Zürich-what a city to call home. Switzerland is truly one of the most beautiful countries to live in and Zürich has no shortage of local sights to soak in. Switzerland’s largest city offers so much beyond the stereotypes and is not the sleepy, stuffy, Type-A city it once was. The city has changed massively in the last ten years since living here and offers much more in terms of culture, restaurants, retail and nightlife than it once did!
Zürch is the perfect stop on a wider European trip as Switzerland borders Austria, France, German, Liechtenstein and Italy- you can reach most major European cities via train, car, or plane in a short period of time.
For some, the Swiss sticker shock may still take some time to get over but if you come from a larger, international city you can rest assured you won`t fall off your chair when the bill comes.
While Zürich is a great addition to a trip, any time of year, we love it best in the summer and autumn. Of course, skiers will argue that December-March is the best time to pair a city trip with a weekend in the Alps. However, the city can come across as grey and gloomy in the winter months so if you want to get the most out of your Züri experience, plan to come June- late September. The city really brings on a whole different vibe come Summer. Lakefront BBQs, busy cafes, outdoor festivals, and lunch-break swims at the local Badi’s seem to be the norm throughout the city.
Zurich Airport is a breeze compared to most- it is clean, efficient and well, just Swiss. The airport is located only 10km from the city-center and Zürich HB (the main train station)which can easily be reached within 10-15 minutes with trains running every 5-10 minutes. Buy a train ticket at the airport at one of the many SBB ticket stands above the escalators or download the SBB App while you are here to buy the tickets via your mobile. Zurich also has Uber and Taxi`s if you prefer to transfer to the city via car. Depending on weekday traffic, this will likely take around 15-25 minutes.
While in Zürich, attempt to speak a little German or Swiss German if you know it!! It will go a long way with the Swiss (especially if you are outside the city in the germanic speaking part) however, you can easily get by with English in the city as it is so international.
EAT
Zurich offers some great dining options- it may not be London or Paris but it does offer an international dining experience in addition to the local Swiss staples. While here, be sure not to miss trying some of the traditional dishes Älplermagronen, Nüsslisalat, Cordon Bleu, Rösti, Raclette and of course, the beloved cheese Fondue.
We have featured some of our favorite spots herein but have pinned several others in the map directly so check out whats nearby based on your own travel plans!
Adlisberg Traditional Swiss restaurant outside the city-center serving local and classic, seasonal dishes. Expect a warm, cozy and authentic experience.
Bauernschanke This lovely modern Swiss restuarant in Old town does not disappoint! They feature seasonal specialities and some modern takes on the Swiss classics. If its on the menu, be sure to try the Parmesean Milk rolls!
Co Chin Chin Trendy vietmanese spot in the red light district. Best paired with a pre/post dinner drink at Kasheme.
Degenried Relaxed, cozy Swiss spot in the forrest above Zurich. We love combining this spot with a walk/hike on a sunny day!
Josef European dishes served in small plates and great cocktails. A go-to when we have out-of-town visitors for something a little different.
IGNIV Zurich This two-star Michelen Restuarant is nestled in Old Town and is the perfect spot for a special night out. Expect creative dishes to test your palet throughout the night. The food and service are excellent! We are still thinking about the dessert bar to cap off our night.
Grand'in Osteria Smaller Italian spot in Kreis 8 which consistently offers a great atmosphere, food, wine, and overall experience.
La Baracca- This hole in the wall restaurant specializes in delicious homeade italian dishes. The Tagliatelle Bologna Mon Amour never disappoints!
Lumiere Traditional French Bistro in the heart of the city. The Entrecôte Café de Paris is a must try that will melt in your mouth!
Miracle Pizza Located in Seefeld (Kreis 8), this neighborhood spot is a go-to for a casual Pizza dinner.
Kronenhalle This is a classic Zürich establishment dating back to 1924. Make a booking and enjoy traditional Swiss-French dishes while surrounded by the owners impressive art collection. At a minimum, go for a drink while visiting!
Restaurant Kindli Located right off the charming Rennweg street, this traditional spot exceeds expectations in mastering the classic Swiss dishes. Opt for a table outside in the summer and start with a Hugo Spritz. First timers in Zürich, try the Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.
Ornellaia High end Italian- owned by the Bindella family- this reputable spot specializes in Tuscan dishes and is the perfect spot for special evening out.
The Restuarant at the Dolder Grand. This two Michelin star experience is incredible with modern and creative dishes accompanied by an exquisite wine menu. Try to reserve a table near the window and admire the views over Zürich city and the lake.
Here are our go-to American style restuarants around the city:
Brisket The only reputable spot in the city when craving Texas style BBQ - great cocktails too!
Fork and Bottle Solid spot year-around but their patio is a crowd favorite. A hit for both brunch and lunch- we love to pair this spot with a walk around Allemend or Uetliberg. Known for their craft beers and Burgers. Our regular is the Southern Fried Chicken burger
The Bite- Looking for a no frills spot for a solid burger and fries- this is your place
Yardbird - For those nights when you crave a little Southern Fried Chicken and wings.
For vegetarians and vegans, be sure to try out local favorites Kle, Dar or Neuetaverne
Brunch favorites
Artisan Located near Wipkingen, this organic brunch spot is a delight in the warmer months with an inviting terrace and seasonal menu.
Bohemia A go-to for brunch in Seefeld - try the bagel florentine
Grain Local Sunday Brunch spot- were you can find craft beer, bloody marys and breakfast burritos - the start you need after a long night!
Milchbar Cute little Swiss cafe near Paradeplatz- great for a coffee or a longer linger and a bite.
Montmarte Un petit cafe- this little french spot is perfect for a coffee and crossaint to get your day started
The Storchen Upscale brunch in the city on the Limmat River. Expect a set menu which includes drinks and a bottle of Champagne (unfortunately it is not bottomless!)
Chocolate shops
Be sure to check out Confiserie Sprüngli or Läderach during one of your visits. At Sprüngli try a schoggi brioche and their Luxemburgerli’s (cream-filled pastry) and at Läderach, try their traditional FrischSchoggi (chocolate bricks)
DRINK
Bauschaenzli Casual and inviting beer garden in the heart of the city
Bar am Wasser Posh spot near the Limmat- great for cocktails & mocktails
Dante Trendy Gin bar near Langstrasse
Kasheme Good vibes bar and lounge in Kreis 5
Milchbar Our go-to coffee shop in Kreis 1
Monacle Boutique coffee and retail shop in Seefeld
The Nest Rooftop bar with amazing views over the city- they don`t take reservations so try to go during off peak hours
Raygrodski Bar Innovative cocktails in Kreis 3
Summer spots
Frau Gerolds Garten Located near the Im Viadukts, this urban garden/outdoor oasis is a great stop for a casual lunch and drink while exploring the various retail shops lining the Viadukts.
Gelati am see Don`t let the line sway your decision- this gelato is well worth the wait!
Rimini This spot doubles as a mens-only badi during the day and open bar at night. The perfect spot for a casual evening with friends. They take reservations for bigger groups
Fischers Fritz Enjoy beautiful views over lake Zürich while sipping Rosé. Book in advance.
Strozzi`s This Lakeside restuarant in Herrliberg is right on the water and offers great views for a lakeside dinner option.
Widder Garden Only open during optimal weather days (love that for them). Go for a salad and a spritz.
While visiting during the summer, be sure to check out one of the many Badi`s (natural swimming pools along the lake/rivers)
Badi Enge The place to be- Badi Enge is on the smaller side but offers arguably some of the best views of Lake Zürich and some of the best food options compared to other Badi`s.
Frauenbad Stadthausquai Right in the heart of the city, this womens only badi is a great spot to relax during the day and it becomes a unisex bar & lounge in the evening.
Badi Tiefenbrunnen This is a much larger Badi which provides space for volleyball/bocce/games, SuP rentals, etc. This is a family-friendly spot with kiddie amenities and large changing areas.
Badi Utoquai Great spot and great location- they have separate and coed sections available. Go to the roof-deck for great photos and views over the lake.
Letten This no frills hipster river side spot is a great place to day drink, soak up the sun and float down the river.
PLAY
The classic must-see stops include strolls through the Old town, “Niederdorf” (get lost in the cobble stone streets), Bahnofstrasse(main shopping street with the classic and upscale brands) and down the Limmat River. And of course no visit to Zurich would be complete without a Lakeside stroll-we recommend walking from Opernhaus down to Zürichorn. When walking through Old Town, be sure to walk up through Lindenholf to check out the locals playing chess and take in views of the charming Grossmünster church.
Zürich is very walkable but bike and scooter rentals are available throughout the city.
For a little culture check out Kunsthaus ( free on Wednesdays!) Museum Rietberg or the Swiss National Museum. Check out the websites in advance for any notable exhibits. While strolling the Old Town, be sure to check out the famous Grossmünster and Fraumünster medieval churches. While in the Grossmünster, you can climb the spiral staircase for a small donation to take in views over the Limmat River and Lake Zürich.
For a little electro party, head to Hardbrücke and check out Hive or Supermarkt. When in Langstrasse, check out Kauz, Zukunft or Longstreet Bar. Near the Opernhaus, head to Club Bellevue.
For a little relaxation, check out the Hürlimannbad Spa or go to the day-spa at the Dolder Grand Hotel.
Take in the views with a boat tour of Zürichsee. Most leave from Zürich Bürkliplatz
For some retail therapy, Banhofstrasse and Old Town will have your classic and upscale brands. If your looking for a more boutique experiene, wander through the Im Viadukts for a wider selection of European brands and wander through kreis 3, 4 & 8 for select boutiques.
The city`s most recent retail development is Europaallee next to Zürich HB. This area is full of restuarants, bars, pop-up as well as established retailers, boutique fitness studios and business. Well worth a visit if in the area.
Take a hike! On a clear day, head to the local mountain, Uetliberg which is surrounded by several hiking trails and the top offers amazing 360-degree views over Zürich. The top of Uetliberg can also be reached via train from Zurich HB.
STAY
Zurich is a small city and you really can`t go wrong. Try to stay central so you are in walking distance to most attractions. We would recommend Kreis 1, 2, 3, 4 or 8.
If you want a splash out stay, try the Baur au Lac or the Dolder Grand. The Dolder Grand is slightly outside of the city center but with public transport you can be downtown within 10 minutes.
