Whether you're interested in culture, nature, food, or simply soaking in the ambience of a charming European city, Zurich is your dream destination. The city of Zurich, a global centre for banking and finance, lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. Zurich is the meeting point of cultures, boasting a vibrant art scene, museums, galleries and theatres. Here, you can explore Zurich's charming old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings and historic landmarks. Nestled beside Lake Zurich and surrounded by the Alps, Zurich is a treat to the eyes. Here, you can shop from luxury boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse to eclectic markets. You can also enjoy biking, hiking or swimming in the summer, and skiing or snowboarding in the nearby mountains during winter, making it a Paradise for outdoor activity enthusiasts. Zurich is also known for its world-class restaurants, offering a culinary delight like no other.
Here you can check some of the top 7 places to visit in Zurich
1. Lindt Home of Chocolate
Here you can experience the interactive world of chocolate for young and old. Lindt Home of Chocolate, where the biggest Lindt Chocolate Shop (500 m2) and the spectacular Lindt chocolate fountain are waiting for you, as well as an interactive chocolate tour all about the Swiss cultural heritage of chocolate. It's a museum exhibit on production & hands-on workshops with chocolatiers. Just dive into the world of chocolate and experience something very special. The Lindt Home of Chocolate is a wonderland, for both adults and kids alike. You can also attend a chocolate workshop conducted by a Lindt Master Chocolatier, and enjoy unlimited complimentary chocolate tastings over here. It's one of the most popular Zurich attractions, if you are a chocolate lover, you just can't miss this place in your Zurich Itinerary.
2. Swiss National Museum
The Swiss National Museum houses a unique collection of the cultural history, craftsmanship and artworks of Switzerland from its beginnings up to the present day. Here you can also find old manuscripts, as well as temple hangings, lavishly brocaded saris, weapons set with precious stones, and painted pottery. The Collection comprises more than 870,000 objects and is divided into 14 collection groups. This museum is itself an architectural marvel, a perfect blend of historic elements with modern design making it worthy of your admiration. Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or simply curious about Swiss culture, the Swiss National Museum offers educational programs, temporary exhibitions, guided tours, and workshops for visitors of all ages, making it one of the best places to visit in Zurich. The Swiss National Museum promises a captivating journey through Switzerland's past and present.
3. Fraumünster Church
Fraumünster Church is one of the four main churches of Zürich, the others being the Grossmünster, Prediger and St. Peter's churches. It's known for its Chagall Windows, these are stunning stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall, which depict various biblical scenes and add a vibrant touch to the church's interior. Here you can witness the Romanesque and Gothic architectural features of the church, including the imposing spire and intricate carvings, being a paradise for architecture and cultural enthusiasts. You can explore any temporary exhibitions or art displays that may be hosted within the church, giving an insight on both contemporary and historical works. Here, you can also get the bird's eye view of Zurich, by climbing the tower, this could sound a bit challenging but the vistas from the top are worth it. Fraumunster church also provides a peaceful and calm atmosphere, the perfect place for people seeking solace for reflection. This is one of the most famous places to see in Zurich owing to its rich cultural heritage.
4. Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is one of the more expensive shopping streets in the world, as famous as New York's Fifth Avenue. It is one of the must-see places to visit in Zurich. It's also home to some of the world's most important banks like Swiss banks, UBS and the Credit Suisse Group. Bahnhofstrasse is heaven for shopping lovers, letting you explore numerous luxury boutiques and designer stores lining up here. From high-end fashion brands like Gucci and H&M to watchmakers like Patek Philippe, there is something for everyone. Must skip to sample Switzerland's finest chocolate at renowned chocolatiers like Sprungli or Teuscher and treat yourself to truffles and other delectable sweets. Nearby, you can also explore an underground shopping mall for more shops and eateries. Being lucky enough, you would be able to watch some special events over here, like street festivals, live performances and art exhibitions, which add to the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Bahnhofstrasse offers you a diverse range of experiences to enjoy with your family or friends.
5. Uetliberg
Zurich sightseeing is incomplete without Uetliberg, which is a mountain in the Swiss plateau, part of the Albis chain, rising to 870 m. The mountain offers a panoramic view of the entire city of Zürich, the lake of Zurich and the Alps mountains. Uetliberg is just 20 km from Zurich's airport, you can cover the distance either by train, tram, bus or car as per your suitability. Just take a short steep walk to reach the top of the mountain. Here you can try a variety of activities like hiking, camping, bike trailing and paragliding. Toptrek Touren i.e. bike tours are always fun, especially if you are a motorcycle enthusiast, then you just can't miss this over here. During camping, which is free of cost in Uetliberg, the night sky gives a full sight of shiny and twinkling stars, giving you an unforgettable experience.
6. Lake Zurich
Lake Zurich is among the famous places to visit in Zurich. Here, you can take a stroll, bike or scoot along the lakeside promenade, this is the easiest and most immediate way to take in the beauty of Lake Zurich. You must go on a boat trip, gliding through the water and appreciating the lake without getting wet. Lake Zurich Navigation Company operates a large fleet of sightseeing vessels, including motorboats and steam-powered ships, letting you choose at your convenience. Lake Zurich allows you to swim either in an enclosed pool area filled with lake water or being more adventurous you can just dive right into the open lake. Here, you can also try stand-up paddleboard—which can be rented from vendors along the lakefront, often accompanied by lessons and tours. Lake Zurich offers plenty of other activities too like enjoying a lakeside beach or visiting the Monastery Island of Ufenau and ice skating (during winter months), making a visit to Lake Zurich as one of the best things to do in Zurich, Switzerland.
7. Zurich Zoo
Zurich Zoo is one of the best zoos in Europe. It's one of the best places to visit in Zurich, especially for an animal lover. It's home to more than 365 animal species, showing the incredible biodiversity within a small area. It is easily accessible by the city centre though located high above the rooftops of Zurich. The zoo is divided into different enclosures-
Lewa Savannah, where white rhinos, giraffes and grevy zebra live peacefully side by side; Masoala rainforest, where you can find geckos, turtles, snakes and parrots; Kaeng Krachan Elephant park, as the name suggests Asian elephants live here; Aquarium, it is home to around 700 fish and more than 65 aquatic animal species, penguins enclosure is also included in it, and there are many others enclosures too. One of the best things is that you'll also have opportunities to attend feeding lessons and educational talks and conservation workshops led by knowledgeable staff.