Things to Do In Zurich

Bahnhofstrasse - things to do in zurich

The city of Zurich is well known all over the world as a banking capital which is spotlessly clean and demure. However, Zurich is far more than just a boring financial hub. Even though Zurich is the home of the fourth largest stock exchange market in the world, the city is also surprisingly vibrant and trendy. Our top picks for things to do in Zurich are just endless as they are unique. The city’s attractions include a well preserved old town filled with Renaissance buildings, dozens of museums, and enough art to keep the art lovers happy and for a week.

Here are some of the best things to do in Zurich:

1. Visit The Old Town

The old town is among the most popular sites for both the locals and tourists, as it’s a historical, cultural and also nightlife center. From its terrace is a fascinating view of the old town. Walking around the neighborhood itself is a treat, as every corner of the street seems to have a wonderful grace. There are some cafes and restaurants along the streets, catering for those who are enjoying a long stroll through the Altstadt.

The neighborhood houses are some of the most important religious buildings in the city that include Our Lady Church. Also, the old town houses some important cultural and historical landmarks like the Swiss National Museum and the Lindenhof. The old Roman –built town is located between the left bank of the Limmat and the Bahnhofstrasse.

2. Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most popular shopping strips in the world. If high-end dining and world-class brands are your thing, then Bahnhofstrasse is for you. Top Swiss brands exist alongside word-famous shops for Chanel and Gucci. It’s one of the most frequently visited places in Zurich. Those who do not wish to buy anything can still enjoy walking around and do some spectacular window shopping. Strolling around the Bahnhofstrasse is an excellent way to view the locals in their daily lives. Bahnhofstrasse is located between Lake Zurich and the Old Town.

3. Lake Zurich Promenade

lake zurich promenade

Beautiful lakefront views and an extensive network of gardens and promenades make Lake Promenade a perfect plan for a sunny day. Lake Zurich is one of the best places to visit while in Zurich. Its waterfront is well decorated by colorful houses that are packed tightly together. Restaurants and shops line up along the Lake offering everything you want. Add to all these gardens, parks, and promenades, and you will understand why this is rated among the top things to do in Zurich.

4. Swiss National Museum

By far it is one of the most remarkable collection of Swiss Cultural and historical artifacts. More than 820,000 of this artifacts covers a broad range of things from prehistory throughout the 20th century. People say that visiting the museum is worth it even if it’s just to see its impressive architecture. Because if it’s big size, visitors often spend hours, if not the whole day, going through the exhibitions. The museum takes pride in being innovative and interactive, and it is considered to be one of the best museums in the nation.

https://www.nationalmuseum.ch/e/

5. Uetliberg Mountain

Tranquil trails, scenic paths, and breathtaking views make Uetliberg Mountain one of the most popular destinations in Zurich. At 2,858 feet above the sea level, the Uetliberg Mountain is the perfect place to catch a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding Alps. Although the Mountain is located outside the City, it is well worth the effort, as it offers the visitors an opportunity to witness postcard-perfect Switzerland.

Some paths and trails lead up, down and along the mountain. Visitors can walk, hike and bike through them at their own pace and discretion. The paths are marked, and they don’t present an extreme challenge hence making them suitable for all ages and levels.

http://www.uetliberg.ch/en/

6. Zurich Zoo

Zurich zoo was opened in the year 1929, and it’s considered a cultural institution in the city, taking pride of 360 different species of animals all housed in naturally designed habitats. Animals does live as close to their natural habitat as possible: penguins swimming in the chilly water, snow leopards amidst the rocky Himalayan landscape, and you can also see foxes from a canopy walk within 13,000 square meters of the tropical rainforest. There are more than 10,000 species of plants in the tropical rainforest.

http://www.zoo.ch/

7. The Old Botanical Garden

Founded in the year 1837, the old botanical garden is still among the most pleasant places in the city of Zurich. It perfect central locations make it accessible for both visitors and the locals who wish to step into an enchanting green place. The old botanical garden is dotted with some interesting and beautiful species. The Arboretum creates an ideal location to relax. What makes this garden one of the best things to do in Zurich is its dynamic nature and the various possible activities that one can enjoy here.

8. Grossmunster

The Romanesque Protestant church was built in the 12th century, and it’s now one of the most iconic landmarks in Zurich. If you ask the locals about Grossmunster, they will tell you that it is one of the greatest pride of the city. Its twin towers topped by some identical cylinders preside over the city of Zurich and reflect beautifully on the river. It has unique stain glass windows that filter the sunlight which decorates the interior with a colorful effect and permeates the church with a sense of tranquility. It is from here that Heinrich Zwingli, the father of Swiss Reformation conducted much of his business and changed both the religious and political landscape of the country. Without a doubt, this is one of the most recognized churches in Switzerland.

https://www.zuerich.com/en/visit/attractions/grossmuenster-church

9. Take a Boat and Tour The City

Another fun thing to do in Zurich is to take a boat and tour the city. From the Landes Museum station, you can get a 51 passenger boat which will take you on a one-hour tour of Zurich. It passes over the seven bridges over Limmat.

10. Kunsthaus

With work ranging all the way from the middle ages to modernity, the Kunsthaus is a home to a remarkable art collection. Built in 1910, this art museum is considered one of the most important in the whole country. The Kunsthaus has an excellent reputation for its emphasis on Swiss artists such as Alberto Giacometti and Jonathan Heinrich. Its temporary exhibits attracts lots of people, and there are well known for their thoughtful work and excellent collections.

Bottom Line

Zurich is a fantastic place to visit especially for those who love culture and also love having fun. Visit the city and embrace its rich culture, history, art and mordant in all its glory.