Located in the north of Switzerland, Zurich is an international financial center as well as a city with spectacular natural and cultural landscapes. Even if you only have one day in Zurich, you can still reap the benefits of the best trip experience, from sightseeing to delicious food, we will plan a complete Zurich one day itinerary for you.
Table of Content
What to do in Zurich for a day
Getting around in Zurich
First of all, you need to know about public transportation in Zurich. The Zurich Transport Network (ZVV) includes tram, trolleybus, bus, train, boat, and even a cable car. These public transports cover Zurich’s city center and surrounding areas, making your day easier. For a day in Zurich, we recommend purchasing a 24-hour ticket. This ticket allows unlimited travel within a designated area for 24 hours. For time-crunched travelers, purchasing a 24-hour ticket for 1-2 zones is sufficient and costs 9.2 francs for 2nd class.
Of course, if you have more than one museum in your plans, then choosing the Zürich Card would be even better. It covers unlimited second-class travel on all public transportation in and around the city, including trips from the airport! Provides you with free or discounted admission to many museums and other discounts.
Because Zurich’s attractions are so well connected, you can also choose to explore on foot, especially the picturesque Altstadt and the lakeside area.
Best time to visit Zurich
The best time to visit Zurich is during the spring months of March-May and the fall months of September-November, when the average temperature ranges from 5-20°C (41-68°F). You can see magnolias and cherry blossoms in the spring and enjoy maple leaves in the fall. Switzerland’s traditional spring festival, Sechseläuten, is held in April and is a unique cultural experience.
The peak tourist season is the summer months from June to August, when temperatures are at their warmest, averaging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This is also the time of year when festivals abound, such as Swiss National Day on August 1, when parades take place.
The winter months of December and February are also considered the high season, with temperatures close to 0°C (32°F). In December, the crowds will increase as Christmas approaches. The nearby mountains offer snow activities such as skiing.
What to do in Zurich for a day
There is no shortage of things to do and sights to see in Zurich, despite only having 1 day to visit. A compact and flexible itinerary will allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Zurich one-day itinerary
Morning
Let’s start the Zurich city tour early from Altstadt, this area covers most of the sights and is the best place to visit in Zurich. The river in the center of the area is the Limmat, follow the riverbank to Niederdorf, with its medieval streets and squares, and a variety of stores, cafes and restaurants where you can grab a coffee and breakfast before continuing on your tour.
Afterwards, head to Grossmünster, an iconic twin-towered church. Climbing the towers also offers a view of the city and Lake Zurich, plus a view of the Alps in the distance. A 3-minute walk across the bridge brings you to Fraumünster Church, with its elaborate spire and stained-glass windows. Next door is St. Peter’s Church, which boasts the largest bell in Europe.
Noon
There are many restaurants in the Altstadt area where you can have lunch before heading to Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s famous shopping street lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, Swiss watches, and jewelry stores. Take a 10-minute walk along the street to Bürkliplatz, where you can admire Lake Zurich and watch the swans pass by. If time permits, consider a short lake cruise for a relaxing midday break.
Afternoon
If art and culture are more your thing, head to Kunsthaus Zürich, a large art museum. Covering everything from medieval art to contemporary works, it includes important works by Swiss artists and international masters such as Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh. Or the Swiss National Museum, offering Swiss history and culture from prehistoric times to modern times.
Then, head to Arboretum for a peaceful afternoon, a beautiful park right on the lake, perfect for lounging or just sitting by the water.
If you have enough time, Uetliberg can also be your alternative destination, a 20-minute ride on the S10 line from Zürich HB. Once at the top, it’s a short walk to the observation tower for panoramic views of the city, Lake Zurich, and the surrounding Alps, which are especially beautiful at sunset.
Evening
Night falls, and one day in Zurich draws to a close. For dinner, consider a choice of restaurants along the Limmat River and watch the city lights reflect on the water. If you still have time to catch up on the nightlife, the Langstrasse and Altstadt areas have several bars and clubs.
What to eat in Zurich
Zurich’s cuisine is varied and delicious, offering options for all budgets, from posh meals to street food.
- Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: This is a traditional Swiss dish that is a must try. There is thinly sliced veal cooked in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, usually served with crispy Rösti. Zeughauskeller, located in the old town, is a very famous Swiss restaurant where this traditional dish can be savored.
- Cheese Fondue: Zurich boasts first-class fondue restaurants with different dishes and breads dipped in rich cheese, perfect for winter. Frau Gerolds Garten on Geroldstrasse Street is a good restaurant to try fondue.
- Bratwurst vom Grill: This is street food, usually served with Bürli and mustard. It is a classic Zurich street food experience and can be found in the Sternen Grill.
- Raclette: Melted cheese served over potatoes with cucumbers and onions. The best place to visit is the Raclette Factory restaurant.
- Luxemburgerli: These little macaroons are the perfect little dessert and a Zurich specialty, and can be purchased at Confiserie Sprüngli.
Where to stay in Zurich
The area in which you stay in Zurich will also change depending on your itinerary, especially if you arrive or need to leave the next day.
- Altstadt: This is Zurich’s old town, with popular attractions and the train station within walking distance. Staying here will be very convenient.
- Around Lake Zurich: For example, the Enge area, which is beautiful and still very well connected to the city center by tram.
- Langstrasse: Zurich’s red light and nightlife district, popular with young tourists.
What to buy in Zurich
Before leaving Zurich, you may want to purchase some souvenirs.
- Swiss Chocolate: From global brands like Lindt to local artisanal chocolate makers, Zurich is a chocolate lover’s paradise. One of the most popular stores is Confiserie Sprüngli.
- Cheese: Head to a local market or specialty store for authentic Swiss cheese.
- Traditional crafts: You may find beautifully crafted wooden toys, embroidered sheets, or other handicrafts.
- Watches: Even if luxury timepieces aren’t in your budget, Bahnhofstrasse offers window shopping and stores where you can admire the precision of Swiss watchmaking.
- MAMMUT: This is Switzerland’s most famous outdoor brand, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to visit.
Day trips from Zurich
Notably, this city is a great gateway for further Swiss adventures. Thanks to the efficient train network here, you can do train travel in Switzerland. If you happen to have an extra day or two, consider some of the wonderful day trips from Zurich. This adds more things to do in Zurich.
Lucerne: A 40-minute train ride from Zurich, Lucerne is a postcard-perfect city with its iconic Chapel Bridge, medieval Old Town, and stunning backdrop of lakes and mountains. It is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.
Rhine Falls: This is the largest waterfall in Europe and is an hour’s train ride from Zurich. You can take a boat trip to the falls and enjoy the magnificence of nature.
Bern: This is the capital of Switzerland, an hour’s train ride from Zurich. The old town here is listed as a World Heritage Site.
Mount Titlis or Pilatus: For a true alpine experience, you can join a guided trip to one of these magnificent mountains for glacier views, rotating cable cars and thrilling activities.
Rapperswil-Jona: Also known as the Town of Roses, it is easily accessible by train or even a scenic boat ride. Rapperswil Castle is a must-visit, with a view of Lake Zurich.
FAQ
Is Zurich a walkable city?
Yes, the city center of Zurich, especially Altstadt, Bahnhofstrasse, and the lakeside area, is very compactly connected and easy to explore on foot.
How many days are enough for Zurich?
Typically 2-3 days would be a more comprehensive visit to the sights of Zurich, especially if you also want to explore further areas.
What countries are close to Zurich by train?
Neighboring European countries are easily accessible by train from Zurich, and there are many cities that can be reached directly.
- Germany: Cities like Munich, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, and even Hamburg and Berlin.
- Austria: Direct to cities like Vienna and Salzburg.
- Italy: Milan is a popular direct train ride from Zurich.
- France: Paris can be reached by high-speed TGV train.
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