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!
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Rick’s strategic advice on how to get the most out of your time and money, with rankings of his must-see favorites.
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Top sights and hidden gems, from bustling Zürich to the cozy small-town atmosphere of Appenzel!