Quick Zurich Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Zurich? Here are a few ideas to help you get started, from things to do to places to stay.
Things to do in Zurich:
Hotels in Zurich:
- Hotel St. Josef (for the Old Town)
- Sorell Boutique-Hotel St Peter Zürich (for the historic centre)
- Baur au Lac (for a lakeside luxury stay)
- EMA House Hotel Suites (for suite accommodation)
- Storchen Zürich (for a riverside setting)
Zurich is a brilliant base for exploring beyond the city. You can spend a day beside a waterfall, in a lakeside old town or looking out towards the mountains.
Here are a few trips to consider, with room for both easy train journeys and longer guided outings.
1. Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein
For a dramatic change of scenery, head north to the Rhine Falls and watch the water from the viewing areas around the falls. Boat trips and access can be seasonal, so check before setting out.
Stein am Rhein, with its painted façades and historic streets, makes a lovely companion stop if you have the time. A guided outing can combine both without arranging each leg yourself.
Visit the Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein ↗
2. Lucerne and Lake Lucerne
Lucerne is a favourite for its lakeside setting, Chapel Bridge and compact Old Town. Spend the day exploring the centre, or build in a boat ride when the timetable allows.
Trains make an independent visit straightforward. If you add a mountain, check the connections and weather so the day does not become a race.
3. Rapperswil and Lake Zurich
Rapperswil offers a gentler day trip on Lake Zurich, with a historic centre and lakeside walks. You can arrive by train and explore at your own pace.
Boat services are another possibility in season; check the current schedule before planning a one-way journey.
4. Mount Rigi, Pilatus or Titlis
If mountain views are the priority, choose one mountain and check how to reach its summit. Rigi, Pilatus and Titlis each involve different combinations of trains, boats, cogwheel railways or cable cars.
Routes, maintenance closures and weather can affect access. A guided tour is useful if you would rather leave the connections to someone else.
5. Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland
A day in the Bernese Oberland offers a taste of alpine scenery, but it is a longer excursion from Zurich. Consider Interlaken, Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen rather than trying to see everything at once.
A full-day guided trip can simplify transport. For a slower mountain visit, consider staying overnight instead.
Explore a guided Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken trip ↗
How to choose your day trip
Pick Rhine Falls for a shorter nature outing, Lucerne for a lakeside city, or a mountain for the views. Check the forecast, train times, opening days and the final return connection before setting off.
If you are travelling in winter, verify seasonal boat and mountain services and carry layers.
Live availability
Explore more stays in Zurich
Choose your dates in the map to compare live Booking.com options around Zurich.
Prices and availability are supplied inside the Stay22 map and can change with dates, guests and room availability.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
A few answers to help you feel ready for your trip.
How many days should I spend in Zurich?
Two or three days give you time for the Old Town, the lake and a few museums. Add a day if you want to explore farther afield.
Is Zurich easy to explore without a car?
Yes. The centre is walkable and trams, trains and boats connect many places; check current timetables and ticket zones.
What currency does Zurich use?
Switzerland uses the Swiss franc (CHF). Check payment methods with individual vendors.
Is Zurich suitable for families?
Yes. The lake, museums, parks and easy train connections offer a good mix; check opening times and age requirements before booking.
When is the best time to visit Zurich?
Summer suits lake activities, while spring and autumn are good for walks. Winter brings Christmas markets and seasonal events.
Should I book activities ahead?
Reserve experiences that matter to you, particularly during busy periods, and check cancellation and weather policies.
Can I take day trips from Zurich?
Yes. Rhine Falls, Lucerne and Rapperswil are popular options. Train schedules and seasonal services vary.
Where should I stay on a first visit?
The Old Town is convenient for sightseeing, while the main station is useful for train arrivals and day trips.
Keep exploring
More Zurich guides
Plan the rest of your trip with our other Zurich guides.
Useful resources
Check the official sources for current opening details, access and events.