Zurich is much more than the financial heart of Switzerland. We spend a week in Wildhaus, a stone’s throw from Zurich. Skipping this metropolis is, obviously, not an option.
Our route starts with a stroll along Zurich Boulevard (30 minutes), we have brunch at John Baker (highly recommended!), explore Altstadt and climb the Grossmünster. After lunch, stroll through the hip Langstrasse and shop at Markthalle Im Viadukt. We finish at Frau Gerolds Garten with a drink or (and😏) ice cream.
Zurich: good to know
We do everything in Zurich on foot and so have not needed public transport.
You can pay with your debit or credit card almost everywhere.
On Sundays, most shops are closed.
Besides a cosy centre, Zurich is surrounded by lots of beautiful nature!
What to do during a day in Zurich?
Zurich surprised me! Gorgeous weather, beautiful city, and such a great vibe. During our day trip, we stroll along the Lake Zurich boulevard, have breakfast at John Baker, and explore Altstadt. Here we climb the Grossmünster and continue towards Langstrasse. We visit the market halls and end our day at Frau Gerolds Garten.
We trade the nearly deserted Wildhaus for a buzzing day in Zurich. With our car we drove 1.5 hours over mostly winding roads to Zurich. Once there, we grab a coffee at KulturCafé WHISper before letting ourselves get swept up by the crowds toward the city center.
Is the Zurichsee boulevard worth a visit?
To reach the city center we walk the entire Zürichsee boulevard, which is a great start and definitely recommended! There’s a sporty vibe and we’re constantly being overtaken by joggers. Plus, you’ll find various food trucks along the boulevard.
What is there to see in Zurich Altstadt?
You can’t skip Altstadt when visiting Zurich. As is often the case, Altstadt is the vibrant historic center with narrow alleys, old buildings, monuments, boutiques, and local restaurants. I could easily spend a whole afternoon here.
Climbing the Grossmünster: what does it cost and is it worth it?
For 5 CHF (~about 5 euros), you climb the 187 steps of the Grossmünster in Zürich. I’d read about the fantastic view beforehand but honestly, it was underwhelming. Once you’re at the top, you’re surrounded by a sort of fence with windows. Sure, you can see the city, but this isn’t what I’d call “enjoying the view.”
What can you do on Langstrasse in Zurich?
Langstrasse is a multicultural, creative district in Zurich and in sharp contrast to the charming and cosy Altstadt. The district is lively with lots of street art, hip coffee bars like ViCafe, small galleries and the iconic WavepoolUrbansurf. Do some shopping and stock up on delicacies at the Markthalle Im Viadukt. End the day with a bite to eat and a drink at Frau Gerolds Garten.
Shopping: Markthalle Im Viadukt
The Markthalle Im Viadukt: you walk straight to it when following Langstrasse. Stroll past cute boutiques, trendy clothing shops, cafe’s and diners.
What to do at Frau Gerolds Garten in Zurich?
Frau Gerolds Garten is a beautiful, colourful city garden on the edge of Langstrasse, close to Hardbrücke station.
In summer, this container terrace transforms into a creative mix of street food, art, beer benches and live music. You eat here under lights among urban plants and views of the Prime Tower.
Tip: Swiss pretzel
Switzerland is known for its pretzels. Whenever you come across a Brezel pretzel shop: order a pretzel with cream cheese. I got a fresh pretzel with cream cheese on the way back and it was delicious.
You wouldn’t expect it, but Zurich has a veritable Wavepool. When you think of skiing, you think of Switzerland, but in Zurich you can also work on your surfing skills at Urbansurf. Not a surfer? The Wavepool is worth a visit, you can walk in for free. Just check opening hours first, though.
Foodmarket fans can visit the delicious restaurants found in the Markthalle Im Viadukt. Grab a beer at British Beer Corner, feast on pasta at Pasta Mercato, enjoy your noodle soup at Mi-te or have a tasty sandwich at Back & Kafi.
Frau Gerolds Garten is a large garden where you can find shops and delicious ice creams, as well as have a beer. Events are organised regularly. You can also eat there, but what you can get depends on the season. In winter, they offer cheese fondue and gluwein. In summer, you can go there for BBQ.
Even if you are not going to eat here, it is already incredibly nice to have an ice cream or drink.
I’ll admit right away: I didn’t visit enough bakeries in Zurich to back up this statement. But you DO want to go here. For breakfast, coffee, or to grab something delicious to take with you. Your travel companions will thank you! Must try: Pistachio Roll and a filled croissant.
To explore the city centre, see the sights and grab a bite to eat here and there, one day is enough. If you want to visit museums or go to the Wavepool, set aside 2 days.
Is Zurich expensive?
Yes, Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Take into account around €15-25 for a simple lunch and €30-50+ for dinner. But this doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money on a day trip. You can also opt for a pretzel, a coffee to go and a fries, for example.
What is the best time to go to Zurich?
Spring (April to June) is ideal for visiting Zurich. The weather is pleasant and you can enjoy terraces along the lake. In winter (December to February), Zurich is magical with Christmas markets and nearby ski resorts.
What is Zurich known for?
Zurich is known for its financial centre and Lake Zurich.
What is not to be missed in Zurich?
I really liked the Markthalle Im Viadukt and John Baker.
