Zürich

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Zürich's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Old Town
morning
:

Stroll through the cobbled streets of Zürich's Old Town, admiring the medieval architecture. Visit the iconic Grossmünster church for fantastic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a local café, followed by shopping at the various boutiques in the area. Don't miss the chance to relax by the picturesque Lindenhof park.

evening
:

Have dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant, trying fondue or raclette. End your day with a walk along the Limmat river, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Art & Culture Day
morning
:

Begin your day at the Kunsthaus Zurich, home to an impressive collection of Swiss art. Take your time to appreciate works by artists like Giacometti and Marc Chagall.

afternoon
:

Head to the Swiss National Museum for a deeper insight into Switzerland’s cultural history. Grab lunch in the nearby area, enjoying local Swiss delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance at the Zurich Opera House. Finish with dessert at a café, sampling the famous Swiss chocolate.

day 3
Scenic Bike Tour
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and set off on a ride along Lake Zürich, soaking in the stunning views of the Alps. Stop at various viewpoints for memorable photos.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a lakeside restaurant, relishing fresh fish or local specialties. Continue exploring the lakeside paths or head to the serene Zürich Botanical Garden.

evening
:

Return your bike and unwind at a cozy bar by the lakeshore. Enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the water.

day 4
Shopping & Indulgence
morning
:

Begin on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most famous shopping streets. Explore luxury stores and find unique Swiss souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Relax in a nearby café with a traditional Zürcher cake and coffee. Continue shopping or visit the charming district of Niederdorf for artisanal shops.

evening
:

Indulge in a multi-course dinner at a high-end restaurant offering Swiss cuisine. Enjoy a nightcap at a rooftop bar, taking in views of the city skyline.

day 5
Day Trip to Uetliberg
morning
:

Take a train to Uetliberg mountain for panoramic views of Zürich. Hike along the well-marked trails to fully appreciate the lush scenery.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, bringing along Swiss snacks. Continue exploring the various viewpoints and walking paths.

evening
:

Return to the city and enjoy a hearty dinner in a rustic mountain-style restaurant. Reflect on your day's adventures under the twinkling stars.

day 6
Wine & Dine Experience
morning
:

Visit the Zürich vineyards for a wine tasting session, learning about local grape varieties. Enjoy the scenic backgrounds as you sip on delightful wines.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a vineyard’s restaurant, enjoying dishes paired with their wines. Explore the surrounding vineyards on foot to appreciate the beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

Dine at a gourmet restaurant known for its wine pairings. Enjoy an exquisite meal while engaging in conversations with fellow wine enthusiasts.

day 7
Nature & Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning at Zurich Zoo, getting up close to diverse wildlife from around the globe. Don’t miss the Masoala Rainforest for an immersive experience.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby Zürichhorn park on Lake Zürich for leisure activities. Rent a paddleboat or simply relax by the water.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a lakeside grill or tavern. Take a leisurely sunset stroll along the lake, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

day 8
Music & Nightlife
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Zürich University of the Arts, exploring its exhibitions and facilities. Get inspired by the vibrant creative energy around you.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch in the trendy Zürich West area, followed by a visit to local music venues. Check the schedule for live performances and local events.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at iconic clubs or bars known for unique music styles. Dance the night away in this culturally rich city.

day 9
Historical Sites Tour
morning
:

Step back in time by visiting the Fraumünster church, famous for its stunning stained glass windows. Then explore the Landesmuseum for insights into Swiss history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch in the historical center, followed by a visit to the Zurich City Archives. Discover overlooked gems from the city's past.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that serves traditional Zurich dishes. Cap the night off with a historical walking tour to discover hidden stories about the city.

day 10
Lake Cruises & Sightseeing
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich, admiring beautiful landscapes and charming towns. Snap photos of the picturesque shoreline.

afternoon
:

Visit Rapperswil after the cruise, exploring its medieval castle and stunning rose garden. Enjoy lunch in this quaint town overlooking the lake.

evening
:

Return to Zürich and savor a relaxing dinner at a waterfront hotel. Take a post-dinner walk along the promenade to end your day perfectly.

Discover Zürich

Read more in our Zürich 2024 Travel Guide.

Zürich Travel Guide