Zurich walking tour & city guide
An elegant old town on a clear blue lake.
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Zurich is Switzerland's largest city and a global center of banking, but it is also surprisingly relaxed and beautiful. A medieval old town lines both banks of the Limmat river, which flows out of a clear lake with the Alps on the horizon, and in summer locals swim right in the middle of the city.
The old town
The Altstadt spreads along both sides of the Limmat. On the east bank, the Niederdorf is a lively area of narrow lanes, guild houses and bars, while the twin towers of the Grossmünster rise above the river. Legend says Charlemagne founded the church, and it was the center of the Swiss Reformation.
On the west bank, the Fraumünster is famous for its stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. A short climb leads to the Lindenhof, a shady square on the site of a Roman fort, with one of the best views over the old town.
Bahnhofstrasse and the lake
Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most exclusive shopping streets in the world, runs from the main station to the lake. Along the lakefront, promenades, parks and historic bathhouses invite you to relax, and boats cruise to villages along the shore.
For a view of the city, the lake and the Alps, take the train up the Uetliberg, Zurich's local mountain. The former industrial district of Zurich West has become a creative area of bars, shops in railway arches and modern architecture.
Visiting tips
Zurich is expensive, but its public transport is excellent and covers lake boats and the Uetliberg train. In summer, try a swim in the Limmat or the lake at one of the historic bathing spots. The city is a great base for day trips to Lucerne, the Rhine Falls and the Alps.
Top sights in Zurich
- 1
Grossmünster
The twin-towered church of the Reformation.
- 2
Fraumünster
A church with stained glass by Chagall.
- 3
Lindenhof
A hilltop square with views of the old town.
- 4
Bahnhofstrasse
A world-famous shopping street.
- 5
Lake Zurich promenade
Parks, bathhouses and boat trips.
- 6
Uetliberg
Zurich's mountain with panoramic views.
Food markets & where to eat in Zurich
Niederdorf
Old town lanes with traditional Swiss restaurants.
Zurich West and Viadukt
A market hall and food shops under railway arches.
Bürkliplatz market
A lakeside market on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Langstrasse
A diverse district with international food and nightlife.
Food to try in Zurich
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce with rösti.
Luxemburgerli
Small, light macarons, a Zurich specialty.
Swiss chocolate
From the city's famous chocolatiers.
Bratwurst
A grilled sausage from a street stand.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Zurich
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in ZurichCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Zurich.
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