Zurich 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Zurich Airport (ZRH) and take the train to Bahnhofstrasse Station.
  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a stroll along the picturesque Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most famous shopping streets in Switzerland.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Swiss National Museum (Naturmuseum Schweiz), which features exhibits on natural history and art.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Kafi am Schloss, a cozy cafe with delicious sandwiches and salads. Try their famous Zurich-style raclette!
  • Afternoon: Head to Lake Zurich (Limmatsee) for a leisurely boat ride or take a walk along the lake’s promenade.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant 21, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Swiss cuisine.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Kunsthaus art museum, which boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the iconic Fraumunster church with its striking stained-glass windows.
  • Lunch: Stop by Markthalle Zurich, a bustling marketplace offering local produce, cheeses, and fresh bread.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Augustinergasse, a charming street lined with upscale shops and cafes.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Ditsch, a popular spot for traditional Swiss cuisine.

Day 3: Outdoor Activities

  • 9:00 AM: Take the tram to the top of Uetliberg Mountain (844m) for panoramic views of Zurich.
  • 10:30 AM: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic Lake Zurich promenade, or explore the nearby woods for hiking trails.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab food at one of the many cafes in the area.
  • Afternoon: Visit the picturesque village of Küsnacht, with its charming streets and stunning lake views.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Schloss Oberhofen, a castle-turned-restaurant serving Swiss cuisine.

Day 4: Shopping and Relaxation

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Bahnhofstrasse Station and explore the various shopping malls in the area.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the upscale department store, Bügel & Co., for a wide range of luxury goods.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the shopping district.
  • Afternoon: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment at The Dolder Grand Spa.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Schloss Hagenau, a castle-turned-restaurant serving international cuisine.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Visit any last-minute attractions or do some souvenir shopping.
  • 11:00 AM: Head to the airport and take your departure flight from Zurich Airport (ZRH).

Things to Know:

  • Language: German, Swiss German, French, Italian are official languages; many locals speak English.
  • Currency: Swiss Francs (CHF)
  • Weather: Spring (Apr-May) and autumn (Sep-Oct) are ideal for visiting Zurich, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
  • Safety: Generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: Buy a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on public transportation, including buses, trams, and trains.
  • Walking: Zurich is very walkable, with many attractions within walking distance of each other.
  • Taxis: Available at airports and city centers; use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft if needed.

Tips:

  • Book in advance: Reserve accommodations, restaurants, and attractions early to avoid availability issues.
  • Pack accordingly: Bring layers for changing weather conditions and comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of local traditions and rules, especially in churches and historical sites.