There are many reasons to spend a long weekend in Zurich. Whether you want to explore world-class museums, the charming Old Town, celebrated bathing culture and al fresco dining scenes – all set against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps.
We recently spent 72 hours in this charismatic city; the 25-mile-long Lake Zurich might steal all the headlines, but look beyond it (or more closely at its shores) and you’ll discover a world of culture, dining, history and wellness. A day here might take you from a sunrise swim to the independent ateliers of the city’s talented fashion designers, the next day followed by a hike with panoramic views from Uetliberg mountain, and ending at a rooftop restaurant.
This is a city small enough to get to grips with in just a few days, yet with more than enough variety to fill each day with unique experiences. These are the best things to do in Zurich.
What To Do
Experience Badi-Kultur at Lake Zurich
During summer, Lake Zurich and the River Limmat are at the centre of the city’s social heart – they’re the focal point of Switzerland’s most enduring traditions: Badi-Kultur (aka bathing culture). Around the city are more than 25 badis (outdoor bathing spots), each with its own personality. Some are elegant Art Nouveau bathhouses dating back more than a century, others are simple wooden platforms – and many transform into barefoot bars as evening falls.
Morning noon or night, Zurchers gather at the lake; day-to-day life fades into the background as groups of all ages gather – perhaps for a quick dip before work, or for lunch with friends (and a view). Some people spend afternoons working from sun-drenched wooden decks, others gather as the sun starts to set, watching as the evening skies melt into a flurry of colours behind the Swiss mountains.
Whether you choose historic Seebad Utoquai, the women-only bath, Frauenbad at Stadthausquai, or another one of the city’s many bathing clubs, be sure to make time for an afternoon of swimming, reading and people-watching. Arrive like a local with the Züri Summer beach towel, a collaboration between Zurich Tourism and Swiss textile brand ZigZagZurich.
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Beyond the Badis, locals and visitors alike drift lazily down the River Limmat, kayak across the lake, join paddleboard yoga classes, or relax on an iconic Saunaboat cruise for a leisurely sail on a small boat with a wood-fired sauna (no license required). There’s perhaps no better way to see the city. A must-do experience, best enjoyed with friends.
Explore Zurich’s rich art and culture
Zurich boasts more than 60 museums, their collections as varied as the city itself and spanning everything from art, design, history, architecture, archeology and beyond. Here, you might find yourself learning about the history of Switzerland at the National Museum Zurich one day, taking in contemporary art at Löwenbräukunst-Areal the next morning, and standing in front of old masters at Kunsthaus Zürich by afternoon.
Indeed, Kunsthaus Zürich is the largest art museum in Switzerland and home to 800 years of art history. Housing one of Europe’s most significant collections, gaze at works by Monet, Picasso, Chagall and Giacometti before moving through to the museum’s impressive programme of contemporary exhibitions. Coming up at the end of the year is Evergreens, a spotlight on some of the world’s best known and loved artists and artworks, including Claude Monet’s water lilies, Andy Warhol’s soup can, Francis Bacon’s triptych and works by artists including Pablo Picasso, Marlow Moss, Albert Anker and Heidi Bucher. It’s on from 11 September 2026 – 10 January 2027.
Wander around the Old Town
The historic Old Town of Zurich is best discovered on foot. Wander through cobbled streets lined with medieval houses, discover independent boutiques tucked away in hidden courtyards and uncover a city that seamlessly blends centuries of history with a thriving creative scene. Key places to visit on any exploration here include the Grossmünster Church, a former monastery and perhaps the city’s most famous landmark; visit the Lindenhof, a beautiful park with views over the old town and river that floats through.
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If you love shopping, don’t miss Niederdorf, the Old Town’s charming quarter, a maze of narrow alleys lined with small shops selling handpicked goods, alongside independent boutiques, antique stores, bookshops, cafés and restaurants.
Hike Uetliberg – “Zurich’s very own mountain”
A short train journey from the city centre, Uetliberg is Zurich’s home mountain – and proof that adventure is never far away. Stretching 2,858 feet into the sky, there are four trails you can follow to its peak, offering wonderful options for all levels of hiking ability. Each is well marked with directional signage, and winds through woodland to 360-degree viewpoints overlooking the city, Lake Zurich and, on clear days, the snow-capped Alps.
If you’re keen to take it a little easy, then Sequoia Avenue or Planet Trail are your best bet. Head for Sequoia Avenue for a gentle stroll through easy paths and scenic sequoia trees; Planet Trail is ideal for families with younger children – a themed hike, its paths take you through models of the solar system as you walk. The Lantern Path is where things start to get a little bit harder, but still makes for a pleasant meander through nature, and the Hohenstein Trail is the one to follow if you’re up for more of a challenge – but with the steeper ascents come rewards in the form of viewpoints.
EAT + DRINK
No matter your style of dining, Zurich’s food scene is set to impress. Whether you’re craving Zurich’s signature Geschnetzeltes – thinly sliced pan-fried veal in a rich, creamy sauce, traditionally served with crispy rosti – or are keen to explore contemporary global dishes, or prefer a high-end reservation at a Michelin-starred table, there’s a restaurant to suit. And Zurich has a cafe culture to match, too: specialty coffee bars include MAME, NUDE, La Stanza, Mops, Cafe Europa, or head for a hot chocolate – known as heisse schoggi – at one of these local favourites.
Lulu for al fresco dining
If there is one restaurant that captures Zurich in summer, it’s Lulu. Moments from the lake, Lulu pairs Mediterranean-inspired cooking with classic French bistro influences on a sun-drenched terrace made for long lunches with chilled rosé.
Silex for Michelin-starred dishes
For serious foodies, Silex is a must. The intimate Michelin Plate restaurant serves creative, provenance-led small plates that celebrate the best of Swiss ingredients, complemented by one of the country’s best wine lists.
Capri Bistrot for aperitivo and dinner
For a cool spot with atmosphere, Capri Bistrot is hard to beat. An Italian restaurant that spills onto a wraparound terrace that is lively from afternoon aperitivo through to dinner, this is one of the chicest places in Zurich.
Where To Stay
On the shores of Lake Zurich, La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich is one of the city’s most stylish addresses. The hotel is full of fun nautical references and beautifully preserved period details. Acclaimed French designer Philippe Starck reimagined the century-old neo-Baroque building using the spirit of an exclusive yacht club as inspiration; expect rooftop lakeside views, hidden cigar lounges and maritime-inspired interiors throughout the property.
Set above Lake Zurich, La Muña, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, offers 360-degree views across the water towards the Alps, making it one of the city’s most sought-after rooftops for sunset. The Japanese-Peruvian menu is fresh and designed for sharing, with ceviche, sashimi, beautifully prepared seafood and perfectly grilled meats on the menu.
Where To Shop
Explore Viadukt Arches at Zurich West
Equal parts unique and trendy, Viadukt Arches is a 500-metre-long shopping and cultural district stretching beneath a late 1800s railway viaduct. Located in Zurich West, a former industrial district, the area has evolved into the city’s creative quarter and is home to design-forward boutique stores – this is the place to pick up unique gifts (for yourself or others) that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Once you’re all shopped out, stop for a flat white at one of the independent cafes, pick up artisanal treats (cheese, cured meats, freshly baked bread) from a local producer, or take a seat at one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants.
Discover Swiss designers
Kristina Thaden is not to be missed. Her sculptural handbags have appeared on the pages of Vogue and in Emily in Paris, combining impeccable craftsmanship with a playful sense of femininity. And for statement dressing, visit the showroom of YVY, founded by designer Yvonne Reichmuth. Best known for beautifully crafted leather accessories and timeless ready-to-wear, the brand has attracted a devoted following including Billie Eilish and Katy Perry.
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Shop Bahnhofstrasse
For luxury shopping, world-famous Bahnhofstrasse sits where the city’s moats once were, and connects Lake Zurich with the main train station. This shopping street remains one of the world’s most exclusive shopping miles and is home to fine jewellery and international fashion houses as well as Switzerland’s legendary watchmakers, and is always worth a visit – no matter how many times you’ve been before.
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