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There’s a reason why Zurich is one of the world’s top tourist cities. Actually, there’re so many! And the things to do in Zurich feature heavily on that list. Set in a beautiful location, where the river meets a lake, Zurich offers the perfect balance of urbanity and naturalness, of history and the contemporary, of snow-clad mountains and sunny lakeside picnic spots. That’s why it’s also often regarded one of the most liveable cities in the world.
This is paradise for holidaymakers looking for a taste of European culture, families seeking the perfect getaway for all ages, backpackers in search of the next thrilling adventure (even if it’s part of a larger continental tour). You can find the best of Switzerland in its most renowned city. Now all you need is an itinerary that covers it all, so here are some of the top Zurich tourist attractions located in and around the city for you to consider. And you can choose to take in them all on informative guided tours or free roaming, if that’s what you prefer.
With so many places to see in Zurich and the activities they have in store, this is a holiday that promises pure joy. And SOTC has some great Zurich tour packages and Switzerland tour packages that will get you smiling before you’ve even step foot on Swiss soil.
Walk through Old Town for some of the most iconic heritage places to see in Zurich which are superbly well preserved. The Grossmünster and its high towers, Fraumünster and its gorgeous stained-glass windows, St. Peter’s church with its large clock-face, are the heart and soul of the city.
You can also visit the charming Niederdorf district and its coffee shops and local boutiques. And for something more luxurious, make your way to Bahnhofstrasse for its high-end shopping and restaurants. Lindenhof is another beautiful spot to rest your legs but treat your eyes.
Some of the most enjoyable things to do in Zurich involve day tours to nearby towns and natural areas. And everything can be reached within a maximum of two hours. Visit Rapperswil, the picturesque hill-town adorned in roses. Baden city is another tourist favourite for its old-world charm.
Visiting Zugerberg Mountain, just twenty minutes away by train, is a great option for nature lovers. There’s hiking trails by summer and ski-ready slopes by winter to choose from.
Take the scenic cable-car and train journey up Mount Rigi, for spectacular Alpine views and even a short cruise to the town of Lucerne, before returning to Zurich the very same day.
Mt. Titlis is a similar excursion to take, though you can add witnessing a mighty glacier to it.
Visiting museums and galleries is one of the popular things to do in Zurich. In the case of the Opera House and Swiss National Museum, you could just as easily be Zurich sightseeing! They’re both lovely heritage structures with expansive exhibits in their own right. Tonhalle is another iconic cultural venue, a music hall that’s both dignified and technically superior. And don’t forget Kunsthaus, the extraordinary art gallery brimming with masterpieces.
Focus Terra, a science centre that captures many of the earth’s phenomena, the Beyer Museum that recounts the practice of time-keeping, beautiful Rietberg Museum and FIFA World Football Museum and home of Dadaism, Cabaret Voltaire, are other cultural places to see in Zurich — if they match your interests.
Exciting things to do in Zurich don’t always mean visiting a place, they’re found in the many events held in the city. SOTC can help you plan a tour around the dates of the ones that sound interesting to you.
West Zurich hosts the Urban Bike Festival in March, while Food Zurich in May is a blast for those with gastronomical intent. June’s open-air blues and jazz festival in Rapperswil is a true delight, and the Street Parade in August is a world-renowned party. While Zurich Openair soon follows, for those looking for something a bit more chilled out.
There’s still a lot of things to do in Zurich that you have yet to discover! Go strolling or skating by the Lake Zurich promenade or take a relaxing cruise on the lake. Climb up the Uetliberg for breath-taking views of the city. Not to forget Zurich sightseeing in the western part of the city.
The Viadukt locale has some great shops and bars for you to splurge. This industrial district turned trendy hub is a great chance to experience the contemporary atmosphere of the city. Check out Frau Gerolds Garten, Schiffbau and Puls 5 while you’re there — without fail!
For the sweetest end to your Zurich experience, visit the famous Lindt Factory for a tour and tasting like no other!
