Zurich is a lively and culturally rich city right in the heart of Europe. With its stunning lake, historic Old Town, and buzzing arts scene, Zurich perfectly mixes modern vibes with old-world charm. This city offers a delightful blend of sophistication, natural beauty, and rich history that will leave you enchanted. So, come along as we explore all the fantastic things to do in Zurich in just one day!
1. Lake Zurich
If you have the time, start your day early with a trip to Lake Zurich. The 45-minute journey from the city centre is well worth it. You’ll be treated to beautiful, picturesque landscapes with the Swiss Alps visible in the distance. The shoreline is lined with parks, beaches, and promenades, making it a popular destination. Why not jump on a ferry for an even better view of the lake and its surroundings?
2. Zoo Zurich
Zoo Zurich is an excellent alternative if lakes aren’t your preference and you’re looking for a fun experience with a few hours to spare in the morning. The zoo features a wide variety of exotic animals that are exceptionally well cared for. For example, they have Galapagos turtles that are housed in a cosy indoor area during the colder winter and spring months. You’ll also see giraffes, zebras, and rhinos, among others.
Just a side note: if you have mobility issues, be aware that the zoo is situated on hilly terrain, which involves a lot of walking up and down, as well as steps.
3. Uetilberg Mountain
Visiting Uetliberg is a must, especially on a good weather day in Zurich, with fresh mountain air, great views, and dark forests.
Uetliberg Mountain is very easy to reach from Zurich, just a quick 20-minute train ride away. Once you arrive, you’ll find clean bathrooms, a fountain for refilling your water bottle, and various hiking options (note that the walk is quite steep). If you prefer, you can take a tram up to save time or avoid the hike.
There are plenty of places to get water, coffee, beer, wine, and mixed drinks. The 15-minute walk includes benches along the way if you need to rest. Additionally, there are more challenging trails available if you’re up for it.
4. Old Town
To maximise your experience when looking for things to do in Zurich in one day, you could start your walk in the Altstadt, cross Bahnhofstrasse (shopping street), and then cross the River Limmat to reach Grossmünster (the Twin Towers church, an iconic landmark in Zurich). Depending on the season and time of day, the cobblestone streets around Old Town can be quite calm and peaceful, offering a beautiful and easy stroll. The historic medieval buildings are charming, and their timeless beauty never gets old.
The Old Town is full of wonderful shops, clean streets, delicious restaurants, and history at every turn.
5. Lindenhof Hill
Lindenhof Hill is a beautiful park to relax with a view of the churches and the river. Climbing up the short hill is a must-do if you’ve got the time when exploring the Altstadt or Old Town.
It’s an ideal way to spend a couple of hours exploring the narrow, medieval streets.
No day trip to Zurich is complete without exploring some of the area’s best restaurants. Take a look at our handpicked 6 best places to eat in Zurich for some inspiration.
6. Museums to visit
When visiting Zurich, you should try to go to one or two of these outstanding museums that offer unique and enriching experiences:
- Landesmuseum Zurich: Explore Switzerland’s rich cultural history through an impressive collection of artefacts, from medieval treasures to traditional costumes, providing a comprehensive view of the country’s heritage.
- Museum Rietberg: Discover art from non-European cultures in a beautiful park setting. This museum features stunning collections from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It offers a diverse and captivating exploration of global artistic traditions.
- Kunsthaus Zurich: One of Switzerland’s most important art museums, it houses a large collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to modern times, including masterpieces by Giacometti, van Gogh, and Chagall.
These museums provide a well-rounded cultural experience, highlighting art, history, science, and global cultures.
7. Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is situated within the city centre and offers a great stroll. It has two climate-controlled domes one of them houses tropical climate plants and the other one houses arid climate plants. Entry is free, and pets are welcome. A stream runs through the garden, with benches available for seating.
Exploring Zurich in just one day is a thrilling adventure, packed with delightful discoveries and unforgettable experiences. From the charming streets of the Old Town to the tranquil beauty of Lake Zurich, this city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural splendour. Whether you’re savouring the local cuisine, marvelling at stunning art, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Zurich leaves an indelible mark on every traveller.
Remember, it’s the little moments that make a trip truly special—catching the glint of sunlight on the Limmat River, hearing the chiming bells of Grossmünster, or tasting a piece of exquisite Swiss chocolate. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and dive into all that Zurich has to offer. Your one-day adventure awaits, promising memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!
If you’re planning a business trip to this bustling city, take a look at our selection of serviced apartments in Zurich, Switzerland. These accommodations offer comfort, luxury, and convenience tailored to your travel needs.