Zurich, Switzerland's largest and busiest city, is known as the country's financial capital. It has a high standard of living and is regarded as one of the world's finest cities. This wonderful city shines with a harmonious blend of modern infrastructure and medieval old-world charm.
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What not to miss?
The Hauptbahnhof (HB) Railroad Station
The Hauptbahnhof is Switzerland's largest. It is a very important train station located in the city centre that connects the city via trams and inter-city travel via fast trains. Buses are also available.
The old building itself is a historical piece, of Renaissance architecture that includes large windows, doors, and classic hallways. It has several floors with hundreds of shops on the lower levels, all of which are brightly lit. There are numerous shopping and dining options throughout the Station. Everything is well-organized and well-described, with clear signage.
Bahnhofstrasse
If you enjoy shopping, Zurich has one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world. The Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich's main downtown street, stretching 1.4 kilometres from the main train station and leading to Lake Zurich. Bahnhofstrasse is an important street because it houses the world's finest luxury brands and branded products. Even if you don't want to shop on this street, it's worth taking a stroll to look at the stores and the prices of the items for sale. It's fun to window shop or shop while taking in the lively vibes of this lovely street. A good place to shop for gifts and fashionable clothing.
Lake Zurich
The Zurich lake is breathtaking, and you can't visit Zurich without seeing it. It's a lovely lake that runs along and up the river's banks. You could spend an entire day on the lake's shore, watching nature and the various animals that swim in it. A one-hour boat ride on Lake Zurich is also a great way to see the sights. A boat dock on the Limmat River is right next to the Swiss National Museum. The journey will take you from Lake Zurich to the Limmat. A truly spectacular lake that is well worth seeing just for the scenery and the boats.
Altstadt (old town)
The best thing to do when visiting any European city is to simply stroll through the Old Town and soak in the atmosphere. It not only helps to plan the rest of the trip, but it also allows you to see the top attractions in a short amount of time. Simply put on your comfortable walking shoes and explore the historic district. Zurich's Old Town is located just off the Bahnhofstrasse and is easily accessible from both the main train station and the lake.
There are many charming old buildings in the old town, as well as interesting shops, cafes, and restaurants. Explore the cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings and small laneways. Charming little squares that seem to catch you off guard with chairs left out to sit and enjoy life. The Limmat River runs through Zurich, creating a picturesque and beautiful old town. There are numerous galleries and shops where you can purchase some delicious Swiss chocolate or cheese. Spend some time here, as you would in any old town, and you will discover some hidden gems in the form of old shops, cafes, and eateries. Stop by one of the outdoor cafes and restaurants for a light lunch or a refreshing drink.
Want to skip the part where you have to plan and worry? Many excellent tour operators are active in Zurich! We highly recommend checking out Swiss Epic Tours! They offer a wide variety of high-quality tours. The most important landmarks, most breathtaking nature and most popular attractions in the city of Zurich - all of that will be arranged by Swiss Epic Tours!
What else to visit?
Grossmünster
Grossmünster is one of Zurich's most significant churches, both historically and symbolically. It is one of Zürich's four main churches, and it has a long history. The name means "Great Minister," and the Grossmünster church is a Protestant church that played an important role in the Swiss Reformation.
The Grossmunster church, with its twin towers towering over the Limmat River, is Zurich's most recognizable landmark. The structure has a simple interior with beautiful stained glass windows. You can walk up the towers for beautiful views of Zurich. Climbing the 187 steps for a birds-eye view of the city costs 5CHF.
Fraumünster
Next up - walk from Grossmunster to Fraumünster via the bridge that connects both churches. The bridge is known as the Münsterbrücke, and from here you can enjoy views of the city on both sides of the river. Münsterbrücke is a pedestrian and road bridge that spans the Limmat River in Zürich's old town.
The Fraumünster (Church of Our Lady), founded in 853, is a must-see in Zurich. It is Zurich's oldest church, with a simple interior and gothic structure. Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti are best known for their stained glass windows. If you like modernist stained glass, admission is CHF 5. Inside the church, photography is not permitted.
Peterskirche
St. Peterskirche is one of Zurich's main churches, located a short distance from the Fraumunster Church through some narrow streets near Linderhof Hill. It was built in stages between about 1000 and 1300 AD, and the bell tower has a large clock on its north-facing side, which is thought to be Europe's largest clock face. For centuries, the clock tower served as Zurich's "official local time."
Although it is not as fancy as other churches, it has its own charm. You will enjoy the simple architecture on the inside. There is no admission fee and no photography restrictions.
How to travel there?
From wherever you are to the centre of Zurich!
If travelling from abroad - land in Zurich airport which is very well connected to the city. You can use trains that run frequently and efficiently. It takes approximately 25 minutes to travel from Zurich Airport to the city centre. A taxi ride from the airport to the centre will set you back 50-70eur.
Travelling around Zurich
Zurich is a compact and walkable city. The majority of the highlights are located in and around the historic old town, making Zurich extremely easy to navigate. Nonetheless, Zurich's transportation system is excellent, and you can easily commute from one Zurich district to another.
When to travel there?
In general, there is no bad time to visit Zurich, though we would avoid the holiday and festival seasons. Zurich experiences all four seasons, each with its own set of advantages. We believe that a sunny spring or autumn weekend is ideal. Even during the Christmas season, Zurich is worth a visit for its beautiful market stalls.
Average costs
As you probably have heard - Switzerland is extremely expensive. In fact, Switzerland has the highest cost of living in the entire world. So you must take this into account when planning your expenses.
Previous visitors spent an average $50 on meals and $28 on local transportation per day. In Zurich, the average hotel price for a couple is $260 per day. Other expenses like entertainment and shopping will cost a minimum of $30 a day, however, this cost is very individual depending on your shopping habits. So, a one-week trip to Zurich for two people costs on average $2500-$3500.
Where to eat?
If you are planning a trip to Zurich, you must try the local cuisine. The city's cuisine is heavily influenced by German, Italian, and French food cultures. The cuisine is quite diverse and features distinct flavours. There are many delicious dishes to try because Switzerland is also known for its meat and milk products. There are numerous luxurious restaurants, cafes, and bistros throughout the city. Zurigschnatzlets and Fondue are two of the country's most well-known dishes.
Events
January
International Balloon Festival
Every year in January, the International Balloon Festival takes place. Château-d'Oex, Switzerland's hot air balloon capital, hosts this festival. Pilots from all over the world take part in this festival, which lasts nine days and features hundreds of hot air balloons in the sky. The International hot air balloon festival, regarded as the best among the famous festivals in Switzerland list, should be on your itinerary if you are planning a trip to Switzerland in January.
March
Geneva Motor Show
The Geneva Motor Show, known as the "world's best cat walk for cars," is held every year in mid-March and is literally a ramp walk for new cars. Many well-known companies exhibit their vehicles for the first time in front of the entire world at this show. If you want to go to a festival in Geneva, Switzerland, you should definitely get tickets to the Geneva Motor Show. Whether you like cars or not, this one-of-a-kind festival is worth visiting while in Switzerland.
July
Montreux Jazz Festival
Montreux Jazz Festival is a grand festival held every year in July in Montreux. This festival features both established and emerging jazz artists. Montreux Jazz Festival is a must-attend event that will remain an unforgettable highlight of your life. Whether you like jazz or not, this energetic festival will undoubtedly make you dance to the beat with its incredible vibe!
August
Fête Nationale Suisse
The most important festival of any country is undoubtedly its national day, and if you are interested in seeing how the people of Switzerland celebrate their national day, you will get a glimpse of it right now. Isn't it a beautiful sight to see thousands of bright decorations, garden barbeques, and fireworks near the Rhino falls? Attend Switzerland's grand national day celebrations to soak up all of the country's culture.
Though Zurich is one of Europe's most expensive cities to visit, it is also one of its most beautiful. Let us know if you decide to visit it! We also have other places for you to visit, such as Monte Carlo, Dhërmi, and Durrës. Do not forget to follow us @thewalkingparrot to be always updated on the new releases.
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