Ultimate Guide to 10 Must-Do Activities in Zürich

Despite its population not exceeding half a million, Zürich stands at the forefront of Switzerland in sectors such as business, finance, nightlife, and culinary arts. If events are unfolding in Switzerland, they are likely originating in Zürich.

Highly walkable with a seamless transport system, Zürich—affectionately referred to as Züri by locals—features world-renowned museums, a vibrant social environment, and an unrivaled lakeside culture. Here are some of the premier activities to engage in while visiting Switzerland’s largest city.

Admire Chagall’s Modernist Windows at the Fraumünster

Situated on the left bank of the Limmat River, the Fraumünster is one of Zürich’s oldest religious establishments, originating as a convent dating back to 853 CE. However, its primary attraction today lies in a more contemporary feature: a series of stained glass windows designed by modernist artist Marc Chagall in 1967.

The five panels, adorned with vibrant colors and abstract forms, illustrate biblical narratives. Notably, Picasso admired these works, and the appeal is readily apparent. At the time of their inauguration, Chagall was 83 years old and continued to create, adding the equally remarkable rose window at the venerable age of 90.

Detour: Cross the Münsterbrücke to visit the Grossmünster, located on the opposite bank of the Limmat. Its twin bell towers are iconic landmarks in the city. The interior, although simple, is enlivened by modern stained glass windows crafted by German artist Sigmar Polke. The plainness of the design reflects the influence of Huldrych Zwingli, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation who preached here in the 16th century.

Learn Switzerland’s History at the Landesmuseum

Housed within a 19th-century stone edifice adjacent to the train station, the Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum) offers visitors insight into the nation’s history. The permanent exhibition guides guests through Switzerland’s diverse history, spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary times.

Exhibits illuminate the nation’s recent history, reflecting its stance on banking secrecy, neutrality, foreign migration, and women’s rights (notably, women gained the right to vote only in 1971)—topics that provoke interest beyond mere facts. Additionally, a formidable display of Middle Ages weaponry showcases the progression the country has made.

Be sure to view the original 1862 edition of Henry Dunant’s account of the Battle of Solferino, which significantly influenced his humanitarian philosophy and contributed to the establishment of the International Committee of the Red Cross a year later.

Wander the Old Town and Relax in Lindenhof

Upon completing your exploration of the Altstadt (Old Town)—characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, ornate buildings, charming boutiques, cafes, taverns, and bierkellers (beer cellars)—take a moment to rest on a bench beneath the trees at Lindenhof. This serene plateau on a hill offers a picturesque view of the Limmat River and the city skyline. Once the location of a Roman fort and later a royal palace, it now serves as a social gathering spot, a picnic area, a haven for chess enthusiasts, and a popular backdrop for tourists capturing selfies.

Planning tip: Water fountains are available at Lindenhof and throughout the city. Unless stated otherwise, the water is exceptionally clean and potable. It is advisable to bring your own bottle to refill as you explore.

Explore Niederdorf’s Coffee and Craft Culture

Döorfli, meaning “little village,” is situated on the right bank of the Limmat River and is a segment of Zürich’s Old Town. Reflecting Zürich’s youthful spirit alongside its historical essence, the cobbled pedestrian streets house contemporary art galleries, upscale artisan shops, cafes, delis, traditional taverns, and stylish bars that attract a vibrant clientele.

Discover gourmet coffees and chocolates at Schwarzenbach grocery, which appears largely unchanged since its establishment in 1864. Afterward, enjoy dinner and drinks at Am Rank, a chic bar known for hosting performances by some of Zürich’s upcoming music talents.

Discover Dada at Cabaret Voltaire

During World War I in 1916, a collective of artists, writers, and intellectuals sought refuge in neutral Switzerland. This period saw Zürich emerge as a hub for the avant-garde. These anti-bourgeois thinkers congregated at Cabaret Voltaire, a modest bar located on a cobbled street in Niederdorf, where they initiated Dada, an innovative and anarchistic literary and artistic movement.

The bar currently honors this legacy while promoting the work of contemporary artists. Enjoy a coffee or a Dada Sour in the ground-floor Artists’ Bar—each year, this space features a new artist’s work—or explore the Dada Library on the first floor, where Dada founder Hugo Ball and his associates once performed.

Detour: For those intrigued by Dada, visit the Kunsthaus Zürich, the city’s principal art gallery, which boasts the world’s largest collection of Dada art, including works by Man Ray, Tristan Tzara, and Swiss artist Sophie Taeuber-Arp.

Swim in a Lakeside Badi

As with many Swiss cities, Zürich thrives on its waterways. During the summer months, the banks of the Limmat and the shores of the Zürichsee (Lake Zürich) become bustling with sunbathers, swimmers, and the aroma of grilled sausages.

The city’s numerous badis (swimming baths) play an essential role in Zürich life, providing changing facilities, sun decks, and access to water, while also serving as venues for socialization, dining, and refreshments into the evening.

Experience the nostalgia of wooden bathhouses like Seebad Utoquai, operational since 1850, featuring both single-sex and mixed areas, as well as sauna and massage services—plus exceptional sunset views over the city.

Planning tip: Most badis close in winter; therefore, enhance your lakeside experience by taking a boat ride across the lake or venturing further afield with the Lake Zürich Navigation Company, which offers both commuter services and leisurely cruises throughout the year.

Hike up Uetliberg, Zürich’s Local Mountain

While higher, grander mountains lie in close proximity to Zürich, Uetliberg is cherished as the city’s local mountain. Accessing it is simple; just take the S10 tram from the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) and walk 10 minutes to the viewpoint.

Beloved in all seasons, Uetliberg features family-friendly hiking paths and picnic areas in summer as well as toboggan runs in winter. The panoramic vistas of the city and lake are breathtaking year-round, and especially delightful on fall or winter days when you can rise above the fog that frequently envelops the city, revealing the blue sky above.

Join the Post-Work Crowd in Zürich West

Unlike the picturesque aspects of the city’s Old Town and riversides, Zürich West possesses a raw, unrefined character. A blend of former industrial edifices, concrete overpasses, and railway tracks defines this area, which has recently been revitalized by enterprising locals who have established unique bars, eateries, and cultural venues within its unconventional spaces.

Investigate the boutiques and food hall nestled beneath the railway arches at Im Viadukt or attend a theatrical performance at the Schiffbau, the historical site of Zürich’s shipbuilding operations. You’ll find the post-work crowd enjoying the atmosphere at Frau Gerolds Garten, a surprising green space populated with shipping-container bars, independent shops, and an organic kitchen garden surrounding an area with shaded benches.

Planning tip: To reach Zürich West from the town center, consider using an electric scooter; various companies, including Bolt, Vio, and Lime, offer on-street rental through their applications.

Eat Plant-Based Food at Hiltl, the World’s Oldest Vegetarian Restaurant

While plant-based cuisine has gained significant popularity in recent years, Zürich has a long history with vegetarianism. The restaurant Hiltl has been serving meat-free delights since 1898, earning its designation as the oldest vegetarian restaurant globally, according to Guinness World Records.

The original establishment located on Sihlstrasse, Haus Hiltl, has inspired various other locations throughout the city, all offering an extensive buffet of inventive salads, pasta dishes, and mezze-style offerings drawing inspiration from global flavors. Even committed carnivores will discover satisfying options. Haus Hiltl also provides an à la carte menu with table service.

Detour: If vegetarian fare does not appeal to you, seek out a traditional Swiss bratwurst. Sternen Grill has been serving this classic snack since 1963, which you can pair with a slice of bread or a serving of potato salad.

Climb the Freitag Tower

It is challenging to spend a day in Switzerland without encountering someone carrying a Freitag bag. This ubiquitous Swiss brand emerged in Zürich during the early 1990s, conceived by two innovative brothers who aimed to create functional messenger bags from recycled truck tarps.

Consequently, the flagship store in Zürich West is constructed from repurposed materials, specifically utilizing nine decommissioned shipping containers stacked to form a distinct tower. The ascent up the stairs to the top may be demanding, yet the view of the region’s industrial landscape and its unexpected contrasts, including a nearby wave pool where surfers ride the waves, makes it worthwhile.

This article was originally published on May 13, 2019, and was later updated on March 15, 2024.