Welcome to downtown Zurich! You’ve just arrived, checked into your hotel, and are looking for something to do in Zurich before dinner. Even though Zurich is a smaller city there is still tons to do within walking distance of the main train station. So grab your walking shoes and head out to any of the following destinations!
For more information about visiting Zurich, make sure to check out my Zurich Travel Guide and Zurich Transportation Guide!
Grossmünster
Grossmünster church is one of the most recognized symbols in Zurich: two huge towers extending into the sky. And even better? You can climb them for an amazing view of downtown Zurich. But Grossmünster is more than just a pretty building! It’s supposedly built on the graves of the patron saints of Zurich, and was an important location during the Swiss-German reformation. History and beautiful views? What else could you ask for?
Fraumünster
Just across the river from Grossmünster is Fraumünster: Zurich’s other iconic church famous for it’s Chagall stained glass windows and it’s blue-green tall spire. This church is a must see if only for the famous Chagall windows (installed in the 1970s).
Bahnhofstrasse
If shopping is more your pace you will definitely want to stroll down Bahnhofstrasse! Bahnhofstrasse is a world-renowned shopping boulevard that connects the main train station (Zurich HB) and Lake Zurich. You’ll find it all at Bahnofstrasse: Shopping, cafes, arts, and of course – banks. While strolling down the famous boulevard you may consider taking a deviation to Rennweg (another famous shopping street) or Augustinergasse (a well-preserved historical street).
Lindenhofplatz
Lindenhofplatz is a must to include on your walking tour of downtown Zurich. It’s a beautiful park at the center of the district with a great view of old town, including Grossmünster and the Limmat River. As a central location in the city it also bears historical significance. It was once the site of a Roman castle, and the location where the oath for the Helvetic Constitution was taken.
Bürkliplatz
The Bürkliplatz is situated at the lake-end of the Bahnhofstrasse and provides a peaceful area to relax along with beautiful views of Lake Zurich. This area is also famous for a statue of Zeus and Ganymede. On a clear day you have a perfect, unobstructed view of the Alps.
Limmat River Cruise
If you want to take in old town Zurich but are too tired to do the walk yourself a Limmat River cruise might be your answer! These glass-roofed boats provide an inexpensive way to travel from Landesmuseum (near Zurich HB) down to Zürichhorn. But feel free to get off at any stop! These boats are public transportation so think of them like a prettier bus or tram! Check out the schedule here.
Kunsthaus Zurich
If you speak German then you probably know that “Kunsthaus” translates to “Art House”, and you’ve probably figured out that Kunsthaus Zurich is an art museum! Kunsthaus houses one of the most important art collections in Switzerland and became the largest when they expanded in 2020. If you’re an art fan you can look forward to the largest Munch collection outside of Norway, along with pieces by Chagall, Monet, Picasso, and more!
Swiss National Museum
The National Museum houses the largest collection of items documenting the history and culture of Switzerland. It also features rotating exhibits on socially relevant topics. If you’re interested in just popping in there is also a free, permanent “Simply Zurich” exhibit on the first floor to check out. In addition to the historical exhibits inside, the actual building that houses the museum is really beautiful!
Blüemlihalle (Giacometti-Halle)
It may seem odd to include a police department on a list of things to do in Zurich, but trust me it’s worth it! In the 1920’s Augusto Giacometti won a competition to decorate the entrance to this municipal building. He painted the walls using the al fresco and al secco techniques which resulted in this beautiful work of art! Entrance is free and available daily 9am-11am and 2pm-4pm with valid ID.
Polyterrasse, Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich
If you haven’t gotten your fill of good views of downtown Zurich there is a final place you must check out: Polyterrasse at the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich. The institute features an open courtyard with beautiful views of downtown Zurich. This is at the top of a large hill so unless you’re in the mood for a hike, I recommend taking the Polybahn train to the top!
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**Featured Image by Claudio Schwarz
