Despite its reputation as a financial powerhouse, Zurich's attractions are anything but staid. There's a world of fascinating, delectable and stylish sites, restaurants and shops waiting to be discovered.
The city's sights, eye-wateringly pricey boutiques and effortlessly cool nightspots are all concentrated in the historic centre that sprawls across both banks of the Limmat river. For a unique perspective, take a cruise down the city's main waterway or head to the top of Felsenegg for a breathtaking panorama.
1. Grossmunster
The Grossmunster is the city’s most famous landmark and has a fascinating history. It was originally founded by Charlemagne in the 8th century and played an important role in the Swiss reformation.
This Romanesque-style Protestant church has a fantastic history and is well worth visiting. It’s also a great place to go for some fantastic views over Zurich.
According to legend, two brothers escaped from Canton Valais and were beheaded here by Christian troops in 286 AD. They were then buried here and Charlemagne built this Romanesque church where his horse knelt over their tombs.
2. Bahnhofstrasse
One of the world's most expensive and exclusive shopping streets, Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich is a must-see for any traveller. Located 1.4 km from the main railway station to Lake Zurich, this street is famous for its high-end stores.
A 1.4 km long boulevard, Bahnhofstrasse connects the city moats of 150 years ago with Lake Zurich and is known for its boutiques, department stores, and timepiece shops. At the heart of the street is Paradeplatz, an important tram junction that hosts the headquarters of several Swiss banks.
3. Cafe Sprungli
Cafe Sprungli has a long tradition as a posh hangout for the upper class. This popular spot on Paradeplatz, Bahnhofstrasse 21, is famous for its chocolate, tea, and coffee – it’s also a traditional meeting place for Zurich’s upper-class women to catch up on their social life.
The best thing to try here is their Luxemburgerli - tiny macarons that are made with dark chocolate ganache. These are available in a variety of flavours and can be bought in small boxes of 16 Luxemburgerli for 17 CHF.
4. Kunsthaus Zurich
One of the city's most renowned museums, Kunsthaus Zurich features a significant collection of international and Swiss art from the Middle Ages to the present day. With its beautiful marble staircases, relief-work, and gold leafing, this museum is a must-visit for every visitor.
The museum's collections include Impressionist paintings from Monet and Van Gogh, classic modern art, and contemporary works. It also has an impressive collection of Swiss painters and medieval paintings and sculptures.
5. Beyer Clock and Watch Museum
In the heart of Zurich on Bahnhofstrasse, beneath the Beyer Watch Shop is the world's leading private museum dedicated to horology. Here you can see around 260 important exhibits, all of which tell the history of timekeeping from 1400 BC to the present day.
It's a fascinating place to learn about the development of watches over centuries, and there are many different types and styles in the collection to admire. There are sundials, water clocks, pendulums, clepsydras, tower clocks and more.
Another must-see attraction in Zurich is the Migros Museum fur Gegenwartskunst, which displays international art works. It also showcases Swiss modern and contemporary art.
6. Fondue
Fondue is one of Switzerland's most recognizable dishes, and it's easy to find a variety of ways to indulge in this bubbly cheese. You can enjoy it in a cozy chalet, on a tram or boat, or even on an open-air rooftop bar.
The basic recipe for cheese fondue calls for white wine, cornstarch or flour, and grated cheese, which is then melted over a flame in a pot. Then, long forks are used to dip various foods, including bread, into the melted cheese.
