Culture
From uncovering hidden gems to staying updated on the latest events, our curated list offers everything you need to dive into Zurich's rich culture. Let us be your compass to the city's endless adventures, ensuring you make the most of every moment in this dynamic city.
Our favorites this summer:
01
Limmatschiff
The Limmat river cruiser takes you in comfort past the most beautiful sights of Zurich’s old town until the view of Lake Zurich opens up. The route from Landesmuseum to the Zürichhorn lasts 30 minutes, the entire round trip 55 minutes.
02
Zurich City
Lindenhof: The Lindenhof is an oasis of peace and relaxation in the middle of the city, which looks back on an eventful history. In 1798, the oath to the Swiss constitution was sworn at the Lindenhof. From the Lindenhof you have a magnificent view of the old town with the Grossmüsnter, the Limmat and also the University of Zurich and the Federal Institute of Technology.
Polyterasse: The observation terrace in front of the ETH main building - called Polyterrasse - can be reached in only 2.5 minutes by Polybahn from Central. From here you have a magnificent view over the old town.
Old Botanical Garden: The old Botanical Garden is the idyllic oasis in the middle of Zurich's city center. In the middle of it is the ethnological museum of the University of Zurich. Special is the medieval herb garden of the Botanical Garden, the "Gessner Garden", which gives an insight into the knowledge of medicinal plants of the 16th century.
Grossmünster: The Grossmünster is a Protestant Reformed church in the old town of Zurich. One of the double towers, which are landmarks of Zurich, can be climbed in 187 steps - only then you have earned the beautiful view from the heart of Zurich to the surrounding area.
03
Üetliberg
Uto Kulm, located 871 meters above sea level at the peak of Uetliberg, is an easily accessible hiking destination from various points in Zurich. It offers beautiful views of the city and Lake Zurich, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a scenic outlook. The panoramic terrace serves delicious food, complementing the 180-degree view of the lake, the Alps, and Zurich.
04
Landesmuseum
The Landesmuseum Zurich is the most visited historical museum in Switzerland and part of the Swiss National Museum. In the Landesmuseum you can find, among others, the permanent exhibition History of Switzerland as well as the exhibition Simply Zurich, which shows the long and eventful history of the city and canton of Zurich.
05
Lindt Museum
Dive into the world of chocolate and experience an interactive chocolate tour all about the Swiss cultural heritage of chocolate. Try as much chocolate as you'd like, but make sure to book your visit ahead (here)!
06
Food Festivals in Zurich
FOOD ZURICH: The third-largest food festival in Europe with over 100 events brings people together, lets them discover new things and feed their appetite for learning.
The festival from 6 to 16 June 2024 will focus on "The Culinary Future" and will place particular emphasis on the FOOD ZURICH core themes of Innovation & Trends, Upcoming Stars and Swiss Products.
Street Food Festival: The Streetfood Festival Zurich takes place at Hardtum and is the ideal place for a culinary trip around the world with its constantly changing themes and food stalls.
05
Shopping
Limmatquai, Altstadt & Niederdorf: Explore less frequented alleys to find local boutiques (e.g. Berg & Tal).
Viadukt & Markthalle: Close to the Prime Tower, the viaduct arches host local shops and gourmet gems.
Europaallee: Combines the modern shopping of Bahnhofstrasse with smaller, hip stores and regional boutiques up to Langstrasse, which houses many different and worldly stores. Here you can also find many unique pieces, from jewelry to furnishings. The large new pedestrian bridge (Negrellisteg) provides a beautiful view across the railroad tracks.
Bahnhofstrasse: Not an insider tip, but worth a walk to stroll on 1.4 km (0.8 miles) and enjoy the displays of some of the most expensive and exclusive brands.