Leisure activities in Zurich for solo expats, couples or friends
Whether you're on your own, with family, or with friends, Zurich offers a range of activities to suit all tastes and budgets. You'll find plenty of ways to enjoy this vibrant city, from exploring its neighborhoods and trying local specialties to participating in sports or simply relaxing. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time in Zurich.
Things to do alone in Zurich
Explore Zurich's Old Town (Altstadt)
Wander through the narrow streets and squares of Zurich's Old Town, starting with a leisurely walk along the Limmat River (Limmatquai). Enjoy the charming ambiance created by historic buildings and open-air cafés.
Don't miss Paradeplatz, one of Zurich's most famous squares, situated in the heart of the old town. It's a bustling area with luxury boutiques and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Niederdorf area, on the other hand, is a vibrant pedestrian zone filled with restaurants, bars, boutiques, and art galleries.
Take a walk through the Old Town and visit the Fraumünster Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. Also, be sure to see the Grossmünster Church, a prominent Zurich landmark with its distinctive twin towers. You can climb to the top for a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
And don't forget to admire the beautifully decorated façade of the Rathaus (City Hall).
Shopping in Zurich
Take a leisurely walk along Zurich's famous Bahnhofstrasse for a luxurious shopping experience. This iconic street is lined with high-end fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, and chic cafés.
If you prefer more budget-friendly options, explore the narrow streets of the Old Town for unique, independent shops. While shopping malls aren't very common in Zurich, you can visit a few, like Sihlcity and Europaallee, for a wider range of stores.
Cultural spots in Zurich
Zurich has a wealth of museums for art and culture enthusiasts to explore.
The Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich) is one of the country's top historical and cultural museums, offering an in-depth look at Swiss history from prehistoric times to the present.
The Kunsthaus Zurich features an extensive collection of art ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works, including pieces by Swiss artists like Ferdinand Hodler, Alberto Giacometti, and Félix Vallotton.
The Rietberg Museum showcases a diverse collection of art from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania.
Group activities in Zurich
Sports activities
If you love nature, consider hiking in the hills surrounding Zurich. There are numerous well-marked trails that provide stunning views of the city and the mountains.
One highlight is the Uetliberg and the Planet Trail, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Zurich.
Lindenhof Park also offers a charming view of the old town and the River Limmat.
For a more leisurely experience, the shores of Lake Zurich, extending from the shore to Tiefenbrunnen Park, are perfect for walking or cycling.
For details on group cruises on Lake Zurich, click here.
In the warmer months, Lake Zurich is perfect for water activities. Whether your group enjoys swimming, sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, the lake offers something for everyone.
Are you looking for a day trip? Head to Rapperswil, a charming lakeside town about 30 minutes from Zurich. Explore its medieval castle with a beautiful rose garden or wander through the town's quaint alleyways.
Enjoy local specialities in Zurich
Join us for a meal and savor some local Swiss specialties. Cheese fondue is a must-try; consider booking a table on the Fondue Tram, which will take you on a tour of the city while you enjoy this classic dish.
Another local favorite is Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, thin slices of veal meat cooked in a creamy sauce.
If you're a fan of street food, don't miss the Zurich Street Food Festival, where you can sample dishes from around the world.
For a sweet treat, arrange a chocolate tasting at one of Zurich's many chocolate factories to explore local delicacies and learn about the chocolate-making process.
Drinks in Zurich
What could be better than enjoying a drink with friends in a lively setting? Zurich has plenty to offer. The Langstrasse area and the vicinity of the main railway station are filled with bars.
If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, head closer to the Limmat River. At Eldorado, you can choose from 101 beers from around the world. During the summer, there are also many bars along the riverbanks, like Primitivo, where you can enjoy a drink with a view.
Attend a concert or show
Explore Zurich's cultural scene by watching a concert, play, or solo performance. The Zurich tourist office's official website typically features a calendar of cultural, artistic, and entertainment events happening in the city.
For more options, check out Ticketcorner, which lists various cultural events in Zurich and across Switzerland, including concerts, exhibitions, and theater performances. You can also find event listings on Züritipp's calendar.
