Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a dynamic blend of historical charm and modern sophistication, offering the perfect combination of natural beauty and urban elegance. Surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps and nestled along the shores of Lake Zurich, the city captivates visitors with its picturesque landscapes. At the heart of Zurich lies the Altstadt (Old Town), a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets lined with medieval and Renaissance-era buildings. Here, visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Grossmünster, a Romanesque-style Protestant church, and the Fraumünster, known for its striking stained glass windows by Marc Chagall.
Zurich’s thriving cultural and culinary scene further elevates its appeal. From traditional Swiss specialties like fondue and raclette to cutting-edge international cuisine, the city caters to all palates. For a taste of luxury, a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most prestigious shopping avenues, offers high-end boutiques and designer stores.
Switzerland (Schweiz in German)– They speak German (Deutsch), French (Français), Italian (Italiano), and Romansh (Rumantsch) depending on the region.
In Zurich (Zürich), the primary language spoken is German (Deutsch)
In October, Zurich enjoys crisp autumn weather, with average temperatures of 14°C by day and 7°C at night
Fun Fact: Zurich has a network of "water fountains" with over 1,200 fountains spread throughout the city. Many of these fountains are centuries old, and all provide clean, drinkable water. Zurich has one of the highest densities of public fountains in the world, making it easy to refill your water bottle as you explore the city
Departure Time: 1223
Departure Location: Colmar
Arrival Time: 1426
Arrival Location: Zuerich Sbb
Travel time: 2 hours 3 minutes
Accommodation: citizenM Zürich
Train: Reservation not required
Hotel Details (hotels.com)
Hotel Location
After checking in at the CitizenM Zurich, take some time to explore the nearby areas by foot.
Bahnhofstrasse (15-minute walk)
Begin with a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, lined with luxury boutiques, cafés, and designer stores. It's ideal for window shopping or picking up Swiss souvenirs.
Lindenhof (10-minute walk from Bahnhofstrasse)
Head to Lindenhof, a historic hilltop park that offers panoramic views of Zurich's Old Town, the Limmat River, and the city’s medieval architecture. This tranquil spot is perfect for a late afternoon break and a taste of Zurich’s historical roots.
Zeughauskeller (5-minute walk)
End your day with dinner at Zeughauskeller, a historic beer hall set in a former 15th-century armory. Enjoy traditional Swiss-German fare like sausages, rosti, and schnitzel, paired with local beer in a lively atmosphere.
Today, you’ll explore Zurich’s top attractions, either on foot or by using Zurich’s efficient public transport system.
Grossmünster (15-minute walk from the hotel)
Start the day by visiting Grossmünster, Zurich’s iconic twin-towered Protestant church. Climb the tower for an impressive view of the city. The church has significant historical importance, dating back to the Protestant Reformation led by Huldrych Zwingli.
Fraumünster (5-minute walk)
Cross the river to visit Fraumünster, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows created by Marc Chagall. The church, founded in 853, offers a serene and artistic atmosphere.
Old Town (Altstadt) Walk
Spend time wandering the winding streets of Zurich’s Old Town (Altstadt), where you’ll discover charming medieval buildings, hidden alleys, and small boutique shops. Key sights include Niederdorfstrasse, a lively pedestrian street with cafés, restaurants, and local shops.
Lake Zurich (10-minute walk)
Stroll down to Lake Zurich for a peaceful walk along the promenade. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a short boat cruise around the lake, which offers a unique view of the city’s skyline and the Alps in the distance.
Swiss National Museum (10-minute tram ride)
After lunch, visit the Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum), which offers an in-depth look at Swiss cultural history, including artifacts, medieval collections, and more modern exhibitions. It’s located near the main train station, and is easily accessible via tram.
Zurich’s Kunsthaus (20-minute tram ride)
For art lovers, a visit to the Kunsthaus Zurich is a must. This renowned art museum features a large collection of works from Swiss and international artists, including pieces by Giacometti, Monet, and Picasso.
Dinner at Old Crow
After a day of exploring, head to Old Crow, a stylish bar and restaurant that offers a range of craft cocktails and classic Swiss dishes in a cozy, old-world setting.
Trams: Zurich’s tram system is very efficient, and the ZVV app can help you navigate routes. Trams 4, 6, and 10 are common routes for most of these attractions.
Zurich Card (Optional): Consider purchasing the Zurich Card, which offers unlimited public transport access and discounts on museums and tours.