Why Go to Zurich
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Zurich is Switzerland's largest city, set on the shores of Lake Zurich where the Limmat River flows out, with the snowcapped Alps on the horizon. It's known as a global banking hub, but it's also a beautiful, relaxed and surprisingly lively city with a charming historic heart.
Wander the cobblestone lanes of the Old Town, the Altstadt, past medieval guild houses and church spires, including the Grossmunster and Fraumunster, famous for its Marc Chagall stained-glass windows. Stroll the elegant Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, and indulge in Swiss chocolate at historic confectioners. Visit the Kunsthaus art museum and the Swiss National Museum, and see Cabaret Voltaire, birthplace of the Dada art movement. James Joyce lived and is buried here. In summer, join locals swimming in the clean waters of the lake and river at traditional bathing spots, and take a boat cruise on the lake.
Zurich's airport is a major hub, and the city is the perfect gateway to the Alps, Lucerne and scenic Swiss train journeys. I'll plan your stay and connect Zurich with the mountains and the rest of Switzerland.
BEST FOR
City-break travelers, art lovers, foodies and lakefront walkers
BEST MONTHS
May–September and December
EXPLORE
Altstadt spans historic streets along both sides of the Limmat; Niederdorf has pedestrian lanes and cafés, while Zürich West offers contemporary art and dining. The lakefront promenade is ideal for a scenic stroll.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Zurich
Europe › Western Europe › Switzerland › Canton of Zurich
Lakeside elegance, historic lanes and Swiss culture
Lake & River
Finance
Luxury
Architecture
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Use trams for cross-city trips, then explore the Limmat waterfront and Old Town on foot.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check tower-climb hours and be prepared for stairs.
Grossmünster
Twin-towered historic church overlooking the Limmat and Old Town.
Visit outside services and follow church photography rules.
Fraumünster
Historic church celebrated for its stained-glass windows, including works by Marc Chagall.
Go early for a calm viewpoint between Old Town stops.
Lindenhof
Elevated historic public square with views over the river and rooftops.
Walk its length and browse side streets for local shops.
Bahnhofstrasse
Famous shopping boulevard linking the main station area to the lake.
Check visibility before traveling up for views.
Uetliberg
Local mountain with panoramic views reached by train and a short uphill walk.
A renowned luxury hotel set near Lake Zurich and Bahnhofstrasse, suitable for guests interested in elegant city-center accommodation. Verify room type and lakeside views.
Baur au Lac
City Center / Lake Zurich
Hotel Tags
A luxury hillside hotel overlooking Zurich, appealing to travelers who want a quieter resort-like setting. Plan transport to the Old Town and rail station.
The Dolder Grand
Zürichberg / Hillside
Hotel Tags
A boutique luxury hotel within Zurich’s Old Town, offering excellent pedestrian access to historic streets and shopping. Confirm luggage drop-off arrangements on narrow streets.
Widder Hotel
Old Town / Rennweg
Hotel Tags
A historic riverside hotel in the heart of Zurich, ideal for city walks along the Limmat and nearby old-town attractions. Request river-facing accommodations if desired.
Storchen Zürich
Old Town / Limmat River
Hotel Tags
A contemporary luxury hotel near Bahnhofstrasse and Lake Zurich, suited to business and leisure travelers. Check parking and public transport links.
Park Hyatt Zurich
Enge / City Center
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Zurich
High 47°F · Low 36°F · Rain 3.1 in
Christmas markets open across the city.
Late spring to early autumn is ideal for outdoor walks and lake excursions; winter is festive but cold.
Best Times to Visit Zurich
WHEN TO GO
06
Cars and Parking
A car is usually unnecessary in central Zürich and parking is costly. Consider rail for major excursions.
05
Lake Boats
Seasonal lake services can be scenic and practical for selected routes. Check the vessel timetable and fare inclusion.
04
Walking Old Town
The Limmat riverfront and Old Town are walkable, with occasional cobbles and steep lanes.
03
Swiss Rail Day Trips
Trains provide connections to Lucerne, Bern and alpine gateways. Reserve any special mountain transport separately.
02
Trams and Buses
ZVV public transport serves the city and suburbs. Verify the ticket type and validation rules.
01
Zurich Airport Rail
The airport has frequent rail connections toward Zürich Hauptbahnhof and other stations. Check the platform and ticket zone.
Zürich’s trams, trains and buses connect the center and neighborhoods. Walk in the Old Town, and use trains for convenient airport and regional connections.
Getting Around Zurich