Zurich is one of the world’s most unique cities, fusing tradition and modernity beautifully, while also being Switzerland’s largest city. It is also a prominent European financial, cultural, and tourism hub, drawing thousands of people annually. In this context, if you’re planning a trip anytime soon, then here is a list of Zurich places to visit that you can consider including in your itinerary.

There are several kinds of places to visit and things to do, grouped under categories like more contemporary attractions, historic and natural wonders, cultural spots, and so on. 

Best Places to Visit in Zurich

There are innumerable Zurich city attractions that we will look at below, including several hidden gems and the best places to stay (you can book serviced apartments from TheSqua.re) for your trip. 

1. Old Town (Altstadt)

If you were wondering what to see in Zurich, don’t miss the charming Old Town or Altstadt, which will wow you with its cobblestone pathways, medieval-era buildings, and multiple other attractions. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon if you wish to avoid the bustling crowds, while there are also free walking tours to help you explore the area without paying a penny. Check out the majestic Grossmunster and Fraumunster Churches with their architectural novelties and also the Kunsthaus Zurich museum here. 

By night, the Old Town transforms into a bustling hub with several clubs and bars for you to check out, while there’s always the Lindt & Sprungli Chocolate Factory and the Rindermarkt square with its cafes, shops, and lively vibe. 

2. Lake Zurich 

One of the defining attractions in Zurich, Switzerland, it is a must-visit on your trip. The pristine lake will melt your heart instantly, while you can also participate in various activities here like wakeboarding, paddleboarding, boating, and more. Speaking of boating, there are quite a few boat tours available here from leading companies like the Lake Zurich Navigation Company and Historical Paddle Steamers, to name a few. You’ll also find several lovely promenades for a stroll, including the Lakeside, Rapperswil, and even the lakeside beaches for picnics and swimming. 

Take a charming picnic on the banks of the lake, while visiting the parks alongside or the Peter and Paul Parish Church as well. You can also stop for a bite at the local restaurants or breweries here. Get down here at sunset for amazingly Insta-worthy landscapes! 

3. Bahnhofstrasse

A must-see in Zurich if you love shopping, it is arguably the city’s most famous shopping street and incredibly busy throughout the day. You can visit on weekdays to avoid the huge crowds that usually throng the place on weekends and holidays. You’ll find several boutiques and retail stores from leading global brands like Chanel, Gucci, Bvlgari, Tiffany, and a lot more.

The area is also home to several charming cafes and eateries, including Café Bar ODEON, Schokolato Bar Gelateria, and Confiserie Sprungli, to name a few.  Don’t forget to pick up the finest Swiss chocolates and souvenirs here while checking out the FIFA World Football Museum and Beyer Clock and Watch Museum nearby. 

4. Uetliberg Mountain

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Zurich, Switzerland, for nature lovers. You’ll be wowed by the panoramic views of the city from the spot. The best time to visit is on a clear and sunny day in the morning. You can reach the summit by the S10 train from the Zurich HB station and then walk a small distance to the observation tower and restaurant. The latter is where you’ll find ample refreshments or you can also bring a picnic along for the day. 

There are multiple hiking trails available, including the Planet Trail (suitable for all ages and families), Ridge Walk (1.45 hours), and many others. The observation tower offers 360-degree views while you’ll find the ridge offering several designated picnic zones and BBQ SPOTS. 

5. Kunsthaus Zurich (Art Museum)

What to do in Zurich if you’re an art lover? Why not hop over to the Kunsthaus Zurich, an art museum that has Switzerland’s biggest art collection? It’s best to visit in the afternoon if you wish to bypass the crowds and the location is Heimplatz, with ticket prices varying between CHF 24-31. Free admission is available on Wednesdays for the general collective while entry is free for children under the age of 13. 

Have a blast, exploring the European art collection, with pieces from masters like Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, and more. You’ll also find works by several Swiss artists and from the Dada movement that was founded in the city. There’s also a 21st century collective with photographs, works by modern artists, video installations, and a lot more. 

6. Lindenhof Hill

Enjoy an exciting experience as you climb up the Lindenhof Hill, which is just a short walk away from the Old Town. It’s a historic Roman site that offers lovely views of the surrounding landscape and is ideal for taking a quiet break away from the buzz of the city. You can take a walk along the park and check out the remains of the Carolingian and Roman-era structures, while gazing on the Limmat River and Zurich city from above. 

7. Zurich Zoo & Masoala Rainforest

The Zurich Zoo & Masoala Rainforest is a spectacular attraction worth checking out if you’re an animal lover. Of course, book your tickets in advance if possible and arrive early for feeding times, which are exciting affairs! You can take the toy train called Masoala Express to access the Masoala Rainforest, with tickets costing around CHF 2 for each journey (for those above 6 and onwards). Tram tickets are separate from the admission fees which are CHF 31-32 for adults and CHF 17-18 for children between 6-12 years of age. 

Along with the rainforest, you’ll love checking out the habitats like the Lewa Savannah, Australian enclosure, Elephant Park, and more. The zoo also has several tours and workshops for children while you can walk through the rainforest’s treetop walkway and have a bite at the snack bar. 

8. ETH Zurich & Polyterrasse

One of the top Zurich places to visit, the Polyterrasse is a fabulous viewing terrace that is located just in front of the ETH Zurich main building. It offers gorgeous views of Lake Zurich, the Alps, and the city, and you can access this through the Polybahn funicular which runs to the ETH campus from the Central Square.

You can take fabulous photographs here and entry is absolutely free. If you’re hungry/thirsty, there is a café nearby where you can sample snacks and coffee as well. 

9. Swiss National Museum

The Swiss National Museum will give you a deeper glimpse of the fascinating Swiss culture and heritage through its interesting exhibits. It’s located at Museumstrasse which is just a short walk away from the Zurich HB station and Limmat River. Timings are usually between 10 AM and 5 PM from Tuesday to Sunday, while Mondays are closed. 

The castle-like exterior leads you inside to an intriguing collection of exhibits like History Switzerland, The Collection, Archaeology Switzerland, and a lot more. There are 870,000 objects here while private guided tours are also available. You can use the Landesmuseum app for audio guides, and keep an eye out for specific areas where photography is not allowed. Weekday mornings are mostly less-crowded than afternoons and weekends. 

10. Zurich West

There are several attractions in this part of town, which is a modern locality famous for amazing street art and bustling nightlife. If you were wondering what to do in Zurich West, there’s the stunning Freitag Tower and the pristine Frau Gerolds Garden with its blend of natural beauty and dining experiences. 

Another must-see in Zurich West is the Schiffbau theatre and the Technopark, along with the Viadukt that is lined by several cafes and shops. Head to Langstrasse with its clubs and bars for your night out, while checking out the Prime Tower (the highest building in the city) as well. 

11. Botanical Garden

The Zurich Botanical Garden is open daily with free entry for visitors and offers a chance to view several rare plants up close. This is just a short walk from the main train station, and its key attractions include the Palm House, medieval herb garden, Gessner Garden, and more. You’ll love exploring the lovely trails here and the opportunity to commune with Nature in peace. 

12. Zurich Opera House

View world-class performances at the iconic Zurich Opera House in Sechselautenplatz. Functional from 1891, it also hosts the Ballett Zurich and has a seating capacity of around 1,100. Make sure you book your tickets in advance to avoid the last-minute rush and take your pick from classical productions to more contemporary offerings here. 

13. Rietberg Museum

One of the top Zurich city attractions, the Rietberg Museum, will feed your appetite for non-European art and is a hidden gem that is located near the Rieterpark. Discover fascinating African, Asian, and Oceanian artworks here, along with sculptures and several temporary collections.

14. Sihlcity

Sihlcity is a contemporary entertainment cum shopping complex which is ideal for a lazy rainy day in Zurich. You’ll find a multiplex cinema here to catch the latest flicks along with multiple eateries, a fitness zone, a Four Points hotel, a shopping centre, and a chapel. The previous Ausrusterei building hosts various cultural events while the 60-meter chimney is another landmark worth checking out. Located on the riverbank, it has the Kalanderplatz and Utoplatz squares, while several former industrial buildings have been integrated into the design today. 

15. China Garden

China Garden is a stunning gift from Kunming, Zurich’s sister-city or Chinese partner city. There is a small entry fee to visit the wonderful spot near Lake Zurich. You’ll love this temple garden with its pond (containing koi fish), an island linked by bridges, and Chinese pavilions. It manifests the Three Friends of Winter, namely bamboo, pine, and plum blossom and showcases Yunnan culture uniquely with its paintings and inscriptions. Timings are usually between 11 AM and 7 PM here. 

Insider Tips for Visiting Zurich

Here are a few insider tips that will come in handy if you’re planning to visit Zurich soon. 

• Try visiting between May and October, to enjoy the pleasant weather and a conducive environment for sightseeing 
• You can also use the Zurich Card for public transportation savings and entry into several museums and other landmarks. There is also the Swiss Half Fare Card for rail travel discounts. 
• Look up free walking tours that will help you check out several historic areas without spending anything. 
• The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on buses, trains, boats, and other public transportation networks across the country. 
• Make sure you avoid buying costly food and beverages at tourist spots. Step away into local zones to save money on the same. 
• Learn some basic phrases (Swiss-German) such as Guten Tag (hello-formal), Gruezi (hello-informal), Ja/Nein (yes/no), and Merci (thank you). 

Where to Stay in Zurich

Wondering where to stay in Zurich? Here are some of the top areas worth considering, especially if you’re looking to book comfortable serviced apartments. TheSqua.re offers plenty of these apartments in prime locations at reasonable rates for extended stays, along with great amenities and spacious configurations. 

• Old Town (Altstadt): If you’re a first timer, consider staying here for its proximity to all the historical and cultural landmarks, along with a feel of the city’s rich heritage. 
• Enge: This is a more business and family-friendly zone where you’ll find contemporary and stylish accommodation along with easy access to the business hubs of Zurich. Enge also offers seamless transportation and a quieter atmosphere than the city centre. 
• Zurich West: This is a trendy and artistic neighbourhood with plenty of transit points, start-ups, and nightlife hubs all around. It’s ideal for creative professionals and business travellers alike. 
• Near Zurich HB: Staying near the Zurich HB station is a great idea if you’re looking for easy connectivity to several parts of the city and beyond. You’ll find several accommodation options at affordable rates in this neighbourhood. 

Conclusion: Explore Zurich at Your Own Pace

Zurich is an incredible fusion of the old and new, with something to offer every kind of traveler. From its medieval streets and lakeside serenity to its cutting-edge art and entertainment hubs, Zurich makes for a dream destination year-round. Whether you're visiting for leisure, business, or a bit of both, make your stay even more memorable by booking a fully equipped serviced apartment in Zurich. With flexible stays, top-notch amenities, and prime locations, you'll enjoy comfort and convenience that matches the city’s elegance.