Z Rich Switzerland 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Zurich: A Whirlwind Itinerary

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
  • Language: German, but English is widely spoken.
  • Transportation: Excellent public transportation system with trams, buses, trains, and boats. Purchase a Zürich Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (round up the bill or leave 5-10%).

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hotel St. Gotthard, Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, 25hours Hotel Langstrasse
  • Luxury: The Dolder Grand, Baur au Lac

Day 1: Exploring Old Town Charm and Lakeside Beauty

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Start your day with a traditional Swiss breakfast at Café Schober in Niederdorf.

  • (10:00 AM): Wander through the enchanting Old Town (Altstadt), admiring the cobblestone streets, historic guild houses, and charming boutiques. Visit St. Peter’s Church for panoramic city views from its tower.

  • (12:00 PM): Enjoy lunch at Zeughauskeller, a historical restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine in a unique vaulted cellar setting.

  • Afternoon (2:00 PM): Take a scenic boat tour on Lake Zurich, enjoying breathtaking views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains.

  • (4:00 PM): Explore the Kunsthaus Zürich, home to an impressive collection of art from medieval times to contemporary works.

  • Evening (7:00 PM): Indulge in a delicious dinner at Kronenhalle, a legendary restaurant frequented by artists and intellectuals, known for its classic Swiss dishes and exquisite ambiance.

Day 2: Modern Art, Chocolate Delights & Panoramic Views

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Begin your day with a visit to the Museum Rietberg, showcasing non-European art and cultures in a beautiful park setting.

  • (11:00 AM): Immerse yourself in the world of chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate, indulging in tastings and learning about the fascinating history of Swiss chocolate.

  • (1:00 PM): Enjoy lunch with stunning panoramic views at the Uetliberg Mountain Restaurant, accessible by train from Zürich Hauptbahnhof (main station).

  • Afternoon (3:00 PM): Explore the trendy Zürich West district, known for its industrial-chic architecture, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

  • (5:00 PM): Take a relaxing stroll along the Bahnhofstrasse, Zürich’s famous shopping street, window shopping at luxury boutiques and department stores.

  • Evening (7:00 PM): Savor a farewell dinner at Restaurant Pavillon, enjoying contemporary cuisine with stunning lake views.

Transportation Tips:

  • The Zürich Card provides unlimited travel on public transportation within the city and discounts on attractions.

  • Trams and buses are frequent and reliable, covering most areas of the city.

  • For longer distances, consider using the S-Bahn (suburban trains).

  • Taxis are readily available but can be expensive.

Other Things to Note:

  • Zürich is a safe and clean city.

  • Be sure to try local specialties like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal ragout with cream sauce), Älplermagronen (macaroni with potatoes, cheese, and onions), and Birchermüesli (a breakfast cereal made with oats, fruit, and nuts).

  • Enjoy the many parks and green spaces throughout the city.

  • Take advantage of the numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming in Lake Zurich.

Have a wonderful time exploring beautiful Zürich!