Things To Do
in Dübendorf
Dübendorf is a well-connected Swiss town just northeast of Zurich, blending a leafy residential character with modern business parks. It’s known for its historic center, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to the lake and mountains. The town sits in the Glatt valley with green spaces, bike routes, and parks ideal for outdoor recreation.
Proximity to Zurich means cultural attractions, dining, and transport are within quick reach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the beautiful parks in Dübendorf, such as the Stadtpark. Enjoy the fresh air and vibrant greenery while listening to the chirping birds. Don’t forget to grab a coffee from a local café to kickstart your morning.
Visit the nearby Zürich Zoo for a fascinating glimpse into animal conservation efforts. Spend your afternoon marveling at wildlife from around the globe while relaxing in the lush surroundings. You can also enjoy a picnic lunch in the zoo's designated eating areas.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant to indulge in local Swiss cuisine. Try traditional dishes like fondue or raclette paired with a refreshing glass of Swiss wine. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the lakeside to soak in the evening views.
Dive into the history of Dübendorf by visiting the local museum, which showcases interesting artifacts and exhibits about the town’s heritage. Spend your morning learning the stories behind the architecture and lifestyle of the area. Be sure to chat with the knowledgeable staff for deeper insights.
Spend the afternoon exploring historic sites, including the ancient churches and remnants of medieval structures. Walking through the streets, you can admire the blend of old and new architecture, capturing the essence of Dübendorf's evolution over time. Stop by a nearby bakery to savor traditional pastries as you continue your sightseeing.
Wind down by attending a cultural event, such as a concert or local theater performance. Experience the vibrant arts scene that Dübendorf has to offer, immersing yourself in the community's creative spirit. Afterwards, meet locals at a lively pub for a nightcap.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $18-28 |
| 🥗Groceries (weekly budget) | $60-90 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $10-13 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Short distance to Zurich and its cultural attractions
- Excellent public transport and bike-friendly infrastructure
- Safe, clean, and efficient services
- Green spaces and water activities nearby
- Higher costs typical for Switzerland
- Smaller nightlife scene in Dübendorf compared to Zurich
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Dübendorf
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful historic houses and the town hall create a charming, compact composition.
Wid e river views, bridges, and seasonal greenery provide versatile landscape shots.
Perimeter viewpoints offer aviation photography opportunities when flights are active.
Panoramic cityscape with the Alps on clear days; great for wide-angle city photos.
Food in Dübendorf
Dübendorf Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, usually served with rösti.
Must-Try!
Crispy grated potato hash, often served as a side to meat dishes or with toppings like cheese or eggs.
A communal pot of melted cheese served with bread for dipping; perfect in cooler months.
Oats soaked with milk or yogurt, grated apple, nuts, and fruit; a classic Swiss breakfast.
Creamy Alpine macaroni with potatoes and cheese, traditionally served with applesauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers markets and seasonal stalls in the Zurich area; great for fresh produce, cheese, and street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality is valued; arrive on time for appointments and meetings.
Evenings after 10 pm are typically quiet in residential areas; be mindful in apartment buildings.
Form orderly queues and greet with a simple 'Guten Tag' or 'Grüezi' when meeting someone.
Safety
Tipping in Dübendorf
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good.
Cash, credit cards, and mobile payments like TWINT are widely accepted; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, long daylight hours, and outdoor events; occasional showers; ideal for lake swims and city tours.
Mild days with colorful foliage; great for strolling streets and terrace dining.
Cool to cold with possible snow; city lights and winter markets; dress in layers.
Moderate temperatures with blooming trees; perfect for bike rides and outdoor photos.
Dübendorf at Night
Hiking in Dübendorf
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular viewpoint overlooking Zurich and the lake; accessible via train to Uetliberg, then a short hike to the summit.
Flat lakeside trails around Greifensee with birdwatching and scenic views.
Forest trails in the Sihlwald nature reserve, close to city outskirts.
Airports
How to reach Dübendorf by plane.
Major international airport serving the region; quick rail or car access from Dübendorf.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Swiss citizens and expatriates from many countries; strong international community in the Zurich area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at amateur and professional levels; local clubs and community leagues.
Switzerland has a strong ice hockey culture; games can be found in nearby Zurich.
Day trips to alpine resorts are feasible in winter.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dübendorf.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Swiss dishes can be prepared vegetar ian; look for rösti with cheese, vegetable curries, and fresh salads; ask for vegetarian suita bles as needed.