Things to do in Zürich

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Lindenhof which includes a ferry, landscape views and a city
Old Town
Kunsthaus Zurich showing art and interior views
Bahnhofstrasse featuring street scenes, modern architecture and a city
Lakeside Promenade which includes a river or creek and bird life as well as a small group of people

Zürich Attractions

Switzerland’s thriving city of Zurich has long been known as a hub for finance and commercial activity. Many people from all over the world also flock to this city on a regular basis to enjoy all of the wonderful attractions in Zurich. If you are planning a trip to Zurich, find more than the perfect hotel room and airfare rates through Expedia.

The city’s mix of bustling city activity and natural beauty create the perfect balance. It is possible to see stunning images of the Swiss Alps from many places within the city. The downtown area features old shops, vintage homes, and modern high-rises. The Limmat River running through the city enhances the local scenery.

Zurich is home to several important museums. The Zurich Museum of Art contains numerous artworks created by famous artists such as Picasso, Braque, and Munch. The Tram Museum is another one of the top tourist spots in the city and is the perfect place to learn more about the history of Zurich’s extensive public transportation system. Cultural and historical artifacts can be seen inside the Swiss National Museum.

If you are looking for outdoor things to do in Zurich, you can explore one of the city’s public gardens. Thousands of wildlife creatures are showcased at the Zoological Garden. Bamboo and plum trees along with a series of ornate Asian monuments can be seen at the Chinese Garden. You can also pick up a map of the local Botanical Garden to find out where some of the rarest plant species in the world are located.

While taking Zurich tours, you also must see the section known as Altstadt in order to gain a full appreciation of the city. This section is Zurich’s historical district. Streets paved with cobblestone and the old buildings found throughout the district give you the opportunity to step back in time. You can also find some of the city’s best restaurants in this area.

The exciting Zurich activities will provide you with a fulfilling travel experience. If you are interested in making arrangements for Zurich excursions, you should choose Expedia to help you find some of the best deals online.



Zürich must see attractions

1. Zoo Zurich

Zoo Zurich is a superbly maintained wildlife attraction with areas that mimic several of the world’s landscapes and ecosystems. This zoological park shelters over 360 animal species, some native and others endangered. At Zoo Zurich spot bears, butterflies, elephants, giant tortoises, lions and pandas. Discover a cloud forest, desert, prairie and tropical rainforest, among other habitats.
Learn more
Zoo Zurich

2. Bahnhofstrasse

Designer clothes, jewelry, watches, perfume and shoes: Shopaholics will be in their element on Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich’s major thoroughfare runs 1,530 yards (1.4 kilometers) through the center of the city. The stretch from Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the main train terminal to the north, down to Lake Zurich is pedestrianized, except for trams. Allow yourself two or three hours to walk the length of Bahnhofstrasse.
Learn more
Bahnhofstrasse featuring street scenes, modern architecture and a city

3. Swiss National Museum

See a slice of Switzerland’s age-old history at the Swiss National Museum (Landsmuseum Zürich). Learn about prehistoric lifestyles, national arts and crafts, present-day history and up-to-date social issues. The Swiss National Museum has a collection of more than 840,000 original artifacts as well as interactive and audiovisual displays. The exhibits are spread throughout the halls of a fairy-tale chateau built in 1898 by the revered architect Gustav Gull.
Learn more
Swiss National Museum showing interior views

4. Lindenhof

The Lindenhof quarter is one of the oldest and most historic neighborhoods in Zürich. Walk up Lindenhof Hill with a picnic, relax under a tree, admire the sweeping views of the city and enjoy the rich history the area has to offer.
Learn more
Lindenhof which includes a city and heritage architecture

5. Zurich Town Hall

The Renaissance-style building of Zurich Town Hall looks solid enough to withstand the fate of its earlier incarnations. The structure has been standing quite securely since its incarnation in the late 17th century. The earlier two buildings, one a courthouse from the 13th century, were made of wood, which probably explains their demise.
Learn more
Zurich Town Hall featuring heritage elements and a bay or harbor

6. Kunsthaus Zurich

With a catalog that spans from the Middle Ages until the present day, the Kunsthaus Zürich is a leading Swiss art gallery. Admire works by Old Masters, revered national painters and up-and-coming artists. Discover an extensive collection of drawings, prints, photography and audiovisual installations. The Kunsthaus Zürich was established in 1910 by the Kunstgesellschaft, an art group that has been collecting art pieces since 1787.
Learn more
Kunsthalle Zurich

What to do in Zürich


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Zürich? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Zürich


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Zürich

Frequently asked questions

Is Zürich worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the local charm and cultural attractions or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there are many things to do in Zürich.
How do I spend a day in Zürich?
After you've visited major attractions like Uetliberg Lookout Tower and Felsenegg Lookout, spend some time experiencing Zürich's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Zürich?
Uetliberg Lookout Tower is one of the top tourist attractions in Zürich and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Zürich?
Three days in Zürich is more than enough to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many travelers stay for three days on average. Uetliberg Lookout Tower, Felsenegg Lookout and Museum Rietberg are top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Lucerne.
Is Zürich a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Zürich, including Uetliberg Lookout Tower and Museum Rietberg, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 0.3 miles from central Zürich is Zürich Center and Zürich District is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Zürich with kids?
What to do in Zürich for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Zürich, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Zunfthaus Zur Meisen or Helsinki Club.
Are there free things to do in Zürich?
From checking out parks to strolling around vibrant neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Zürich. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Johann Jacobs Museum is a must for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing adventures.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia