Zurich travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Zurich

Discover Zurich, a European gem with a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Located between stunning landscapes, Zurich is known for its pristine streets, efficient public transport, and high quality of life. This makes it a comfortable and enjoyable destination.

One of the standout features of this Swiss city is its cultural richness. The city boasts a wealth of museums, art galleries, and theaters. The Kunsthaus Zurich houses one of Switzerland’s most important art collections. Meanwhile, the Swiss National Museum offers a deep dive into the country’s history. With its medieval buildings and narrow, winding streets, strolling through the old town feels like stepping back in time.

Zurich is also blessed with stunning natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of Lake Zurich and surrounded by the Swiss Alps, the city provides breathtaking landscapes that invite both relaxation and adventure. The lake offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and lakeside picnics. The nearby mountains are great for hiking and skiing.

Shopping and dining in Zurich are experiences that should not be missed. Bahnhofstrasse is one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets. It is lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and famous Swiss chocolatiers. The city’s dining scene features a mix of traditional Swiss cuisine and international flavors, catering to all tastes and preferences.

Navigating Zurich is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. With cultural treasures, natural beauty, and modern amenities, Zurich stands out as a top travel destination. A visit here promises a memorable and enriching vacation experience. For further details, visit the official website of Zurich.

History of Zurich

Zurich, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, has a rich and fascinating history. The city's roots date back to the Roman era, when it was known as 'Turicum'. In the Middle Ages, Zurich gained prominence as a member of the Holy Roman Empire and blossomed into a bustling hub of commerce and culture.

In the 16th century, Zurich became a focal point of the Protestant Reformation under the influence of reformer Huldrych Zwingli. This period reshaped the city's religious and socio-political landscape. The 19th century marked Zurich's rapid industrial growth, transforming it into Switzerland's economic engine. Today, Zurich is a cosmopolitan city, renowned for its banking sector and high quality of life.

Every corner of Zurich tells a story of its captivating past, from its well-preserved medieval Old Town to its grand churches and modern architectural marvels. This blend of history and modernity makes Zurich a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

Top services in Zurich

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Zurich, Switzerland. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Zurich, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Switzerland. Check out the best things to do in Zurich by browsing over 641 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 6 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Zurich with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Zurich from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Zurich with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Zurich travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Zurich!

Best time to visit Zurich

The best time to explore Zurich is typically during the spring and summer months from April to October. This period offers warm, pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring, from April to June, is particularly beautiful as the city blooms with flowers, and the temperatures range between 9-20°C. Summer, from July to October, brings longer daylight hours and temperatures from 15-25°C. This is also the peak tourist season, with higher crowd levels. Zurich's Street Parade, a massive techno party, takes place in August, attracting visitors from around the world. For those who prefer a quieter time, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons: early spring or late fall. These off-peak times provide a less crowded experience and slightly cooler weather. However, if you're a fan of winter sports, December to March is your ideal time, when the nearby ski resorts are in full swing. Whenever you choose to visit, Zurich offers a wealth of experiences to its visitors.

Weather in Zurich

Zurich experiences a temperate climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. From June to August, the city enjoys mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. These months are generally sunny, with occasional thunderstorms. However, the weather can change rapidly, so it's advisable to carry a light jacket and umbrella.

The winter months, from December to February, are typically cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, transforming the city into a picturesque winter wonderland. Despite the cold, the crisp, clear winter air and the stunning snow-covered landscapes make this a magical time to visit.

Spring and autumn are transition seasons, with moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall. The city is beautiful during these periods, with blossoming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. In conclusion, while Zurich's weather can be unpredictable, it is generally pleasant and the city's natural beauty shines through in all seasons.

Local tip for visiting Zurich

One insider tip for enhancing your travel experience in Zurich is to explore the city's neighborhoods on foot, particularly the areas of Langstrasse and Niederdorf. These neighborhoods, often overlooked by tourists, offer a more authentic experience of Zurich. Langstrasse, once notorious as Zurich's red-light district, has transformed into a vibrant cultural hotspot brimming with funky bars, eclectic boutiques, and mouthwatering international cuisine. Niederdorf, on the other hand, is a charming historic district filled with medieval buildings, cozy cafes, and narrow, winding streets. Strolling through these neighborhoods not only gives you a break from the bustling city center but also offers an insight into the local life. So, lace up your walking shoes and discover a side of Zurich that isn't featured in most guidebooks.

Learn more about Switzerland

With destinations such as Zurich, a trip to Switzerland needs no further explanation. Spanning over 41,285 square kilometers, Switzerland is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Switzerland has something to enchant every traveler.

In Zurich alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Lindenhof, Grossmünster, and Swiss National Museum. Thus, a trip to Switzerland becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Switzerland offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Switzerland. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Switzerland and its offers.

What to see in Zurich

Photo of beautiful view of historic city center of Zurich with famous Fraumunster Church.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Zurich, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Zurich offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Zurich travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Zurich

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Zurich is more than just a wonderful city in Switzerland. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Switzerland's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Zurich is the unforgettable Lindenhof. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Zurich.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Zurich, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Zurich, including the fascinating Lindenhof, Grossmünster, Swiss National Museum, Kunsthaus Zürich, and Zürich Opera House.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Zurich.

Things to do in Zurich

Photo of mountain village near zurich ,switzerland.

You've explored Zurich's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Zurich. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Zurich, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Zurich

A visit to Zurich gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Bus Tours, Guided Day Trips, Full-day Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Zurich, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Zurich. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Zurich offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Zurich

In Zurich, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 25 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Trips & Excursions.

Trips & Excursions offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Zurich. For example, the fantastic Zurich Walking Tour With Cruise and Aerial Cable Car.

Zurich also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Zurich Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days, for example, is the cheapest Full-day Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Zurich adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Zurich right below.

Find

All Experiences in Zurich

See more

Search for things to do in Zurich

Discover the best things to do in Zurich. Choose from 641 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Zurich. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Zurich.

What to eat in Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland's culinary capital, offers a diverse gastronomic experience. From the bustling street food scene around Langstrasse to the high-end restaurants in the Altstadt district, you'll never run out of best places to eat in Zurich. The city is known for its traditional Swiss dishes, such as Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (creamy sliced veal) and Rösti (Swiss-style grated and fried potatoes), which you can enjoy in historical establishments like the Kronenhalle or Zeughauskeller. For a taste of local street food, try the mouth-watering bratwurst from the stands along Bahnhofstrasse. For a more refined dining experience, visit the Dolder Grand or Pavillon, both Michelin-starred restaurants offering innovative interpretations of Swiss cuisine. To enhance your dining experience, book in advance for high-end restaurants, and don't hesitate to explore the local food markets and small eateries tucked away in the city's narrow streets. From traditional fare to innovative culinary creations, Zurich's food scene is sure to delight your palate.

Best Shopping in Zurich

Zurich, the vibrant heart of Switzerland, is a shopping paradise. The Bahnhofstrasse, often hailed as the best place to go shopping in Zurich, is a world-renowned shopping boulevard. Here, you'll find high-end international fashion brands, Swiss watch boutiques, and exquisite jewelry shops. For a more eclectic shopping experience, head to the bustling Niederdorf district with its charming narrow lanes filled with independent boutiques showcasing local craftsmanship.

Langstrasse, Zurich's most colorful district, boasts a unique mix of vintage stores, urban fashion, and design shops. Don't miss the Viadukt, a repurposed railway viaduct housing a variety of shops and markets offering organic produce, artisanal cheeses, and local crafts.

As for souvenirs, the traditional Swiss Army Knives, Swiss-made watches, and world-famous Swiss chocolate are must-buys. Remember, most shops in Zurich close by 8 PM and are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping spree accordingly. With its combination of luxury brands, local craftsmanship, and distinctive fashion, Zurich offers an unforgettable shopping experience.

Best Free Things to Do in Zurich

Uncover Zurich's vibrant spirit without spending a dime! Start your journey with one of the best free things to do in Zurich - a stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Immerse yourself in the city's history while marvelling at the picturesque medieval houses, churches, and town halls. Don't forget to visit Grossmünster, an iconic twin-towered church offering panoramic city views. Next, explore the bustling Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets - window-shopping won't cost you a penny! For nature lovers, the lush Lindenhof Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, is perfect for relaxation and offers stunning vistas of the Limmat River. Finally, no trip to Zurich would be complete without a visit to Lake Zurich. Lined with promenades and parks, this calming lake is perfect for picnics, walks, and even a refreshing swim during summer. From cultural explorations to natural retreats, Zurich offers a wealth of experiences that won't strain your wallet.

How to get to Zurich

International travelers can fly to Zurich by booking flights with Air France, Croatia Airlines, Vueling, Eurowings, and Finnair, offering flights to Zürich Airport. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Zurich.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Zurich, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Zurich. Go to this page to compare all flights to Zurich.

Find cheap flights to Zurich

Photo of Limmat River, Zurich.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Zurich is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Zurich. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Zurich, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Zurich even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Zurich both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Zurich

Travelers visiting Zurich can easily access the city via Zürich Airport, offering direct connection to 1259 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Zurich below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Zurich and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Car rentals in Zurich

Photo of Rheinfall, Switzerland panoramic aerial view, bridge and border between the cantons Schaffhausen and Zürich.

To navigate Zurich effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 6 car rental companies in Zurich, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Zurich start at 37 EUR per day or 260 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a B1 Vw Polo. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Zurich, starting at 37 EUR per day or 260 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Zurich, Switzerland below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Zurich

Renting a car in Zurich is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Zurich, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Zurich for your upcoming adventures in Switzerland below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Zurich

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Zurich. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Zurich, Switzerland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Zurich

Photo of beautiful view of the historic city center of Zurich.

The city of Zurich is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Switzerland. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Switzerland has it all.

Each destination in Switzerland offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Switzerland that are as magical as the city of Zurich. The most popular travel destinations in Switzerland are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Switzerland

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Switzerland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Zurich

Photo of  tourist girl enjoying her travel in Zurich, Switzerland.

Experience the authentic charm of Switzerland by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Zurich. Explore other destinations around Switzerland with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Zurich to other amazing locations in Switzerland, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Switzerland for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Zurich.

Search domestic flights from Zurich

Traveling to another city or region in Switzerland? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Zurich to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Switzerland on the selected dates.

Most popular countries in Europe

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.