Why You Shouldn’t Sleep on Zurich, According to a Swiss Native

Switzerland has a reputation: it’s known internationally for its cheese, chocolate, mountains, watches, and banks. While it’s true that the small Alpine country nestled between France, Germany, Austria, and Italy thrives on these well-worn stereotypes, there’s far more to discover beneath the surface. The country’s largest city, Zurich — with a population of 450,000 people — is proof that such a small place can pack a lot of punch.

As a Swiss native, I’m always amused by how people perceive Switzerland. For an outsider, it can feel like an intimidating place. It’s true that Zurich, the Swiss economic capital, consistently ranks as one of the wealthiest and most expensive cities in the world. But the city doesn’t come off as overly posh or unapproachable. Bankers and creatives share the same spaces. By night, they dine in the same restaurants, and on the weekends, they cool off in the same lake and rivers. Here’s why you should join them on a trip to Zurich (and what to do when you get there).

There’s art, design, and architecture at every turn.

Left: Pavilion Le Corbusier. Right: Rechberggarten. Photos: Helene Bauer

Zurich is divided into 12 districts. District 1, home to the historic Old Town, is often the first stop for visitors arriving at Zurich HB, the central train station. From there, the main street, Bahnhofstrasse — one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets — leads to Paradeplatz, the most expensive property on the Swiss Monopoly board. Cross the river and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Old Town, a more intimate, less commercial part of the city filled with charming townhouses, many of which have been transformed into independent boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. But step just outside this area, and that’s where Zurich truly begins to reveal its magic.

For lovers of art, design, and architecture, Zurich is a paradise. It may not flaunt its beauty like Paris or Rome, but creativity lies around nearly every corner. One must-see is the Pavillon Le Corbusier, located near the lake (aptly called Zürichsee, or Lake Zurich). As the last building designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier — a pioneer of modern architecture — it stands as a stunning tribute to his life’s work. The steel-and-glass building is both an architectural landmark and an art space, hosting seasonal exhibitions, guided tours, and cultural events.

Back in the city center, fans of Spanish architect and structural engineer Santiago Calatrava will find two of his creations. The first is Stadelhofen Station, a once traditional railway hub transformed in the 1980s into a striking metro station. The curved promenade and structural arches echo Calatrava’s signature style, reminiscent of the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain. The second is the Law Library at the University of Zurich, open to the public and well worth a visit. Designed with a light, airy palette of maple wood, glass, and steel, the space is flooded with natural light. Calatrava envisioned the design as a metaphor to show that knowledge is weightless, in contrast to the physical weight of books.

Left: Freitag Tower. Right: Museum of Design. Photos: Helene Bauer

Another must-visit spot is the Viadukt district, arguably Zurich’s trendiest neighborhood. This former industrial area has been transformed into a lively hub, with the viaduct arches now housing interior design stores, boutique clothing shops, and cafés. Locals love to gather here, whether to grab a bite at the indoor market or enjoy an afternoon of window shopping. For a unique Swiss experience, stop by the Freitag Flagship Store — a brand known for its bags and accessories made from recycled truck tarpaulins. The store itself is a marvel: it’s housed in 19 freight containers stacked on top of each other to form a unique skyscraper. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.

Zurich also has an impressive number of museums for a city of its size, and they’re well worth visiting. Chief among them is Kunsthaus Zürich, the largest art museum in Switzerland. Its collection is both vast and varied, featuring masterpieces from Monet to Basquiat. The Museum of Design is another engaging stop. Design lovers will be enchanted by the large collection of everyday objects that have made their mark on history.

You can get a taste of the Swiss swimming culture.

Photos: Helene Bauer

In Switzerland, water is as precious as gold — and in Zurich, it’s at the heart of daily life. Two rivers flow through the city center: the Sihl and the Limmat. During the warm summer months, adventurous locals and sporty swimmers often spend their afternoons battling the current, diving off platforms, or simply floating downstream. Scattered along the riverbanks are Badis — public river baths that provide enclosed areas for swimming. These open-air baths are typically open from May to September, serving as relaxing oases by day, and by late afternoon, they transform into buzzing riverside bars where locals gather for drinks and music.

If you prefer a more tranquil swimming experience, head to Lake Zurich, where swimming is another seasonal summer pastime. You can swim anywhere in the lake. Here, two small rocks can double as a makeshift beach. You’ll find people swimming alongside sailboats, paddle boards, and electric surfboards. As the sun begins to set, the lakeside scene comes alive with live music, laughter, and the clink of beer bottles, creating a laid-back summer vibe that stretches late into the night.

Swimming culture in Switzerland goes beyond rivers and lakes — it also includes a deep appreciation for thermal baths. One of the most unique spots to unwind in Zurich is the Hürlimannbad & Spa, located at the B2 Hotel. Set in the underground vaults of a former brewery, the spa’s baths are filled with Aqui water, drawn directly from a natural spring beneath the historic Hürlimann brewery. Rich in minerals and naturally warm, the water is known for its healing and soothing properties. Unlike river and lake swimming, Zurich’s thermal baths are open year-round, making them a favorite in colder months.

The food is fantastic, from fondue to fine dining.

Left: Fischerstube. Right: Corner café. Photos: Helene Bauer

Switzerland is famous for its cheese and chocolate — and rightfully so. If you’re eager to indulge in traditional Swiss fare, head to Swiss Chuchi, located in the heart of Zurich’s Old Town. As the first fondue restaurant in the area, it’s fully dedicated to classic Swiss cuisine. Feast on hearty dishes like spaetzli (a type of small, soft egg noodle), cheese fondue, cured meats, or Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (Zurich-style ragout) served with crispy rösti (potatoes shallow-fried in a pan).

You might not associate Switzerland with seafood, but fish plays an important role in the local cuisine — especially freshwater fish from the country’s many lakes. One of Zurich’s most beloved fish restaurants is Fischerstube, which serves the daily catch from Lake Zurich and nearby waters, set in a rustic old fishing hut perched on pillars over the lake. Book a table just before sunset to watch the sky turn fiery red over the water.

Of course, no culinary tour of Switzerland would be complete without chocolate. Be sure to visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate, which delivers a deep dive into the sweet world of Swiss chocolate. One of the highlights is the legendary chocolate fountain, where a staggering 1,400 liters (300+ gallons) of liquid chocolate cascade in a mesmerizing display.

But Swiss cuisine goes far beyond fondue, raclette, and truffles. Zurich is also home to the first vegetarian restaurant in the world. Founded in 1898, Haus Hiltl is still owned by the Hiltl family. At the time, vegetarianism was considered radical, so diners would sneak in through the back door to avoid being seen and mocked as “grass-eaters.” Today, Haus Hiltl is one of the city’s most popular spots, offering a self-service buffet and a packed dining room from morning to night.

Zurich also has a fine-dining culture that’s well worth exploring. In fact, Switzerland holds the record for the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita. Included in that list are two-star restaurants such as IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada and Widder Restaurant, alongside several one-star restaurants showcasing a range of cuisines. Chefs from around the globe have chosen to make Zurich their home, reimagining Swiss classics and bringing international flair to the city. The result is a dining scene that’s both rooted in tradition and refreshingly cosmopolitan.

Where to stay in Zurich

Left: B2 Hotel. Right: La Réserve Eden au Lac. Photos: Helene Bauer and Bumble Dee/Shutterstock

Zurich’s city center is home to luxury stays such as the Mandarin Oriental Savoy and La Réserve Eden au Lac. For more affordable options, however, we recommend venturing just outside the center. Two of our favorite hotels sit along the Sihl River in a more industrial part of the city, only a 20-minute walk from downtown.

One standout is the B2 Hotel Zurich, a boutique property housed in what was once Switzerland’s largest beer brewery. The 60-room hotel embraces its industrial heritage, with traces of the former brewery visible throughout. The gym, for instance, is set in the old pump hall, where guests can work out alongside the massive machinery once used to produce Hürlimann beer.

Another gem is the Home Hotel Zürich, which combines bold design with local history. Its aesthetic draws inspiration from the Dada movement, which originated in Zurich. The in-house restaurant, Loulou, is a lively French bistro serving classics such as moules frites (mussels and French fries), ratatouille, and côte de boeuf (thick-cut, bone-in ribeye).

Getting to and around Zurich

Photos: Rudy Balasko/Shutterstock and Alistair Scott/Shutterstock

Switzerland prides itself on its timely and efficient public transport. Travelers arriving from Zurich Airport, the largest international airport in the country, can hop on a quick 10-minute train from the airport straight to Zurich HB, the main train station, located right in the city center.

Zurich itself is compact, with most attractions clustered close together. Exploring on foot is often the best way to sightsee and soak in the city’s atmosphere. Many locals like to cycle. The city’s bike paths are clearly marked, and cyclists are well respected, making it a safe and convenient way to reach destinations slightly farther out or to enjoy a ride along the rivers or lake.

Zurich also has convenient bike-sharing options. PubliBike, the city’s official system, allows you to rent and return bikes or e-bikes at stations across town via the app or website. Alternatively, you can rent a bike for free from Züri rollt, available at the Europaplatz velostation in the city center.

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