When we traveled to Zurich, Switzerland, I didn’t really do much research, and I regret that because we missed a lot. To avoid the same mistake, I wrote some of the top Zurich tourist spots here. Feel free to choose whatever fits your liking, budget, and schedule.
Zurich is divided into 12 districts. District 1 is Zurich’s Old Town, where most of the top Zurich tourist spots are concentrated. This is also where you’ll find Lake Zurich, Limmat River, and Zurich Main Train Station.
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ZURICH TOURIST SPOTS
Here’s my handpicked list of the best places to visit in Zurich. Feel free to to choose whatever tourist spots you want to include in your itinerary.
1.SWISS NATIONAL MUSEUM
- Swiss National Museum Entrance Fee:
Adult – CHF10 – ₱520 ($10 – €9 – SGD 14 -AUD 14 – MYR 42)
Reduced Fee: CHF 8 – ₱416 ($8 – €7 – SGD 11 – AUD 11 – MYR 33)
Child up to 16 y.o : FREE
FREE with Zurich Card, Swiss Museum Pass, Zurich Museum Pass.
- Opening Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
High Days and Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM / 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Nearest Tram Station: Bahnofquai
- Tram #: 2,4,11,13, 14, 17
- Nearest Bus Stop: Bahnofquai
- Bus #: 31
- Nearby Zurich Tourist Spot: Bahnofstrasse, Limmat River
Why is Swiss National Museum one of the top Zurich tourist spots?
Just across Zurich Main Station is the gorgeous Zurich Museum that resembles a Swiss Castle. It houses the largest collection of documentation and artifacts of the cultural history of Switzerland from paintings to handicrafts, sculptures, etc. There’s roughly 860,000 relics on display here that are subdivided into 14 sections:
- Archaeology
- Precious & Non-ferrous Metal
- Paintings and Sculptures, Graphic Arts
- Photography, Manuscripts, and Facsimiles
- Ceramics and Glass
- Jewelry and Timepieces
- Textile and Fashion
- Technology and Traditions
- Arms and Uniforms
- Furnishings
- Carriages, Sledges, and Wagons,
- Numismatics and Seals
- Contemporary Witnesses
- Special Collections
Currently, one of the temporary exhibits at Swiss National Museum is “Heidi in Japan”. “Heidi, Girl of the Alps” is a Japanese anime series that has rose to fame in Japan, Mexico, and Europe. It is said that 4 Japanese artists traveled to Switzerland in 1973 to do the research for the anime. The exhibition at the Swiss National Museum tells the history of the making of Heidi and how Switzerland and its culture is perceived in Japan and in other parts of the world.
If you want to visit Heidi House in Switzerland from the famous anime series ‘Heidi, Girl of the Alps Anime”, you can join a group tour. The tour also includes a visit to Liechtenstein, a neighboring country of Switzerland.
HEIDI, GIRL OF THE ALPS TOUR: RESERVE HERE
2.ZURICH CHRISTMAS MARKET
- Nearest Tram Station: Bahnofquai
- Tram #: 2,4,11,13, 14, 17
- Nearest Bus Stop: Bahnofquai
- Bus #: 31
- Nearby Zurich Tourist Spot: Bahnofstrasse, Limmat River
Why is Zurich Christmas Market one of the top tourist spots in Zurich?
If you happen to visit Zurich during the Christmas season, make time to visit the Christmas Market, usually held at Zurich Main Train Station. Here, you’ll also witness a towering 50 foot Christmas Tress usually swathed in Swarovski crystal. It’s a great place to shop for Christmas crafts and souvenirs, etc. Another popular Christmas Market in Zurich is located in Zurich Old Town at Wienachtsdorf Christmas Village on Sechselautenoplatz near Bellevue.
3.BAHNHOFSTRASSE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Bahnofstrasse, Borsenstrasse, Paradeplatz, Renwegg, Burkiplatz,
- Tram #:
(Bahnofstrasse) 2,6,7,11, 13,17,19
(Paradeplatz) 2,6,7,8,9,11,13,17
(Borsenstrasse) 2, 6,7, 8,9,11, 13, 19
(Renwegg) 2,6,7, 11, 13,17
(Burkiplatz)
- Bus #:
(Bahnofstrasse) N1, N6, N13
(Paradeplatz) N1,N6, N13, N14
(Borsenstrasse) N1, N6, N13
(Burkiplatz)
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Urania Sternwarte, Zurich Old Town, Rennweg, Paradeplatz
Why is Bahnhofstrasse a top tourist spot in Zurich?
Bahnhofstrasse is dubbed as the Europe’s most expensive shopping street, linking Zurich Main Train Station to Lake Zurich. Bahnhofstrasse starts at Bahnhofplatz passing by Bahnofstrasse, Rennweg, Paradeplatz, Borsenstrasse, and ending at Burkiplatz.
- Near Bahnhofplatz is Swarovski and Franz Carl Weber.
- Near Bahnofstrasse you’ll find H&M, PKZ Women, Mango, Apple, and, MAC Cosmetics.
- Near Rennweg is United Colors of Benetton, H&M, Zara, Long Champ, Lacoste, Swatch, and Rolex.
- Near Paradeplatz is Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Montblanc.
- Near Borsenstrasse is Bally, Dior, Graff, Tiffany and Co.
- Near Burkiplatz is Charriol.
4.URANIA STERNWARTE
- Entrance Fee: (Adult) CHF 15 – ₱781 ($15 – €13 – SGD 20 -AUD 22 – MYR 63) , (Children under 6 y.o) FREE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Rennweg
- Tram #: (Renwegg) 2,6,7, 11, 13,17
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Bahnofstrasse, Rennweg, Zurich Toy Museum, Lindenhof Hill
photo by Eric Weber (Unpslash)
Why is Urania Sternwarte one of the best places to visit in Zurich?
Urania Sternwarte is an observatory in Zurich, housed in a historic building in Uraniastrasse near Bahnofstrasse and Rennweg. On a clear night you’ll be able to witness the stars and the moon. While you are at it, you can grab a drink at Jule Verne bar on the top floor and soak up the scenery of Zurich city. If you want to know more about the historic building, you can join the paid guided tours at night.
5. ALTSTADT (ZURICH OLD TOWN)
- Nearest Tram Stop: Rennweg
- Tram #: (Renwegg) 2,6,7, 11, 13,17
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Zurich Toy Museum, Lindenhof Hill, Bahnofstrasse, Urania Sternwarte, Schipfe,
Zurich Old Town Tour: RESERVE HERE
Why is Altstadt a must-see Zurich tourist spot?
Altstadt is a German word that means “old town”, therefore, Altstadt Zurich refers to Zurich Old Town composed of the area of the whole historical city before 1893, that’s way before the District 2-12 was established. Zurich Old Town is District 1 composed of the following: Rathaus, Hochschulen, Lindenhof, and City.
6.RENNWEG
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Rennweg
- Tram #: (Renwegg) 2,6,7, 11, 13,17
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Zurich Toy Museum, Lindenhof Hill, Bahnofstrasse, Urania Sternwarte
Why is visiting Rennwegg one of the top things to do in Zurich?
Back in the middle ages, Rennweg used to be the widest street in Zurich. Today, it’s the 2nd most exclusive shopping area in the city. While you’re here, check out the timeworn well nearby.
7.ZURICH TOY MUSEUM (ZURCHER SPIELZEUG MUSEUM)
- Entrance Fee:
Adult: Chf 5 – ₱268 ($5 – €4 – SGD 7 -AUD 8 – MYR 21)
Child up to 16 y.o: FREE
FREE for Zurich Card, VMS Card (Swiss Museum Pass), and Raiffesen Card
- Open Hours:
Monday – Friday: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Why is Zurich Toy Museum one of the best places to visit in Zurich?
If you want to see age-old Swiss toys and the likes, head to the Zurich Toy Museum that houses a collection of European toys from the 18th to the 20th century. Here you’ll see miniature trains, railways, Swiss dolls, dollhouses, and even old children books.
8.LINDENHOF HILL
- Entrance: FREE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Renwegg
- Tram#: 2,6,7,11,13,17
Why is Lindenhoff Hill a top Zurich tourist spot?
Proudly standing in Altstadt (District 1), Lindenhof Hill offers a scenic view of Limmat River, Zurich Old Town, Niederdorf Quarter, Zurich Limmatquai, Rathaus, the Grossmunster Church, and the university. Lindenhoff is included in the list of the Swiss Inventory of Cultural Property of National and Regional Significance.
In the olden day, Lindenhof Hill was mostly surrounded by water, making it a prime location for the fortified settlements as early as the Neolithic and Bronze Age.
Based on anecdotes, during the Middle Bronze Age (1500 BC), Lindenhof is believed to have been inhabited already as proven by the Celtic remains dating back to 1st century BC that were unearthed here by archaeologists. Aside from Celtic settlement, archaeologists have unearthed several artifacts here including the ruins of a Roman fort, and a medieval palace. Nearby Lindenhof, you can also find an Archaeological Window.
9.SCHIPFE
- Entrance: FREE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Rathaus
- Tram#: 4,15
Why is Schipfe one of the top tourist attractions in Zurich?
Below Lindenhof Hill is Schipfe, one of the oldest quarters in Zurich that was once the wharf for trading goods (silk, gold, food, etc.) during the Middle Ages. During the 16th century, the silk industry has settled in Schipfe and it became the location of bathhouses and boat building. Today, Schipfe in Zurich is a great photo op spot because of the rows of the renovated age-old houses standing at the bank of Limmat River. The lower floors of the houses are leased to small artisan shops for custom-made products and workshops while the upper floors are apartments.
Also in Schipfe, opposite house number 43 is a memorial plate – a black basalt plate on the seawall that served as a reminder of the unfortunate event in 1527 when Felix Manz (founder of Anabaptist) and five other Anabaptists where drowned in Limmat River.
10.MUSEUM STRAUHOF
- Entrance Fee: (Adult) CHF 9 – ₱468 ($9 – €8- SGD 12 -AUD 13 – MYR 38) (Under 16 y.o) Free, (Swiss Museum Pass) CHF 6
- Open Hours: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Nearest Tram Stop: Rennweg, Rathaus
- Tram #: (Renwegg) 2,6,7, 11, 13,17 (Rathaus) 4,15
- Nearby Tourist Spots: St. Peter Church, Lindenhof Hill, Bahnofstrasse, Limmatquia, Schipfe,
Why is Museum Strauhof one of the top tourist attractions in Zurich?
Strauhof Museum is a unique museum that showcases literary works. Visitors here get to experience literature in text and staged space. Some of the famous literatures exhibited here are the works of Lewis Carroll and Edward Lear.
11.ST. PETER CHURCH ZURICH
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Rathaus
- Tram#: 4,15
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Lindenhof Hill, Museum Strauhof, Limmatquia, Schipfe, Bahnofstrasse
Why is St.Peter Church a top tourist attraction in Zurich?
St.Peter Church is one of the 4 main historic churches of Zurich and the oldest of them all. It has the largest tower clock face in Europe measuring roughly 8.6 meters in outer diameter. You can easily spot St.Peter Church as its spire dominates the area near Limmat River. This age-old church is just a stone’s throw away from Lindenhof Hill.
12.PARADEPLATZ
- Entrance: FREE
- Nearest Tram Stop: Paradeplatz
- Tram#: 2,6,7,8,9,11,13,17
- Nearest Bus Stop: Paradeplatz
- Bus#: N1,N6,N13,N14
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Centralhof Monument, Stadthaus Zurich
Image by: Kunhmi (CC)
Why is Paradeplatz one of the top Zurich tourist spots?
Paradeplatz is the heart of Bahnofstrasse and the intersection between Zurich Old Town, Zurich Lake, and the aforementioned opulent shopping street. Near Paradeplatz you can find popular brands like Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Montblanc. This luxurious square in Zurich is one of the most expensive places in Europe. It is known as the financial center of Zurich because located here is the headquarters of the biggest Swiss Banks such as UBS and Credit Suisse.
13.CONFISERIE SPRUNGLI (CONFECTIONER’S CAFÉ)
- Nearest Tram Stop: Paradeplatz
- Paradeplatz Tram#: 2,6,7,8,9,11,13,17
- Nearest Bus Stop: Paradeplatz
- Bus#: N1,N6,N13,N14
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A visit to Zurich won’t be complete without trying its world famous Swiss chocolates, and one of the best places to try that is Confiserie Sprungli, a family owned confectioner cafe that was founded way back in 1836. You can find the original shop near Paradeplatz along Bahnofstrasse. While it is best known for its macarons called Luxeumburgerli, they also serve cakes, pralines, sandwiches, and other desserts. Their chocolate brand operates independently as Lindt and Sprungli. Yes, those famous Lindt chocolates.
14.FRAUMUNSTER
- Entrance:FREE
- Open Hours: (November to February) Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, (March to October) 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Nearest Tram Stop: Paradeplatz, Helmhaus
- Paradeplatz Tram#: 2,6,7,8,9,11,13,17
- Helmhaus Tram #: 4,15
- Nearest Bus Stop: Paradeplatz
- Bus#: N1,N6,N13,N14
- Nearby Zurich Tourist Spot: Limmatquia
Why is Fraumunster one of the best tourist spots in Zurich?
Another neck-swiveling tourist spot in Zurich is Fraumunster, one of the 4 old churches in this bustling city. Fraumunster is included in the list of Swiss inventory of cultural property of national and regional significance.
Standing on the bank of Limmat River, Fraumunster Church was founded sometime in 853 CE by Louis German. Fraumunster Church was a former Benedectine monastery where female aristocrat in Europe reside. Back then, the Fraumunster abbey had a great political power granted as it was granted by King Henry 111 the right to hold markets, collect tolls and mint coints in 1045. By 1218, Emperor Frederick II also endowed Fraumunster the Imperial immediacy, where they are free from the authority of any local lord therefore increasing its political power.
Today, Fraumunster is known for its beautiful 5 stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall that depict Bible stories. While you are at it, don’t miss the gorgeous frescoes created by Paul Bodmer.
15.STADTHAUS ZURICH
- Nearest Tram Stop: Paradeplatz, Helmhaus
- Paradeplatz Tram#: 2,6,7,8,9,11,13,17
- Helmhaus Tram #: 4,15
- Nearest Bus Stop: Paradeplatz
- Bus#: N1,N6,N13,N14
Why is Stadthaus a top Zurich tourist spot?
Because Zurich became a huge city after the merging of other cantons, Zurich needed its own town house.Stadthaus Zurich, standing near Fraumunster Church is the neo-gothic townhall of Zurich that was constructed between 1898 to 1900. Today, the age-old Stadthaus hosts regular exhibitions that centers on socio-political issues in Zurich and in Switzerland.
16.LIMMAT RIVER
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Open Hours: 24/7
- Nearest Tram Stop: Helmhaus, Rathaus,
- Tram #: (Helmhaus and Rathaus) 4,15
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Limmatquia, Lake Zurich, Rathaus, Schipfe
Why is Limmat River a top Zurich tourist attraction?
If you want to soak in the atmosphere of Zurich, take a leisurely Limmat River Cruise that starts at the river bank of Zurich National Museum winding by the scenic Zurich Old Town, all the way down to Lake Zurich near Burkliplatz. The boats have glass roofs so you passengers can sit comfortably while enjoying the view of the surroundings. Interestingly, the boats for the Limmat River Cruise where named after Zurich Patron Saints, the brothers “Felix” and “Regula”. The trip only runs from April to October and could take up to 50 minutes.
If you don’t want to do the cruise, you can just take a leisurely walk along the Limmat River or grab a sit in Limmatquai or at Lindenhof Hill for a pleasant view of Zurich city.
17.LIMMATQUAI
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Open Hours: 24/7
- Nearest Tram Stop: Helmhaus, Rathaus,
- Tram #: (Helmhaus and Rathaus) 4,15
- Nearby Tourist Spots: Limmat River, Rathaus, Schipfe
Why is Limmatquai one of the best places to visit in Zurich?
Limmatquai is a pretty popular ancient street in Zurich that crosses Limmat River. It is peppered with cafés, shops, and restaurants. On one side is the Rathaus, Zurich’s parliament building, and on the other side is Altstadt, Zurich Old Town. It also offers a beautiful view of Limmat River, a perfect photo op spot.
18.RATHAUS
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Nearest Tram Station: Rathaus
- Tram #: 4, 15
Why is visiting Rathaus one of the top things to do in Zurich?
This beautiful blend of Renaissance and Baroque architectural flair is Zurich’s Town Hall. Constructed sometime in 1694 and finished 4 years after, the Rathaus served as seat of government of Zurich and administration of the Republic of Zurich until 1798. Rathaus proudly stands on the right side of the Limmat River facing Limmatquai.
19.NIEDERDORF
- Open Hours: 24/7
- Nearest Tram Station: Rudolf-Brun-Brucke
- Tram #: 4,15
Why is Niederdorf one of the best places to visit in Zurich?
Peppered by trendy clothing stores and craft studios, Niederdorf is a popular old town neighborhood in Zurich. By day, many visitors come here to shop in its lovely boutique-fringed alleyways, while at night, Niederdorf transforms into a bustling night life district packed with street artists and bars.
20.GROSSMUNSTER
- Entrance: FREE to enter the church but there’s a fee to enter the tower: (Adult) CHF 4 – ₱208 ($4 – €4 – SGD 5 – AUD 6 – MYR 17)
- (Child 6-16 y.o) CHF 2 – ₱104 ($2 – €2- SGD 3 – AUD 3 – MYR 8)
- Nearest Tram Stop: Helmhaus
- Helmhaus Tram #: 4,15
- Nearby Zurich Tourist Spot: Karlsturm, Helmhaus, Ulrich Zwingli Monument, Limmatquai, Limmat River,
Why is Grossmunster a top Zurich tourist spot?
While taking a leisurely walk along Limmatquai, one of the most noticeable structures here is the Grossmunster with twin rising tower. Grossmunster is one of the 4 historic churches of Zurich, along with St.Peter Church and Fraumunster. It exhibits a Romanesque architectural flair, featuring medieval columns.
Based on anecdotes, Grossmunster Church was built by Charlemagne on the graves of the brothers Felix and Regula, Zurich’s patron saint. Story has it than the brothers are members of the Theban Legion in Valais, Switzerland. When the legion was ordered to be executed after converting to Christianity, the brothers escaped to Zurich. However, they were caught and beheaded. It is believed that they picked up their heads, and walked uphill (about 40 paces) to pray before dying. The same exact spot where they died and were buried was discovered serendipitously by Charlemagne when he his horse lurched. Charlemagne then decided to construct a monastery here now known as Grossmunster Church.
Moreover, what makes Grossmunster Church special is it’s the beginning point of the Swiss German Reformation headed by Heinrich Bullinger and Huldrych Zwingliand.
21.HELMHAUS
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Open Hours: (Tuesday – Sunday) 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM , (Thursday) 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Nearest Tram Station: Helmhaus
- Tram #: 4,15
- Nearby Zurich tourist spots: Grossmunster, Limmatquai, Limmat River, Lake Zurich
Why is Helmhaus one of the top tourist spots in Zurich?
Just below the Grossmunster Church is Helmhaus that showcases modern arts that focuses on Switzerland, created mostly by Swiss artists or artists residing in Switzerland.
22.KUNTSHAUS ZURICH
- Entrance Fee: (Adult) CHF 26, (Concessions): CHF 19, (Children under 17 y.o and members): FREE
- Open Hours: Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Closed on Mondays
- Nearest Tram Station: Kunsthaus
- Tram #: 3,5,8,9,10,11
- Nearest Bus Station: Kunsthaus
- Bus#: 31
Why is Kunsthaus one of the most popular places to visit in Zurich?
Helmhaus is an art museum in Zurich that opened in 1910. Kuntshaus was designed by Swiss architects Robert Curjel and Karl Moser. Kunsthaus is a must-visit in Zurich for art lovers as it houses some of the most important Medieval and modern art collections in Switzerland with an emphasis on Swiss Arts. It is believed to display over 4,000 pieces of paintings, sculptures, and installations.
The collections in Kuntshaus in Zurich includes works of world-renowned artists like Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent Van Gogh. Works of other popular artists such as Swiss artists Alberto Giacommetti, Ferdinand Hodler, and Johann Heinrich Fussli, are also exhibited in Kunsthaus.
23.BURKLIPLATZ
- Nearest Tram Stop: Burkliplatz Station
- Trams: 2,5,8,9, 11
- Bus: 161, 165, E
- Nearby Zurich Tourist Spots: Bahnhofstrasse, Market at Burkliplatz, Townhouse Complex, Rentenweis/Arboretum, Lake Zurich
Why is Burkliplatz a top Zurich tourist spot?
This lakeside park in Zurich was built in 1882 to 1887 by the eponymous Arnold Burkli, a city engineer. Burkliplatz sits on the location of the former town fortification near Lake Zurich and is now a popular tourist spot in Zurich. Today, it is well-known to tourists as the wharf and jumping off point for Lake Zurich cruise and tours to Rapperswil.
While you are at it, don’t miss the nearby bronze Ganymede statue and Zeus (in the form of an eagle), that was completed by Hermann Hubacher in 1952. This famous sculpture symbolizes man’s longing to ascend Mt.Olympus. In Greek Mythology though, Ganymede is described by Homer as the most beautiful of all mortals who was abducted by Zeus and taken to the summit of Mt.Olympus to be a cup-bearer.
24.LAKE ZURICH
- Nearest Tram Stop: Burkliplatz Station
- Trams: 2,5,8,9, 11
- Bus: 161, 165, E
- Nearby Zurich Tourist Spots: Burkliplatz, Bahnhofstrasse, Market at Burkliplatz, Townhouse Complex, Rentenweis/Arboretum
Why is Lake Zurich one of the best Zurich tourist attractions?
The crescent-shaped Lake Zurich is fed by the glacial Linth River. Lake Zurich is actually fringed by Zurich, St.Gallen, and Schwyz. Today, Lake Zurich a popular tourist spot for lake cruises that depart from Burkliplatz. There are several types of tours/cruises to choose from (short river cruises to full day cruises), but perhaps one of the most popular things to do in Zurich is the Lake Zurich cruise from Burkliplatz to the medieval old town of Rapperswil in the canton of St.Gallen. Boat tours in Lake Zurich are not available during winter (from mid-October to early April), but, you can find ice skating rinks ate the edge of Lake Zurich during this season.
If you are visiting around May to October, you can bring a swimsuit and take a dip at one of the swimming spots in Lake Zurich.
For chocolate lovers, you can join tours to the Lindt and Sprungli chocolate factory in Kilchberg, situated at the southern edge of Lake Zurich.
ZURICH CITY TOUR + CHOCOLATE TOUR: RESERVE HERE
25.SECHSELÄUTENPLATZ
- Entrance Fee: FREE
- Nearest Tram Station: Opernhaus
- Tram#: 2,4
- Nearest Bus Stop: Opernhaus, Bellevue
- Bus #: (Opernhaus and Bellevue) 912, 916,
Why is Sechselautenplatz one of the must see Zurich tourist attractions?
Sechselautenplatz is the largest town square in Zurich where traditional spring holiday in Zurich called Sechselauten is celebrated every April. If you are visiting the Zurich Opera House, you can drop by here. This place is also historic as there were prehistoric pile dwellings that were unexpectedly found here while digging the underground parking.
26.ZURICH OPERA HOUSE
- Entrance Fee: Check ticket prices HERE
10% discount with Zurich Card on purchases up to CHF 100 excluding people’s performances and 3rd party events.
- Nearest Tram Station: Opernhaus
- Tram #:2,4
- Nearest Bus Station:
- Bus #:912, 916, N18
Why is Zurich Opera House one of the best attractions in Zurich?
The Zurich Opera House with neoclassical facade that was designed by Viennese architects Fellner and Helmer and was first named Stadttheater Zurich in 1891. Here, you can watch ballet, operas, concerts and festivals. Not only can you buy tickets for performances, but you can also purchase tickets for tours at the box office. The Zurich Opera House tour will take you to the costume and props department, make up room, foyer, auditorium, and backstage area.
27.BELLERIVE MUSEUM
- Entrance Fee: (Adult) CHF 9, (Reduced) CHF 6, (Children up to 12 y.o) FREE
- Open Hours:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Nearest Bus Station: Electrowatt Station
- Bus #: 912, 916
Why is Bellerive Museum one of the places to see in Zurich?
The Bellerive Museum is a museum of design that focuses on design – from architecture, craft, to industrial design and visual communication. The Museum of Design houses 4 collections, including Graphics Collection, Applied Art Collection, Poster Collection, and Design Collection.
28.FIFA WORLD CUP MUSEUM
- Entrance Fee: (Adult) CHF 24, (Senior Citizen) CHF 19, (Student) CHF 18, (PWD & Child 7-15 y.o) CHF 14, (Child 0-6 y.o) FREE
- Free entry for Swiss Travel Pass holders and Museum Pass holders.
- Tip: There’s 50% discount for online tickets every Tuesday. Purchase at fifamuseum.com.
- Open Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (Closed on Monday) 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Nearest Train Station: Zurich Enge
- Train#: IR, RE, S, S2,S8, S24, SN8
Why is Fifa World Cup Museum a must visit place in Zurich?
For football fans, you’ll be glad to know that FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) opened the FIFA World Cup Museum in Zurich, Switzerland back in 2016. The FIFA World Cup Museum was built to display the rich history of the World Cup and to create a unique and exciting experience for visitors who loves football.
The museum is divided into 3 levels:
- 1st Floor. (Planet Football) – On the ground floor of the FIFA World Cup Museum is Planet Football that commemorates the 211 nations brought together by FIFA.
- 2nd Floor (The Foundations and FIFA World Cup Gallery) – At the 2nd floor, you’ll learn about the history of FIFA. Here, you’ll also see the historic FIFA World Cup Trophy on center stage, which was kept for over 40 years in a bank vault.
- Level +1 (Fields of Play) – This area showcases the influence of FIFA World Cup to the world, how the football game inspired and entertained thousands of people across the world.
29.REITBERG MUSEUM
- Entrance Fee:
Collection | Temporary Exhibits | |
Regular | CHF 14 – ₱728 | CHF 18 – ₱937 |
Concessions | CHF 12 -₱624 | CHF 14 – ₱728 |
*Free admission to the collection* with Zurich Card. *60% discount on special exhibitions.
- Open Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Wednesday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Nearest Tram Stop: Museum Reitberg
- Tram#: 5,6,7,8,13,19
- Nearest Bus Stop: Museum Reitberg
- Bus#: N15
Why is Reitberg Museum one of the top places to visit in Zurich?
Set in a beautifully manicured Rieterpark near Lake Zurich, Reitberg Museum is one of the most-visited and largest museums in Zurich. This elegant building was designed by architects Adolf Krischanitz and Alfred Grazioli.
What makes Reitberg Museum unique is it’s the only museum in Zurich that exhibits non-European collections. Here, you’ll find interesting treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and America.
30.FELSENEGG VIEWPOINT & UETLIBERG
- Nearest Train Station: Adliswil Station (Felsenegg), Uetliberg Station (Uetliberg)
- Train #:S4 + cable car (Felsenegg), SB 10 (Uetliberg)
Photo by Stux
Why is Felsenegg Viewpoint & Uetliberg one of the top things to do in Zurich?
If you think Zurich is all about buildings, museums, churches, and shopping, then you must not have heard of Zurich’s very own mountain – Uetliberg. This mountain is easily accessible by train from Zurich city center (Train S10). Soaring at 2,850 feet, Uetliberg offers a scenic, panoramic view of the Swiss Alps, Lake Zurich, Limmat River and Zuric City. There’s plenty of hiking and biking trails in Uetliberg for you to enjoy the scenery. But the best month to visit is during November when the summit is covered by fog that beautifully blankets the city.
Tourists also usually go to Felsenegg Viewpoint, to soak up the view of Zurich City and Lake Zurich. You can also hang out at one of the cafes there with scenic views.
How to get to Felsenegg Viewpoint:
You can use the Zurich Card, the train ride + cable car are covered. if you don’t have one, you can buy the Albis Pass at Zurich Main Station for CHF 17.60 to cover the train & cable car.
1.Make your way to Zurich Main Station.
2.At Platform 21, ride the S4 train tro Langnau-Gattikon. (Covered by Zurich Card)
3.Alight at Adliswil. (8th stop from Zurich Main Station. 15 mins)
4. Follow the sign to Luftsilbahn Cable car (Adliswil). 10 mins.
5.Ride the cable car (CHF 4.40 one way/Covered by Zurich Card).
6.Alight at Felsenegg Station.
Note: At Felsenegg, there are many trails. You can follow the trail to Uetliberg if you still have the energy (about 1 hour and 35 minutes).
ZURICH PRE-TRIP PREPARATION
Here’s some of the things to you might want to consider before embarking on a trip to Zurich.
ZURICH PASSES
You can save a few bucks when exploring Zurich if you get a day pass. Here are the recommended Zurich Passes.
1.ZURICH CARD
The best way to explore Zurich’s top tourist attractions and museums is by getting a city pass, and the Zurich Card is highly recommended. The Zurich Card is available in 2 variants: 24 hours and 72 hours unlimited travel. The Zurich Card includes FREE airport transfers and locals transport (bus, train, and tram), plus FREE entrance or reduced admission to about 40 Zurich Museums and river cruise.
Where to buy Zurich Card: RESERVE HERE
2.SWISS TRAVEL PASS
If you plan on traveling around Switzerland, getting a Swiss Travel Pass is recommended. Train rides to and around Switzerland are pretty expensive especially if you are booking it within the day or a day before.
Where to buy Swiss Travel Pass: RESERVE HERE
3.SWISS HALF-FARE CARD
Perfect for tourists traveling with kids age 6 -15.
Where to buy Swiss half-fare Pass: RESERVE HERE
4.EURAIL PASS
If you want to explore other parts of Europe aside from Switzerland, you can get a Eurail Pass. With the Eurail Pass you’ll be able to get unlimited train rides for consecutive and non-consecutive days. It’s good for 31 countries across Europe!
Where to buy Eurail Pass: RESERVE HERE
ZURICH WIFI
It’s important to stay connected online when traveling around Zurich. You can rent a pocket Wi-Fi before flying to Switzerland or Europe below
Photo provided by Klook
If coming from the Philippines: RESERVE HERE
If coming from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam & other countries: RESERVE HERE
WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH
I recommend finding a hotel near District 1 and near the tram stations so you can get around easily. Most of the tourist spots in Zurich, Switzerland are situated in District 1.
Here’s some of the top-rated budget hotels in Zurich according to online users.
- Oldtown Hostel Otter
They have cheap dorm beds.
Nearest Tram & Bus Stop: Bellevue (Tram #2,4,5,8,9,10,11,15)
(Bus # N1,N2,N4,N6,N7,N12,N13,N14,N15,N16,N17,N18,N19)
CHECK RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE
- Gasthaus zum Guten Gluck
Nearest Tram & Bus Stop: Kalkbreite/Bahnhof Weidikon (Tram #2,3 19) (Bus# N14)
CHECK RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE
- Ibis Budget Zurich Airport
Nearest Bus Stop: Glattbrugg, Unterriet (Bus #510)
Nearest Tram Stop: Unterriet (Tram #10,12)
CHECK RATES HEREOR RESERVE HERE
- Zurich City Lakeside
Nearest Tram & Bus Stop: Frolichstrasse (Tram # 2,4) (Bus #33, 912, 916, N18)
CHECK ROOM RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE
- Hotel Gregory
Nearest Bus Stop: Militar-/Langstrasse (Bus #31, 33, N2, N8)
CHECK ROOM RATES HERE OR RESERVE HERE
- Homestay Zurich
Nearest Tram & Bus Stop: Lochergut (Tram # 2,3,19) (Bus #N14)
CHECK RATES HEREOR RESERVE HERE
GETTING AROUND ZURICH
You can get around by tram, bus, and bike in Zurich. I prefer taking the tram in Zurich. Make sure you have your pass to save a few bucks. Refer to the Zurich Passes above.
Download the Zurich Tram Map: CLICK HERE
Download the entire Zurich Transport Network Map: CLICK HERE
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ZURICH ITINERARY
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FLORENCE TRAVEL GUIDE
VENICE ITINERARY
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