Things To Do
in Horgen
Horgen sits on the northern shore of Lake Zurich, just across the water from Zurich. The town pairs a tranquil lakeside ambiance with a charming old town and easy access to the surrounding hills. A scenic promenade, ferries across the lake, and nearby trails make it a convenient base for exploring both the city and the countryside.
With excellent public transport, clean streets, and welcoming cafés, Horgen offers a relaxed Swiss vantage point without being far from major sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Zurich, where the serene waters and stunning views set the perfect tone for the day. Visit the nearby Horgen Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich heritage and traditions.
Enjoy a scenic hike up to the nearby Uetliberg Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Zurich and the Alps. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the viewpoints, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. After your hike, explore the charming streets of Horgen, stopping by local shops and markets.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant, where you can savor specialties like fondue or raclette. Post dinner, take a serene lakeside walk as the sun sets, painting the sky with beautiful hues. Conclude the evening with a visit to a cozy wine bar, sampling some local Swiss wines.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a local bakery, followed by a visit to the local art gallery showcasing regional artists. Engage with local art enthusiasts and, if available, participate in a workshop to hone your artistic skills. Explore the nearby Chapel of St. Jost for a glimpse into Horgen's religious architecture.
Attend a local cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Swiss dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the communal atmosphere as you share the meal prepared with fellow enthusiasts. After lunch, visit the stunning Horgen Seafront Park, perfect for a relaxed stroll or enjoying some scenic photography.
Sample the vibrant nightlife by dining at a trendy bistro offering contemporary Swiss cuisine. Join a guided night tour to learn about Horgen's folklore and history under the stars. Wind down at an open-air café, soaking in the ambiance with live music or a local performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🧀Local groceries (cheese, bread, basics) | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (local trips) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lake views and easy access to Zurich
- Efficient public transport and clean, safe streets
- Prices can be high compared to some other regions
- Nightlife options are more limited in town—better in Zurich
- "Grüezi" - Hello (formal)
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung, wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Excuse me, where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like to have …
Places to Visit in Horgen
Visit one of these nice places.
A broad lakeside path with long views across the water and the Alps on clear days, perfect for golden-hour photography.
Narrow lanes, timber-framed houses, and historic details provide charming street photography opportunities.
A viewpoints area on the hillside offering sweeping views over the lake and surrounding countryside.
Docks and boats against the backdrop of the lake with occasional sailboats and ferries in motion.
Food in Horgen
Horgen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A freshwater fish prepared in various styles (grilled, pan-seared, or lightly battered) often served with potatoes and seasonal vegetables, commonly found at lakeside eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy potato hash often served as a base for toppings like cheese, onions, or eggs; a staple in Swiss casual dining.
Cheese specialties perfect for cooler evenings; many local restaurants offer classic fondue or raclette experiences.
A soft braided bread typically enjoyed at breakfast or with coffee at local cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets in Horgen where locals buy fresh produce, cheese, bread, and prepared foods. Great for sampling local snacks and picking up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Grüezi' (formal) or 'Hallo' (informal). Punctuality is valued in both business and social settings.
Swiss etiquette emphasizes politeness and personal space; avoid loud conversations in public transport.
Ask for permission when photographing people or private property; public spots are generally fine, but be mindful of locals’ privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Horgen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; a small amount for good service or rounding up the bill is common. Service charges are often included in larger establishments.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (including TWINT) are very common in shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blossoming trees; great for hiking and outdoor café seating. Pack a light layer for cool mornings and evenings.
Warm to hot days with abundant outdoor activities along the lake; expect longer daylight hours and lively lakeside atmospheres.
Pleasant temperatures and fall colors along the hillsides. A good time for quieter trails and scenic photography.
Cold, with occasional snowfall. Indoor attractions and warm cafés dominate; some outdoor activities may be weather-dependent.
Horgen at Night
Hiking in Horgen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering sweeping views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding countryside.
Easy-to-moderate path along the lake with picnic spots and scenic vistas.
Accessible by boat; combines a gentle island hike with quiet coastal scenery and historic sites.
Airports
How to reach Horgen by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; frequent rail connections to Horgen with typical travel time around 20-35 minutes depending on connections.
A smaller airport in the eastern region; farther from Horgen but useful for certain European routes; typically requires longer train or car transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Horgen, drawn by the safe environment, good schools, and lake access.
A sizable portion of residents commute to Zurich or other nearby cities for work, taking advantage of fast rail links.
The proximity to Zurich attracts international residents and expatriates who work in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on Lake Zurich, with local clubs and rental options along the shoreline.
Terrain ranges from lakeside flat walks to hillside panoramic trails such as Horgenberg.
Extensive lakefront cycle routes and gentle climbs in the surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Horgen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians will find ample options; look for vegetable-rich plats, cheese-based dishes, and mushroom or egg dishes. When dining out, ask for meat-free preparations or separate vegetarian menus where available.