Why go now?
This small city has been creating a buzz with the transformation of the industrial district of Zurich-West into a vibrant, cultural corner, including the opening in February of Europe’s first physical and virtual museum dedicated to the digital arts (muda.co) and, across town, the post-Sepp Blatter Fifa’s World Football Museum (fifamuseum.com).
But culture is writ large in Zurich as a whole in 2016 as the city celebrates the centenary of Dada, the art movement that began in the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town in 1916.
With the historic tower of St Peter Kirche dominating the skyline, its clock face the largest in Europe, this is a city of water and bridges. It is bisected by the Limmat river and borders the lake, which this summer will host a floating stage for the European contemporary art biennial Manifesta (m11.manifesta.org/en). Zurich is easily explored in a weekend by foot or efficient tramway system, even allowing an escape into the neighbouring verdant hills.
Arriving in Zurich
Zurich's main international travel hub is conveniently situated a mere seven miles to the north of the bustling city center. Esteemed airline SWISS (swiss.com), offers regular flight service from Heathrow, London City, Birmingham, and Manchester, with one-way fares starting at £63 and return tickets available from £115. Additionally, British Airways (ba.com), provides convenient flights from Heathrow and London City, with one-way fares commencing from a competitive £61. The value airline EasyJet (easyjet.com) also presents its services from Luton and Gatwick, with return fares beginning at £88. Note that Zurich's airport is renowned for its efficiency and ease of use, ensuring a seamless arrival into this vibrant city which is known for its rich architectural heritage and pristine wild spaces.
Accommodation recommendation
Luxury option
Step into the magic of Zurich at its iconic landmark, the Baur au Lac. Located at 1 Talstrasse (to book, call 0041 44 220 50 20 or visit bauraulac.ch), this traditional hotel has been delighting visitors from its lakeside perch since its establishment in 1844. The exquisite blend of blooming floral displays and art nouveau decor is irresistible, as is the Michelin-starred cuisine. One of the special treats for culinary enthusiasts is the Bircher muesli, the best in Zurich. Prices starting at 680 Swiss francs (£482) for double rooms, excluding breakfast.
Delve into a stay at the Baur ac Lac
Moderately Priced
The recently established Marktgasse Hotel located at Marktgasse 17, (marktgassehotel.ch; 0041 44 266 10 10) nestles within Zurich's historic heart. Having a hotelier history that finds its roots back to the 13th century, it now welcomes guests with chic suites and a dining experience to remember. If you fancy a stay of a longer duration or in need of a temporary living arrangement in Switzerland, there are alternative accommodations available too. You could consider the plethora of apartments that offer more home-like amenities and the freedom to cook your meals. Learn more about them at https://www.top-hotels-switzerland.com/en/type/apartments-3/. You can book a double room at the Marktgasse Hotel from 261 francs (£185), with breakfast being an additional expense. Regardless of your accommodation choice, your stay in Zurich promises to be memorable.
Accommodation on a Shoestring
Positioned advantageously at the heart of the city is an affordable lodging known as Kafischnaps, located at Kornhausstrasse 57 (contact number: 0041 43 538 81 16; kafischnaps.ch). This establishment features five fresh and inviting rooms, with a communal bathroom. On the ground floor, you'll find its café, a favourite among patrons, renowned for its wonderful breakfast offerings, delicious open sandwiches and self-made schnapps. Room rates for two start at 108 francs (£77), breakfast not included.
Famous for being one of the cleanest cities in the world, Zurich has much to offer from breathtaking mountain views to historical landmarks. Interestingly, Kafischnaps is not only budget-friendly but also gives its guests a unique Swiss experience with its delectable homemade schnapps.
Upon Your Arrival
At 6pm
Why not begin your exploration on the summit, precisely on the 35th stratum of the towering Prime Tower, situated on the breezy side of Zurich-West? Allowing yourself to sweep across a surreal vista of Zurich's terracotta rooftops, the serene lake, and the distant glacial mountains, all while sipping an in-house crafted gin at the clouds.ch located at Hardstrasse 201 (Dial 0041 44 404 30 00 for inquiries).
To satiate your curiosity at 8pm
Having absorbed the flavors of Zurich from one of its highest points, it's time to delve deeper into its cultural aura and food heritage. Venture towards the heart of the town where the age-old Kronenhalle Restaurant awaits you at Rämistrasse 4. Contact them at 0041 44 262 99 00 or visit kronenhalle.ch. Delight in traditional delicacies like veal complemented with cream-covered mushrooms amidst an outstanding assortment of Swiss artwork.
Did you know these facts about Zurich? The Prime Tower is the tallest building in Zurich and offers a panoramic view of the city. And Kronenhalle Restaurant is not just known for its food, but also its unique art collection that includes works from Picasso and Matisse!
Your Adventure Begins
Start your day at 9:30am by delighting in a morning meal. The Delish Café, tucked away on Marktgasse 17, is well-known for its delicious cinnamon rolls. After this sweet start, take a stroll on the historical and cobbled lanes of the old town. Your destination? The formidable twin towers of the Grossmünster, an architectural gem from the 12th century located at Grossmünsterplatz. Visit grossmuenster.ch to learn more. This Gothic beauty marks the origin of the Swiss-German Reformation. While the interiors may appear austere, they come alive with the stunning stained-glass artistry of Giacometti and an exquisite Romanesque portal.
As the clock ticks 11:30am, journey across the River Limmat towards another picturesque church in Zurich, the Fraumünster, stationed at Stadthausquai 19. Visit fraumuenster.ch for more details. The church's allure lies in its exceptionally vibrant stained-glass masterpieces by Marc Chagall. Not far from here, you'll find the Bahnhofstrasse. This street, presenting a blend of elegance and luxury with top-class designer boutiques, is home to Café Sprungli, located at Bahnhofstrasse 21. To learn more, visit spruengli.ch. This beloved establishment of Zurich is especially acclaimed for its delectable macaroons.
1.30pm
Start your excursion by catching a tram ride - make your way on tram number 11 and switch to number 4 at Bahnhofquai. Your destination: the vibrant, eclectic Zurich-West. Alight at the viaduct, a fascinating spot brimming with one-of-a-kind design stores and captivating art galleries sheltered within its arches, providing a feast for the creative soul. Moreover, it's also home to an enticing food market. Begin your gastronomic journey with a delectable yet light lunch at Les Halles at Pfingstweidstrasse 6 (0041 44 273 11 25; les-halles.ch). Immerse yourself in this lively, cheerful eatery, popular for its mouth-watering mussels. This market is a celebration of the slow food culture, prominently exhibiting regional, artisanal creations. A can't-miss spot is Berg und Tal, situated in Market Hall Viaduct 50, known for its delicious local sausages, cheeses, and honey.
3pm
Take a leisurely stroll heading towards the awe-inspiring Prime Tower, marking your journey with stops at fascinating shops along the way. A definite standout here is the flagship store of renowned Zurich brand, Freitag at Geroldstrasse 17 (freitag.ch). Visit to witness a brilliant display of creativity, where discarded truck tarps are innovatively transformed into chic, colorful bags.
4.30pm
Next, enrich your experience with a dose of digital creativity. Be sure to visit MuDA, Europe's pioneering digital art museum. It's exceptionally located just 10 minutes on foot at Pfingstweidstrasse 101 (muda.co; 12 francs/£8.53). Right now, it has an intriguing display in-progress by Swiss artist ensemble Gysin and Vanetti.
6.30pm
Return to the historical heart of the city, where we suggest an enticing visit to Cabaret Voltaire situated at Spiegelgasse 1 (contact number: 0041 43 268 57 20; website: cabaretvoltaire.ch). This remarkable destination witnessed the inception of Dadaism, an innovative artistic trend, back in 1916. Since this year earmarks the centenary of Dadaism, numerous special events are happening frequently. On the ground floor, ample books delving into the intricacies of Dadaism await you.
8pm
A stone's throw away, you'll find the charming Marktgasse Hotel at Marktgasse 17. It's the ideal spot to indulge yourself with a Dada Century cocktail, crafted with the intriguing Green Velvet absinthe. Continue your gastronomic adventure at the lively Baltho Restaurant, whose contact details are: 0041 44 266 10 10, marktgasse.ch. This renowned place is not only known for its cocktails but also rich culinary heritage that preserves traditional values while adapting to contemporary requirements.
Moving into Day Two
10:00am
Start your day with a dive into Switzerland's rich cultural layers at the grand Schweizerisches Landesmuseum, or National Museum, located at Museumstrasse 2. This castle-like monument is a treasure trove of Swiss traditions, from the thread art of weaving to the precision of watchmaking. For more details, feel free to check out nationalmuseum.ch.
11:30am
Next up, embark on a serene river cruise aboard zsg.ch for 4.30 francs or for free with a Zurichcard. Departing just adjacent to the museum, the cruiser will guide you down the historic heart of River Limmat, towards the charming Bürkiplatz.
12:30pm
Step into the upscale Bahnhofstrasse for some delightful window-shopping. Make sure you time yourself right to reach Teuscher at Bahnhofstrasse 46 by 1pm. Besides window shopping, it's the right place to buy teuscher.com's much-acclaimed champagne truffles. They serve as an authentic keepsake of your time in Zurich.
1:15pm
For lunch, make your way to the acclaimed AuGust Boucherie at Rennweg 1 (0041 44 224 28 28). Visit their website at au-gust.ch for more details. Established recently, this eatery offers a comprehensive culinary experience right from nose-to-tail dining to regionally popular sausages like Leberkaese and Wiedikerli. Enjoy all this and more against the quaint backdrop of Zurich's vintage cobblestone streets.
Exploring Zurich: A Tale of Two Cities
Experience the vibrant contrast of new and old in Zurich. Discover Zurich-West, a blossoming district full of modern charm, as well as the enchanting beauty of the historic old town with its soaring spires and charming cobbled streets. Uncover the two distinct halves that make up this captivating city.
Make the most of your time in Zurich with the ZürichCARD. For just 24 Swiss francs (£17), enjoy unlimited free use of trams and buses for 24 hours. Purchase your ZürichCARD at tourist offices, information desks at the airport, or conveniently online at zuerich.com.
Immerse yourself in the trendy atmosphere of Zurich-West, where cutting-edge architecture, hip restaurants, and art galleries await. Experience the old world charm of the city's historic center, with its well-preserved medieval structures and iconic landmarks such as Fraumünster Church and Grossmünster. Explore the narrow winding streets and stumble upon charming boutiques, cafes, and bars.