Zurich

Lakeside swims, old-town lanes & hilltop terraces

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Zurich is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Polyterrasse, Grossmunster and Fraumunster. Food lovers should not miss Kronenhalle and Zeughauskeller. Below you will find 14 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Zurich at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Polyterrasse and Grossmunster
Where to stay: Zurich West and Lakefront
Local picks: 14 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Zurich

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsBest Things to Do in Zurich: A Local’s GuideThe best things to do in Zurich, chosen by locals: top sights, where to eat, where to stay and the…

Where to stay in Zurich

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Zurich West

25hours Hotel Zurich West

A playful design hotel in the buzzy Zurich West and Langstrasse district.

★ 4.4

Centre

Bahnhofstrasse

One of the worlds most exclusive shopping avenues, from the station to the lake.

★ 4.3

Lakefront

Baur au Lac

A discreet, family-run luxury landmark in its own lakeside park since 1844.

★ 4.7

$$$

Old Town

Fraumunster

A 13th-century church famed for its luminous Marc Chagall stained-glass windows.

★ 4.5

Old Town

Grossmunster

Zurichs twin-towered Romanesque landmark; climb the Karlsturm for rooftop views.

★ 4.5

Hive

Hive Club is without a doubt one of the best clubs of Zürich. Its quality Line-Up makes it a must do for any house or techno lover. With three different rooms and…

Old Town

Kronenhalle

A legendary art-filled brasserie serving classic Swiss and continental fare since 1924.

★ 4.5

$$$

Old Town

Kunsthaus Zurich

Switzerlands largest art museum, strong on Giacometti and modern masters.

★ 4.6

Lakefront

Lake Zurich

The citys beloved lake for summer swims, boat trips and Alpine views.

★ 4.6

Lakefront

Lake Zurich Cruise

A relaxed lake cruise past villas, vineyards and mountain backdrops.

★ 4.5

ETH / Zentrum

Polyterrasse

The terrace of ETH university and a favourite student hangout, this south-facing platform gives a lovely panorama over Zurich and its old town. Ride the historic Polybahn funicular up from Central, then sprawl in the sun with a picnic – there’s a student bar (BQM) just below for a quick bite.

★ 4.5

Old Town

Swiss Chuchi

A cheerful Old Town spot for bubbling fondue and raclette.

★ 4.3

Old Town

Swiss National Museum

A fairytale castle of a museum tracing Swiss history and culture.

★ 4.5

Uetliberg

Zurichs local mountain, a short train ride up to panoramic Alpine views.

★ 4.6

Centre

Zeughauskeller

A bustling beer hall in a 15th-century armoury for sausages and rosti.

★ 4.3

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Find hotels in Zurich Book tours and experiences

Zurich travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Zurich?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Zurich at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Zurich?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Zurich?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Zurich guide.

What is the best time to visit Zurich?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Zurich is worth visiting year-round.