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Plan Your Zurich Holiday: Best of Zurich

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Explore Zurich

This ritzy Alpine city set on a bright blue lake is the largest in Switzerland and a major destination for contemporary art, shopping, and nightlife. Wealthy, tidy, and efficient, Zurich is easy to navigate thanks to excellent public transit and a free bike rental system. Use it to visit Kunsthaus Zurich, with its impressive modern art collection, and the 13th-century Fraumunster Church with Chagall’s stained glass windows. Then explore the cobblestone streets of Old Town (Alstadt), shop along Niederdorf and Bahnhofstrasse, and even take a dip in Lake Zurich. At night, choose from over 500 clubs and bars—from smart and sophisticated to waterside Badi-Bars (aka bathing pool bars). Can’t decide? Check out our recs below.
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How to do Zurich in 3 days

Luxury shopping streets, sidewalk coffee stops, and a train ride to a mountaintop
Read on

An LGBTQ tour of Zurich

My super functional and ever punctual hometown of Zurich—run by a lesbian mayor for the last decade—remains one of Europe’s most gay-friendly cities, with diversity and inclusivity that’s on par with New York and London. Here, my picks for how to take it all in.
Adam G, Zurich, Switzerland
  • ViCAFE Kweer
    3
    Opening in 2022, this stylish space is the epitome of a modern LGBTQ venue. A bustling bar draws gay men, while the lounge in the back with a stage and velvet sofas attracts a wider mix of people who come for Kweereoke and Drag Bingo. Popular with locals is its espresso bar/cafe, with chairs spilling onto the cobbled, pedestrian-only Spitalgasse in Zurich’s Old Town.
  • Cranberry Bar
    61
    Cosy, chatty Cranberry is the city’s go-to gay bar. It first opened in 1997 and remains a stronghold of queerness in Zurich’s charming Old Town just across from the Limmat River. The two-level bar primarily attracts gay men, but is welcoming to everyone. Follow locals upstairs every Friday night for RuPaul’s Drag Race screenings. Other events like Latino nights and G-rated fetish parties keep things interesting.
  • Seebad Utoquai
    98
    Zurich is bursting with badi, swimming areas on the city’s rivers, canals, and lake. This lido-style bathhouse, a white wooden structure dating to 1890, occupies an enviable perch on the lakefront promenade. It’s divided into four sections: men-only (popular with gay men), women-only, a mixed-gender area, and a nudist area. It also has stand-up paddle board rentals, hot showers, and a café and bar ideal for summer sunsets.
  • Kunsthaus Zürich
    1,967
    In autumn 2021, Kunsthaus Zürich, arguably Switzerland’s most important museum, unveiled a $220 million annexe designed by David Chipperfield that epitomizes Zürich’s austere aesthetic. The museum occupies a constellation of buildings and brims with art, including permanent pieces by queer artists like Andy Warhol, David Hockney, and Francis Bacon, not to mention iconic works by Zurich Dada artists like Man Ray. Wednesdays are free.
  • Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich
    36
    In 2021, Zurich's grand Savoy Hotel closed for a two-year refurb, and was reborn in 2023 as the LGBTQ-friendly Mandarin Oriental. Located on Paradeplatz, home to several iconic chocolate shops, the 80-room hotel features the work of French interior designer Tristan Auer, who added a rooftop bar with views of Lake Zurich and Grossmunster’s gothic spires and a contemporary brasserie stuffed with modernist art.
  • Restaurant Volkshaus
    315
    This buzzy brasserie dates back to 1910, but its dining room has been modernized with neo-industrial lights and pinstriped room dividers. Attentive aproned waiters deliver crispy oozing Cordon Bleu, gooey onion soup, and chestnut mousse. It’s a favourite of Zurich’s queer creatives who start at the convivial bar with aperol spritzes or linger over dessert with kirsch aperitifs. Grab one of the sunny terrace tables overlooking Helvetiaplatz. The kitchen has several veg-friendly options, too.
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Zurich travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Train to Lucerne

According to forum posts, there are direct trains linking Zurich Airport to Lucerne, described as quick and efficient. The journey can be planned using the official Swiss railway website (www.sbb.ch), which also provides fare information and details on travel passes like the Half Fare Card.

Train to Munich

Some travelers mentioned a direct fast train from Zurich to Munich, which operates once daily and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Details on this route and ticket purchasing options can be found on the Seat61 website, which also advises on the best times and platforms for catching this train.

Train to Mountain Regions

Travelers have called out Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus as popular mountain day trips from Zurich accessible by train. For Mount Rigi, a circuit route from Zurich to Lucerne, then to Vitznau and Rigi Kulm is suggested, with a recommendation to use a saver day pass for cost efficiency.

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Mountain Excursions

According to forum posts, Mt. Rigi is a highly recommended mountain trip from Zurich, offering options for hiking and scenic train rides. Travelers have also suggested Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Titlis as worthwhile visits for their stunning views and hiking opportunities.

Scenic Train Rides

Some travelers have pointed out that taking a scenic train ride can be a fulfilling day trip from Zurich. Popular routes include trips to Lucerne and Sargans, providing picturesque views and the chance to explore small towns.

Historic Towns and Villages

Forum posts often mention exploring nearby historic towns such as Stein am Rhein and Appenzell. These locations offer a mix of cultural experiences and charming scenery, making them excellent for day excursions.

Lake Tours

Travelers have called out the possibility of lake tours in areas close to Zurich. Locations like Lake Lucerne are accessible and provide a refreshing change of pace with options for leisurely cruises and relaxation.

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Activities and Sightseeing

During a layover in Zurich, travelers have enjoyed exploring the city's historic Old Town, strolling along the Bahnhofstrasse for shopping and sightseeing, and visiting landmarks like Lindenhof. Some travelers recommended taking short trips to nearby attractions like Lucerne or the FIFA World Cup Museum if time allows.

Food and Dining

Food enthusiasts on layovers in Zurich have highlighted trying local Swiss cuisine and visiting renowned chocolate shops like Sprüngli. Recommendations include dining at local restaurants or enjoying street food in areas like Niederdorf.

Layover Logistics

For those with shorter layovers, staying close to the airport and exploring nearby parks or utilizing airport amenities like shopping centers is advisable. Travelers with longer layovers have utilized Zurich's efficient public transport to venture into the city and even take boat tours or short lake cruises.

Accommodation and Rest

Travelers on overnight layovers have booked rooms near the airport or in the city, depending on their flight schedules. The transit hotel and capsule accommodations at Zurich Airport were mentioned as convenient options for rest during shorter layovers.

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Hotel Recommendations

According to forum posts, the Sorell Hotel Rutli is recommended for its proximity to the train station and Old Town, although rooms are noted as small. The Wellenberg is also favored, especially for solo travelers, offering good service, breakfast, and a central location in Old Town, with rooms priced around 185 CHF.

Luxury Options

For those seeking luxury, some travelers suggested the Schweizerhof and Storchen, which are pricier but well-regarded for their locations and amenities. The Storchen, located next to the Rathaus on the Limmat river, starts at around 400 CHF per room.

Budget-Friendly Choices

The Hotel Adler is mentioned as a more affordable option in Old Town, though potential noise issues are noted due to its location. Prices and specific details about room rates are not given.

Family and Accessibility

For family-friendly options, the Ameron Zurich is highlighted as an excellent choice near Lake Zurich and within walking distance from Old Town, offering larger suites suitable for families.

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Car Rental Availability

According to forum posts, Zurich airport offers a variety of car rental options. Some travelers have shared that car rental desks are conveniently located close to the arrivals section, providing easy access for visitors.

Car Features and Advice

Travelers have called out the availability of specific features like winter tires and Carplay. It was noted that during winter, cars rented in Switzerland, including at Zurich airport, come equipped with winter tires. However, features such as Carplay may not be guaranteed, and renters have faced difficulties confirming the availability of such features in advance.

Booking Tips

For many users, pre-booking a car is recommended over trying to secure a rental as a walk-in customer. Pre-booking tends to secure better deals and ensures the availability of the car that fits one's needs, especially during peak travel times.

Cross-Border Fees

Travelers have noted that while crossing borders, such as from Switzerland to Italy, might be document-free, it could entail significant drop-off fees if the car is rented in one country and left in another. This fee can be quite substantial, so it's advisable to check the terms and conditions before planning cross-border travel with a rental car.

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Transport Options

According to forum posts, Rhine Falls can be accessed from Zurich by train. Travelers can take the S12 service directly to the station Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall, which departs every hour from Zurich HB. The journey typically takes less than an hour.

Accessibility and Views

For many users, the Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall station is recommended due to its scenic route and proximity to the falls. It offers a lift for easier access to the falls viewing areas, which is beneficial for those who need assistance, such as individuals using a walking stick.

Additional Travel Tips

Some travelers have noted that while the boats at Rhine Falls are not operational in the winter, the falls themselves are accessible year-round. It's advisable to plan visits on weekdays and in fair weather to avoid crowds and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience.

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Cost Savings

According to forum posts, the Swiss Half Fare Card offers significant cost savings for travelers. For instance, a trip from Zurich to Basel, which usually costs CHF 34.00 for a second-class ticket, would only cost CHF 17.00 with the Half Fare Card. This card reduces travel costs by 50% across various transportation modes including trains, buses, and boats.

Flexibility and Coverage

Some travelers highlighted the card's broad applicability on public transport across Switzerland, not just in Zurich. It is valid for 30 days, offering flexibility for tourists who are visiting multiple locations or traveling extensively within the country.

Additional Savings

Travelers also noted that the card can provide additional savings on other transport services. For example, a cable car trip to Titlis, normally costing CHF 92.00, is reduced to CHF 46.00 with the Half Fare Card. This makes it an attractive option for those planning to explore mountain regions and other tourist attractions where transport costs can add up.

Practical Purchase Locations

For convenience, the card can be purchased at major transportation hubs such as Zurich Airport, making it accessible immediately upon arrival for international visitors.

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Accessibility and Views

According to forum posts, Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall offers accessible facilities, including a lift that takes visitors down to the falls' level, providing impressive views. Travelers have called out the convenience and scenic appeal of this approach, noting that the sounds of the falls can be heard as soon as one steps off the train at the station.

Boat Tours and Seasonal Considerations

Some travelers said that boat tours, such as the blue and yellow boat options, add to the experience, with routes available until early November. However, they noted that the volume of water in the falls decreases in October, suggesting that the best time to visit for more dramatic views is after the spring snowmelt when the Rhine is high.

Additional Attractions

For many users, the surrounding areas like Schloss Laufen castle and Schlössli Wörth offer additional viewing points and activities. Travelers have also recommended exploring nearby towns like Schaffhausen and Stein am Rhein to enhance the Rhine Falls visit.

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