If you’re anything like me, Zurich might not have been the reason you booked a trip to Switzerland. For many travelers, it’s simply the city where your flight lands before heading to the Alps. That was exactly what we thought… until we spent a few days exploring it.
It has all the sophistication you’d expect from Switzerland’s largest city, but it also feels wonderfully relaxed. Elegant streets lined with boutiques give way to peaceful parks, centuries-old churches overlook the sparkling Limmat River, and locals gather along the lakefront with coffee in hand, soaking up every bit of sunshine.
While most visitors rush straight to Lucerne or the Jungfrau Region (I did just that during my first trip to Switzerland), I’d encourage you to slow down and give Zurich at least three days. It’s the perfect introduction to Switzerland, blending history, culture, incredible food, scenic viewpoints, and easy day trips.
Here’s exactly how we’d spend 3 wonderful days in Zurich.
Our kids were 8 and 4 when we first visited Zurich, it was a quick stop before we headed to Interlaken and Lucerne… but I had wanted to come back, especially to see Marc Chagall’s stained glass windows at Fraumünster Church.
And we did last fall and spent 3 days in Zurich after a attending a wedding in Como, Italy.
WHAT IS IN THIS POST
Why Visit Zurich?
Zurich is much more than Switzerland’s financial capital.
It’s a city where you can:
- Wander medieval streets in the Old Town
- Cruise across Lake Zurich
- Visit world-class museums
- Shop along one of Europe’s most famous shopping streets
- Swim in the river during summer
- Enjoy rooftop cocktails overlooking church spires
- Take easy day trips to mountains, waterfalls, and charming Swiss villages
And perhaps my favorite part… it’s incredibly walkable. We did 12 to 15 thousand steps a day!
Our 3 day Zurich Itinerary
On previous trips we spent just 1 day in Zurich and spent most of our time in the mountains in Lucerne, and Interlaken. This time was more relaxing, we walked, ate… went on a couple of day trips, plus got to see Marc Chagall’s windows.
Day 1: Explore Zurich’s Historic Heart
There’s no better place to begin than Zurich’s beautiful Old Town (Altstadt).
The narrow cobbled lanes are filled with colorful buildings, tiny cafés, hidden courtyards, and boutique shops. Every corner seems to reveal another church tower or flower-filled square.
Walk Along Bahnhofstrasse
Start your morning on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets. A weekend of shopping in Zurich would be just perfect if you ask me 🙂
Luxury boutiques like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, watch boutiques like IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Rolex sit alongside charming Swiss chocolatiers and cafés.
Even if shopping isn’t on your itinerary, it’s worth strolling simply to admire the elegant architecture.
Wander the Old Town
Spend the rest of the morning getting wonderfully lost.
Don’t miss:
- Grossmünster Church
- Fraumünster Church and Marc Chagall stained-glass windows
- St. Peter’s Church
- Niederdorf neighborhood
One of our favorite travel memories is simply wandering without an agenda… and Zurich is made for that.
Marc Chagall’s Church Windows at the Fraumünster
Marc Chagall in 1970, in his unique style that combines modern art with traditional religious imagery, vibrant colors and biblical themes made a
total of five stained glass windows for this church in Zurich. Each piece depicting different stories from the Old Testament. The windows are located in the Fraumünster Church, in Zurich.
Ever since I saw the Chagall artwork in Chicago, I have been wanting to see these church stained glass works in person.
Sunning by the River
Choose one of the cafés overlooking the Limmat River and enjoy lunch while watching boats glide past.
Summer sunning seems like a favorite sport for people in Zurich, both locals and visitors alike.
Lindenhof Hill
A short walk brings you to Lindenhof, one of Zurich’s best viewpoints.
This peaceful square overlooks the Old Town, river, and church spires… a wonderful place to pause before continuing your walk.
Evening Along Lake Zurich
Finish your day walking the promenade.
Locals gather here after work, sailboats drift across the lake, and if you’re lucky enough to visit in summer, sunset is simply magical. Night lights are pretty fine too!
Day 2: Lake Zurich & Culture
After yesterday’s history, today is all about enjoying Zurich’s beautiful waterfront.
Lake Zurich Cruise
One of the best ways to appreciate Zurich is from the water.
Choose a short lake cruise or spend several hours exploring lakeside villages.
The mountain backdrop makes this one of Switzerland’s most scenic urban lakes.
Visit the Swiss National Museum
Located beside the train station, this impressive museum tells the story of Switzerland through centuries of history.
Allow two to three hours to visit the museum.
Explore Zurich West
In recent years, Zurich West has transformed into one of the city’s coolest neighborhoods.
Former warehouses now house:
- Art galleries
- Design stores
- Coffee shops
- Rooftop bars
- Food halls
It’s a refreshing contrast to the historic Old Town.
Sunset Drinks
Cap off your evening with drinks overlooking the city.
Watching the lights come on across Zurich is a wonderful way to end the day.
Day 3: Take a Day Trip
One of Zurich’s greatest strengths is how many incredible places you can reach in under an hour. Here are some day trip we have done from Zurich:
- Rhine Falls – Nature & photography
- Mount Uetliberg – Hiking & panoramic views
- Stein am Rhein – Fairytale medieval town
- Winterthur – Art, photography & culture
Option 1: Mount Uetliberg
If you’re looking for mountain views without traveling far, head to Uetliberg.
A short train ride followed by an easy walk rewards you with panoramic views over Zurich, Lake Zurich, and, on clear days, the Alps.
Option 2: Rhine Falls
Europe’s largest waterfall is just an hour away. There is are viewing platforms to take in the views or you can take a boat ride close to the falls.
Perfect for families and photographers alike. Unfortunately, we skipped it.
Option 4: Winterthur – Switzerland’s City of Museums
If you enjoy art, photography, and quieter Swiss towns, spend your third day in Winterthur, just 25 minutes by train from Zurich.
Often overlooked by visitors heading straight to the Alps, Winterthur has a relaxed atmosphere, elegant pedestrian streets, and some of Switzerland’s finest museums. Don’t miss the Kunst Museums, especially Villa Flora.
This art filled day was my favorite day trip from Zurich. We took a train and then a bus to get to the museums. More about it soon!
Option 3: Stein am Rhein
One of Switzerland’s prettiest towns, famous for beautifully painted medieval buildings and charming streets.
It’s an easy day trip and feels worlds away from the city.
Where to Stay in Zurich
Luxury Hotels
The Dolder Grand: Perched above the city, The Dolder Grand is one of Switzerland’s most iconic luxury hotels.
Expect breathtaking views, award-winning restaurants, an exceptional spa, and elegant rooms that combine historic charm with contemporary luxury.
Baur au Lac: Overlooking Lake Zurich, Baur au Lac has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and travelers for over 175 years.
Its beautiful gardens, impeccable service, and central location make it one of Zurich’s finest hotels.
Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich: Recently restored, this historic hotel combines timeless elegance with modern luxury right on Bahnhofstrasse.
Its rooftop restaurant offers some of the city’s best views.
We loved our stay at the Ambassador Hotel Zurich, a stylish boutique hotel just steps from Lake Zurich and the Opera House. Its elegant rooms, welcoming service, and walkable location made it the perfect base for exploring the city.
Mid-Range Hotels
Hotel Glockenhof: A stylish, centrally located hotel within walking distance of the Old Town, shopping, and the lake.
Comfortable rooms and excellent value make it one of the city’s best mid-range choices.
Motel One Zürich: Modern, beautifully designed, and surprisingly affordable for Zurich. Ideal if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the city.
Hotel Adler Zürich: Located in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel Adler offers charming Swiss hospitality with easy access to Zurich’s top attractions.
Where to Eat in Zurich
No visit to Zurich is complete without stopping at Confiserie Sprüngli, one of Switzerland’s most iconic confectioneries. Famous for its delicate Luxemburgerli macarons, handmade chocolates, and elegant pastries, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a coffee break or pick up a delicious souvenir.
A great place for coffee and a quick bite: For some of the best artisan bread in Zurich, stop by John Baker. This local bakery is known for its organic, naturally fermented sourdough, flaky croissants, and creative seasonal pastries… It’s the perfect place to grab breakfast or a picnic before exploring the city.
A few Zurich restaurant recommendations:
Kronenhalle: One of Zurich’s most legendary restaurants.
Expect classic Swiss cuisine, elegant interiors, and artwork by Picasso, Miró, and Chagall adorning the walls. If you’re celebrating something special, this is the place.
Try: Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (Zurich-style veal) with rösti.
Zeughauskeller: Set inside a historic former armory, this lively restaurant serves generous portions of traditional Swiss favorites.
Order the sausages, rösti, or fondue and soak up the atmosphere.
Hiltl: The world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant has been serving guests since 1898.
Even meat lovers will find something delicious here, thanks to its creative international buffet and beautifully presented dishes.
Locate in Hotel Adler Zürich, Alders, is a must visit restaurant in Zurich if you like fondue. It was first fondue parlor in the old town of Zurich and to this day serves traditional Swiss fare including many versions of fondue. Located in Niederdorf pedestrian precinct of the old town, its always our favorite place!
Best Time to Visit Zurich
Spring (April–May)
Blooming parks and fewer crowds.
Summer (June–September)
Perfect for lake cruises, outdoor cafés, swimming, and long evenings by the waterfront.
Autumn (October)
Beautiful fall colors and crisp weather make sightseeing especially enjoyable.
Winter (December)
Zurich transforms into a festive city with Christmas markets, sparkling lights, and cozy restaurants.
Tips for Visiting Zurich
- Purchase a Zurich Card if you plan to use public transportation and visit museums.
- Many attractions are easily reached on foot.
- Restaurants can be expensive, so consider enjoying lunch specials.
- Switzerland is remarkably punctual. Trains leave exactly on time.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes; you’ll cover plenty of ground exploring the Old Town.
Final Thoughts
Zurich may not have the dramatic mountain scenery of Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen, but that’s precisely what makes it such a wonderful place to begin your Swiss adventure.
Take your time wandering its historic streets, linger over coffee by the river, enjoy a leisurely cruise on Lake Zurich, and don’t rush off too quickly. Sometimes the cities we expect the least from end up becoming our favorites.
For us, Zurich was exactly that… a city that quietly charmed us and made us excited for everything Switzerland had in store.
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