Zurich aerial view
Switzerland

Zurich

The City by the Water

The city of Zurich is located at the northern end of Lake Zurich in the north of Switzerland and offers a unique blend of historic architecture and modern flair. The old town, also known as "Niederdorf", is a picturesque district with narrow streets, charming cafés and boutiques. Lake Zurich, which stretches through the city, offers a breathtaking backdrop and invites you to take relaxing walks or boat trips. There are also a variety of museums, including the Kunsthaus Zürich and the Museum Rietberg, which will delight art lovers. Zurich is also known for its first-class gastronomy, from traditional Swiss dishes to international cuisine.

Zurich's districts are called "Kreis" in German, of which there are twelve in total. The city centre and the old town are located in district 1, while the creative quarters of districts 3, 4 and 5 are well worth a detour. Districts 2 and 8 mark the right and left shores of the lake, respectively, where lakeside resorts and parks are located. Beautiful vantage points, such as from the Zürichberg or the Waid, can be found in districts 7 and 10.

 

 

Facts & Figures

  • Population

    445k

  • Ancient Name

    Turicum

  • Country Code

    +41

  • Airport

    ZRH

  • Language

    Swiss German

  • Currency

    CHF

Edelweiss tips for Zurich

Sightseeing in Zurich

  • Grossmünster
    The Grossmünster, a Romanesque church, is one of Zurich's landmarks. The church is located in Zurich's old town and was built between 1100 and 1220. The Karlsturm viewing platform offers a magnificent view over the city and Lake Zurich to the nearby Glarus Alps. View in Maps
  • Lake Zurich
    With a total area of 88.17 km², Lake Zurich is the fifth largest lake in Switzerland. Especially in summer, the lake invites you to swim and go boating. But Lake Zurich can also be enjoyed on a boat trip in the cooler months. An excursion to the two small islands of Ufenau and Lützelau is also worthwhile. View in Maps
  • Bahnhofstrasse
    Zurich's most famous street, Bahnhofstrasse, is considered one of the most expensive and exclusive shopping streets in the world. Numerous department stores, boutiques, jewellery and watch shops as well as luxury hotels line it. View in Maps
  • Uetliberg
    The Uetliberg is 870 metres above sea level and offers a magnificent view of Zurich, the lake and the Alps. You can reach Zurich's local mountain from Zurich main station with the Sihltal Zurich Uetliberg Bahn (SZU) and travel to the Uetliberg station. From there, the summit is only a ten-minute walk away. View in Maps

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