Switzerland's largest city is far more than a banking hub. Zurich has a charming medieval old town, a sparkling lake with mountain views, outdoor swimming spots in the river, excellent museums, and a lively food and nightlife scene. Here are the best things to do in Zurich, plus practical tips for your visit.
Top Things to Do in Zurich
1. Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)
Wander the narrow lanes on both sides of the Limmat River. Climb to Lindenhof, a leafy square with views over the old town, and browse the boutiques of Niederdorf.
2. Grossmünster and Fraumünster
Zurich's twin-towered Grossmünster is a symbol of the city, and you can climb one of its towers for great views. Across the river, the Fraumünster is famous for its stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall.
3. Lake Zurich
Stroll the lakeside promenades, relax in the parks, or take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich. On clear days, you can see the Alps in the distance. Public lake boats are included with many transport passes.
4. Swim in a Badi
In summer, locals cool off at Zurich's traditional bathing spots, known as "Badis," on the river and lake. Some, like the Frauenbadi and Männerbad, turn into bars in the evening.
5. Bahnhofstrasse
One of the world's most exclusive shopping streets runs from the main station to the lake, lined with luxury boutiques, watch shops, and chocolatiers.
6. Swiss National Museum
Housed in a castle-like building next to the main station, the Landesmuseum tells the story of Switzerland from prehistory to today.
7. Kunsthaus Zürich
One of Switzerland's most important art museums, with works by Swiss artists and international masters, including Monet, Munch, and Giacometti.
8. Uetliberg
Take the train up Zurich's local mountain for panoramic views of the city, the lake, and the Alps. In winter, you can sometimes go sledding.
9. Zurich West
This former industrial district is now the city's creative quarter, with shops in the arches of an old railway viaduct (Im Viadukt), bars, and street food.
10. Swiss Chocolate and Food
Try Zurich's specialty, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal in cream sauce) with rösti, and visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate in nearby Kilchberg for chocolate tastings and a giant chocolate fountain.
11. Rhine Falls
Less than an hour away, the Rhine Falls are among the largest waterfalls in Europe by volume. Take a boat to the rock in the middle of the falls.
Tips for Visiting Zurich
- Transport: Trains from the airport reach the city center in about 10 minutes. Trams and buses are frequent and punctual. The Zurich Card includes public transport and museum discounts.
- Money: Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF). Cards are widely accepted, but prices are high, so budget accordingly.
- Tap water: Zurich's many public fountains provide clean drinking water. Bring a bottle.
- Language: Swiss German is spoken, but English is widely understood. "Grüezi" means hello.
- Sundays: Most shops are closed, except at the main station and airport.
Planning more of Switzerland? Read our Switzerland travel guide and our guide to things to do in Geneva.
Stay Connected in Zurich
Switzerland isn't in the EU, so some European phone plans charge extra roaming there. An egoViet Switzerland eSIM gives you local data as soon as you land. Traveling across Europe? The Europe eSIM includes Switzerland and 32 other countries.
FAQs: Things to Do in Zurich
Is Zurich worth visiting?
Yes. Zurich has a beautiful old town, a lake with Alpine views, excellent museums, and great food.
How many days do you need in Zurich?
Two days is enough for the city, plus a day trip to the Rhine Falls, Lucerne, or the mountains.
Is Zurich expensive?
Yes, it's one of the most expensive cities in the world. Save money with a transport pass, picnics, and free activities like lakeside walks.
Can you swim in Lake Zurich?
Yes. In summer, locals swim at the city's lake and river bathing spots, known as Badis.