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Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern sophistication. The best places to visit in Zurich include, stunning lake views, charming old town, world-class museums and tranquil parks, there’s something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking to dive into Swiss culture, enjoy outdoor adventures, or simply relax by the lake, Zurich is the perfect destination. Let’s explore the top 12 places you must visit in Zurich to make the most of your trip.
Top 12 Places To Visit In Zurich
Here are some of the top places to visit in Zurich including the Kunsthaus Museum and Bahnhofstrasse offering the charm of this vibrant city.
1. Bahnhofstrasse
Photo: KeanoManu / Wikimedia Commons
Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s iconic shopping street, often considered one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. Running from Zurich Hauptbahnhof (the main train station) to Lake Zurich, this 1.4-kilometre stretch is lined with high-end boutiques, department stores, and cafes, making it a hotspot for luxury shopping. The area is known for its blend of historical buildings and modern retail spaces. In addition to its shopping appeal, Bahnhofstrasse is an excellent place for a leisurely stroll, with its well-maintained sidewalks and art installations.
Location: Central Zurich, from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Lake Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
2. Lake Zurich (Zürichsee)
Photo: B0rder / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Zurich is the jewel of the city, offering both tranquility and recreational activities. Located at the southern end of Bahnhofstrasse, it’s one of Zurich’s most loved natural landmarks. The lake is perfect for leisurely boat rides, allowing visitors to take in spectacular views of the Alps and surrounding areas. In the summer, the lake is a hub for swimming, sailing, and picnicking along the scenic promenades. During winter, the area transforms into a peaceful spot for winter walks, and the Christmas markets along the waterfront add a festive charm.
Location: Southern end of Bahnhofstrasse
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
3. Swiss National Museum
Photo: CAPTAIN RAJU / Wikimedia Commons
The Swiss National Museum, located on Museumstrasse, is the place to visit for those interested in learning about Swiss history and culture. Housed in a grand building resembling a castle, the museum showcases artefacts that span the country’s history, from ancient artefacts to medieval treasures and modern cultural exhibits. The museum offers interactive displays and special exhibitions that dive into Swiss art, customs, and social history. Highlights include the historical exhibits on Swiss craftsmanship, ancient weapons, and Swiss art movements.
Location: Museumstrasse 2, Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
4. Kunsthaus Zurich
Photo: Roland zh / Wikimedia Commons
As one of Switzerland’s most significant art museums, Kunsthaus Zurich, located on Heimplatz, is a must-see for art lovers. The museum houses an impressive collection of European art, including works from famous artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt, as well as Swiss artists such as Alberto Giacometti.The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that feature contemporary art, offering a dynamic experience for visitors. The building itself is a work of art, with spacious galleries that create a calm and immersive environment.
Location: Heimplatz 1, Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (extended hours on Wednesdays)
5. Fraumünster Church
Photo: Ikiwaner / Wikimedia Commons
Fraumünster Church, located in Zurich’s Old Town (Altstadt), is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, known for its striking architectural features and historical significance. The church dates back to the 9th century and is famous for its stunning stained-glass windows, designed by renowned artist Marc Chagall. The church is a peaceful spot for visitors seeking solace and reflection in the heart of Zurich’s busy Old Town. It is also known for its unique architecture, with a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, making it an important part of Zurich’s religious and cultural heritage.
Location: Münsterhof, Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
6. Lindenhof Hill
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
Lindenhof Hill offers a serene retreat in the heart of Zurich’s Old Town, providing stunning panoramic views of the city and the Limmat River. Historically, this site was home to a Roman castle, and today it’s a peaceful park and one of Zurich’s most picturesque spots. It’s particularly beautiful during the spring and fall, when the trees are in full bloom or showcasing their autumn colors. The view from Lindenhof Hill gives visitors a unique perspective of Zurich, especially the historic buildings and winding streets of the Old Town.
Location: Lindenhof, Zurich Old Town
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: Open all day
7. Uetliberg Mountain
Photo: Murdockcrc / Wikimedia Commons
Uetliberg Mountain, located just outside Zurich, offers an accessible and breathtaking escape into nature. Visitors can take a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to the top of Uetliberg, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the city, Lake Zurich, and the distant Alps. The mountain is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and nature walks during the warmer months, and it also offers winter activities like sledging. Uetliberg is particularly scenic in the fall, when the leaves change colour, or in winter when the landscape is covered in snow.
Location: Near Zurich, accessible via train from Hauptbahnhof
Best Time To Visit: Fall and winter
Timings: Accessible all day
8. Grossmünster
Photo: Liridon / Wikimedia Commons
The Grossmünster Church, a symbol of Zurich’s medieval past, is a Romanesque-style Protestant church located in the heart of the city. The church’s impressive architecture and its historical significance make it one of Zurich’s most important landmarks. It is closely tied to the history of the Protestant Reformation, with figures like Zwingli preaching here. The church’s tower offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for visitors. The interior is equally magnificent, with beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate details.
Location: Grossmünsterplatz, Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
9. Langenberg Wildlife Park
Photo: Adrian Michael / Wikimedia Commons
Langenberg Wildlife Park is Switzerland’s oldest wildlife park and offers an immersive natural experience. Set in a scenic forest, the park is home to native Swiss wildlife, including bears, wolves, wild boars, and deer. The animals roam freely within large, natural enclosures, allowing visitors to observe them in their natural habitats. The park is particularly family-friendly, with educational displays and paths that make it easy to explore the area. The surrounding forest and walking trails make Langenberg a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Location: Sihlwald
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
10. Zoo Zurich And Masoala Rainforest
Photo: Roland zh / Wikimedia Commons
Zoo Zurich is one of Switzerland’s most notable zoos, housing over 4,000 animals across a range of exhibits that mimic their natural habitats. Among its most famous features is the Masoala Rainforest exhibit, where visitors can experience a tropical environment complete with exotic plants and wildlife such as lemurs and chameleons. The exhibit allows you to walk through a lush, rainforest environment. Other themed zones in the zoo include the African Savannah and the Elephant Park, where animals roam freely within expansive enclosures.
Location: Zurichbergstrasse 221, Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Spring and summer
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM (summer), 9 AM – 5 PM (winter)
11. Old Town (Altstadt)
Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons
Zurich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is a picturesque part of the city that combines medieval charm with a lively contemporary atmosphere. The district is characterized by narrow, winding streets, historic buildings, and hidden courtyards, making it an ideal spot for walking and exploring. Key landmarks include the Grossmünster Church, known for its Romanesque architecture and impressive tower views, and the Fraumünster Church, famous for its stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall. The Old Town also has a variety of boutiques, cafés, and art galleries, giving visitors a taste of Zurich’s artistic side.
Location: Zurich Old Town, near Bahnhofstrasse
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
12. Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten)
Photo: Roland zh / Wikimedia Commons
The Botanical Garden in Zurich is a serene oasis, perfect for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Spanning over 15 hectares, it features over 15,000 plant species, including tropical, alpine, and Mediterranean varieties. Visitors can explore diverse collections housed in specialized glasshouses, which include plants from around the world, ranging from cacti to orchids. The garden’s location on the shores of Lake Zurich provides picturesque views of both the lake and the surrounding city.
Location: Zollikerstrasse 107, Zurich
Best Time To Visit: Spring and summer
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM (summer), 8 AM – 5 PM (winter)
Zurich is a vibrant city that seamlessly combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring its historic Old Town, enjoying a peaceful walk in the Botanical Garden, or soaking in the views from Uetliberg Mountain, places to visit in Zurich offers something for everyone. Plan a trip with TripXL and embrace the city’s charm.
Cover Photo: Daniel R. / Unsplash
