Z Rich Switzerland 5 Day Itinerary

Zurich: A 5-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Zurich! This itinerary will guide you through the best this vibrant Swiss city has to offer.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
  • Language: German, but English is widely spoken
  • Transportation: Excellent public transportation system with trams, buses, and trains. Consider purchasing a Zurich Card for unlimited travel and free museum entry.
  • Tipping: Not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is appreciated.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostel One Zurich, Scoutbase
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Adler, 25hours Hotel Langstrasse
  • Luxury: Baur au Lac, The Dolder Grand

Day 1: Old Town Charm & Lake Views

  • Morning: Explore the charming alleys of Old Town (Altstadt). Visit St. Peter’s Church with its iconic clock face, wander through Fraumünster, admire stained glass windows by Chagall, and discover hidden courtyards.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine at Zeughauskeller in a historic armory building.
  • Afternoon: Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Zurich. Admire the city skyline, surrounding mountains, and picturesque waterfront villas.
  • Dinner: Dine with panoramic lake views at Restaurant Kronenhalle, known for its art collection and classic Swiss dishes.

Day 2: Art & Chocolate Indulgence

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in art at the Kunsthaus Zürich, featuring masterpieces from Monet to Picasso.
  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at the Kunsthaus café or explore the trendy cafes and restaurants in the Zürich West district.
  • Afternoon: Indulge your sweet tooth with a chocolate-making workshop at Lindt Home of Chocolate. Learn about the history of chocolate and create your own delicious treats.
  • Dinner: Savor innovative Swiss cuisine at The Restaurant, located on the top floor of the 25hours Hotel Langstrasse, offering stunning city views.

Day 3: Day Trip to Lucerne

  • Morning: Take a scenic train journey to Lucerne. Explore the charming medieval Old Town with its iconic Chapel Bridge and Water Tower.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch overlooking Lake Lucerne at one of the many lakeside restaurants in Lucerne.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Swiss Museum of Transport, showcasing the history of transportation from trains to airplanes. Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Lucerne for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 4: Shopping & Local Flavors

  • Morning: Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s famous shopping street, home to luxury boutiques and department stores.
  • Lunch: Sample local specialties at the Viadukt, a trendy market hall housed in a former railway viaduct.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Niederdorf district with its bohemian atmosphere, independent shops, and lively bars. Enjoy a traditional Swiss coffee break at Confiserie Sprüngli.
  • Dinner: Experience Zurich’s nightlife scene in Niederdorf, choosing from a wide variety of restaurants and bars.

Day 5: Relaxation & Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the city center with diverse plant collections and greenhouses.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants surrounding the Botanical Garden.

  • Afternoon: Relax by Lake Zurich, take a final stroll through Old Town, or visit any attractions you missed earlier.

  • Dinner: Farewell dinner at your favorite restaurant discovered during your stay.

Transportation Tips:

  • Purchase a Zurich Card for unlimited public transportation and free museum entry.

  • Utilize the efficient tram and bus network to explore the city.

  • Enjoy your Zurich adventure!