Top 25 Must-Do Activities in Zürich, Switzerland

Summary:

Switzerland’s largest city is located along its shimmering eponymous lake. Zürich stands out as a financial hub, boasting a livability ranking that surpasses nearly all other global cities. From the Hauptbahnhof, you can reach a mountain peak infused with sparkling air in just a few minutes, while the city’s rivers and the magnificent lake offer exceptional water quality for swimming. The outdoor pools, known as “badis,” have metamorphosed into lively social venues in the heart of the city.

The attractions, upscale shops, and trendy nightlife of Zürich are concentrated in the Altstadt, a historic center that is bisected by the Limmat River flowing from the lake.

Let’s delve into the top activities to experience in Zürich:

1. Lake Zürich

This elongated, crescent-shaped lake gracefully curves past the wooded elevations of Pfannenstiel to the east and the Albis range to the west.

There are numerous ways to fully appreciate the lake, some of which will be detailed later.

For ease, if you are leisurely walking around the city, consider traversing the scenic promenade along the eastern shore in the Seefeld district.

From there, you can gaze at Uetliberg, observing hundreds of yachts and various craft gliding across the lake during summer.

The promenade commences at Bellevue and stretches three kilometers down to Tiefenbrunnen.

This is part of a network of walkways established around the lakeshore in the 1880s.

2. Museum of Art

Situated near Schauspielhaus on Heimplatz, Zürich’s outstanding Museum of Art features an impressive collection.

Featuring works dating from the 1200s to the 2000s, the collection is distinguished as it houses the largest accumulation of pieces by the renowned Swiss artist Alberto Giacometti worldwide.

You may indulge your curiosity in Swiss art, appreciating works by symbolists such as Ferdinand Hodler, Romantics like Henry Fuseli, or contemporary pieces by artists including Pipilotti Rist and Peter Fischli.

In addition, there is an extensive international selection, including the largest Edvard Munch collection outside Scandinavia and works by van Gogh, Monet, Marc Chagall, Picasso, and Max Beckmann, alongside masterpieces from Rembrandt and Domenichino.

3. Altstadt (Old Town)

The entirety of Kreis 1 (District 1) constitutes Zürich’s historic center located on both banks of the Limmat.

The medieval and early modern streets of the Altstadt harbor much of the city’s culture, nightlife, and shopping.

This area serves as a delightful maze where one might enjoy discovering small squares, cafes, unique shops, and a variety of historic landmarks ranging from four medieval churches to the 17th-century Town Hall.

The waterfront along the Limmat is a sight to behold, while the right bank along Limmatquai features beautiful medieval guildhouses representing carpentry, merchant trade, spice commerce, and more.

On the western edge of Altstadt, one can observe the massive scale of the 17th-century defensive structures, which include ramparts and the Schanzengraben moat.

4. Lindenhof

On the left bank of the Limmat, lies a hill that once supported a Roman fortress.

This elevated location, shaded by lime trees, offers uninterrupted views of Zürich’s oldest neighborhoods on the right bank, allowing one to identify notable landmarks on the skyline, including City Hall, the Grossmünster Church, the university, and the waterfront along the Limmat.

Today, the Lindenhof is a tranquil space with a rich history: Long after the Roman fortification, Charlemagne’s grandson Louis the German erected his palace here in the 9th century.

Moreover, in 1798, Zürich’s citizens pledged allegiance to the Helvetic Constitution at this very site.

5. Zürich-West

Although the Old Town attracts many tourists, those seeking to explore Zürich’s artistic and fashionable side will find this former industrial district appealing.

District 5, situated northwest of the Hauptbahnhof, was a center for heavy manufacturing until the late 20th century.

Just over a decade ago, this area was deemed uninviting, but significant revitalization has occurred rapidly.

A key feature in Zürich-West is the Viadukt, a repurposed railway viaduct where the brick arches now accommodate trendy bars, restaurants, and shops.

Additionally, former factories have been removed, making way for parks and leisure facilities, such as cinemas.

The impressive Prime Tower, Switzerland’s second-tallest skyscraper, also serves as a landmark in Zürich-West’s transformation.

6. Swiss National Museum

Switzerland’s most extensive collection of historical artifacts can be found at this museum, which delves into Swiss culture and chronicles the nation’s history.

Beginning with prehistoric tools and pottery, the exhibits traverse through different eras, reaching the 20th century.

Certain periods, such as the medieval epoch, are particularly well represented, showcasing masterly Gothic art.

The extensive Renaissance section includes wooden figures, intricately carved altars, and triptychs from chapels and churches across the country.

Moreover, visitors can view Swiss art movements within the gallery and explore artifacts from Zürich’s former armory.

All of this is presented within an extravagant Renaissance Revival palace built in 1898.

7. Grossmünster

The iconic towers of this Romanesque church are among Zürich’s most recognizable landmarks.

The Grossmünster, originally a monastic church, commenced construction in the early 12th century and reached completion just over a century later.

Architectural enthusiasts will appreciate the main portal adorned with sculpted capitals featuring grotesques.

The crypt, the church’s oldest section, also retains authenticity and exhibits faded frescoes by Hans Leu the Elder from the 14th century.

During the 16th century, Grossmünster became the focal point of the Reformation in Switzerland, led by Huldrych Zwingli, as it separated from the papacy in 1523. A dedicated museum at the church elucidates these events.

Notably, the modern stained glass windows in the choir include works by Alberto Giacometti, along with a set by the renowned German artist Sigmar Polke.

8. Zürich Zoo

For those who prioritize ethical considerations in animal attractions, Zürich Zoo adheres to the highest standards.

Special emphasis has been placed on habitat design, synthesizing entire ecosystems and affording animals ample space to roam.

This is particularly evident at the Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park, where the modern habitat for Indian elephants features underwater viewing areas that allow visitors to observe their aquatic activities.

In total, the zoo houses 4,000 animals representing 340 species, from emperor penguins strolling through the park to domestic animals in the petting zoo.

9. Uetliberg

Since 1875, it has been possible to catch a train from the city center to the peak of this mountain located to the southwest.

Taking the S10 on the SZU from Hauptbahnhof, you will be at the summit in just 25 minutes.

From the station at Uetliberg, a brief walk will lead you to the peak.

The panoramic views from this vantage point are unparalleled, offering a breathtaking perspective over Zürich, its rivers, the lake, and the snow-capped Alps in the distance.

A restaurant and hotel are located at the peak, while many visitors choose to hike through the woodlands.

During the early winter months, the peak rises above a fog blanket that envelops the city, leaving only the tallest buildings visible.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike back down to the city or opt for the cable car between Felsenegg and Adliswil.

10. Niederdorf

Situated under the towers of the Grossmünster, the vibrant Niederdorf district is both youthful and dynamic.

Dwellers of Zürich often refer to it as Dörfli, and you will undoubtedly understand why upon experiencing the ambiance in this tight web of pedestrian-only cobblestone alleys situated along the right bank of the Limmat.

During the day, it is ideal for exploring design shops and fashionable boutiques, while nighttime offers opportunities for lively entertainment.

From a culinary standpoint, you must try Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a dish featuring veal in a wine and cream sauce.

Additionally, there are notable places to consider, such as the Conditorei Péclard, a traditional cafe adorned with century-old decor, and Cabaret Voltaire, a birthplace of the Dada movement.

11. Limmat Cruise

To experience a journey along the city’s principal river, visit the quay in front of the Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum). Cruises are available from April to October, with boats departing every half hour.

In July and August, the boats operate between 09:05 and 21:05. This trip is highly recommended, as it grants a stunning viewpoint of Zürich’s Old Town, which extends along both banks of the river.

The boats are engineered to navigate beneath all seven of the city’s bridges on the Limmat, providing a different perspective of sights such as the Grossmünster and Fraumünster.

12. Rietberg Museum

Located within a collective of opulent villas and a modern annex in Rieterpark, the Rietberg Museum showcases art and archaeology from across the globe.

This includes liturgical items from the South Seas, Ancient Egyptian sculptures, Buddhist art from East Asia, African carvings, as well as intricately designed masks from Switzerland.

The extensive archives offer a wealth of material for temporary exhibitions focused on specific regions or themes.

During summer, the museum cafe provides picnic baskets, making it possible to enjoy lunch in the surrounding Rieterpark.

13. Bahnhofstrasse

Zürich’s premier shopping street is recognized as one of the most expensive in the world per square meter.

It is fitting that many sleek storefronts display international luxury brands.

Expect to find labels like Prada, Chanel, Burberry, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.

Zürich’s affluence is most evident on Bahnhofstrasse, particularly during December when Christmas decorations adorn the area.

Although there is no vehicular traffic, trams travel along the street and can catch visitors off guard.

Luxury boutiques tend to cluster towards the southern end near Paradeplatz.

On this square, you can visit the renowned Sprüngli confectionery shop and cafe, where Zürich’s elite have enjoyed coffee and pastries since the 19th century.

14. Beyer Clock and Watch Museum

Located beneath the Beyer jeweler and watch shop on Bahnhofstrasse, this fascinating museum unveils the history of timekeeping and the intricate art of watchmaking.

Despite lacking prominent signage from the street, visitors need not worry about missing it.

Upon entry, you will receive an iPad that provides comprehensive information about each timepiece, with the oldest dating back 3,400 years.

This space hosts navigation instruments, pendulum clocks, intricate automata from the 16th and 17th centuries, exquisitely crafted pocket watches, and an early model of the first quartz wristwatch produced in the 1960s.

15. Fraumünster

This church was established by Charlemagne’s grandson Louis the German in the 9th century, although much of the architecture hails from the 12th to 15th centuries.

Since 2016, it has been possible to view stonework from the 800s that had been sealed off for over a century in the crypt.

Similar to the Grossmünster, Giacometti designed a stained glass window for this church, located in the north transept.

Additionally, in 1970, Marc Chagall was commissioned to create five windows in the choir, titled Prophets, Jacob, Christ, Zion, and Law.

16. FIFA World Football Museum

Located in the Enge quarter, the long-discussed FIFA museum opened in 2016, occupying three floors of a mixed-use development featuring an elegant layout.

Regardless of your views on the sport’s governing body, the museum is essential for enthusiasts of football: The exhibition traces the sport’s early history and chronicles every World Cup since its inception in 1930. Notable artifacts from each event, including the original World Cup trophy, are on display.

The museum’s state-of-the-art design offers ample interactive opportunities.

Multimedia elements are prominent, featuring more than 500 videos, while children can engage in various football-themed games.

17. St Peter

Like the other churches in the Altstadt, St Peter is ancient, tracing back to the 8th century.

Much of what you see today originates from the 12th to 18th centuries, although portions of the 9th-century foundations are visible beneath the chancel.

Interestingly, the tower is owned by the city, while the nave belongs to the Canton of Zürich church body.

This arrangement arises from the fact that the tower historically served as a watch post to identify fires early.

Prominently, the tower features the largest clock in Europe, with a diameter of 86.64 meters.

On the exterior wall of the tower, look for the 14th-century tomb of Rudolf Brun, Zürich’s inaugural independent mayor.

18. Pavillon Le Corbusier

In the latter part of his career, Le Corbusier, a prominent figure in 20th-century architecture, designed a museum dedicated to his life’s work along the eastern shore of Lake Zürich at Seefeld.

Regarded as a “Gesamtkunstwerk,” the Pavillon represents a cohesive work of art, akin to the Dalí Theatre and Museum in Spain.

Completed in 1967, this museum signifies his last major project before his passing two years earlier.

The design marked a departure from his traditional style, incorporating steel and vividly colored enamel panels rather than his signature concrete.

Inside, viewers will find paintings by Le Corbusier, sketches of groundbreaking projects, drawings, sculptures, written exhibits, and numerous examples of his transformative furniture designs.

19. Zürich Opera House

The splendid Neoclassical Opera House at Sechseläutenplatz, constructed in the 1890s, was designed by the accomplished Viennese architects Fellner & Helmer.

As you stand on the square, take a moment to identify the busts of notable cultural figures that adorn the facade, including Mozart, Wagner, Schiller, Goethe, Shakespeare, and Weber.

The Opera House continues to attract acclaim, having won the prize for Best Opera Company at the International Opera Awards in 2014.

German-speaking tours of the interior and its magnificent Rococo Revival hall are available.

However, to truly experience its magic, attending one of the 250 performances held annually by international opera stars and conductors is essential.

20. University of Zürich Botanical Garden

Zürich is known for its high cost of living, which makes the fact that these gardens in Seefeld are completely free a pleasant surprise.

Containing over 8,000 plant species in both indoor and outdoor displays, the gardens are a botanical treasure.

A primary feature of the garden is a trio of dome-shaped greenhouses constructed in the 1970s, each housing different climatic conditions: the largest contains tropical species, while the smaller two shelter subtropical and savannah plants.

Outdoors, you will find an arboretum, a Mediterranean garden, and historically-themed gardens dedicated to plants used for dyeing and medicinal purposes.

The university’s faculty canteen is open to the public, providing an opportunity to enjoy a meal or coffee to conclude your visit.

21. Outdoor Swimming

The city’s rivers and Lake Zürich offer impeccable water quality, and there is an array of locations to immerse yourself in the open air.

One such spot, Frauenbad am Stadthausquai, caters exclusively to women, while the counterpart for men is located at Schanzengraben.

Both locations are centrally situated and ideal for incorporating physical activity into your day.

These venues also transform into stylish bars during summer evenings, providing a nightlife experience unique to Zürich.

Families with children should consider visiting Strandbad Tiefenbrunnen, a small resort located on the city’s southern side, or Strandbad Mythenquai on the opposite shore.

22. Schanzengraben

Located on the western side of the Old Town, the Schanzengraben represents the city’s former moat, initiated during the Thirty Years’ War in 1642 and finalized in 1678. Although few traces of Zürich’s historic defenses remain, navigating this lengthy, winding waterway amidst the remnants of old bastions provides immense insight into the project’s magnitude.

In the 1880s, Schanzengraben was redesigned for recreational purposes as part of the promenade system: descend the stairway to the moat’s edge, situated two meters below the level of the city, for a peaceful stroll down to the lake.

Where the Katz bastion once stood, you can explore a small branch of the Botanical Garden featuring two hectares of flowerbeds and labeled trees.

23. Zoological Museum

Also a valuable free attraction run by the university, the Zoological Museum is easily accessible within a short walk from the city center.

Integrating exhibits from the university’s palaeontology museum, this venue showcases skeletons and taxidermy from thousands of both living and extinct animal species.

Recently, the museum has undertaken efforts to enhance its family-friendliness and immersive experiences: enjoy the sounds of 280 bird species and peer into microscopes to observe the fascinating anatomical features of insects.

Visitors can even touch some specimens, allowing them to feel the texture of boar or deer fur, while quizzes engage children and keep them entertained.

24. Dolderbahn

From Römershof, just east of the city center, a unique single-coach train ascends to a recreation area and hotel.

This area lies on the lower slopes of Adlisberg, one of Zürich’s highest peaks.

This line has been operational since 1895 and originally functioned as a funicular before transitioning to a rack railway in the 1970s.

A ride on the Dolder represents an idiosyncratic experience in Zürich; the maximum incline can reach nearly 20%, adding an exhilarating element to the journey. The trip is covered by the ZürichCARD, and once at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city framed by its lake.

25. Street Parade

For those who are young and passionate about electronic music, there is no better place on the planet than Zürich on the second Saturday in August.

This day marks one of the world’s largest electronic music festivals taking to the streets.

Street Parade has been held since 1992, inspired by the now-defunct Love Parade in Berlin.

This event continues to grow, attracting over a million attendees for a street party that meanders along the shores of Lake Zürich, stretching from Hutoquai to Hafen Enge.

Approximately 30 “Love Mobiles” with powerful sound systems accompany the parade, where hundreds of DJs perform sets across seven distinct locations along the shore.

Regardless of your preferences—be it house, trap music, drum & bass, trance, or any other sub-genre—you are sure to find a celebration that resonates with your style.