The Best 17 Tourist Places To Visit In Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich dazzles with historic churches (Grossmünster with climbable towers, Fraumünster’s Chagall windows), scenic overlooks (Uetliberg summit, Lindenhof hill), and leisure by the water (Lake Zurich cruises, riverside promenades). Luxury shopping on Bahnhofstrasse and cultural gems like the Kunsthaus and Swiss National Museum add to its charm. Best visiting months are late spring and early fall (April–June, Sept–Oct) when crowds are lighter and weather mild. Save on travel and attraction fees with a 24h/72h Zürich Card—it covers unlimited city transit (including Uetliberg, lake/river cruises) and free admission to 40+ sites (e.g. Kunsthaus, Rietberg, FIFA Museum, Fraumünster and Grossmünster towers).

Zürich-West’s popular Frau Gerold’s Garten, a hip outdoor beer garden with mountain views, captures the city’s mix of modern flair and Alps scenery. Amidst Zurich’s sleek skyline, historic charm abounds. The 12th-century Grossmünster church with twin towers overlooks the River Limmat, while Fraumünster on the opposite bank is famed for Chagall’s stained-glass windows. Nearby, the medieval Altstadt (Old Town) lanes lead past St. Peter’s Church (with Europe’s largest clock face) and uphill to the Lindenhof Hill park, offering sweeping city vistas. Modern culture shines at the Kunsthaus Zurich and Swiss National Museum, and shoppers flock along Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe’s most exclusive shopping boulevards. For broad panoramas, take the train to Uetliberg mountain, the highest Zurich peak, where an observation tower rewards you with alpine views. Families will love the Zurich Zoo and the tranquil Chinese Garden, while nightlife and dining thrive in the trendy Zurich-West district. In summer, you can swim in the lake or join the Seeüberquerung swim event, and all year enjoy world-class cuisine in gourmet restaurants.

1. Grossmünster Church

A Romanesque landmark in Zurich’s Old Town, Grossmünster (Great Minster) features twin towers visible from across the city. Its origin dates to the 12th century on the site of a martyr saints’ tombs. The 187-step Karlsturm (south tower) offers stunning views over the Limmat, lake and Alps. The church interior highlights include medieval frescoes, a crypto museum and modern stained glass by Augusto Giacometti. Grossmünster is ideal for history buffs and photo enthusiasts. Plan ~1–1.5 hours here (longer if climbing the tower). It’s open daily (Mar–Oct 10am–6pm; Nov–Feb 10am–5pm). Admission inside is free (quiet reflection); the tower climb is CHF 5 (free with Zürich Card or Swiss Pass).

Getting there: Nearest stop is Grossmünster (tram lines 2,4) on ZVV zone 110. Zurich HB is 9min walk.
Costs & Passes: Church entry is free. Tower climb CHF 5 (Zürich Card covers it). Swiss Travel Pass covers train to Zurich but not climbing fee.
Best time: Morning or late afternoon (avoid midday tour groups). In summer, catch the long twilight.
Local tip: Climb the tower just before sunset for the best light on the city and lake. Also see nearby Rathaus (Town Hall) and the riverside Münsterbrücke.

2. Fraumünster Church

Standing on the Limmat’s left bank, Fraumünster is Zurich’s famous “Women’s Minster.” The Gothic church (13th–15th c.) is renowned for its five Marc Chagall stained-glass windows (1970s) and a Giacometti window in the north transept. It originally housed a wealthy abbey founded in 853 by Louis the German’s daughter. The serene interior and vibrant windows make it special. Fraumünster is perfect for art lovers and history fans. Allow ~45–60 minutes. Entry to the church itself is free.

Getting there: Nearest stop is Fraumünster (tram 4) or walk from Bellevue square (trams 2,4). Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Free entry at all times (except during services). No extra fees. Zürich Card covers any special guided tour fees (but basic visit is free).
Best time: Mornings or late afternoons; avoid Sundays (services start at 12:00). In summer, visit in late afternoon to see stained-glass light effects.
Local tip: Climb the narrow stairs to the church’s upper gallery for an intimate view of the Chagall windows from above. If you have extra time, just outside is the Wasserkirche (Water Church) with a historic clock.

3. Bahnhofstrasse

One of the world’s most expensive shopping streets, Bahnhofstrasse runs from Zurich HB to Lake Zurich. It’s lined with luxury boutiques, jewelry and watch shops, chocolate stores, and cafes. This elegant boulevard exemplifies Zurich’s refined glamour and is a must-see for shoppers and window-shoppers alike. Even if you don’t buy, strolling Bahnhofstrasse is a people-watching treat. Plan ~1–2 hours. It’s always free to explore.

Getting there: Start at Bahnhof (Zurich HB) or Paradeplatz (trams 6,7,11). Entire street lies in ZVV zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Free to visit. Many high-end stores and Lindt chocolate shop at Rennweg/Paradeplatz.
Best time: Weekday morning to avoid crowds. The street is especially festive when decked for holiday lights.
Local tip: Stop for Swiss chocolates at the Sprüngli café on Bahnhofstrasse or venture into the narrow alleys of the adjacent Old Town to escape the crowds.

4. Uetliberg Mountain

Zurich’s home mountain, Uetliberg, rises to 870m with panoramic views of the city, lake and Alps. A short S10 train (ZVV) ride from Zurich HB takes ~20 min to the summit station. At the top, an observation tower (Enger tower) offers even more expansive vistas. On clear days you can see the Matterhorn on the horizon. It’s a great spot for sunrise (trains run early). Hiking trails extend from Uetliberg along the “Planet Trail.” There’s a mountain restaurant and hotel for dining. Plan 2–3 hours including train/trail time.

Getting there: Train S10 (SZU) from Zurich HB to Uetliberg station. Ticket is Zone 110 (Zurich city).
Costs & Passes: Covered by Zürich Card (free train) and Swiss Travel Pass. Mountain railway is SBB so Swiss Pass is valid. Restaurant/hotel optional.
Best time: Clear days (winter and fall often have crisp visibility, summer cooler sunrise). Early morning is magical. In summer evenings enjoy cooler air.
Local tip: Walk the ridge from Uetliberg to Felsenegg (about 2hrs), then take the cable car down for lake views (return via train at Adliswil). The Uetliberg Felsenegg Triangle is a top hike.

5. Lake Zurich (Zürichsee)

A crescent-shaped alpine lake, Lake Zurich is a focal point for recreation and relaxation. In summer locals and visitors swim at lakeside Badi (public baths), sail, or picnic by the water. A scenic promenade (especially in Seefeld and Zürichhorn areas) is perfect for walking or cycling along the shore. Boat cruises operate year-round: short rides across the lake or sunset evening tours. Plan at least 1–2 hours here, or half a day if taking a cruise. The backdrop of wooded hills and Alps makes it memorable.

Getting there: Many tram or train stops along the lake: e.g. Bürkliplatz or Stadelhofen for Zentrum, Seefeld (trams 2,4) for east shore. Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Walks and swimming are free. Lake cruise (1hr) ~CHF 8-12; short cruise included in Zürich Card (90min ride).
Best time: Summer for water activities; fall for foliage. Mornings have calm water; evenings offer beautiful sunsets.
Local tip: Don’t miss the Ganymed statue on Bürkliterrasse (boy with eagle) for an iconic photo. In winter the lakefront is peaceful—great for a frosty stroll.

6. Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)

Just outside Zurich HB, the Swiss National Museum resembles a fairy-tale castle. It chronicles Switzerland’s history from antiquity to modern times with exhibits on art, culture, and folklore. Displays include medieval armor, Renaissance paintings, vintage textiles, and themed rooms (e.g. a full Baroque residence). It’s great for history and culture buffs. Allow ~1–2 hours for major exhibits.

Getting there: Directly at Zürich HB (inside or via Bahnhofplatz). Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Regular ticket CHF 10–12; free with Swiss Travel Pass or Zürich Card.
Best time: Weekdays (less crowd). The museum is closed on Mondays.
Local tip: Check out the free medieval castle-like courtyard. On Wed and Sun evenings (Apr–Oct) the museum hosts a quaint evening tour and concert in the courtyards.

7. Lindenhof Hill

A peaceful oasis in the old town, Lindenhof is a small wooded park atop an ancient Roman fortress site. It offers one of Zurich’s best free viewpoints: you can look over the river, Old Town rooftops and Main Station. People play chess on its tables and enjoy the quiet. This spot is great for couples and photographers. Allow ~15–30 minutes.

Getting there: 5min walk from Bahnhofstrasse/Old Town (near Rathaus or Central tram stops). Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Free.
Best time: Sunset is magical; summer evenings for people-watching.
Local tip: Bring a picnic blanket or find a bench. On summer mornings you might catch Sunday chess games or small concerts.

8. Kunsthaus Zürich (Zurich Art Museum)

Kunsthaus houses Switzerland’s leading collection of fine art. Highlights include medieval to modern works: the world’s largest collection of paintings by Edvard Munch outside Norway, and one of the most significant Claude Monet collections outside Paris. You’ll also see Picasso, Chagall, van Gogh and more. Contemporary Swiss art gets spotlight in rotating exhibits. The building itself combines historic and new architecture. Plan ~2 hours.

Getting there: Tram 3, 9 or 6 to Kunsthaus station (on Rämistrasse) or walk from Bellevue. Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Admission ~CHF 23; reduced with Zürich Card (free for permanent collection). Free on Wed 10am–8pm.
Best time: Weekday mornings or late Wed. Avoid Sat midday.
Local tip: The café in the modern annex is lovely. Outside, take a statue-photo with the famous “Goethe-Frühstück” sculpture.

9. Zurich Zoo (Zürich Zoo)

One of Europe’s best-designed zoos, Zurich Zoo is a hit with families. It focuses on naturalistic enclosures and conservation. Top features include the tropical Masoala Rainforest Hall (indoor jungly dome with free-flying birds), an elephant house, penguin pool, big cats, and new giraffe/okapi exhibit. Expect 2–3 hours. Kids love the petting area (Farm experience).

Getting there: Tram 5 to Zoo stop or S4 train from HB to Zürich Zoo station. Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Admission ~CHF 25 (adults), children CHF ~12. Not covered by Zürich Card.
Best time: Weekdays for fewer crowds; late afternoon for active animals.
Local tip: Don’t miss the leopard and red panda habitats. If traveling with family, combine the zoo with the nearby Dolderbahn funicular (free with Zurich Card) and upland playgrounds at the top of Adlisberg.

10. Zurich Opera House (Opernhaus)

A stately neo-Classical building on Sechseläutenplatz, the Zurich Opera House is home to the Opera and Ballet. While performances require tickets, the grand facade and square itself are worth a look. The interior (with frescoed ceilings) can be toured in the morning (when rehearsals permit). Surroundings feature outdoor seating overlooking the lake. Great for architecture and culture seekers.

Getting there: Tram 2,4, or 15 to Opernhaus stop. Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Free to admire from outside. Guided backstage tours (~CHF 15) occasionally on Wed mornings.
Best time: Daytime for building photography; attend an evening show for the full experience.
Local tip: On warm evenings, grab drinks at the terrace café (Café Terrasse) on Sechseläutenplatz and enjoy opera-house views.

11. Niederdorf (Old Town, “Dörfli”)

The Niederdorf quarter is the lively pedestrian part of the Altstadt. Cobblestone lanes cluster around Münsterhof and Weinplatz squares, full of shops, bars and historic sites. You’ll find the Grossmünster, St. Peter’s Church (big clock), guild houses (Guild Hall with colorful facades), and lots of restaurants. It’s ideal for casual strolling, cafe breaks or attending street parties (like Dörflifäscht in Aug). Spend 1–2 hours here, longer if dining.

Getting there: Trams 4 or 15 to Rathaus or Central then walk to Niederdorfstrasse. Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Free to wander. Many cafes and shops (Souvenir Rathaus-Zunfthaus, etc).
Best time: Evenings for nightlife; autumn evenings have cozy pub vibes; Sunday afternoon is quiet.
Local tip: Look for hidden courtyards and the ancient Elm tree at Limmatquai. For history, duck into the 9th-c. St. Peter’s Church to see the records (world’s oldest parish registers).

12. Cabaret Voltaire (Dada Museum)

In a small courtyard in Niederdorf, Cabaret Voltaire marks the birthplace of the Dada art movement (1916). Today it’s a small art space and cafe celebrating avant-garde heritage. Free exhibits and events (often experimental performances) make it a quirky stop. Spend 15–30 minutes browsing its ground-floor space and shop (it sells Dada-inspired postcards/books).

Getting there: Located on Spiegelgasse (off Niederdorfstrasse). Tram 4/15 to Bahnhofstrasse/HB then a short walk.
Costs & Passes: Free entry; donations welcome. Often hosts free or low-cost events.
Best time: Evenings for atmosphere (and café open late).
Local tip: Check their schedule: you might catch a spontaneous reading or art show.

13. FIFA World Football Museum

Soccer fans should visit the FIFA World Football Museum (in Enge). It traces football history with interactive exhibits, World Cup trophies and memorabilia from legends like Messi and Maradona. The ground floor is fun and kid-friendly (VR games, club shirts), and deeper levels honor players and World Cup lore. Plan ~1–2 hours.

Getting there: Tram 5 to Enge Hafen (then short walk). Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Admission ~CHF 20 (adult). Free with Zürich Card.
Best time: Weekdays (kids out of school). Try a special event day like match screenings.
Local tip: Don’t miss the “Wall of Fame” where you can see your photo as if holding the World Cup. The museum cafe serves Swiss football-themed cuisine.

14. China Garden (Chinagarten Zürich)

A tranquil park by the lakeshore, the Chinese Garden (gift from Zurich’s partner city Kunming) features a traditional pavilion, Chinese plants, and koi ponds. It’s a peaceful oasis in summer. The garden is seasonal: generally open May–Oct (daily 11am–7pm). Entry is CHF 4 (children CHF 1). For transport: tram 2 or 4 to Opernhaus then a 20-min lakewalk, or Bus 33 from HB to Zürichhorn. Zone 110.

Best time: Summer for gardens; midweek for calm. As evening falls, the gardens light up with lanterns.
Local tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby Seefeld district or a ferry ride from Bürkliplatz to see the garden from the lake.

15. Rietberg Museum

Housed in a villa on lush parkland, the Rietberg Museum is Switzerland’s top museum of non-European art. Its collection spans Asia, Africa, and the Americas (Buddhist sculptures, African masks, Indonesian art, etc.). The building blends 19th-c. villa and a modern wing. It appeals to culture seekers and those seeking something different from Zurich’s other museums. Spend ~1 hour.

Getting there: Tram 7 to Museum Rietberg (at the park). Zone 110.
Costs & Passes: Regular CHF 23; free with Zürich Card.
Best time: Wed-Sun midday for guided tours; afternoons for quiet. Museum is closed Monday.
Local tip: Tour the outdoor sculpture park in summer (buddha statues, benches) and enjoy the historic villa architecture.

16. ETH Polytechnic Terrace

Not an attraction per se, but Zurich’s Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) on a hill has a Polyterrasse viewpoint. From here, you get arguably one of the best panoramas of the Old Town and lake. It’s made famous by Einstein (he was a student here). The funicular (Polybahn) leads up from Central. This stop is free and great for photos; allow 15–30 minutes.

Getting there: Polybahn funicular from Central (tram hub) or walk from Lindenhof.
Best time: Sunset offers a lit-up city.
Local tip: Sit on the famous stainless steel benches (by Pipilotti Rist’s “Rock on Top”) facing the city.

17. Bahnhofplatz/Ferry to Lake Cruise

At Bürkliplatz/Bahnhofquai next to Paradeplatz, you’ll find ferry landings. From here, short 90-min cruises leave to Rapperswil (the “summer lake promenade” cruise). In winter, warm up with a hot drink at the lakeside terrace. The sculpture “Bathers at the Limmatquai” (Ganymed) is a photo-op. Cruise fares are ~CHF 12 one-way; Zurich Card includes a 1h panorama boat ride.

Getting there: Tram to Paradeplatz or Bürkliplatz. Zone 110.
Local tip: In summer, the water taxi (Zürichsee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft) runs frequent short trips; the Zurich Card even covers one boat trip.

Zurich Itinerary Options

To maximize your visit, consider these itinerary plans:

• 1-Day Zurich: Morning in Old Town (Grossmünster, Fraumünster, Lindenhof); afternoon Bahnhofstrasse and Kunsthaus; sunset cruise on Lake Zurich.
• 2-Day Zurich: Day 1 – as above. Day 2 – Uetliberg sunrise and hike back (via Felsenegg); afternoon Swiss National Museum and Opera House.
• 3-Day Zurich: Add Day 3 – Zurich Zoo and Chinese Garden (morning); Rietberg Museum and ETH terrace (afternoon); evening in Zurich-West (Frau Gerold’s Garten or Langstrasse nightlife).

Each plan uses the Zürich Card: 24h card (~CHF 29) or 72h card (~CHF 56) covers all city transit and many admissions. For example, with a 2-day pass you save ~CHF 24 on combined transit and museum tickets (vs. buying singles). The table below illustrates savings on a 2-day itinerary:

Accessibility: Zurich’s center is mostly wheelchair-friendly. Trams, trains and Funicular (Polybahn) are accessible. Most museums and attractions have barrier-free paths. Note: Historic church towers (Grossmünster) have no elevator. The lakefront promenades and parks (Lindenhof, Sechseläutenplatz, shore paths) are fully accessible. Wheelchairs/ scooters can easily explore Old Town (flat cobblestones) and public transport.

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