What to visit during your weekend in Zurich

Perfectly situated between a crystal-clear lake and rolling hills lies Zurich, a city with a surprisingly vibrant soul. Far from being just a financial capital, it’s a place full of unexpected discoveries and captivating charm.

Reaching this Swiss gem is simple, thanks to its efficient airport served by all major airlines. But if you want to elevate your travel experience consider a private jet charter Zurich, which allow you to reach the city comfortably, turning the journey itself into a luxurious, stress-free part of your holiday.

Deciding when to visit Zurich depends entirely on the kind of atmosphere you’re looking for, as the city changes throughout the year: you can choose the energy of summer, when the lake becomes the beating heart of city life, or let yourself be enchanted by the magical atmosphere of the Christmas season, when every corner is lit up for the festivities and the air smells of cinnamon among the market stalls.

The historic city center

The best way to capture the true atmosphere of Zurich is by exploring the Altstadt, the historic center crossed by the Limmat River. The walk will lead you to the imposing twin towers of the Grossmünster, the city’s iconic Cathedral, which offers breathtaking views of the rooftops and the lake from the top of the towers.

After exploring the old town, cross a bridge to the opposite bank to find two more of the city’s remarkable churches. First, discover the Fraumünster, a church that will amaze you for the magic it holds inside: Marc Chagall’s five stained-glass windows are a pure explosion of color and spirituality that will leave anyone speechless. A short walk from there leads you to St. Peter’s Church catches the eye with its bell tower, which boasts the largest clock face in Europe.

In addition, to enjoy a relaxing break with a fascinating view, climb the Lindenhof hill, an oasis of peace from which to admire the fascinating view of the river and the old town.

Between the lake and the luxury shopping streets

Zurich’s beautiful lake offers a perfect escape for every mood and pace, making it an essential part of any weekend visit. You can choose a dynamic experience with a scenic cruise on a historic boat, opt for a quiet, relaxing stroll along the waterfront, or simply enjoy a moment of peace on a bench. This is where the city’s residents come together to unwind, giving it a wonderfully authentic atmosphere.

The popular Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most luxurious and exclusive shopping streets in the world, branches off from the lake: the realm of high fashion, jewelry, and, of course, the big Swiss banks, but also perfect for a stroll among the shop windows.

To discover the more modern and alternative side of the city, however, a visit to the Zürich-West district is a must. This former industrial area has been redeveloped and is now the most fashionable district, with its designer shops housed under the arches of the railway viaduct and the curious Freitag Tower, a tower made from recycled shipping containers.

A delicious break

When it’s time to eat, Zurich’s culinary experience knows how to win over every palate, but if there’s one dish that represents the city, it’s Zürcher Geschnetzeltes. Imagine tender morsels of veal wrapped in a velvety, creamy mushroom sauce, a rich and flavorful dish that finds its perfect companion in Rösti, a delicious pancake made from grated potatoes and browned in a pan until irresistibly crispy. As the weather turns colder, it is quite impossible to resist the call of other gastronomic rituals, such as a steaming cheese fondue or the pleasure of a raclette, convivial experiences designed to be shared and that manage to warm the body and soul.

No trip to Zurich is complete without indulging in Swiss chocolate. Head to world-famous shops like Läderach or Sprüngli on Paradeplatz to sample their iconic Luxemburgerli. These small, colorful macaroons are a local institution and offer the sweetest possible end to a special weekend.

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Adam Regan

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Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

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