Zurich Switzerland in one day
Zürich is Switzerland’s largest city, and is well known as the country’s economic and cultural hub.
We weren’t expecting to fall in love with the city on our visit, but we did, and had such an amazing time.
Zürich, especially the old town is just so beautiful with its winding, cobblestone streets, and pastel colored buildings.
One of the top things to do on a day trip to Zurich is a stroll around, admiring all the beauty the city has to offer.
On the blog I highlight the top things to see in Zurich Switzerland in one day, so you can plan your day trip to one of Switzerlands most interesting city.
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Zurich Switzerland in one day
How to get around Zurich
On our day trip to Zurich, we used The tram to get around. It was the best way to explore the city, and it was so easy.
The tram stop was just a short walk away from our hotel in Zurich, and it takes you to the city’s main sights.
You can also stay closer to the city center and get around the city on foot. The city is easily walkable, and you can see most of the main sights in one day.
Where to Stay in Zurich
Switzerland is one of the most expensive places to visit. Not only is the food expensive, so are the hotels. Luckily, we found a more affordable place just outside the city center, close to public transportation.
The Hotel Zuri by Fassbind in Zurich, was one of the most affordable places to stay on our last minute trip. The contemporary hotel features streamlined rooms, that was big enough for the three of us, with the trams just a short walk away.
If you are planning a trip to Zurich, make sure to research places to stay ahead of time. The earlier you book places to stay, the more affordable they will be, especially if you want to stay closer to the city center.
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Top things to do in Zurich Switzerland
Wander the streets of Old town Zurich
One of the top things to do in Zurich, is to wander the streets of Old Town Zurich.
We had an amazing time just meandering the gorgeous streets and finding cozy little alleyways, churches and fun little play areas for the kiddos!
Some of the most beautiful streets are within the well preserved Alstadt. From cobblestone streets, to charming little store fronts and shopping galore.
And talk about shopping! the Banhofstrasse is the most famous shopping street in Zurich, from some of the most high end luxury stores to some of the familiar ones.
Theres just so much to see on a stroll along the beautiful Old Town of Zurich.
Visit the Münsterhof Square
One of the best places to visit in Zurich is the Münsterhof square. This is a great place to people watch as you sit in one of the cafes.
Münsterhof square is the largest town square in the medieval Alstadt of Zürich, and it’s surrounded by beautiful pastel buildings and a larger than life water fountain.
The Square is also the perfect place to cool off from the hot sun in the summer, with its shady little cove and the giant fountain to cool you off.
Quench you thirst from one of the many fountains
One of the most interesting facts about Zurich, or Switzerland in general, is how drinkable the water is in the public fountains.
There are around 1,200 water fountains in Zurich alone, providing a free source of mountain spring drinking water throughout the city. Where else can you find that?!
On our sightseeing stroll, admire the many beautiful fountains around the city. Some are like beautiful works of art!
Indulge on some Swiss Chocolates
The best thing to do in Zurich is to load up on some Swiss Chocolates!
In Zurich, you will find chocolate shops almost everywhere, and it’s hard not to be enticed with all the beautifully made chocolates.
These Swiss chocolate treats are the perfect souvenir to take home when you leave on you day trip to Zurich Switzerland.
Enjoy the views from Lindenhof Hill
One of the best places to visit in Zurich with kids is the Lindenhof Park.
This area in Zurich was once the site of a Roman castle and is now a recreational green space.
Lindenhof Park is a quiet oasis in the city, where you will also find an awesome playground for the kiddos ,and the most amazing panoramic views of the city.
Admire the beautiful churches
One thing you will notice on your stroll around Zurich are the beautiful churches.
One in particular is the Fraumünster, which was an abbey built around 853, for the aristocratic women of Europe by the Emperor Ludwig for his daughter, Hildegard.
Another church worth highlighting in Zurich is the Grossmünster (Great Minster), which dominates the city skyline with its twin towers, and is so beautiful!
St. Peter’s Church is the oldest parish church in Zürich, and was built on the remains of a former church from before the 9th century. This one was kind of unique with its giant clock face.
We always love to visit churches and Cathedrals wherever we go, and these were exceptional!
Take a stroll along Lake Zürich
Zurich’s main attraction is of course Lake Zurich. Stroll along the promenade along Lake Zurich on your visit!
Lake Zurich is lined with promenades and parks, where local residents and tourists alike take in the sun, go for a jog, have a picnic, or swim in the lake.
You can also go on a boat cruise from here and admire the gorgeous views!
During our stay in Zurich, we practically stayed lakeside most of the day. We were here in the summer and it was an awesome place to cool down.
We also enjoyed watching the elegant swans swim by, our little one couldn’t get enough of them!
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Take a day trip to Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus
If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, Zurich is the perfect base for your stay. There are so many amazing places to visit as a day trip from Zurich.
We loved Lucerne, and actually stayed there for a few days. We loved strolling through the Old Town, the lake side Alpine views along Lake Lucerne, and admiring the old paintings along the Chapel Bridge.
We also took a day trip to Mt.Pilatus and it was just so breathtaking! We spent the day hiking Mt. Pilatus, and playing in the snow. The Alpine views were so amazing, and it’s the perfect day trip from Zurich.
READ MORE:
Top things to do in Lucerne Switzerland
Day trip to Mt. Pilatus from Lucerne
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I hope this guide on the top things to do in Zurich Switzerland in one day, helps you plan your Switzerland vacation itinerary. There are so many amazing places to explore in this beautiful country.
We had an amazing day trip to Zurich, and would definitely recommend a visit here. It definitely takes more work to plan a visit to any city in Switzerland, especially if you’re on a budget.
One way to offset the expense is to stay outside the city center, and make some of your meals. You can easily get around on public transportation and they are quite efficient.
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