Zurich-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Old Town

  • Arrive at Zurich Airport (ZRH)
  • Take the train from the airport to Bahnhofstrasse station (~10 minutes)
  • Check-in at Hotel du Theatre (4-star) or similar, in the heart of Old Town
  • Visit the iconic Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most famous shopping streets in Europe
  • Explore the charming streets and alleys of Old Town, including the Limmat River
  • Grab a coffee and pastry at Café Sprüngli (Swiss institution since 1836)
  • Dinner: Try traditional Swiss cuisine at Restaurant zum Schwarzen Kameel

Day 2: Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps

  • Take the tram (line 3) from Bahnhofstrasse to Tiefenbrunnen (~20 minutes)
  • Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Zurich
  • Visit the picturesque Rapperswil village, with its colorful houses and stunning lake views
  • Enjoy lunch at Restaurant Seehof, overlooking the lake
  • Hike to the top of Felsenegg, for breathtaking views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding Alps
  • Dinner: Savor fresh seafood at Restaurant Schänzli

Day 3: Kunsthaus Zürich and the City’s Best Shopping

  • Visit the renowned Kunsthaus Zürich museum, housing an impressive collection of modern art (including works by Monet, Picasso, and Munch)
  • Browse the upscale boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse, from luxury brands to unique Swiss designers
  • Grab lunch at Café Hiltl, a historic café with outdoor seating and stunning city views
  • Explore the trendy Langstrasse neighborhood, known for its street art and hip restaurants
  • Dinner: Enjoy international cuisine at Restaurant Tzin

Day 4: Zurich’s Hidden Gems

  • Visit the quirky Cabaret Voltaire, one of the birthplaces of Dadaism (1916)
  • Discover the charming streets and alleys of the Niederdorf neighborhood, with its vintage shops and cafes
  • Explore the historic Augustinergasse street, lined with beautiful townhouses and charming courtyards
  • Lunch: Try traditional Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Ruedi
  • Visit the stunning Fraumünster Church, designed by architect Karl Moser

Day 5: Day Trip to St. Gallen

  • Take the train from Zurich to St. Gallen (~30 minutes)
  • Explore the picturesque old town of St. Gallen, with its colorful houses and stunning cathedral
  • Visit the Stiftsbibliothek, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest libraries in Europe (dates back to 816 AD!)
  • Lunch: Try local cuisine at Restaurant Schwarzes Schloss
  • Return to Zurich by evening

Day 6: More Lake Zurich Fun

  • Spend the day exploring more of Lake Zurich, either by bike or on foot
  • Visit the charming villages along the lake, such as Küssnacht am Rigi and Stäfa
  • Enjoy lunch at Restaurant Seebühne, overlooking the lake
  • Try your hand at water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding
  • Dinner: Savor local cuisine at Restaurant Alpenblick

Day 7: Farewell Zurich!

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs on Bahnhofstrasse or exploring one last hidden gem
  • Visit the iconic Grossmünster, with its stunning views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding Alps
  • Grab a coffee at Café Odeon before departing
  • Take your train back to the airport (or onward to another destination)

Transportation:

  • Trains: Frequent trains connect Zurich Airport to Bahnhofstrasse station (~10 minutes)
  • Trams: Line 3 connects Bahnhofstrasse to Tiefenbrunnen for Lake Zurich exploration
  • Buses: Regular buses connect various neighborhoods and villages around the lake

Tips & Essentials:

  • Weather: Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate greatly depending on the time of year.
  • Language: German is the official language, but many locals speak English fluently.
  • Currency: Swiss Francs (CHF) are the local currency; credit cards and foreign currencies are widely accepted.
  • Safety: Zurich is a very safe city, with low crime rates.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel du Theatre (4-star): Excellent location in Old Town
  • Hotel Europa (3-star): Charming hotel near Lake Zurich

What to Eat & Drink:

  • Swiss cuisine: Try traditional dishes like fondue, raclette, or Älplermagronen
  • Fresh seafood: Enjoy local seafood at restaurants by the lake
  • Cafes and bakeries: Visit historic cafes and bakeries for delicious pastries and coffee

Hidden Gems & Activities:

  • Cabaret Voltaire: Explore this quirky museum dedicated to Dadaism
  • Fraumünster Church: Admire the stunning architecture of this beautiful church
  • Hiking trails: Discover scenic hiking trails around Lake Zurich, such as the Felsenegg hike.