The Swiss city of Zurich is renowned for being home to numerous banks and financial institutions. Being a global financial centre, this often deters travellers from spending time in the city. However, that should not prevent you from visiting the city. We made a point of staying in the city during our visit to Switzerland to explore what it had to offer. Read about why you must include fascinating Zurich on your Swiss itinerary.
A brief history of Zurich
Inhabited for over 2,000 years, the Romans founded the town of Zurich (originally called Turicum) in 15BC. It was the perfect location to oversee trade passing through the Alps.
The city grew into a market town in the 11th and 12th centuries, gaining further popularity with the construction of the Fraumünster, a convent catering to aristocratic women. It attracted women from throughout Europe.
It was only at the end of the 19th century that the establishment of key banks in Zurich led to the city’s emergence as a major financial hub. The city previously known as the home of nuns and monks became home to bankers.
Why you must visit Zurich
The city’s long and diverse past makes it a fascinating place to visit. There is plenty to see and do. Set aside at least two days to explore the old town and enjoy the beautiful sights.
Our favourite things to do in Zurich
Visit Zurich’s Altstadt
Spanning both sides of the Limmat River, Zurich’s Altstadt is a warren of cobblestoned streets and alleyways to explore.
Grossmünster
Standing proudly on the right bank of the Limmat is Zurich’s major landmark, the Grossmünster. The Grossmünster, a former monastery, is a pivotal site in the history of the Swiss Reformation. Take a look inside; the stained glass windows are particularly striking. For a price, you can also go up to the top of the tower to enjoy views over the Altstadt and across Lake Zurich.
Fraumünster
Cross over the historic Münsterbrucke after visiting the Grossmünster to visit another of Zurich’s iconic churches, the Kirche Fraumünster. The present church dates from 1250 and was built on the site of an abbey, which was founded in 853. It is this old abbey which first served as the convent for aristocratic women. The convent was closed at the Swiss Reformation, and the old abbey crypt lying beneath the church can be visited.
St Peter’s Church
While not as prominent as the Fraumünster or the Grossmünster, St. Peter’s Church is the city’s oldest church and features the largest church clock face. St Peter’s Church was built in the 9th century. Look closely at the clock face to see how it differs from most clock faces. We enjoyed wandering the charming streets around the church.
Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse and Paradeplatz
While on the left bank, take a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s high-end shopping street, which is full of exclusive stores. The street runs for nearly 1.5km from the Altstadt to the lakefront.
Paradeplatz is at the heart of the Bahnhofstrasse. It’s a major tram junction. Stand back and watch the trams criss-crossing the square. The square rose in importance when major banks set up their headquarters there.
Get off the beaten track in Schipfe
Schipfe is one of the lesser-visited areas of the Altstadt. Sitting on the Limmat River beneath Lindenhof, Schipfe is a quiet residential area, home to beautiful cobbled streets, charming homes and shops.
Take in the views from Lindenhof
Lindenhof, one of Zurich’s most historic spots, is the perfect place to enjoy a little tranquillity and look out over the city. The hill originally housed a Roman settlement and a castle. Today, it’s a peaceful park offering a wonderful view of the Limmat, Grossmünster, and the Old Town.
Explore Niederdorf
On the Limmat River’s right bank, Niederdorf is the area where the old meets the new. The Altstadt melts into modern Zurich. The area is a mix of historic guild houses, boutiques, cafes and squares along winding alleyways. As night falls, it becomes vibrant as restaurants and bars open their doors.
Visit the Landesmuseum
Next to Zurich’s main railway station is the Landesmuseum, Switzerland’s National Museum. The museum showcases Switzerland’s history, from its early days to the present.
If, like us, you’re not interested in museums, the courtyard of the museum complex is still worth stepping into. Stand back and be prepared to be amazed by the fairytale castle, which was built in 1898.
If you’re visiting Zurich in the summer months from mid-July to early September, you’ll find the courtyard transformed for the annual Rundfunk.fm radio and music festival. The festival showcases local, national and international DJs and music.
Stroll the shores of Lake Zurich
With the magnificent Alps as a backdrop, there is no better way to relax than taking a stroll along the promenade and paths on either side of Lake Zurich. Access is steps away from the heart of the city.
Burkliplatz
A good place to start is at Burkliplatz, next to Quaibrücke, which links the two sides of the lake where the Limmat River emerges from the lake. Admire the bronze Ganymede Sculpture and gaze out over the lake at the stunning views of the snow-clad mountains on the horizon. Burkliplatz is known as Zurich’s “Front Row Seat by the Lake”.
Chinese Garden
A walk along Utoquai will find you at the beautiful Chinagarten. Gifted to Zurich by its sister city, Kunming, the garden is noted as one of the highest-ranking gardens outside of China. The garden was gifted in appreciation for the scientific and technical expertise Zurich provided to enhance Kunming’s drinking water and drainage systems.
Zurich Yacht Club and Arboretum
Follow General Guisan-Quai on the opposite side of the lake, and you’ll find the Zurich Yacht Club and the Arboretum, a botanical park open to the public. It’s a serene part of the city to retreat to, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
Zurich’s Theatre Spektakel
Further along the shores from the Arboretum, you’ll find Landiweise, another picturesque spot on Lake Zurich. The green open space is the venue of the annual Theatre Spektakel, an international arts festival that has been running since 1980. The festival takes place over two weeks in August.
Amble along the banks of the Limmat River
Whether you’re looking at it from Lindenhof above or its mouth at Quaibrücke, the Limmat River is obviously the heart of Zurich. Ambling along the Limmat is an opportunity to feel the real Zurich. Admire the breathtaking city views, and in the summer, join the locals by stopping off at Unterer Lettten or Oberer Letten swimming facilities.
Take a train ride to the top of Uetliberg Mountain
Have an afternoon free? One of the best views of the city, the lake and the surrounding countryside is from Uetliberg Mountain.
Uetliberg is just a 20-minute train ride from Zurich’s main train station. The train will take you straight to the summit. From there, it’s just a short walk to the viewpoint to enjoy the spectacular views.
Our opinion
With the beautiful Swiss Alps as a backdrop, Zurich is more than just a banking and financial hub. Switzerland’s largest city is a vibrant and lively city ready to welcome visitors. As the centre for banking and finance, the city boasts citizens from all over the world, adding to the city’s unique culture.
We suggested setting aside 2-3 full days to fully experience all that the fascinating city of Zurich has to offer.
Where we stayed
We had the pleasure of staying in a lovely local neighbourhood near Niederdorf on the right bank.
EMA House Services Apartments in Unterstrasse is a 10-minute walk from Zurich’s Altstadt. The apartment was large and very comfortable.
In case you’re interested
Our travels have taken us to other towns and cities in Switzerland, which we believe are worth visiting. Please take a look at another of our recommendations below.
