Things to do in Zurich: must-sees and where to stay

In short: Zurich is explored on foot, on both banks of the Limmat. Wander the old town and the Niederdorf, see the Grossmünster and Chagall’s windows at the Fraumünster, stroll down the Bahnhofstrasse, enjoy the lake, visit the Swiss National Museum, and go up the Uetliberg for the view. The currency is the Swiss franc.

The old town and the Niederdorf

On both banks of the Limmat, the old town lines up lanes, squares and guild houses. On the right bank, the Niederdorf is lively, with bars and restaurants. On the left bank, the little Lindenhof hill offers a nice view over the rooftops.

The Grossmünster and the Fraumünster

The twin towers of the Grossmünster are the city’s emblem. Opposite, across the river, the Fraumünster is famous for its Marc Chagall stained-glass windows.

Bahnhofstrasse and the lake

From the station to the lake, the Bahnhofstrasse is one of Europe’s best-known shopping streets. At its end is Lake Zurich, with its quays, boats and, in summer, open-air baths.

The museums

Right next to the station, the Swiss National Museum tells the country’s story. The Kunsthaus holds a major art collection, from old masters to modern art.

The Uetliberg

The hill overlooking the city is reached by train from the main station. From the top, the view takes in Zurich, the lake and, on clear days, the Alps.

Day trips from Zurich

• Lucerne, its Chapel Bridge and its lake, by train.
• The Rhine Falls, near Schaffhausen.
• Mount Rigi, the “queen of the mountains”, above Lake Lucerne.

Getting around

• Trams and buses cover the whole city; the centre is walkable.
• From the airport, trains reach the main station in 10 to 13 minutes, several times an hour.
• From Paris, the TGV Lyria reaches Zurich in about 4 hours.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Switzerland.

Where to stay in Zurich?

• Old town (Niederdorf). Medieval lanes, restaurants and bars on both sides of the Limmat. Ideal for: first visit, nightlife.
• Zurich West and Langstrasse. Converted industrial sites, bars, restaurants and shops under the Viadukt arches. Ideal for: solo, nightlife.
• Seefeld. Elegant and peaceful, by the lake, with walks and swimming in summer. Ideal for: couples, quiet.
• Around the main station. Handy for day trips by train, a few minutes’ walk from the old town. Ideal for: arriving by train, short stays.

The areas and useful services are on our Zurich page.