Travel highlights
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a captivating metropolis where medieval charm weaves seamlessly with modern energy. Whether you’re drawn to its rich historical and cultural legacy, exquisite architectural wonders, enchanting natural landscapes, or world-class culinary delights, Zurich guarantees an unforgettable journey.

Zurich Old Town

The Old Town stands as Zurich’s historical heartbeat, nestled along both banks of the Limmat River. Its impeccably preserved medieval atmosphere feels like a magical step back in time—centuries past come alive as you wander its winding cobblestone streets. Here, you’ll encounter vibrant Renaissance-era buildings in soft, vivid hues, timeworn alleyways steeped in stories, and bustling squares brimming with life. Scattered throughout the district are iconic churches: the Grossmünster (Zurich Cathedral) and St. Peterskirche (St. Peter’s Church), the latter famous for housing Europe’s largest church clock face. The Old Town also abounds with boutiques, antique shops, cozy cafés, and traditional restaurants—making it the ideal spot to experience how Zurich’s history and contemporary daily life intertwine harmoniously. For a breathtaking perspective, climb Lindenhof Hill, a central viewing platform that offers sweeping panoramic views of the Limmat River, the Old Town’s terracotta rooftops, and the Grossmünster. It’s also a top spot for cityscape photography and is said to be one of the filming locations for the beloved Korean drama Crash Landing on You.

Grossmünster (Zurich Cathedral)

A defining landmark of Zurich, the Grossmünster is celebrated for its striking twin-tower silhouette. This Romanesque masterpiece, dating to around 1100 AD, played a pivotal role in the Swiss Reformation. Climb its towers, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Old Town and the glistening Limmat River below. Across the river, the Fraumünster (Zurich Minster) shines—a gem renowned for its exquisite stained glass windows. Designed by legendary artists Marc Chagall and Alberto Giacometti, these windows transform sunlight into a kaleidoscope of color, casting dazzling patterns across the church’s interior.

Bahnhofstrasse

Regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious and costly shopping streets, Bahnhofstrasse stretches from Zurich Main Station all the way to the scenic shores of Lake Zurich. Here, global luxury brands, high-end jewelry stores, upscale department stores, and meticulously curated window displays line the avenue. Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, a leisurely stroll along this elegant boulevard is a joy in itself—soak up its sophisticated ambiance and watch vintage trams glide past, blending old-world charm with modern bustle.

Kunsthaus Zürich (Zurich Art Gallery)

As one of Switzerland’s premier art museums, the Kunsthaus Zürich houses an extensive collection of art treasures spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. It is particularly celebrated for its exceptional modern art holdings, featuring masterpieces by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, and revered Swiss artist Alberto Giacometti. The museum offers free admission during select hours every Wednesday—perfect for art lovers on a budget.

Swiss National Museum

Situated near Zurich Main Station, the Swiss National Museum is a one-of-a-kind cultural landmark, blending a grand neo-Renaissance castle with a sleek modern extension. Through a rich array of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and multimedia installations, the museum vividly chronicles Switzerland’s social, cultural, and historical evolution—from prehistoric times to the modern era. Covering everything from ancient relics and fine art to everyday household items, it’s an unmissable destination for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Switzerland.

Lake Zurich

A natural jewel of the city, Lake Zurich offers a serene escape from urban hustle. Take a leisurely walk along its shores, where crystal-clear waters reflect mountain peaks, and swans glide alongside playful waterbirds. For a unique perspective, embark on a lake cruise (free with a Swiss Travel Pass)—glide across the water, soak in Zurich’s skyline, and gaze at the majestic Alps looming in the distance. The lakeside parks and green spaces are beloved by locals, who flock here for picnics, walks, and quiet relaxation.

Uetliberg Mountain

Uetliberg is the highest point in the area around Zurich, Uetliberg Mountain, is easily reachable by train. At the summit, climb the observation tower to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views: Zurich’s sprawling cityscape, the glistening waters of Lake Zurich, and the snow-capped peaks of the Alps in the distance. It’s a paradise for hikers and photographers alike—and also one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset paint the sky in warm hues, or to admire Zurich’s twinkling night lights.

FIFA World Football Museum

A must-visit for football fans worldwide, the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich spans a vast space and showcases precious memorabilia from over 200 FIFA member countries. Highlights include the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy (the successor to the Jules Rimet Trophy), rare historical photos, legendary players’ jerseys, and engaging interactive installations. These exhibits bring the 100-year history of modern football to life—making it a thrilling experience for fans of all ages. Admission is free with a Swiss Pass.

Lindt Home of Chocolate

Located in Kilchberg, a charming suburb near Zurich, the Lindt Home of Chocolate is a dream destination for chocolate lovers. Here, you’ll marvel at the world’s tallest freestanding chocolate fountain—an impressive 9 meters tall! Through interactive exhibits, you’ll learn the complete chocolate-making process, from cocoa bean to creamy finished product. Best of all, you can enjoy unlimited tastings of a wide range of delicious Lindt chocolates. The museum also features a shop where you can pick up unique chocolate-themed souvenirs to take home.

Other Recommendations and Unique Experiences
Augustinergasse: This narrow, picturesque alley in the Old Town is lined with colorful medieval buildings adorned with Swiss flags, exuding a romantic, nostalgic charm. Its cobblestones lead past exquisite craft shops, cozy cafés, and charming bookstores—perfect for a slow, leisurely exploration.
Savor Swiss Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try authentic Swiss dishes. Indulge in Cheese Fondue (melted cheese served with bread for dipping), Raclette (melted cheese scraped over potatoes and pickles), or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (tender Zurich-style veal strips in a rich, creamy sauce). Zurich is also home to exceptional chocolate shops and patisseries—such as the iconic Sprüngli, famous for its delicate pastries and premium chocolates.

Practical Information
Transportation: Zurich boasts an efficient, user-friendly public transportation system, including trams, buses, city trains, and lake cruises. For the best value, consider purchasing a Zurich Card or Swiss Travel Pass—both grant unlimited access to public transport and offer free or discounted entry to many museums and attractions.
Language: Zurich’s official language is German, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and shops—so you’ll have no trouble communicating.
Currency: Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). While many establishments accept euros, change is typically provided in Swiss Francs. Credit cards are widely accepted across the city, making cash less necessary for most transactions.