Menu
Expat.com

Things to do in Zurich alone, with your partner or with friends

Things to do in Zurich alone, with your partner or with friends
shutterstock.com
Published on 19 August 2019
Updated byHelena Delbecqon 31 August 2024

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.

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

About

Holder of a degree from the French Ministry of Education and a Master II in Language Policy, I have had the opportunity to live in Japan and China, and am currently based in Germany. My activities revolve around writing, teaching and managing programs.

List of Zurich's guide articles

Comments

See also

  • Gastronomy in Zurich
    Gastronomy in Zurich

    If you're a foodie and get the chance to move to Zurich, consider yourself lucky! With new cafés and ...

  • Sports activities in Zurich
    Sports activities in Zurich

    With Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps as your backdrop, staying fit in Zurich is a breeze. Whether you prefer urban ...

  • Things to do on weekdays and weekends in Zurich
    Things to do on weekdays and weekends in Zurich

    Zurich offers a fantastic quality of life. Despite being Switzerland's largest city, its proximity to ...

  • Leisure activities in Switzerland
    Leisure activities in Switzerland

    Switzerland offers not just stunning landscapes with mountains and forests but also a rich history and vibrant ...

  • Sports in Switzerland
    Sports in Switzerland

    In Switzerland, sports are a big part of the culture. People of all ages and genders regularly participate in ...

  • Accommodation in Zurich
    Accommodation in Zurich

    Despite its high cost of living, Zurich is a fantastic place to reside. However, the population's purchasing ...

  • Buying property in Zurich
    Buying property in Zurich

    As an expatriate, the prospect of investing in real estate can be quite enticing. Some countries have especially ...

  • Working in Zurich
    Working in Zurich

    Zurich is a top choice for expatriates in Switzerland. Being the country's economic and financial hub, the ...

All of Zurich's guide articles