Things To Do
in Opfikon
Opfikon is a well-connected municipality just northeast of Zurich, prized for its proximity to Zurich Airport and quick rail links to the city. It blends residential neighborhoods with modern business parks, offering convenient shopping and dining options. Green spaces along the Glatt river and thoughtful bike routes provide easy escapes without leaving the metropolitan area.
It’s a practical base for visitors who want fast access to Zurich sights while enjoying a calmer, more affordable setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a cozy breakfast at a local café, enjoying Swiss pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Opfikon, admiring the quaint architecture and local shops. Don't miss visiting a nearby park for a refreshing walk amidst nature.
Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Glattzentrum, one of the largest shopping centers in Switzerland. Delight in a variety of international cuisines at the mall's food court for lunch. Afterward, you can catch a movie or indulge in a little retail therapy before returning to your hotel.
For dinner, treat yourself to traditional Swiss fare at a charming local restaurant. As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverside, soaking in the views of the scenic landscape. Wrap up the evening with a glass of Swiss wine at a nearby bar, relishing the local atmosphere.
Take a short train ride to Zurich and start your day at the famous Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets. Explore the local boutiques and indulge in a delightful breakfast at a café with a view of Lake Zurich. Visit the Swiss National Museum to get a glimpse of Switzerland’s rich cultural history.
After lunch, delve into the artistic vibe of Zurich by visiting the Kunsthaus, which boasts an impressive collection of modern art. Spend some time in the charming Old Town, soaking in its medieval architecture and vibrant ambiance. Grab a snack from a street vendor as you wander through the cobbled streets.
Head to a lakeside restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy fresh fish while overlooking the water. As the night falls, take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich, enjoying the city lights reflected on the water. Finish your evening at a rooftop bar for a stunning panoramic view of the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-6 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (5-10 km) | $12-25 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent transport links to Zurich and the Alps
- Quiet base near the airport with modern amenities
- Safe, clean, and well-organized
- Good value compared to central Zurich
- Limited nightlife within Opfikon itself
- Smaller town feel; many sights require a day trip to Zurich
- Public transport can be busy during peak hours
- "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Was kostet das?" - How much is this?
- "Ich möchte zahlen, bitte" - I would like to pay, please
Places to Visit in Opfikon
Visit one of these nice places.
The Glattpark area near Opfikon features contemporary architecture with glass facades and green spaces, ideal for clean architectural shots.
Runway views from public areas near Kloten provide dynamic shots of aircraft activity, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Picturesque lake and reed beds with birds, perfect for tranquil landscape photography.
Food in Opfikon
Opfikon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, pan-fried potatoes served as a hearty side or breakfast staple; widely available in Swiss eateries.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served with rösti.
Cheese fondue for a cozy, shareable meal, especially popular in cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market nearby offering fresh produce and regional specialties; a good place to sample local life.
Casual bites and international snacks found near central Zurich and main transit hubs; great for quick lunches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and public transport; Swiss place high value on punctuality.
Greet with a handshake; use polite forms and titles with strangers; keep voices quiet in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Opfikon
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge is often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% as a tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (CHF) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common; contactless payments and TWINT are popular in shops and transit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with budding trees; pack light layers and a small umbrella for showers.
Warm days with long evenings; expect occasional thunderstorms and enjoy lake and outdoor dining scenes.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; excellent for scenic walks and city photography at golden hour.
Cold with possible snow; shorter daylight hours, indoor activities and cozy cafés are popular.
Opfikon at Night
Hiking in Opfikon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle loop around a scenic lake with forested sections and birdlife.
Popular Zurich foothill with sweeping city views and well-marked trails.
Forest paths and rolling hills northeast of Zurich for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Opfikon by plane.
Located near Kloten and easily reachable by train or car; a major international hub close to Opfikon.
A smaller regional airport in the east; longer transfer to Opfikon but still within Switzerland.
A larger international option about 85-110 miles away; useful for certain international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Opfikon, drawn by good schools and parks.
A mix of locals and international residents commuting to Zurich for work.
A steady presence from nearby universities and language programs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed; local clubs and easy access to Zurich-based teams.
Popular winter sport with local rinks and regional teams.
Extensive bike paths along rivers and into nearby hills; suitable for all levels.
Public courts and club facilities available in parks around Opfikon and Zurich.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Opfikon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Opfikon and the greater Zurich area; look for cheese and vegetable dishes, salads, and pasta or curries labeled as vegetarian. Many places can adapt meat-based dishes to be vegetarian on request.