Things to Do in Zurich | Local Guide & Insider Tips

When I first moved to Zurich, I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect. People told me it was clean, efficient, and expensive. But they forgot to mention something important: how much soul this city has, once you know where to look.

If you’re living in Switzerland or planning to visit Zurich, this guide on things to do in Zurich is for you. I’ve explored this city like a curious traveller, but also lived in it long enough to understand what works, what doesn’t, and what’s truly worth your time. My goal with this article is simple: to help you avoid the tourist traps, explore the real Zurich, and feel more confident navigating the city like a local.

I’ll share what I’ve personally enjoyed, what I’d skip, and the small things I wish someone had told me earlier, like where to find peaceful lakeside spots, which views are worth the hike, and how to avoid overpriced chocolate.

Think of this article as a local friend giving you honest advice, no fluff, no clichés. Just real talk about what to do and what not to do in Zurich, so you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Top 7 Things to Do in Zurich

1. Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)

If there’s one area in Zurich that I can never visit too many times, it’s the Altstadt, the old town, or the historic core of the city. When I visited for the first time and strolled through its twisty, narrow alleys, I felt like I had been sucked into a postcard. It is more than just pretty; it is characterful, charming, and packed with stories. One of the best things to do in Zurich for visitors who want to experience authentic Zurich attractions.

There are drop-dead gorgeous churches, Grossmünster, one of Zurich’s most iconic buildings, and Fraumünster, with its famous Chagall stained-glass windows. But don’t cross off the big sights. The real magic of Paris is in those small corners, hole-in-the-wall bookstores, and candlelit little cafés you stumble into without a plan.

What I recommend:

• Walk along Augustinergasse – with vividly painted buildings and Swiss flags flying overhead
• Break for coffee at Café Schober – it’s like stepping into a fairy tale
• Come in the late afternoon – it’s great to take pictures and there are fewer people on the streets

What to avoid:

• Do not eat in the tourist-trap restaurants right near Grossmünster.
• Skip the guided tours unless you are really into deep historical details! You’re better off wandering on your own.

Altstadt is not a place, but an experience. Go slow. Look up. Get lost a little.

2. Lake Zurich: Walks, Swimming, and Relaxation

It didn’t take long before I learned one thing while living in Zurich: Lake Zurich is not just a lake, it is a way of life. On a clear spring morning or a golden summer evening, the lake is where the city comes to breathe.

Not one perfect summer evening having brought my own little picnic and just sitting by the water at Bürkliplatz. No schedule to keep, no rush only people-watching, the lapping of small waves and a view that looked like it belonged in a travel magazine. I then realized, the lake is not only for tourists, but also the spot where locals go to relax, meet friends or take a swim during their lunch break.

What I recommend:

• Take the promenade from Bellevue to Zürichhorn. It’s serene, verdant, and you will walk past some beautiful art installations and gardens.
• In summer, swim at Seebad Enge or Strandbad Mythenquai both are pristine and safe, with great views.
• Bring a towel and a book, and possibly a nice cold drink you could spend hours.
• Boat trip (or ferry)“There are boat rides and ferries – it’s on the public transport system, Ms. Wiethoff Thome says.“Going on a half-hour or longer boat trip, round trip, is so relaxing, and it’s cheap.”

What to avoid:

• Don’t come here for a beach day: The shore is primarily grassy or concrete.
• Weekends in high summer are best avoided it can be busy, particularly around Bellevue and Enge.

You don’t even have to be a swimmer; just draping yourself on the lake for 30 minutes can be restorative. And if you live in Zurich, it rapidly becomes part of your daily rhythm. It’s the peaceful centre of the city, and when you find your place there, it may start to feel like yours.

3. Uetliberg Mountain (Hiking + City Views)

If you ever get weary of the city or don’t want to quite leave the city, go up to Uetliberg. It’s not far from Zurich either, and believe me, the views from the top are some of the best you will see in all of Switzerland, considering how little effort it takes to get there.

I didn’t have very high hopes when I hiked Uetliberg for the first time, honestly. I thought, “How special can a city mountain be? But when I arrived at the vantage point and witnessed the entire Zurich skyline down below, with Lake Zurich and the Alps in the distance, I got it. It’s that kind of moment where you stop and think, Wow, I live here?

What I recommend:

• Catch the S10 train from Zurich HB to Uetliberg – it’s a quick (20 minute) ride, and you’re left only minutes from the summit.
• For a bit of adventure, hike up from Triemli station, it’s an easy trail and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
• When you’re at the top, climb the lookout tower (there’s a small fee to get in) and the view is 360 degrees and completely worth it.
• From there, mileage the Planet Trail to Felsenegg. It’s an easy 1.5–2-hour scenic hike, and you have the option of taking the cable car down to Adliswil and a train back to Zurich. Super smooth.

What to avoid:

• It’s skippable on cloudy, rainy days you won’t see a thing from the top.
• They were also used by hunters for snaring game from their favorite perches: hazel trees following weeks of cold weather with no snow in the winter.

Uetliberg is more than just a good view! It’s also a reminder that nature is never far away in Switzerland. And whether you are here for one weekend or a long-term resident of Zurich, I can not recommend it enough. It’s free, it’s refreshing and it’s even incredibly grounding.

4. Kunsthaus Zurich (Art with Emotion)

Zurich has a reputation for finance, but as for art, Kunsthaus Zurich was seriously impressive. Since I did not expect to experience much in front of a painting, that is exactly what I felt the first time I went. It was a rainy Saturday and I dropped in to “kill time.” I ended up staying for hours.

More than a gallery, Kunsthaus is a journey through emotion, culture and time. The management of the collections feels purposeful and even if you’re not an “art person,” you’ll find something that speaks to you. For me, it was the Giacometti sculptures so raw and honest I that I just couldn’t turn away.

What I recommend:

• Don’t rush. Begin with the section of Swiss modern art that will help you get acclimated to the culture.
• Giacometti Hall is a must. And you stand there as if in the middle and you just take it in.
• If you like contemporary or experimental art, go to the new extension — it is open, modern and beautifully designed.
• If you are rushing, also consult their website for highlights and visit 2–3 salles.

What to avoid:

• Don’t go late in the day, 1.5–2 hours to really enjoy it.
• If you’re on a budget, skip the café, it’s nice but expensive. There are other, and better, coffee places very close to here on the old town.

Bonus: It’s free on Wednesdays, which you’ll want to do if you’re a money-saver living out here, or visiting and operating on a budget.

But Kunsthaus, it turns out, is more than a place to see art! it places you in a moment in which you feel something more. It is quiet, thoughtful, and disarmingly emotional, and that is exactly why I keep coming back.

5. Polybahn & ETH Viewpoint

This, friends, is one of those things that locals just drop casually, and you’re like, Wait, why don’t we talk about this more? The Polybahn is a quaint little red funicular that transports you from the busy Central district right up to the terrace of ETH Zurich one of the world’s leading technical universities.

The Polybahn made me feel like I was riding in a little time machine. It’s a short song, maybe 90 seconds long but it dates back to 1889, and somehow it still has the pulse of clockwork about it. When you get to the top, you’re rewarded with one of the most incredible panoramic views of Zurich and owning a ZVV pass.

• Stroll out to Polyterrasse, the ETH terrace the view over the city and lake is breathtaking, especially in the early evening.
• Have a coffee or beer in the ETH student café next door cheap, casual, and a good place to get some of the university feel.
• Great place to sit and read, journal, or just take a moment to relax in between every stop during sightseeing.

What to avoid:

• Don’t snap and dash – stick around for a bit. It’s not simply a view; it’s a vibe.
• Skip a weekday lunchtime – it can be a little busy with students zipping about.

This place is a tucked-away gem that feels effortlessly local. It’s the place I most frequently bring visiting friends when I want to show off without resorting to the tackiness of tourist activity. Simple, beautiful, and quietly unforgettable.Best thing? It is calm and not at all a crowded scene.

What I recommend:

• Take the Polybahn (it‘s covered by your typical public transport ticket, so no additional costs if you 

6. Chocolate Experiences (Läderach & Lindt)

Let me be clear: Switzerland takes its chocolate very seriously, and Zurich is no exception. But there’s chocolate… and then there’s Swiss chocolate, smooth, rich, and dangerously addictive. And if you’re in Zurich, two names come up again and again: Läderach and Lindt.

I’ll never forget my first bite of Läderach’s fresh chocolate bark. I grabbed a hazelnut slab just out of curiosity, and honestly, it ruined all other chocolate for me. It’s made fresh daily, with real ingredients you can see and taste. If you’re walking down Bahnhofstrasse, you’ll probably smell the chocolate before you even see the store.

What I recommend:

• Visit Läderach on Bahnhofstrasse, they let you sample a few varieties, and the staff are genuinely helpful. Try the frischSchoggi (fresh chocolate) the dark chocolate + nuts combo is my personal favorite.
• For an experience, go to the Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg just 10 minutes from the city by train.
• The chocolate fountain there is over 9 meters tall, and you can taste unlimited samples during the tour (yes, unlimited!).

What to avoid:

• Skip buying from airport shops, they’re overpriced and not as fresh.
• Don’t buy random supermarket chocolate expecting the same quality. Brands like Läderach and Lindt do it better! you’ll taste the difference.

Insider tip: The Lindt museum also has a workshop where you can make your own chocolate bar a fun, personal souvenir, especially for families or couples.

Whether you’re visiting Zurich or living here, these chocolate spots are more than treats they’re part of Swiss culture. And once you’ve tasted the real thing, you’ll understand why locals are so loyal to it.

7. Best Local Food Spot (1–2 Personal Favorites)

It can be more difficult to find good, authentic food in Zurich especially if you are looking for something actually local and not overpriced, but oh so good. I’ve been to high-end fondue places and places down alleys where you take your styrofoam to the washing-up area. The truth is, though, the best food here tends to come from places that don’t scream tourist spot.

If you’re wondering about things to do in Zurich, exploring the local food scene is a must. Two of my personal favorite local eateries are:

Swiss Chuchi (Altstadt)

Yes, it’s in the Old Town (and yes, it’s popular), but stay with me. If you’re hungry for traditional Swiss dishes such as fondue and rösti, this is where to try them. I came here in the winter with a friend in from out of town, and we sat outside beneath a blanket with hot cheese bubbling between us. It was warm and homey and, to be honest, a little bit magical.

• Sample the Moitié-Moitié fondue (half Gruyère, half Vacherin)
• Look for amicable staff and a snug atmosphere, and prices that are reasonable for the neighborhood.
• Reserve well in advance it goes fast, especially on weekends

La Pasta (District 4)

When I just want comfort food that tastes like home, La Pasta is my secret weapon. Not Swiss in the conservative sense, but Zurich does have a successful Italian food culture, and this place is owned by a local family that loves every single thing it serves.

• Their truffle pasta is unforgettable
• The atmosphere is laid-back with no attitude – ideal for a carefree night on the town.
• Servings are large, and prices are unexpectedly affordable for Zurich

What to avoid:

Be careful of overpriced lake or Bahnhofstrasse-side restaurants, gorgeous setting, so on, the food is

Avoid the average Swiss cuisine chains, as the experience can sometimes be commercial and rushed

And if you have just a little while to visit, eat where the locals really do. If you live here, stroll around and take your time, but to get you started, try these two. They’ve never let me down.

Local Tips & Common Mistakes

From living in Zurich, I have come to the realisation that the little things matter when venturing around the city, particularly if you want to be a local and not be faced with charges or end up in a sweatshop.

Local Tips:

• Drink from public fountains. Zurich has some of the world’s cleanest water, and the city has more than 1,200 public fountains. Bring a reusable bottle!
• Use a Zürich Card if you are in town for a few days! it includes public transport, museum entrances, and even boat rides on the lake.
• Instead of taxis, walk or hop on the trams. Zurich is small, and public transportation is impressively punctual. Trams run frequently and service the city comprehensively.

Common Mistakes:

• Don’t make the mistake of thinking everything is open on Sundays! Many shops close, so plan accordingly.
• Don’t eat at peak hours unless you have reservations. This is especially important if you are dining at trendy spots.
• And don’t tip too much, service is included in Switzerland. Rounding up is enough.

These are the small local tricks that save you cash, keep you from getting ripped off, and make you look less like a dickhead. And once you’re adjusted to them, Zurich is the easiest and most delightful city to get out and explore.

Quick Travel Essentials

Zurich is so organized that once you know the basics, navigating the city and planning your trip is a breeze. Here’s what you need to know:

Public Transport

Take advantage of the ZVV network (trams, buses, trains, and even ferries). It’s on time, it’s clean, and it’s late.

• If you’ll be here 24 to 72 hours, get a Zürich Card, which includes unlimited travel, museum access, and discounts.
• Google Maps is effective for route planning, but it’s the SBB app that locals rely on for real-time updates and tickets.

Where to Stay

For ease and cuteness, I suggest:

• District 1 (Altstadt) – Near everything, good location for first-time visitors
• District 4 (Langstrasse) – The fashionable, the mixed, and the less expensive

When to Visit

• And summer is made for lakeside fun and open-air frivolity.
• Winter is cool, with cozy Christmas markets and mountain views, but pricier.

Zurich doesn’t call for overplanning, but being privy to these basics, at least, will allow you to spend less time stressing, more time walking around, and taking it in.

Final Thoughts – Explore Zurich Your Way

There’s a small-town quality to Zurich that grows on you. It is not the kind of destination amplified by neon lighting or turbo sound, but if you know where to look, it’s a place to find constant beauty, culture, comfort, and surprise. Whether you’ve been to New York dozens of times, never been at all, or are moving here to begin a next chapter, this guide on things to do in Zurich aims to make the city feel more accessible to you, more yours, and perhaps even a little bit like it could work magic on you.

Not everything I’ve posted here, but everything I wish someone had told me when I first got here: what’s worth doing, what can be safely skipped, and how to begin feeling a bit less like a visitor and a lot more like a local.

Now it’s your turn

Have a question? Want more tips? Drop a comment or reach out, I’d love to hear from you.

And if this guide helped, consider subscribing to Swiss Sustain for more local insights, honest guides, and real-life tips about life in Switzerland.

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