Focus on Zurich: Switzerland’s trendsetting gem

While obviously impressing with a medieval old town with plenty of sights, charming streets and shops, Zurich is also a must-visit for art and culture fans, as well as nature enthusiasts. Unsurprisingly, Zurich is also a wonderfully trendy town – so there really is something for everyone to explore. In the following special theme, we showcase some of the best places to visit.

Evening mood view from the Quaibridge direction Old Town of Zurich. Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Jan Geerk

If you have been in Zurich before, you know how enchanting this city really is. If you have not been, 2019 might be the year you should plan a visit. As Switzerland’s largest city and a global centre for banking and finance, it is easy to forget that it is also a delightful place for tourists. With a population of around 400,000, Zurich lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. It is a relatively small city but nonetheless has a lot on offer.

Views over the wintry lake basin of Zuerich with the alps in the background. Photo: © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Ivo Scholz

For example, the picturesque lanes of the old town reflect the city’s pre-medieval history. Taking a stroll through the charming lanes while gazing at the many cute shops and impressive medieval and Renaissance architecture is an experience in itself. Top attractions like the Bahnhofstrasse, St Peter’s Church or Lake Zurich should not be left out either, of course. Or why not head to the Limmatquai, a waterfront promenade which follows the river towards the 17th-century town hall? Luckily, Zurich is perfectly laid-out for sightseeing on foot.

Kunstmuseum Zuerich. Photo: Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Andre Meier

Culture fans can go to a variety of different museums and exhibitions and nature fans should head to the Dolderbahn railway which brings them to the hilly Zurichberg district. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views across Lake Zurich, the city and the mountains in the background.

After an eventful day out sightseeing and exploring, a variety of innovative and top-class restaurants and eateries of every kind are waiting for guests. And, of course, a diverse range of hotels and guesthouses for every budget rounds off Zurich’s offering.

Zurich does have it all! So what are you waiting for?

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Zurich by night. Photo © Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Jan Geerk