Some places simply pair better together — shorter travel days, similar pacing, and way more time to actually enjoy where you are instead of rushing through it.

If you’ve ever looked at a Europe itinerary and thought “that sounds exhausting”, this guide is for you. These country combinations are ideal for first-time visitors, slow travelers, or anyone who wants a trip that feels magical instead of chaotic.

Why Country Pairings Matter in Europe

Europe looks small on a map, but travel days add up fast. Every time you switch countries, you’re dealing with:

• transit time

• packing and unpacking

• new systems, languages, and logistics

When countries pair well, you get:

• easy train connections

• similar travel rhythms

• fewer “lost days” in transit

• trips that feel full instead of frantic

The goal isn’t to see everything. It’s to see enough — well.

Germany + Austria

Best for: first-time Europe trips, winter travel, Christmas markets

This is one of the easiest and most satisfying pairings in Europe. The trains are excellent, distances are short, and the cultural shift feels natural rather than jarring.

Why it works:

• seamless rail travel between cities

• shared alpine scenery and cozy town vibes

• perfect balance of cities and small towns

Great for:

• Munich → Salzburg → Vienna

• winter trips and Christmas market season

• travelers who want structure without stress

  

Switzerland + France

Best for: scenery lovers, food-focused trips, slower pacing

This pairing is ideal if you want jaw-dropping landscapes paired with unforgettable meals. Switzerland delivers the views; France delivers the flavor.

Why it works:

• easy border crossings by train

• natural progression from mountains to villages

• relaxed, refined travel pace

Great for:

• Lake Geneva region → Alsace → Paris or Lyon

• travelers who want fewer cities and more atmosphere

• shoulder season trips when crowds are lighter

  

Poland + Czech Republic

Best for: budget-conscious travelers, underrated cities, winter charm

This combo is incredibly underrated and one of the best values in Europe. Think medieval old towns, rich history, and stunning architecture without the price tags of Western Europe.

Why it works:

• affordable accommodations and food

• compact travel distances

• incredible Christmas markets and winter atmosphere

Great for:

• Kraków → Prague

• first-time Europe travelers on a budget

• travelers who love history and walkable cities

  

Italy + Slovenia

Best for: lake lovers, scenic road or rail trips, fewer crowds

Italy gets the spotlight, but Slovenia is the quiet surprise that makes this pairing special. The transition feels natural — and refreshingly calm.

Why it works:

• similar landscapes (lakes, mountains, charming towns)

• less tourist congestion once you cross into Slovenia

• perfect for slowing down after busy Italian cities

Great for:

• Venice → Lake Bled → Ljubljana

• travelers who want Italy without constant crowds

• spring or early fall trips

  

Netherlands + Belgium

Best for: short trips, first-timers, easy logistics

If you want a Europe trip that’s incredibly easy to plan, this is it. Trains are fast, cities are compact, and the vibe stays consistent.

Why it works:

• short train rides between major cities

• walkable historic centers

• food, culture, and scenery packed into small distances

Great for:

• Amsterdam → Brussels → Bruges

• 5–7 day trips

• travelers who want maximum experience with minimal planning

  

Spain + Portugal

Best for: relaxed pace, food lovers, warmer weather

This pairing is perfect if you want a Europe trip that feels laid-back rather than packed. Coastal cities, incredible food, and an easygoing rhythm define this route.

Why it works:

• complementary cultures and pacing

• great value for food and accommodations

• ideal for shoulder seasons

Great for:

• Barcelona → Lisbon

• travelers who want warmth without peak-season chaos

• longer stays with fewer locations

  

Scotland + Ireland

Best for: dramatic scenery, cozy vibes, slower exploration

This pairing is less about cities and more about landscapes, history, and atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who want fewer bases and more depth.

Why it works:

• similar travel styles and pacing

• dramatic natural scenery in both countries

• perfect for road trips or train-based itineraries

Great for:

• Edinburgh → Highlands → Dublin

• fall or spring travel

• travelers who love castles, pubs, and moody landscapes

  

How to Choose the Right Pairing for You

Ask yourself:

• Do I want cities or scenery?

• How much time do I actually have?

• Do I want fast-paced or relaxed days?

• Is this my first Europe trip or a return visit?

Two countries done well will almost always feel better than four done poorly.

Final Thought: Slow Travel Wins

Europe doesn’t need to be complicated to be magical.
When you choose country pairings that make sense, you spend less time in transit and more time soaking in the moments that actually make a trip memorable.

Save this for later, and start planning a trip that feels good — not rushed.

Which pairing would you choose first?

The post European Countries That Pair Perfectly Together appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

But here’s the truth: Europe doesn’t need to be complicated to be magical.

You don’t need a perfectly planned itinerary, unlimited vacation days, or a luxury budget. What you do need is a simple starting point and the confidence to take the first step.

This guide breaks down what actually makes a Europe trip work — especially if it’s your first time.

Start Small: Pick One Region, Not Ten Countries

One of the biggest mistakes first-time travelers make is trying to see everything at once.

Europe rewards slow travel. Staying in one region allows you to:
• Reduce travel stress
• Save money
• Actually experience places instead of rushing through them

Instead of hopping across the continent, focus on areas that naturally connect.

Good first-time regions include:
• Northern Italy
• Bavaria & Austria
• France’s Alsace region
• Spain (Barcelona + nearby towns)
• Germany (a few cities connected by train)

You’ll see more by doing less.

Travel Slower Than You Think You Should

It’s tempting to pack every day full — especially when you’re crossing an ocean to get there. But Europe shines in the in-between moments.

Slow travel looks like:
• One or two activities per day
• Long meals instead of rushed ones
• Wandering neighborhoods without a plan
• Sitting at cafés and people-watching

These moments often become the memories you talk about most.

Use Trains (They’re Part of the Experience)

Train travel in Europe isn’t just transportation — it’s part of the trip.

Why trains work so well:
• City-center to city-center travel
• No baggage fees
• Scenic routes
• Less stress than airports

For first-time travelers, trains remove a huge layer of anxiety and add a lot of charm.

Stay Walkable, Not Fancy

You don’t need luxury hotels to have an incredible trip.

What matters more than amenities:
• Location
• Walkability
• Access to cafés, bakeries, and local streets

Staying in a walkable neighborhood means you can:
• Step outside and explore immediately
• Return easily for breaks
• Feel more connected to daily life

Simple, comfortable, and well-located always wins.

Build the Trip Around Food, Markets & Neighborhoods

Europe is best experienced through everyday life.

Instead of focusing only on major landmarks, prioritize:
• Local food markets
• Neighborhood bakeries
• Casual restaurants
• Evening walks through old towns

These experiences cost less, feel more authentic, and slow the trip down naturally.

Europe Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect to Be Incredible

Your first Europe trip doesn’t need to be flawless.
You don’t need to “do it right.”
You just need to go.

Some days will be busy. Some plans will change. Some places will surprise you. That’s part of what makes Europe unforgettable.

Confidence comes after you start planning — not before.

A Simple Way to Start Planning

If Europe feels overwhelming, start with just these steps:

1. Pick one region

2. Choose 2–3 base cities

3. Check train connections

4. Find walkable accommodations

5. Leave space for wandering

That’s it. You don’t need more than that to begin.

Final Thoughts

Europe isn’t reserved for expert travelers or people with unlimited time and money. It’s for curious travelers willing to slow down, explore intentionally, and trust that the experience will come together.

If Europe has been sitting on your bucket list for years, this is your sign that it’s more doable than you think.

The post Visiting Europe for the First Time: How to Plan a Trip That Actually Feels Enjoyable appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

Whether you’re planning a European road trip or just love swooning over dramatic views, these castles are worthy of your travel bucket list. Some you may already recognize (hello, Disney inspiration), while others are underrated gems just waiting to be explored.

Neuschwanstein Castle – Germany
The ultimate fairytale. This dreamy hilltop castle inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.
Best time to visit: Late spring or early fall for fewer crowds and clear views.

Bran Castle – Romania
Also known as “Dracula’s Castle,” this cliffside fortress is steeped in legend and Transylvanian lore.
Best time to visit: October for spooky vibes or May for spring flowers.

Peleș Castle – Romania
Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, it’s ornate, elegant, and honestly looks fake it’s so perfect.
Best time to visit: Summer for lush green surroundings.

Eltz Castle – Germany
A hidden gem deep in the Moselle forest. It’s still owned by the original family!
Best time to visit: Fall for golden foliage.

Hohenzollern Castle – Germany
Perched on a mountain top with panoramic views, this one feels straight out of a medieval movie.
Best time to visit: Autumn or just after snowfall.

Château de Chambord – France
France’s largest Renaissance castle with twisting staircases and royal vibes.
Best time to visit: April–June or September for nice weather without summer crowds.

Mont-Saint-Michel – France
Technically an abbey, but we’re counting it. Rising dramatically from the sea, it’s pure magic.
Best time to visit: Low tide season (May or September).

Alcázar of Segovia – Spain
Shaped like a ship’s bow, this fortress looks like it was built for a fantasy film.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall.

Edinburgh Castle – Scotland
Overlooking the city from Castle Rock, this historic icon is packed with drama and Scottish history.
Best time to visit: August during the Fringe Festival or May for lighter crowds.

Dunrobin Castle – Scotland
Think French château meets Scottish Highlands. Also features a falconry display!
Best time to visit: Summer for the gardens.

Bojnice Castle – Slovakia
Fairytale turrets, pastel colors, and a romantic history make this a must.
Best time to visit: Spring bloom or fall festivals.

Himeji Castle – Japan (Optional global bonus)
One of the most famous Japanese castles — for readers who want to go beyond Europe.
Best time to visit: Cherry blossom season (March–April).

Castel del Monte – Italy
A UNESCO World Heritage site with a unique octagonal shape and mystique.
Best time to visit: March–June.

Karlštejn Castle – Czech Republic
Just outside Prague, this Gothic beauty once held the crown jewels.
Best time to visit: Late spring.

Château de Chambord – France
France’s largest Renaissance castle with twisting staircases and royal vibes.

Predjama Castle – Slovenia
Literally built into the side of a cliff with a cave behind it. Wild.
Best time to visit: May–September.

Trakai Island Castle – Lithuania
A bright red castle sitting on a lake, surrounded by forests.
Best time to visit: Summer for kayaking or winter when the lake freezes.

Bled Castle – Slovenia
Towering over Lake Bled with postcard views and a wine cellar.
Best time to visit: September for a quieter, still-colorful escape.

Vianden Castle – Luxembourg
A gorgeously restored medieval castle overlooking a fairytale valley.
Best time to visit: Fall for foliage or summer for festivals.

Windsor Castle – England
Still an official royal residence. Need we say more?
Best time to visit: Spring or early summer (check if it’s open to visitors).

Cochem Castle – Germany
Overlooking the Moselle River, this is one of the prettiest spots for wine + castle lovers.
Best time to visit: September during the wine festival season.

Burg Kreuzenstein – Austria
Used as a film location for fantasy and period movies.
Best time to visit: May–October when it’s open to the public.

Schönbrunn Palace – Austria
A baroque dream in Vienna with massive grounds and elegant interiors.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but spring is ideal for gardens.

Travel Tips for Visiting Castles

• Get there early: Tour buses often arrive late morning.

• Wear comfortable shoes: Many castles are uphill or have cobblestone paths.

• Check seasonal closures: Some castles close in winter or have limited hours.

• Bring cash: Small entrance fees and local shops don’t always take cards.

How to Plan Your Castle Route

For first-timers, try grouping nearby castles:

• Germany Loop: Neuschwanstein, Hohenzollern, Eltz, and Cochem.

• Romania Duo: Bran + Peleș (perfect for fall).

• France Circuit: Chambord + Mont-Saint-Michel.

Save + Share

Tag your favorite travel buddy and start planning a dreamy castle trip.

Comment below:
“Which one are you adding to your list first?”
Want even more castles? Stay tuned — I’ve got a part two coming soon!

The post 🏰 Bucket List Castles to Visit at Least Once appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.

As I start to type this out I hesitate to post about this city because it really is one the cutest little towns I’ve visited while touring through Europe!

Location:

Stein am Rhein is a small town west of Lake Constance (Bodensee), in the northeastern region of Switzerland.

History:

It’s known for its preserved, half-timbered medieval houses with painted facades, clustered around Rathausplatz in the old town. On the banks of the Rhine River, St. George’s Abbey is a former Benedictine monastery complex with a museum. On a hilltop overlooking the town, Hohenklingen Castle dates back to the Middle Ages.

Things to do:

Museum Lindwurm – open from March to October Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm. This museum is good for children and adults alike, housing exquisite furniture showcasing life in the 19th century.

Adults: 5 CHF / Euro
Reduced: 3 CHF / Euro
Children and young people under 16: free
Groups of 10+: 4 CHF / Euro per person

Combined ticket St. George’s Abbey Museum + Lindwurm museum
Adults: 7 CHF / Euro
Families: 14 CHF / Euro
Reduced: 4 CHF / Euro

The ticket is valid for two consecutive days.

Free admission: Schweizer Museumspass, Raiffeisen-Karte, Bodensee Card, Swiss Travel Pass, Donau-Touristik Gutschein, KulturLegi, VMS und ICOM.

Tickets:

Adults: CHF 5
Groups of 10 or more: CHF 4 each
FAHV, IV, VHB, Stein guest card, students: CHF 3

Children and young people up to 16 years free

Combined ticket for Sankt Georgen Monastery + Lindwurm Museum

Adults: CHF 7
Reduced: CHF 4
Families: CHF 14
The ticket is valid for two consecutive days.

Free entries: ICOM, VMS, VKKS/ASHHA, and the Swiss museum pass.

Tickets:

Adult CHF 10.-

Children (from 7 years) CHF 7.-

Infants (up to 7 years) FREE!

Holders of the Swiss Museum Pass (Raiffeisen) enjoy free entry 

Restaurant – Open on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 – 23:00 Sun 10:00 – 18:00 and serving French cuisine. Reservations can be made here! 

Stein am Rhein Altstadt – A fairytale village with beautiful old architecture situated on the Rhine. Give yourself plenty of time to meander down the cobblestone streets. We visited during Christmas and it really was MAGICAL! Highly recommend!!

Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m

Water supervision is guaranteed during the following times:

May Wednesday1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m Sat+Sun1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m

June – August: Daily11:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m

September: Wednesday1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m Sat+Sun1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m

In bad weather, the bathing facility remains closed.

Season: opening mid-May, end of season mid-September.

Admission: FREE

Equipment of the bathing facility near Stein a. Rhine:

1 and 3 m diving board in the Rhine (height depending on the water level)

Children’s wading pool, fenced and with sun sail

Seating area with umbrellas

Playground

Small slide

Table tennis tables

Volleyball field

Toilets and cloakrooms

Looking to extend your Switzerland trip? Stein am Rhine is an easy day trip from Zurich! Click here for my 2 day ZURICH GUIDE and maximize your trip with this ZURICH FREEBIE GUIDE!

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Itinerary:

Day 1: Old Town Exploration
– Morning: Explore the historic Old Town (Altstadt) with its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares.
– Afternoon: Visit the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches for breathtaking views of the city.
– Evening: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Limmat River and indulge in some Swiss delicacies at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion
– Morning: Dive into Zurich’s rich cultural scene with a visit to the Kunsthaus Zurich, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
– Afternoon: Discover the fascinating history of Swiss watches at the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum.
– Evening: Attend a classical music concert or opera performance at the Zurich Opera House.

Day 3: Nature and Adventure
– Morning: Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich, admiring the stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
– Afternoon: Head to Uetliberg Mountain for hiking trails and panoramic vistas of Zurich.
– Evening: Relax and unwind with a visit to the Thermalbad & Spa Zurich, housed in a former brewery.

If you are looking for comprehensive coverage for exploring Switzerland this will help your travel planning!

• Rick’s strategic advice on how to get the most out of your time and money, with rankings of his must-see favorites.

• Top sights and hidden gems, from bustling Zürich to the cozy small-town atmosphere of Appenzel!

Top Sites to See:

Grossmünster Church:

• • Location: Grossmünsterplatz, 8001 Zurich.
  • History: Built during the Romanesque period, the Grossmünster is one of Zurich’s most recognizable landmarks. Legend has it that Charlemagne discovered the graves of Zurich’s patron saints here, leading to the construction of the church.
  • Architecture: The twin towers of the Grossmünster dominate the city skyline. The interior features stunning stained glass windows and a crypt with archaeological excavations.
  • Visiting Hours: The church is open daily for visitors. Opening hours may vary for guided tours and services.

Fraumünster Church:

• • Location: Münsterhof 2, 8001 Zurich.
  • Chagall Windows: The highlight of the Fraumünster Church is undoubtedly the stained glass windows created by the Russian-French artist Marc Chagall. Installed in the choir of the church, these vibrant windows depict biblical scenes and add a colorful ambiance to the interior.
  • History: Originally founded as a Benedictine convent in the 9th century, the Fraumünster is known for its elegant architecture and rich history.
  • Visiting Hours: The church is open to visitors throughout the year, with guided tours available to learn more about its history and architecture.

Lake Zurich:

• • Location: Lake Zurich spans across the city, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities.
  • Activities: Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the lake, rent a paddleboard or kayak for water sports, or simply relax on the lakeside promenades.
  • Parks: Explore the lakeside parks such as Sechseläutenplatz and Belvoirpark for picnics, jogging, and cycling.
  • Sunset Views: Sunset over Lake Zurich is a magical sight not to be missed, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Kunsthaus Zurich:

• • Location: Heimplatz 1, 8001 Zurich.
  • Art Collection: The Kunsthaus Zurich is home to one of Switzerland’s most important art collections, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. Highlights include pieces by Swiss artists like Alberto Giacometti and Ferdinand Hodler, as well as international masters like Picasso and Monet.
  • Exhibitions: The museum hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing various artistic movements and themes throughout the year.
  • Visiting Hours: The Kunsthaus is open daily except Mondays. Check the official website for current opening hours and ticket information.

Uetliberg Mountain:

• • Location: Uetliberg, 8143 Zurich.
  • Hiking Trails: Uetliberg offers numerous hiking trails catering to all skill levels, with breathtaking views of Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the Swiss Alps.
  • Panoramic Tower: Climb the Uetliberg Tower for unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. On clear days, you can see as far as the Black Forest in Germany.
  • Outdoor Activities: In addition to hiking, Uetliberg is popular for mountain biking, paragliding, and picnicking in the scenic alpine meadows.
  • Transportation: Reach Uetliberg easily by train from Zurich Main Station (Hauptbahnhof), followed by a short hike or bus ride to the summit.

Swiss National Museum:

• • Location: Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zurich.
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
  • Highlights: Explore exhibits spanning Swiss history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Admire the impressive collection of artifacts, including medieval armor, Swiss traditional costumes, and exquisite craftsmanship.

Zurich Zoo:

• • Location: Zürichbergstrasse 221, 8044 Zurich.
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Highlights: Encounter a diverse range of animals, from African elephants to South American jaguars. Don’t miss the popular Masoala Rainforest Hall, replicating the ecosystems of Madagascar.

Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich:

• • Location: Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zurich.
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (vary by season).
  • Highlights: Wander through themed gardens, including alpine plants, medicinal herbs, and exotic species. The garden also features greenhouses with tropical and subtropical plants.

Zurich Opera House Tour:

• • Location: Falkenstrasse 1, 8008 Zurich.
  • Tour Hours: Check the official website for tour schedules.
  • Highlights: Guided tours provide insights into the history, architecture, and behind-the-scenes operations of this prestigious cultural institution. Marvel at the opulent interiors and learn about the world-class performances held here.
• Schiffbau:
  • Location: Schiffbaustrasse 4, 8005 Zurich.
  • Highlights: This renovated industrial building is now a cultural hotspot, housing theaters, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. Catch a theatrical performance, art exhibition, or enjoy a meal in one of the vibrant eateries.

Swiss Science Center Technorama:

• • Location: Technoramastrasse 1, 8404 Winterthur (near Zurich).
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
  • Highlights: Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore various scientific principles through hands-on experiments and demonstrations. From physics to biology, there’s something for curious minds of all ages.

Zurich Film Festival:

• • Location: Various venues across Zurich.
  • Festival Dates: Typically held in late September/early October.
  • Highlights: Attend screenings of international and Swiss films, participate in Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this renowned film festival.

Bahnhofstrasse Shopping:

• • Location: Bahnhofstrasse, 8001 Zurich.
  • Highlights: Stroll along this prestigious shopping street lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and designer brands. From high-end fashion to Swiss watches and gourmet delicacies, indulge in upscale retail therapy.

Helicopter Sightseeing Tour:

• • Providers: Several companies offer helicopter tours in Zurich. Check availability and pricing with local tour operators.
  • Highlights: Experience Zurich and its scenic surroundings from a unique aerial perspective. Fly over the city, Lake Zurich, and the Swiss Alps, capturing breathtaking views from above.

Chocolate and Cheese Tasting Tour:

• • Providers: Various tour companies offer chocolate and cheese tasting experiences in Zurich. Look for guided tours that specialize in Swiss culinary delights.
  • Highlights: Sample exquisite Swiss chocolates and artisanal cheeses while learning about their production processes and cultural significance. Engage your senses in a delectable journey through Swiss gastronomy.

Best Time of Year to Visit:

The best time to visit Zurich is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (July to August) is also a popular time to visit, but expect more tourists and higher prices. Winter (December to February) offers a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and winter sports opportunities.

Transportation Options:

Zurich has an efficient public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and trains. The Zurich Card offers unlimited travel on the city’s public transport network, as well as free or discounted entry to many museums and attractions.

Must-See Instagram Places:

1. Lindenhof Hill – panoramic views of the city skyline
2. Niederdorf – picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings
3. Bahnhofstrasse – one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets
4. Lake Zurich – stunning scenery for capturing memorable shots

Holidays:

Switzerland celebrates various holidays throughout the year, including Swiss National Day on August 1st and Christmas markets during the festive season. Be sure to check the local calendar for any events or festivities happening during your visit. Christmas and New Years are also very festive times to visit the city as well!

Souvenirs to Purchase:

1. Swiss chocolate from renowned chocolatiers such as Sprüngli or Läderach
2. Swiss watches from luxury brands like Rolex or Swatch
3. Swiss army knives from Victorinox or Wenger
4. Traditional Swiss textiles such as embroidered handkerchiefs or tablecloths

Best Part of the City to Stay in for First-Time Visitors:

For first-time visitors, staying in the Old Town (Altstadt) or the city center (District 1) is ideal, as it offers easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas. Alternatively, the trendy Kreis 5 district (Zurich West) provides a more modern and vibrant atmosphere with its converted industrial buildings and hip cafes.

Zurich awaits with its blend of culture, nature, and Swiss charm. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this enchanting city! Safe travels!

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1. Stroll Around

One of my favorite things to do when I visit a new city is to just explore it on foot. Zurich has an old-meets-new vibe throughout. Tons of new shops and restaurants all mixed in with the old picturesque buildings.

2. Hike Zurich

This hike lasts around 2 hours and will give you amazing views of the city. It’ll cost to get to the starting spot but is free to hike. Take the S10 train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Üetliberg.

It looks like you can also walk to the starting spot from Zurich, which would take around 1.5 hours. More info here.

3. Swim in Limmat

You can take bus #32 to Holzerhurd, and swim in Lake Zurich with the locals north of the River Limmat.

You’ll get a local experience, unlike the city center of Zurich where it can be packed with tourists.

4. Botanischer Garten (Botanical Garden)

The Zurich Botanical Gardens are maintained by Zurich University, allowing you to explore and enjoy this beautiful site.

Over 53,000 square meters, you’ll find over 9,000 plant and flower species at the gardens!

Having a sturdy tote bag is a must when traveling in Europe!

5. Flohmarkt Kanzlei

This is the largest year-round flea market in Switzerland, Flohmarkt Kanzlei has rows upon rows of items that you may never find anywhere else but here AND at a discounted price!!

The flea market is open only on Saturdays!!

6. Lindenhof Hill

Lindenhof Hill is the highest point in Zurich, meaning you’ll get a unique view of the entire city.

In the summer, there are plenty of concerts and festivals that you don’t want to miss out on!

7. Visit a Swiss clock or toy museum

The two museums such as the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum, which has 500 timepieces dating from 1400BC, and the Zurich Toy Museum with dolls, train sets, toy soldiers and other European toys from the 18th to the beginning of the 20th century.

8. Bike or Ice Skate

Free bicycle rentals in Zurich are ideal during spring, summer, and autumn. During winter, try ice skating a

one of the city’s free skating rinks (try the rinks in Heuried and Oerlikon).

9. Visit the Migros Museum of Contemporary Art

Every Thursday night from 5 to 8 PM, the Migros Museum of Contemporary Art offers free entries to their current exhibit.

10. Visit the Kunsthaus Museum

The Kunsthaus Zürich is Switzerland’s largest art museum. It hosts a collection of world-renowned art, including pieces by Chagall, Giacometti, Monet, Munch, Picasso, van Gogh, and Warhol.

Children below 16 years of age are free, and adults enjoy free admission to the permanent collection every Wednesday.

If you are looking for comprehensive coverage for exploring Switzerland this will help your travel planning!

• Rick’s strategic advice on how to get the most out of your time and money, with rankings of his must-see favorites.

• Top sights and hidden gems, from bustling Zürich to the cozy small-town atmosphere of Appenzel!

Looking to extend your Switzerland trip? Click here for my 2-day ZURICH GUIDE!

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The post 10 Free Things to do in Zurich, Switzerland appeared first on Bucket List Travel Fam.