Visit Zurich in 1 day: 10 things you absolutely must do

Zurich travel tips for a great stay: 

• Book a flight to Zurich  
• Car hire in Zurich at the best prices (rated 4.7 on Trustpilot)‍
• Get the Swiss Travel Pass: click here to find out more‍
• Buy the Zurich Card

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Visit Zurich in 1 day: our top 10 not to be missed

Here is a summary of the most interesting things to do if you come to the economic capital of Switzerland. Opt for the Zurich Card to save on transport + attractions: find out more

1. Discover the old town of Zurich (Altstadt)

The Altstadt, or old town of Zurich, is a real historic treasure. You will see, every street corner tells a story. Stroll through the cobbled lanes of the Altstadt, admire its medieval houses, picturesque squares and historic churches: 

• the Grossmünster : this imposing Romanesque cathedral dating from 1230, with its two emblematic towers, is a symbol of Zurich. Built in the 12th century, it played a crucial role in the Swiss Protestant Reformation. Don't miss climbing the tower steps to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and the lake.
• The Fraumünster convent: A few steps away, this church is renowned for its modern stained-glass windows created by the artist Marc Chagall in 1970. A real masterpiece that attracts visitors from around the world. 
• St Peter's Church with its clock, considered the largest in Europe.

The Altstadt, or old town of Zurich, is a real historic treasure where every street corner tells a story. As you walk through its cobbled lanes, you will be charmed by the medieval houses with colourful façades and the picturesque squares that breathe the past.

Also drop by the Town Hall (Rathaus) on the Limmat and Münsterhof square. In the Niederdorf district, you will also discover lively squares such as Münsterhof, craft shops and welcoming cafés typical of Zurich. 

2. Go for a walk by Lake Zurich

If you are wondering how to visit Zurich in 1 day, here is a 3 km walk not to be missed. For this, head to Bellevue and go as far as Tiefenbrunnen. Otherwise, enjoy the beauty of the lake by taking a boat for a relaxing cruise, offering an unbeatable view of the city and the surrounding mountains. There are also many gourmet cruises (see ZSG, Zürichsee Schifffahrtsgesellschaft)

Along the shores, in the gardens, you can also sit down for a picnic. 

3. Visit the Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich)

Discover the rich and varied history of Switzerland through the fascinating exhibitions of the Swiss National Museum, housed in an impressive neo-Gothic castle. Built in 1898 by the Swiss architect Gustave Gull, this museum holds more than 870,000 objects of history and decorative arts of the Swiss nation, including a flint stone dating from 100,000 years ago.

Other museums to visit in Zurich: 

• The Museum of Fine Arts, the Kunsthaus Zurich with a collection by Alberto Giacometti, Swiss surrealist artist
• The Rietberg Museum in a magnificent villa surrounded by gardens with a collection by Alberto Giacometti, Swiss surrealist artist
• The Design Museum (Museum für Gestaltung Zürich) to understand the importance of design in everyday life.‍
• The Zoological Museum of the University of Zurich
• The WOW Museum Zurich to do as a family
• The Museum Bärengasse in a former 17th-century building‍
• The Zurich Railway Museum (SBB Historic)
• The Cabaret Voltaire, this is where Hugo Ball founded Dadaism

‍4. Go shopping on the Bahnhofstrasse

Walk along one of the most prestigious shopping streets in the world, where you will find luxury boutiques, department stores and renowned jewellers.

5. Stroll through the Schipfe district

This is one of the oldest districts of Zurich on the banks of the Limmat. We especially love its charming medieval houses, its lanes and its authentic atmosphere. If you are looking for a haven of peace away from the urban bustle, then this is where you should come. 

Once the centre of the silk industry, Schipfe has been transformed to make way for small craft shops, as well as many craftsmen's workshops. The ideal place to find souvenirs to bring home. Once in the district, walk along the river and enjoy this little open-air corner of paradise. 

6. Go for lunch at the Viadukt covered market

Here, we especially love its convivial and vibrant atmosphere. Taste local and international specialities in this trendy market located under the arches of a railway viaduct dating from 1894. You can meet local producers. A must for food lovers and all gourmets. 

Practical information: 

• Address: Viaduktstrasse 33-35, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland
• Find out more about opening hours here

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7. Go and wander in the Zurich Botanical Garden

Explore the many plant species from around the world in this peaceful and educational botanical garden. A space of 53,000 square metres dedicated to the discovery and conservation of plant biodiversity. Located in the Seefeld district, this garden is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city. 

It is home to more than 15,000 plant species from around the world, spread across various recreated habitats, ranging from alpine meadows to tropical forests. During your visit, don't miss: 

• The tropical greenhouses
• The alpine plants
• The Medicinal Plant Garden

Zurich Botanical Garden address: Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland.

8. Climb Uetliberg hill

At 871 metres above sea level, this mountain overlooks Zurich, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city, Lake Zurich and the surrounding Alps. It is a destination not to be missed if you come to visit Zurich in 1 day. You will also find many day excursions departing from the city centre. Accessible by a short train ride, it is an ideal nature getaway.

What to do once there? 

• The Observation Tower or Uetliberg tower with its 360-degree view. 
• The Uto Kulm Restaurant at the summit and its panoramic view
• Do the Planetary Trail, a 6 km educational trail representing the solar system to scale, running from Uetliberg to Felsenegg
• Go mountain biking or paragliding 

Train information: Take the S-Bahn (line S10) from Zurich Central Station (Zürich HB) to Uetliberg station. The journey takes about 20 minutes.‍

9. Visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum

Go back to the origins of chocolate and discover how cocoa conquered Europe at the Lindt Home of Chocolate, next to the historic Lindt & Sprüngli factory. 

Dive into the chocolate-making process in a modern test building and marvel at the 9-metre-high chocolate fountain in the entrance hall. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy unlimited tasting of irresistible Swiss chocolates during the visit. Multimedia exhibitions, production line, chocolate creation, don't miss this unmissable experience if you come to visit Zurich in 1 day. ‍

10. Explore the avant-garde district of Zurich West

Explore this modern, formerly industrial district, now full of art galleries, trendy restaurants and fashionable shops. Located in the west of the city centre, Zurich West has become a dynamic and trendy area. It is called Kreis 5. Many tech start-ups, coworking spaces and business incubators have also settled there.

Don't miss: 

• Zurich's tallest skyscraper, Prime Tower, offering a panoramic view of the city from the Clouds bar-restaurant at the top.
• The Viadukt market (detailed in point 6)
• Frau Gerolds Garten for its relaxed atmosphere
• The Schiffbau, a former shipyard converted into a cultural centre
• Frau Gerolds Garten or Bogen F for its music and atmosphere

Getting there: Zurich West is easily accessible by tram, with lines 4, 6, and 8 serving the district. Hardbrücke station, an important rail hub, links the district to the main train lines.

Other visits to do in Zurich if you have more time 

If you come to visit Zurich in 2 days or more, here are a few ideas of activities to do in the Swiss capital city of the canton: 

Pfäffikon, the largest water park in Switzerland

The Urban Surf experience in Zurich

Dive into the Urban Surf adventure in Zurich West, where an artificial wave awaits you for surf sessions in the heart of the city. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, enjoy lessons given by qualified instructors. After taming the waves, relax in the lounge area with deckchairs, music and refreshing cocktails. The friendly setting and on-site food add to the unique experience. Book now for an unforgettable day of surfing in Zurich!

Zurich Zoo and Masoala Rainforest

If you are asking what to see in Zurich with the family, here is an idea for an outing with the children. One of the largest zoos in Switzerland with a variety of animals from around the world and a magnificent tropical greenhouse recreating the ecosystem of the Masoala rainforest in Madagascar.

Kyburg Castle

Located a short distance from Zurich, Kyburg Castle is a must for history lovers if you come to visit Zurich. This well-preserved medieval castle immerses you in feudal times with its interactive exhibitions. Enjoy the panoramic view over the surrounding countryside and explore the dungeons, great halls and gardens. Don't miss the fascinating collections of weapons, armour and medieval objects. Guided tours are available to enrich your experience and discover all the secrets of this historic site.

Lindenhof Park in the heart of Zurich

Rest in this historic park offering an unbeatable view of the rooftops of the old town, the River Limmat and Zurich's emblematic churches. Located in the very centre of Zurich, Lindenhof is easily accessible on foot from most of the city's main attractions. The nearest tram stops are "Rathaus" and "Paradeplatz". The Lindenhof site was once a Roman fort, bearing witness to the former Roman presence in Zurich. You can also find remains from this era there. 

In the centre of the park, you will find the famous statue of Hedwig, a female figure symbolising the bravery of the women of Zurich who are said to have defended the city against the enemy.

A walk along the Limmatquai or on the banks of the River Sihl

Enjoy a pleasant walk along the River Limmat, with its many cafés, restaurants and shops, while admiring the historic architecture of the riverside buildings. Less busy than the Limmat, the banks of the River Sihl offer a quiet setting and views of the surrounding nature.

The FIFA Museum

Don't miss the FIFA Museum in Zurich, a must for football fans. This interactive museum is dedicated to the history of football and the International Federation of Association Football. Discover captivating exhibitions, iconic memorabilia and immersive multimedia installations. Perfect for enthusiasts, this museum offers an enriching and entertaining experience for all ages.

The Chinese Garden of Zurich (Chinagarten)

A peaceful Chinese garden given by the city of Kunming to Zurich, with pavilions, bridges and picturesque ponds, ideal for a relaxing walk. This authentic garden is designed according to the principles of Feng Shui and classical Chinese gardening. You can admire ornate pavilions and cross wooden bridges, typical of traditional Chinese gardens. Between architecture and exotic flora, you will feel like you are in a little haven of peace. 

The Urania Observatory

Discover the stars and planets during telescope observation sessions in this historic observatory in the heart of Zurich. It is equipped with a 30 cm diameter Zeiss refracting telescope, allowing detailed observations of the stars, planets and the Moon. Take part in public observation sessions to discover the wonders of the night sky. The astronomers on site will guide you through the constellations and show you fascinating celestial objects.

NB: Remember to book your activities in advance. 

Swimming at the Badi or the Oberer Letten in summer

Visit the public baths by the lake or the river, such as the Seebad Enge or the Frauenbad am Stadthausquai, for a refreshing experience. The Oberer Letten is a place favoured by Zurich residents in summer, offering a developed swimming area along the River Limmat. 

An excursion to Rapperswil

Take a boat or a train to visit Rapperswil, known as the "Town of Roses", with its charming old centre, its medieval castle and its beautiful lake. Explore the rose gardens, stroll along Lake Zurich and visit the Knie children's zoo. Don't miss the historic wooden bridge linking Rapperswil to Hurden, offering picturesque views of the lake and the mountains.

A visit to Local Breweries

Explore Zurich's brewing scene by visiting craft breweries such as the Turbinenbräu Brewery and the Bierlab Brewery to taste unique beers from the region. Discover the brewing process on guided tours and enjoy local specialities in a friendly atmosphere. Don't miss the beer events and festivals that celebrate the creativity and diversity of local production.

Where to stay in Zurich: our favourites 

Tip: book as early as possible to avoid the best accommodation being full.

Here are the best hotels in the Lindenhof, Niederdorf and Old Town district

• Boutique Hotel Seidenhof, rated 8.9 Superb on Booking.com
• Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, located in the old town rated 8.9 on Booking.com and 9.7 for its exceptional location
• 4-star hotel citizenM Zürich, rated 8.5 on Booking.com and 9.4 for its location too

FAQ Visit Zurich 

Our answers to your most frequent questions:

How to get to Zurich? 

By plane:
Zurich International Airport (ZRH) is the main air hub of Switzerland, served by many international airlines. From the airport, the city centre is easily accessible by train (about 10 minutes), tram or taxi.

By train:
Zurich is very well connected by the Swiss and European rail network. Direct trains link Zurich to several major Swiss cities such as Geneva, Basel and Bern, as well as to international destinations such as Paris, Milan and Munich.

By car:
Zurich is accessible via the A1, A3 and A4 motorways. Several public car parks are available in the city, but it is often more convenient to use public transport once you arrive.

By bus:
International and national bus companies serve Zurich, offering an economical option for travellers. The main bus station is located near the central station (Zürich HB).

Visit Zurich or Geneva? 

Choosing between Zurich and Geneva depends on your interests. If you prefer a dynamic atmosphere with a rich cultural and night scene, Zurich is an excellent option. If you are fascinated by international organisations and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, Geneva will suit you better. Both cities offer unique experiences and deserve to be explored.

Our special article "Visit Zurich in 1 day" ends here. We hope all this information helps you plan your getaway and enjoy this wonderful city in the canton of Zurich in Switzerland. All that's left is to wish you a great trip and plenty of good vibes 😎