Zurich

“Zurich is a city of contrasts; where the serene beauty of Lake Zurich meets the vibrant energy of its cultural scene. Its picturesque streets and high-quality living create an atmosphere of calm and sophistication, inviting you to indulge in the pleasures of life.”

🇨🇭

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF) Fr.

Best Time

June to August

Population

420,000

Weather °C

10.2

Zurich is an eclectic mix of Swiss culture, offering visitors the perfect balance of nature and urban life. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful waters of Lake Zurich or explore the city’s bustling streets, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and museums. With a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation, Zurich provides a glimpse into Switzerland’s rich cultural and artistic legacy while showcasing its modern outlook.
State

Zurich

Year

15 BC

Airport

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Cost of Living (10)

6

Minimal List TL;DR

🌳
Hidden Gem
Uetliberg Mountain
Scenic mountain with stunning views of the city.
🎭
Art & Culture
Rietberg Museum
An art museum focused on non-European art in a beautiful park.
🌼
Nature
Botanical Garden
A peaceful garden with a diverse collection of plants and flowers.
🕍
Historic Site
Fraumünster Church
Elegant church with a delicate, copper-topped spire & stained glass by Marc Chagall.
🌊
Nature
Zürichhorn
A lakeside park perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
🕰️
History
Swiss National Museum
The main historical museum of Switzerland, showcasing cultural history.
🎨
Art & Culture
Kunsthaus Zürich
A premier art museum featuring Swiss and international artists.
📜
History
Cabaret Voltaire
Historic venue for the Dada movement with cultural events.
🌺
Botanical Garden
Old Botanical Garden, Zürich
Idyllic oasis at the heart of downtown Zurich.
Historic Site
Haus Hiltl
Comfy, airy eatery for veggie salads, soups & Mediterranean fare with buffet, a la carte & takeaway.
City Square
Paradeplatz
Imposing city square that's famous for being the center of Swiss banking operations.
🍴
Restaurant
Aurora
Fusion restaurant.
🍴
Restaurant
Waldmannsburg
Swiss restaurant.
🍕
Hidden Gem
Restaurant Uto Kulm
Scenic restaurant on Uetliberg with panoramic views.
🍴
Restaurant
Loft Five
Chic spot for burgers & barbecue beef.
🍴
Restaurant
Restaurant Marktküche
Modern vegetarian food in a chic eatery.
🍴
Church
Grossmünster
Romanesque-style Protestant church in Zürich.
🍴
Restaurant
Bimi
Japanese dishes in minimalist restaurant.
⛴️
Boat Tour
Limmatschiff
Flat, low-ceiling, glass-top boat you will see touring up and down the Limmat River, under the bridges, and the upper part of Lake Zurich.

Places to See

🎭
Rietberg Museum
Art & Culture
Zurichbergstrasse Rietberg, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland
4.7
CHF 15
Tue-Sun 10 AM–5 PM
An art museum focused on non-European art in a beautiful park.
https://rietberg.ch/
🕍
Fraumünster Church
Historic Site
Münsterhof 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.7
Free
10.00 am–6.00 pm
Elegant church with a delicate, copper-topped spire & stained glass by Marc Chagall.
www.fraumuenster.ch
🌊
Zürichhorn
Nature
Zürichhorn, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland
4.6
Free
Open 24 hours
Features stunning views of the Alps.
Vibe:
Peaceful
Tip:
Walking paths
Get To:
Tram 4, 6
A lakeside park perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
🕰️
Swiss National Museum
History
Museumsstrasse 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.6
CHF 15
Tue-Sun 10 AM–5 PM
The main historical museum of Switzerland, showcasing cultural history.
https://www.landesmuseum.ch/
🎨
Kunsthaus Zürich
Art & Culture
Heimplatz, 3, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.6
CHF 15
Tue-Sun 10 AM–6 PM
A premier art museum featuring Swiss and international artists.
https://www.kunsthaus.ch/
📜
Cabaret Voltaire
History
Spiegelgasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.6
Free entry with purchases
Mon-Sun 4 PM–2 AM
Historic venue for the Dada movement with cultural events.
https://www.cabaretvoltaire.ch/
Haus Hiltl
Historic Site
Sihlstrasse 28, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.5
$$
8AM–10PM
Comfy, airy eatery for veggie salads, soups & Mediterranean fare with buffet, a la carte & takeaway.
www.hiltl.ch
Must Visit:

Lake Zurich, Swiss National Museum

Home to the oldest art museum in Switzerland.

Places to Eat

🍕
Restaurant Uto Kulm
Hidden Gem
Uto Kulm, 8045 Zürich, Switzerland
4.5
$$$
10 AM - 10 PM
Perfect for sunset views.
Vibe:
Scenic
Get To:
Tram 4, 5
Tip:
Seasonal menu
Scenic restaurant on Uetliberg with panoramic views.
🍴
Waldmannsburg
Restaurant
Schloss-Strasse 86, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.5
$$
9.00 am–12.00 am
Known for its traditional Swiss ambiance.
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Tram 4, 6
Tip:
Cheese fondue
Swiss restaurant.
🍴
Grossmünster
Church
Grossmünsterplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.4
Free
10.00 am–6.00 pm
A landmark of the city with impressive towers.
Vibe:
Historic
Get To:
Tram 4, 6
Tip:
Local coffee
Romanesque-style Protestant church in Zürich.
🍴
Bimi
Restaurant
Seefeldstrasse 25, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.3
$$$
Opens 6.00 pm
Known for its quality sushi and ambiance.
Vibe:
Chic
Get To:
Tram 4, 6
Tip:
Sushi rolls
Japanese dishes in minimalist restaurant.
Must Try:

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, Rösti, Fondue, Raclette, Zürcher Eintopf

Places to Drink

⛴️
Limmatschiff
Boat Tour
Schiffsteg Bürkliplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
4.6
$$
Varies
Offers a unique view of the city from the river.
Vibe:
Scenic
Get To:
Tram 4, 6
Tip:
Guided tours
Flat, low-ceiling, glass-top boat you will see touring up and down the Limmat River, under the bridges, and the upper part of Lake Zurich.
Music / Dance:

Swiss Folk, Classical, Opera, Jazz

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Tourism, History, Shipping

Zurich

"An elegant city with lakeside charm, where tranquility meets sophistication."

Places to Shop

For More Places and regular updates, Subscribe today

Luxury

For More Tips Read Further

Zurich Charm

Banking, quality of life, and beautiful landscapes.

Zurich is home to the oldest art museum in Switzerland, the Kunsthaus Zurich, which houses a remarkable collection of artworks.

A global financial hub, Zurich is known for its stunning lake, vibrant arts scene, and high quality of life. The city combines modernity with beautiful natural surroundings, making it a must-visit for culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Kunsthaus Zurich offers a glimpse into the city's artistic heritage, while Zurich’s picturesque old town and rich cultural history provide a perfect blend of contemporary life and tradition.

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Zurich

Transportation

Metro, buses, walkable

City Overview

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, beautiful lakeside setting, and a blend of historic and modern architecture. It’s a major financial hub.

Zurich

3 Day City Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Swiss National Museum. Afternoon: Explore Lake Zurich. Evening: Dinner at a lakeside restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Take a tram ride to Uetliberg for panoramic views. Afternoon: Visit the Botanical Garden. Evening: Attend a concert at the Zurich Opera House. - Day 3: Morning: Discover the vibrant street art in Zurich West. Afternoon: Visit the Fraumünster Church. Evening: Enjoy a local beer at a pub.

Current Trends

- Culinary trends: Increasing focus on organic and local ingredients. - Arts and culture: Growth in contemporary art galleries and performances. - Tech innovations: Rising interest in startups and digital experiences.

Local Events Guide

- Street Parade (August): A massive electronic dance music festival. - Zurich Film Festival (September): Showcasing international films and events. - Christmas Markets (December): Featuring local crafts and seasonal foods.

Local Insider Tips

- Explore the Old Town (Altstadt) for charming streets and shops. - Visit the Kunsthaus for contemporary art. - Enjoy local chocolates at famous shops.

Sustainable Travel

- Sustainable tourism: Focus on eco-friendly transport and initiatives. - Green spaces: Efforts to maintain and enhance parks and natural areas. - Community support: Encouragement of local businesses and artisans.

Zurich

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

Sign below for Fresh Updates

We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Join us to stay connected. Read our updates

Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

More Cities to Visit:

🍺
Munich
Bavarian Hub
10°C – 20°C
High
Euro (EUR) €
Bavarian Hub
Vibe:
Home to the largest urban park in the world, Englischer Garten
Tip:
Munich is a blend of old-world charm and modern flair. With its beautiful historic architecture, world-famous beer culture, and vibrant cultural scene, the city invites visitors to explore Bavarian traditions, stunning gardens, and cutting-edge modern art.
🇮🇹
Amalfi
Amalfi Coast
16.8
6
Euro (EUR) €
Amalfi Coast
Vibe:
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance.
Tip:
Amalfi offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, with steep cliffs that descend into crystal-clear waters. The town’s beaches are among the most beautiful in Italy, making it a popular spot for relaxation. Amalfi is also known for its traditional cuisine, especially the fresh seafood dishes served at local restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the town’s vibrant culture, from its festivals to its artisan workshops. The Amalfi Cathedral is a must-see for history lovers, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich religious and architectural history. Amalfi also attracts visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views, making it the perfect destination for a getaway.
🏎️
Monaco
Luxe & Glamorous
16
High
Euro (EUR) €
Luxe & Glamorous
Vibe:
Monaco is the second smallest country in the world.
Tip:
Monaco is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. The city-state is known for its dazzling wealth, lavish casinos, and glamorous events like the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world. Monaco’s Mediterranean setting provides the perfect backdrop for high-end yachts, fine dining, and elegant shopping. The city’s old town, Monaco-Ville, offers a more historical side to this modern luxury haven, with the Prince’s Palace and the Oceanographic Museum standing as testaments to the principality’s rich history. Whether enjoying the views from the Prince’s Palace or partying in a glamorous casino, Monaco is a destination that exudes wealth and exclusivity.
🇮🇹
Napoli
Naples Unveiled
16.6
7
Euro (EUR) €
Naples Unveiled
Vibe:
Naples has a unique underground city with ancient Roman ruins and catacombs that are open to the public.
Tip:
Napoli is an incredibly diverse city that mixes the ancient with the modern. Visitors can explore the hauntingly beautiful underground ruins of Roman Naples, wander through narrow, bustling streets, and experience the passion of local musicians and dancers. The famous pizza margherita originated here, and Naples’ culinary scene remains one of Italy’s finest. Don’t miss the iconic views of Vesuvius and the Pompeii ruins.
🏖️
Portofino
Scenic & Serene
16-27°C
High
Euro (EUR) €
Scenic & Serene
Vibe:
Ancient Roman harbor.
Tip:
Portofino is an idyllic coastal village that combines Mediterranean charm with luxury and exclusivity. The village is known for its picture-perfect harbor, where yachts and colorful buildings create a stunning backdrop for visitors. Portofino’s relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy delicious seafood at a waterside restaurant or explore the winding streets of the village. The nearby Cinque Terre offers stunning hiking trails, while the beautiful beaches provide a peaceful escape. A walk to the Church of St. George offers panoramic views of this breathtaking corner of Italy.
🇯🇴
Amman
Local Amman
18.3
Jordanian Dinar (JOD) د.ا‎
Local Amman
Vibe:
Amman is home to the Roman Theatre, built in the 2nd century AD, which still hosts cultural events today.
Tip:
Amman is a city with a rich history that spans thousands of years. From the Roman Theatre to the Citadel, every street and building tells a story of the past. The city also blends modern amenities with traditional markets, making it an ideal place to experience both ancient and contemporary Jordanian life. Visitors can explore Amman’s many historic landmarks, enjoy delicious Arabic cuisine, or take a short trip to the nearby Dead Sea or Petra. Amman offers visitors a warm welcome and is a perfect base for exploring the wider country. The city's culture, food, and music make it an unforgettable destination.