Although, there is no official capital city of Switzerland, Zurich is the largest city and the financial centre of the country. When I travel to Zurich, I find that 2 to 3 days is enough to see the most of the sights in the city. The lake makes the city very scenic and gives the sense of space, so it doesn’t feel too crowded. There are a lot of interesting museums to visit and I recommend seeing the Opera house. Also, one of my favourite places to visit is the Lindt chocolate outlet. Not only can you buy heavily discounted bags of chocolates, but you can sample some while you are shopping.
Highlights
- Lake Zurich
- Zürich’s Town Hall (Rathaus)
- Zürich Opera House
- Zoo Zürich
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- St. Peter Church
- Grossmünster Church
- Fraumünster Church
- Zoological Museum of Zurich
- Swiss National Museum
- Botanical Garden
- Lindt Factory Outlet Kilchberg
- Museum Haus Konstruktiv
Before you go
- Switzerland is not an EU or EEA member, but is part of the single market and Schengen area
- There is no official capital city of Switzerland, but Zurich is the largest city and financial centre
- Prices are high for many things such as hotels, transport and food. Booking ahead can help to get better deals
- Zurich is a good starting point to travel by train around Switzerland
- Most people speak English
- On Sundays, many shops are closed
Transport
- Zurich International airport is located to the north of the city centre. There is a quick train from the airport to the central station
- Within the city, you can walk or take the streetcars, buses or trains. Buy tickets via ZVV
- The Zürich Card city pass allows unlimited 2nd class travel on all forms of public transportation on the entire city network
Accommodation
- Honestly, I can’t remember where I stayed in Zurich. There are plenty of hotels in the city centre, although they can be expensive. In addition to tourists, there are many business travellers. So, it is best to book early!
- As usual, I recommend checking reviews on Booking.com or using AirBnB
Food
A local friend took me to dinner at Brauerei Steinfels, which had a casual and fun atmosphere. In addition to beer, they have an extensive menu, including some healthier foods. If you like beer, then you are in luck because Switzerland has a lot of local beers. Also, if you are there in October, then you make be able to catch beer festivals such as the Zürich Oktoberfest.
When I travel to Zurich, or visit anywhere in Switzerland, I have a tendency to eat a lot of meat and heavier foods. That’s part of the traditional Swiss food. However, in Zurich, you can find cuisines from many countries. Unfortunately, many places I went to in the past are no longer there, so I don’t have many other specific recommendations.
However, for desserts I can certainly recommend Confiserie Sprüngli! There is a cafe where you can sit and enjoy the pastries and chocolates. Or you can order sweet treats to be boxed for takeaway. This is some of the best chocolate and chocolate dessert that I have ever had!
FAQs
Q: Do I need a tour guide?
A: No, it is easy to find your way around the city
Q: Do people speak English?
A: Yes, most people speak English
Q: Is it a walkable city?
A: Yes in the city centre, but you may want to use public transport to see places that are further out
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