 Stallikon, Switzerland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/92wMx78quzuZcWjr8
Swiss National Museum
The Swiss National Museum is one of the country’s favorite and most visited places. From prehistoric weapons and tools to elements of the medieval period, renaissance, and the 20th century, it takes you back to the past and lets you travel through the ages, unraveling one story at a time.
Be it the Gothic art that ruled the medieval period or the stone carvings that have been preserved for years now — you will find a plethora of historic elements that will leave you craving for more. Visit this center and discover the story of the country and historic periods that have shaped the present.
By CAPTAIN RAJU, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Friday to Wednesday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm; Thursday: 10:00 am – 07:00 pm; Monday Closed | Google Map Location: https://g.page/lmzurich?share | Phone Number: +41442186511
Zürich West
Once home to factories where ships were built, Zurich West is now the center of art, culture, and everything you could wish for on a trip.
The major highlight of this place is the 126m (413 ft)-long Prime Tower, which was also called the Maag-Tower during its initial days of planning. You can visit this location both during the day and at night and explore the city.
It also has several markets that have a wide range of products, from designer clothes to second-hand furniture stores. Visit ZurichWest and go crazy with shopping and clicking pictures!
By Thomas Woodtli, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/EveCCeksJ6gddegK6
Zurich Zoo
The Zurich Zoo is considered to be one of the best in the entire Europe. It was opened in 1929 and is the third-oldest in Switzerland.
It houses over 4,00 animals from about 380 species and lets you learn about them as you take a tour.
If you have been fascinated by penguins, you will love the popular penguin parade that takes place at noon on the zoo premises whenever the temperature falls below ten degrees Celsius.
Address: Zürichbergstrasse 221, 8044 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 09:00 am – 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9frUpE2qx92sFaYi8 | Phone: +41442542500
Grossmunster
Lying in the Lindenhof area, Grossmunster is one of the city’s most known landmarks. It is a two-towered monastic church in the Romanesque architecture style.
Its construction started in the 12th century, and it took about a century to complete it. A visit to this location takes you to the medieval era when it was built as a monastic church.
If you enjoy noticing the intricacies in architectural buildings, Grossmunster will provide you with a list of things to discover, and you will leave as a fan of Roman architecture.
By Photones, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Grossmünsterplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 05:00 pm; Sunday: 12:30 pm to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/SoD5fbmYZ1q437pHA | Phone Number: +41442506664
Niederdorf
Right below Grossmünster lies the neighborhood called Niederdorf. Also called Dörfli by the locals, it lies along the east shore of Limmat.
It has car-free alleys that teleport you into a zone of quaint and calm vibe. Located along the beautiful east shore of the river, it is filled with designed shops and boutiques and is tourist-friendly both during the day and at night.
If you are looking for some peaceful and tranquil things to do in Zurich, Niederdorf has got your back.
By X-Weinzar, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jrt7Xep4bea1Yc8J6
Uetliberg Mountain
Is the question, “What to do in Zurich”, haunting you again? Well, take off to Uetliberg Mountain. At 2,850 feet above sea level, you can get a bird’s view of the city from this mountaintop. Take a cable car to reach the spot.
During summers, you will find marked hiking routes that you can explore or go mountain biking. However, this destination is one of the popular Zurich tourist attractions to visit in November, as you can discover the blanket of fog over the summit.
During this time, the hiking trails are turned into sledding runs, and you can witness the fun that lies in being on the mountains. If you are lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the majestic Alps from Uetliberg.
By Roland Fischer, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 8143 Zürich, Switzerland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qhqBh8ja6a3drPAd9
Reiterpark
Reiterpark is the city’s largest park spread over 70,000 square meters; it is not very far away from Zurich Lake. The villa is called Museum Reiterpark and showcases the art and archaeology of countries like East Asia, Buddhist-inspired structures, and African ones as well.
It was built in 1855 and still beholds the aura of 19th-century architecture. Some of the trees in the premises were planted during the initial phase and are about 150 years old now, and they add to the beautiful landscape of Reiterpark.
By Roland zh, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Gablerstrasse, 8002 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Open 24 Hours | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/dCkC5Z8NjYj5wPLq6 | Phone Number: +41444122405
Board a Limmat River Cruise
Find taking a stroll too basic? Take the Limmat River Cruise and explore the old sights on a comfortable and leisurely ride. Interestingly, the Limmat River originates at Lake Zurich.
It takes you from Zurich Landesmuseum, and then back to the town center. Enjoying a cruise on the Limmat River is a unique experience and is the fastest and best way to get an all-around view of the city.
If you are on a solo trip or one with family and children, this ride fits all. Make the most of your trip by taking all mediums to travel, including the cruise! You will find many tour operators who conduct these cruises, including Limmat-Schifffahrt.
Address: Schiffsteg Bürkliplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 5:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2DUNhdeNBSxx5UyP7 | Phone Number: +41444871333
Beyer Clock and Watch Museum
The Beyer Clock and Watch Museum is not just a museum but a department store and shop as well. It has about 500 types of devices used to keep track of time from the 14th century to the present day.
You can visit this site, gain insights about watches, and learn about other tools used to measure time. These include sundials, hourglasses, water clocks, and oil clocks. The Beyer Clock and Watch Museum is truly a fascinating place to be at and lets you dive into the world of watches and time-keeping.
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By shakko, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Bahnhofstrasse 31, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 02:00 pm to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wrnc3V9qMNpTQF2T8 | Phone Number: +41433446363
Bahnhofstrasse
About 150 years ago, this is where the majestic city moats were found. Today, this place is the city’s main downtown and is known to be the one-stop destination for everything you are looking for.
Top hotels in the city, famous boutiques, and several eateries — all belong here. It can be called the boulevard of shops and is a major tourist attraction.
It is also one of the most expensive towns in Europe to indulge in luxury shopping. One stroll at this place gives you a taste of everything one can look for in the city.
By KeanoManu, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/eaLns4QBHwdaMBqo7
FIFA World Football Museum
Opened in 2016, the FIFA World Football Museum is one of the most interesting things to see in Zurich. It is spread across three floors and has a swish layout. It is a must-visit for all football and sports lovers.
The museum has carefully documented all iconic moments from every World Cup that took place post-1930 and takes you on a journey that covers the history of football. It has a collection of interesting and exciting artifacts and state-of-art design and layout.
The museum is also a great place for kids and allows them to play football-themed games.
Address: Seestrasse 27, 8002 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Friday to Wednesday: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm; Thursday: 10:00 am – 02:00 pm; Closed on Monday | Google Map Location: https://g.page/FIFAMuseum?share | Phone Number: +41433882500
Chagall Windows
Present in the Fraumünster church in Old Town Zurich, this is a world-famous spot that depicts a Biblical story. It is a masterpiece by Marc Chagall, a Russian-French artist who skillfully painted five majestic glass windows in colors that cast a rainbow-like spread of lights.
Painted in the 1970s, the Chagall Windows will leave you surprised with its beautiful pattern and artistry. If you are visiting this church, make sure your camera has enough space because it might be difficult to stop clicking!
Address: Münsterhof 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: 10:am – 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/XUcWxrHNRwRELzho6 | Phone Number: +41442212063
Zurich Old Town
Yet another Zurich attraction is its Old Town, the historic heart of the city. You can discover stories of the yore in every corner of this quaint little place. That’s not all; you can also taste authenticity in all food items that you will savor at various restaurants.
This is the spot where history, art, and culture meet together to give you a memorable experience. If you enjoy walking, this is the place to be; if you start wondering what to do in Zurich on a sleepy experience, head straight here.
Address: Niederdorfstrasse 19, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: 7:00 am to 12:00 am | Google Map Location:https://goo.gl/maps/K3HsWsF9v6i5t2fx8 | Phone Number: +41433218484
Paradeplatz
In the south of the city lies Paradeplatz, one of its most expensive real estate sites. It is the headquarters of UBS as well as Credit Suisse.
At the beginning of the 19th century, it was named “Neumarkt” (meaning New Market) due to the rising business and then was again changed to “Paradeplatz” about 50 years later.
Along with this, it is also an important junction for trams to meet. Currently, it is one of the biggest financial cities in the world and is a must-add to your list!
By Andreas Praefcke, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: Paradeplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gXX84VFXgaxKWCdV8
Zurich’s Botanical Garden
A compact area of lush green trees, Zurich’s Botanical Garden has a calm and quiet vibe. It was opened in 1977 and has several architectural biodomes that house exotic tropical plants.
It is a comprehensive and quaint place with over 9,000 plus species of plants. If you are a true plant lover and enjoy the presence of trees around you, you must pay a visit to Zurich’s Botanical Garden on your trip!
By Roland zh, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Friday: 07:00 am – 07:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 08:00 am – 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4iLaFco8wZn2vFvR7 | Phone Number: +41446348461
Zurich Opera House
Located in Sechseläutenplatz, this place is one of the city’s oldest structures and was opened in 1891. It is one of the oldest opera houses in the world and hosts operas, song recitals, and ballet performances. It is located on the east shore of Lake Zurich and is a stunning structure.
The center has a capacity of about 1,100 seats and hosts over 250 performances in a day to keep the public engaged. If you enjoy watching performances and indulging in art forms, the things to see at the Zurich Opera House will delight you!
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By Torbjorn Toby Jorgensen, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Sechseläutenpl. 1, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Visit https://www.opernhaus.ch/ for more information | Google Map Location: https://g.page/operzuerich?share | Phone Number: +41442686666
Sip Whiskey at Old Crow
If you enjoy the company of drinks on a quaint evening, you should not miss visiting Old Crow. You may find several bars around the city, but you will not find one like Old Crow. It offers you the oldest wines of top brands that you can think of and lets you enjoy them in a cozy ambiance.
To add charm to your evening, you can also try their specialty cocktails and witness your drink being made right in front of your eyes! Want to choose from a range of drinks? Well, Old Crow is your destination.
Address: Schwanengasse 4, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday: 05:00 pm to 12:30 am | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1wDWcCjZz6atp71s7 | Phone Number: +41432335335
Eat at Hiltl: The Oldest Vegetarian Restaurant
Awarded the record of being the oldest vegetarian restaurant by the Guinness Book of World Records, Hiltl will treat you to delicious vegetarian meals. You can make your choice with the ala carte meals or go with an impromptu choice and experience the popular Hiltl Buffet.
What is unique about this restaurant is that every gram of whatever you choose to eat on the buffet will be measured by the gram, and you will only be charged for the amount you eat. Visit this unique and popular tourist attraction and taste a delicious variety of vegetarian food!
By Adrian Michael, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Sihlstrasse 28, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm; Friday: 08:00 am – 11:00 pm; Saturday: 09:00 am – 11:00 pm; Sunday:10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Google Map Location:https://g.page/haus-hiltl?share | Phone Number: +41442277000
Kulturama / Musée de l’Homme
Ever wondered about the human race? Where do we come from, and who are we? Well, you can hope to find answers to these complex questions at Kulturama, The Museum of Man.
The center was set up more than four decades ago to spread scientific knowledge about the human race in a simplistic manner so that people across age groups can understand it.
The center, around a 40-minute drive from the lake, has been divided into five exhibition areas. While “Where we come from”, “Who we are”, “How we learn” and “Discovery Trail” are permanent arenas, the fifth one is a special exhibition area, which keeps changing.
It also houses an impressive palaeontological collection of fossils from across Europe.
By Tiia Monto, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Englischviertelstrasse 9, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Tuesday,Thursday and Friday: 01:00 pm – 05:00pm; Wednesday: 01:00 pm -08:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 01:00 pm -06:00pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/museumkulturama?share | Phone Number: +41442606044
Viadukt
Located in Zurich West, Viadukt is the most famous street for shopping. It offers you a comfortable shopping experience as well as lets you choose from the wide range of goods available.
You can also try the delicacies available at restaurants along the street. Spread across 500 meters, it also has social and cultural gatherings in the streets for you to explore and enjoy. Take a stroll at Viadukt and feel the city’s street energy lift your spirits.
By Swisschamp98, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vHzBFwc9sTVHUH7S7
Frau Gerolds Garten
At the foot of Prime Towers lies Frau Gerolds Garten, a feel-good site that offers food, has stores, flowery landscapes, and hosts interesting events as well.
It is open till midnight during summers, and during the winters, it turns into a cozy retreat with a fireplace and a hut setting. Frau Gerolds Garten fits visitors of all age groups. You can get a beautiful view of the city from the terrace and see the mountains merge with the clouds.
Address: Geroldstrasse 23, 8005 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Friday: 05:00 pm – 11:45 pm; Saturday: 12:00 pm -11:45pm; Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/XTXkL2DhwGPBPrTD8 | Phone Number: +41789716764
Fraumunster
Situated on the west shore of Limmat, Fraumunster Church is a popular tourist destination in the city. The church is an iconic landmark of the city and is well-known for the Chagall Windows.
The structure was built on the opposite side of the river to the Grossmünster in the middle of the 9th century. Currently, it is the largest church in the Canton of Zurich.
The architecture of this church will make you gasp in awe, and it will also take you back to a Switzerland that existed years ago.
By Uwe Aranas, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Münsterhof 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: 10:00 am -05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kMv6QAcYKGL8aN9b8 | Phone Number: +41442212063
Chinese Garden
Situated by the lake, it is said to have been a gift from Kunming, the city’s Chinese partner town. It was gifted to the city as a token of gratitude for the technical and scientific assistance in developing the drinking water supply and drainage in Kunming.
The cottages are built in the classic Chinese structure, and there is a small pond in the center with a small palace by the shore. You can step into this scenic place and get all Instagram-worthy pictures in one place.
By Manuel Schmalstieg, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Bellerivestrasse 138, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Tvo8Bje6ZAvLFBj9A | Phone Number: +41443803151
You can go Zurich sightseeing and treat yourself to diverse types of places to visit. This place has got it all, from lakes and museums to churches, and stadia! Whether on a solo trip or one with the entire family where everyone has different interests, there is something for everyone in this city.
