Things To Do
in Bassersdorf

Bassersdorf sits just northeast of Zurich in Switzerland, offering a quiet, leafy atmosphere and excellent transport links. The town blends rural charm with easy access to city amenities and the international airport. Its surrounding Glatt Valley provides pleasant bike paths, forests, and quick day trips into Zurich’s vibrant Old Town.

Visitors discover clean Swiss hospitality, comfortable lodging, and a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Bassersdorf
morning
:

Upon arrival in Bassersdorf, settle into your charming accommodation and unwind after your journey. Take a leisurely stroll around the village to soak in the local atmosphere and admire the picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a freshly brewed Swiss coffee at a local café to kickstart your adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the quaint streets of Bassersdorf, stopping by the small boutiques and artisan shops that showcase local craftsmanship. Visit the nearby parks and green spaces to enjoy the natural beauty, perhaps even indulging in a picnic lunch. The afternoon is perfect for relaxing and letting the Swiss charm wash over you.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant where you can sample local delicacies such as fondue or raclette. After dinner, take a quiet evening walk along the scenic paths of the village, taking in the serene atmosphere under the stars. Retire early to prepare for more adventures in the following days.

day 2
Exploring Zurich
morning
:

Catch a short train ride to Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, and begin your day with a visit to the iconic Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. Afterward, take a relaxing walk around Lake Zurich to enjoy the magnificent views of the Alps in the distance. Stop at a lakeside café for breakfast with a view.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the charming Old Town (Altstadt) with its narrow streets and historic buildings. Visit the Swiss National Museum or the Kunsthaus to appreciate Switzerland's rich cultural heritage and contemporary art. Grab lunch at a local bistro, savoring Swiss specialties.

evening
:

As the day winds down, find a cozy spot along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset over Lake Zurich. Opt for dinner in the lively district of Niederdorf, where you can experience Zurich's vibrant nightlife. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll back to the train station, taking in the city's illuminated architecture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥪Lunch at mid-range restaurant$18-35
Coffee or cappuccino$4-6
🏨Hotel per night (mid-range)$120-250
🚆Public transport day pass$10-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Zurich and the airport
  • Excellent public transport
  • Clean, safe, and well-maintained
  • Natural beauty and easy day trips
  • Higher cost of living
  • Limited nightlife in Bassersdorf itself
  • Small town with fewer attractions
  • Weather can be changeable
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Bassersdorf

Visit one of these nice places.

Uetliberg Summit

A classic panorama of Zurich, the lake, and the Alps; best captured at sunrise or sunset.

Greifensee Nature Reserve

A tranquil lake area with reflections and birdlife—ideal for nature photography.

Lindenhof and Old Town viewpoints

Historic rooftops and river views over the Limmat for cityscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bassersdorf

Swiss German cuisine reflects hearty regional dishes, fresh dairy, and seasonal produce. In the Zurich region you’ll find a mix of traditional Swiss dishes and modern bistro fare, with easy access to markets for local specialties.

Bassersdorf Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes with Rösti

Zurich-style sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, traditionally served with crispy Rösti; widely available in Zurich-area restaurants and many Bassersdorf eateries.

Must-Try!

Rösti

Crispy grated potatoes fried until golden; a versatile side or breakfast staple across Switzerland.

Bircher Müesli

A classic Swiss breakfast of oats, grated apple, nuts, and yogurt.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bürkliplatz Market (Zurich)

A Saturday market by the lake offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and local snacks.

Oerlikon Market

Weekly market with fresh ingredients and ready-to-eat bites; easy to reach from Bassersdorf by train.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Bassersdorf is a typical Swiss temperate climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters, and rainfall throughout the year. Summer highs range around 22–28°C, while winter temperatures often drop to near or below 0°C with occasional snow. Spring and autumn bring milder conditions, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Grüezi and handshakes

Greet with a polite hello (Grüezi) and a handshake in formal settings.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued for appointments and trains.

Quiet hours and recycling

Keep noise to a minimum in the evenings; follow local recycling guidelines and separate waste accordingly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Switzerland has a high standard of safety. Stay aware of common travel precautions, keep valuables secure, and follow local guidelines in crowded areas and transit hubs. Emergency services and healthcare are readily accessible in larger towns and cities around Zurich.

Tipping in Bassersdorf

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are often included; you may round up or leave 5–10% in casual settings when the service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash and contactless payments are common, though some small vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with mild-to-warm temperatures; outdoor events and lake activities abound. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and expect occasional afternoon thunderstorms.

Autumn

Pleasant hiking weather with colorful foliage; cooler evenings and a chance of rain.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; shorter days and festive markets in Zurich. Dress in layers and plan for indoor activities as well.

Spring

Mild temperatures and budding landscapes; showers are common, but there are many sunny days for walking.

Nightlife Guide

Bassersdorf at Night

Bassersdorf offers a quiet, village-style nightlife with a few bars; for a broader scene, head to Zurich where bars, clubs, and live music abound, typically reachable by train in under 30 minutes.

Hiking in Bassersdorf

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Uetliberg Mountain Trail

Rugged hills with panoramic views of Zurich and the Alps.

Greifensee Lakeside Trail

Flat, scenic loop around the lake with abundant birdlife.

Glattal Valley Trail

Gentle valley routes suitable for family hikes and easy days outdoors.

Airports

How to reach Bassersdorf by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

The primary international gateway for the region; frequent train connections to Bassersdorf and the rest of Switzerland.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bassersdorf is walkable within the town center, with good pedestrian paths and easy access to nearby transit. For longer trips to Zurich or the airport, the train is quick and reliable, making day trips simple yet convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly German-speaking Swiss families and commuters.

Expats and commuters

A diverse mix due to proximity to Zurich and the airport.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Popular in schools and local clubs; days out at stadiums or on community teams.

Hiking

Widely enjoyed in the surrounding hills and nature reserves.

Cycling

Extensive routes along lakes and in the Glattal valley.

Transportation

Traffic

Zurich’s region maintains a robust public transport network, with reliable trains and trams. Driving is straightforward but can experience congestion near peak hours, especially toward the city center; parking in town centers is often limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bassersdorf.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Swiss cuisine can be meat-forward, but vegetarian options are widely available. Look for rösti with mushrooms, vegetable plates, and cheese- or egg-based dishes; many markets offer fresh produce, cheeses, and salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has high-quality healthcare with universal coverage through mandatory health insurance. Local clinics and doctors are readily accessible within the canton; in case of emergencies, Zurich-based hospitals provide extensive services.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide