In a nutshell
Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, but it reads more like a town that grew around a river and a lake. The old town is compact enough to cross on foot in twenty minutes, which is why most of what you came to see sits within walking distance of the Limmat. Bahnhofstrasse handles the shopping and the banks, while the lanes right behind it kept the guild houses, the fountains and the small shops. The two churches on opposite banks, Grossmünster and Fraumünster, are the landmarks everyone photographs, and from the Lindenhof terrace above them you get both in one view. It is also a city where a swim in the lake, a chocolate tasting and a mountain view all fit into the same afternoon.
Landmarks
Lake Zurich
Lakeside promenades, swan boats and mountain views on a clear day.
Grossmünster
Zurich's twin-towered landmark church, with sweeping views from the tower.
Niederdorf
The Old Town's narrow lanes, packed with cafés, bars and boutiques.
Fraumünster
A quiet Gothic church famous for its stained-glass windows by Chagall.
St. Peter's Church
Home to the largest church clock face in Europe, right on the square.
Lindenhof
A quiet hilltop square with one of the best free views over the Old Town.
Rennweg
A historic shopping lane just off Bahnhofstrasse, lined with boutiques.
Bahnhofstrasse
Fashion, chocolate and jewellery along one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets.
Polybahn
A tiny funicular up to ETH, with one of the best skyline views in the city.
Limmat
The river that splits the Old Town, lined with bridges and waterside cafés.
Activities
Lindt Home of Chocolate
The world's tallest chocolate fountain, and all the Swiss chocolate history you can ask for.
Swiss National Museum
Switzerland's history under one roof, in a landmark castle-like building by the station.
Unterer Letten
A river bathing spot on the Limmat, a local favourite on hot summer days.
Zurich Opera House
World-class opera and ballet in an elegant 19th-century house on the lake.
Museum Rietberg
Switzerland's museum for art from Africa, Asia and the Americas, set in a park villa.
Zurich Zoo
Home to the Masoala rainforest hall and around 4000 animals, on a hill above the city.
Uetliberg
Zurich's local mountain, a short train ride away with panoramic Alps views.
Juckerfarm
A working farm just outside the city, with pumpkin fields, a farm shop and seasonal activities for families.
Tours to this destination
Photos of Zurich
