There are literally hundreds of amazing destinations in the world, but somehow, Switzerland always comes somewhere at the top of the list. With impeccable views, enviable lifestyles, and perfectly preserved historical sites, visiting this deceivingly small European country is a no-brainer. The question is – where in Switzerland? Each town and city has its own unique charm, but if there’s one place you shouldn’t miss, it’s Zurich.
Dubbed as the financial capital of Switzerland, Zurich is known for its upmarket vibe. From high-end boutiques and world-class restaurants to opulent hotels and exclusive nightclubs, it’s no secret that Zurich is an expensive and luxurious city. While this opulence attracts many high-profile tourists, the high price tags posted around the city can be a hindrance for many travelers. However, despite the need for deep pockets, it’s still considered as one of the best places to live in, and it’s easy to see why.
If you’re thinking of your next best destination, here are a few reasons to visit Zurich, Switzerland whether you have a day, a month, or all the time in the world.
Top Global Cuisine at World-Class Restaurants
The food scene in Zurich is simply superb. If you’re after the all-too-famous cheese fondue, Zurich is the best place to find it; the first-ever recipe for this iconic Swiss dish was written in the city. But of course, there’s more to Swiss cuisine than cheese and chocolates, and you’ll definitely find all of them in Zurich.
One of the quintessential dishes to try is the Zurcher Geschnetzeltes, which literally translates to “meat cut Zurich style”. It’s traditionally made of sliced veal cooked in a sauce of cream, wine, onions, and mushrooms. In colder weather, a nice pot of Zürcher Eintopf made of pork and vegetables in white wine would do the trick.
Zurich is also home to 144 Michelin restaurants, so if you’re after a more sophisticated dining experience, you’ll surely have your pick in this city – you might even want to move to Switzerland after trying so much delicious food!
Travel Through Time with Museums and Art Galleries
Visiting Zurich can mean visiting different worlds. With over 50 museums and 100 art galleries, travelers can get their fill of history, art, culture, and everything in between. Some of Switzerland’s top museums are also in Zurich. The Swiss National Museum is the best place to learn about the country’s deep history, while the Museum of Fine Arts showcases some of the best art pieces from Switzerland and around the world.
There are also some of the more eclectic museums like the Cabaret Voltaire dedicated to the Dada movement or the Moulagenmuseum dedicated to was representations of diseases. For family travelers, there are fourteen interactive and kid-friendly museums to visit and keep every member of the family entertained.
Exclusive Shopping in One Long Street
Bahnhofstrasse is a mile-long street decked out with the most exclusive boutiques. The street in itself is a popular tourist destination even without the need to go into any of the shops. It’s a traffic-free zone perfect for an afternoon stroll, especially when all the fantastic window displays are lit up to beckon shoppers inside.
This street alone is Europe’s most expensive retail property and it shows. Not only are the shops drop-dead expensive, but also find Ferraris and Lamborghinis parked casually nearby. Not everyone can afford to leave Bahnhofstrasse with bags of new clothes, shoes, and jewelry, so if it’s a bit too much, there are many malls and marketplaces around Zurich to fit every shopping budget.
A Unique Swimming Experience at a Badi
There are several lakes and rivers around Switzerland, and Zurich has both. Lake Zurich and the River Limmat are two of the best chill spots in the city. Visitors and locals alike are commonly found taking a stroll, going for a bike ride or having a picnic on the shores by the water.
Cruises are also popular activities to take advantage of the clear blue waters. But for a uniquely Zurich experience, visit one of the many Badis around the city. These are outdoor bathing areas where people can just plop on and take advantage of the warm summer weather. Most of the Badis have a bar, and some of them convert into a full-on nightspot at sundown. While you’ll have to pay for your drinks, swimming in a Badi is free!
Experience Liveable History in an Old Town
Switzerland has done extremely well in preserving its history. In Zurich, you can see this in its architecture and environment, but the best place to relive the olden days is a stroll through Old Town. The River Limmat runs through Zurich’s Old Town, which is the city’s busiest tourist hub.
On the west bank is Lindenhof Hill, a public park also declared as a Swiss Heritage Site. It’s one of the most visited spots in the city thanks to amazing aerial views that looks over the whole of Zurich. On the eastern bank is the Niederdorfstrasse, a pedestrian zone that’s lined with shops in the day and with bars at night.
Lining the romantic streets are landmark structures that stand testament to the origins of the city. Some of the must-see places are St. Peter Church, the oldest church in Zurich, the Giacometti Murals, the Zurich’s most recognized landmarks, the Grossmünster.
Amazing Cosmopolitan Bars and Clubs
Zurich probably has one of the most dynamic and colorful nightlife in the country. It’s mostly known for its active techno scene, but you’ll find every flavor of bars and clubs in the city.
As a high-level financial district, it might be surprising for some how much of a party animal the Swiss can be. Nevertheless, Zurich West has all of the popular clubs that are great for for people who want to dance and party the night away. Langstrasse, in particular, is known as the street that never sleeps. From the 100-year-old Mascotte to the grungy underground Gonzo, there’s something for everyone in the city.
Thank you for the Guest Post, Anna!
Anna was born to travel the world having studied languages all her life. Although she has traveled the world, she now calls Switzerland home and spends her time writing about her experiences on Expert World Travel. You can follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
