One day in Zurich is simply not enough, but sometimes that’s all you have—especially on a layover! During our road trip through Switzerland, we found ourselves with just one day to explore this beautiful city. Despite the limited time, we made the most of our 1 day in Zurich Itinerary by staying at a luxury hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant and eating our way through Zurich’s charming streets.
Zurich is a city steeped in history, and its immediately evident upon arrival. With its cobblestone streets, pedestrian-only zones, and vibrant, colorful buildings, the city invites you to soak in the sights and sounds. One of my favorite experiences was listening to the melodic toll of church bells echoing through the streets—truly one of the best sounds of Switzerland!
In this post, I’m sharing my 1 day in Zurich itinerary, complete with all the best things to do in Zurich and insider tips to help you make the most of your short time in this incredible city. Whether you’re on a layover or just passing through, this Zurich itinerary will guide you to the highlights of the city, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
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Basics for Traveling to Zurich Switzerland
A few things to plan for when traveling to Zurich…
- Official Language in Zurich: Zurich lies in the German-speaking part of Switzerland so the official language is Swiss German. Not to worry, it’s English friendly as well.
- Adapter: European Adapter needed
- Currency: Swiss Francs
- Location: Zurich is located on the eastern end of the country close to Germany and Austria. You will see more German influences here from the language to the cuisine!
- Getting Around: Zurich has an impressive public transportation system making it easy to get around the city if you prefer not to walk. It is free with a Swiss Travel Pass or Zurich Card.
- The Zurich Card is available to purchase for 24 hours or 72 hours and includes trams, cable car, boat, train, and bus transportation. Additionally, you will receive discounts to many tours and attractions!
- Read before you go: Swiss Watching by Diccon Bowes is a fun read from the perspective of a British man living in Switzerland. He is very witty and it gives you a good foundation on the history of the country and insight into the culture of the Swiss people – my kind of people! Get it on Amazon.
1 Day in Zurich Itinerary
For this 1 day Zurich Itinerary, I have provided two options. The first is if you have two half days and the second is for those who have one full day.
Option 1 – Two Half Days
Day 1 – One Day in Zurich Itinerary
- Check in to Hotel Storchen
- Lunch and drinks at Nest Rooftop for views of the city
- Next, stroll around the city down toward Lake Zurich winding through Alstadt admiring the pedestrian streets
- Take a tour of the cathedrals or Museum Rietberg
- Pre-dinner cocktail along the river at Hotel Storchen’s Barchetta
- Dinner at Trattoria Sempre
- Finally, have a night cap at 4 Tiere Gin Bar
Day 2 – One Day in Zurich Itinerary
- Breakfast at Montmartre Cafe
- Next, shopping and sightseeing along Augustinergasse and Niederdorf
- Lunch at Ristorante Bindella
- Depart Zurich
Option 2 – 1 Full Day in Zurich Itinerary
- First, Montmartre Cafe for Breakfast
- Stroll around Aldstadt admiring the views and make your way to Lake Zurich and Lindernhof
- Lunch at Ristorante Bindella
- Shopping and sightseeing along Augustinergasse and Niederdorf
- Drinks at Hotel Storchen’s Barchetta along the river or at their Nest Rooftop
- Dinner at Trattoria Sempre
- Finally, have a nightcap at 4 Tiere Gin Bar
Best Things to Do in Zurich
Zurich is a financial hub located along the Limmat River which runs through a historic, old town. The charming streets are filled with historical sites, restaurants, art galleries and more. Here are some of my top things to see and do when spending 1 day in Zurich.
Lake Zurich
The Limmat River flows into Lake Zurich, popular for swimming and boating. In the summer, you will see plenty of people swimming from great spots like the Enge Swimming Area Bar – a waterfront bar and swim deck.
Drinks at Nest Rooftop
I definitely consider this an activity so it gets a spot on my best things to do in Zurich category!
Get a lay of the land at Nest Rooftop to get acquainted with Aldstadt. You will see stunning views of the Limmat River, Fraumünster Church and Grossmünster Cathedral.
Explore Aldstadt Zurich (Old Town)
Aldstadt is the old, historic part of Zurich which is split in two parts by the Limmat River. It’s filled with charming pedestrian streets, cute boutiques, art galleries, and beautiful architecture on both sides. One of the best things to do is simply walk around this area at a leisurely pace.
Next, you will find a few of the top attractions in Aldstadt and the main church steeples you will see dotting the skyline.
Fraumünster Church
Fraumünster Church is one of the most stunning churches, founded in 853. It features a steeple with a clock and you will recognize the green coloring from pictures. The most famous feature though is the stained glass windows done by Marc Chagall.
Grossmünster Cathedral
Grossmünster Cathedral is a landmark 12th century cathedral that towers over Zurich’s Old town. It features two impressive towers that you can climb if you would like a super high view.
St. Peter Church
St. Peter Church is the oldest church in Zurich and one of the four main steeples you will notice around the city. It has the largest clock face in Europe.
Lindernhof
Lindernhof is a historical square located in the heart of the city with a fabulous vantage point of the churches, river, and old town.
Niederdorf
Niederdorf is a lively area in the old town known for its medieval streets and squares. Today you will find upscale boutiques, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Augustinergasse
Augustinergasse is one of the most charming, historic streets in the city. It’s a popular photo spot for the many buildings with large colorful bay windows.
Museum Rietberg
Museum Rietberg is an arts museum set in one of the city’s best parks, Rieterpark. Enjoy works from places outside of Europe like Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
Zurich West
Zurich West was once an industrial part of town, but is now very hip filled with creative minded people. You will find more locals here and plenty of restaurants and entertainment.
Best Months to Visit Zurich
I visited in September and the weather was fabulous – even a bit hot! The best time to visit depends on what you want to do. If you are skiing the alps, it will be cooler in the winter months. If you want to enjoy sunny days out exploring, spring and summer are best.
Weather by month:
- October – February are considered winter with highs around the 40s and lows in the 30s
- May – April are still cooler in the higher 50s
- June – September are the warmest months with average highs in the 70s
How to Get to Zurich, Switzerland
The best way to get to Zurich is to fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH). It is the main airport of Switzerland so you will find plenty of flights across many different carriers. From the airport, it is a short 15-20 min car ride to downtown city center.
Another option is to train from other European destinations or places in Switzerland. The main train station is located in the heart of the city at Zurich HB.
Where to Stay in Zurich
For a one day trip, I recommend staying as close to Aldstadt as possible so you are in the most walkable area. Zurich is such a historic city featuring several boutique style properties, bed and breakfast, in addition to the flagged hotel brands. Here are a few of the best luxury hotel options in Zurich.
Best Hotels in Zurich
Hotel Storchen Zurich
We stayed at the luxury, 5 star Hotel Storchen for our one night stay in Zurich. The hotel is painted pastel pink with lovely decor throughout. The rooms are well appointed with windows that open so you can let in the air and hear the church bells chime.
The property features a restaurant along the river and a rooftop bar as well! We loved having breakfast on the upstairs restaurant balcony overlooking the river for our last morning. I HIGHLY recommend this hotel for its amenities, service, charm, and excellent location.
Widder Hotel
The Widder Hotel is situated in Aldstadt, easily walkable to all the main attractions. It is a 5 star boutique hotel under the same management company as Storchen Hotel – The Living Circle.
The property has great dining outlets like the picturesque Widder Garden, the Widder Restaurant, AuGust, and several bars. Although it seems like a big hotel, there are only 49 rooms in total – 35 standard rooms and 14 suites to choose from.
The Dolder Grande
The Dolder Grande is located in an oasis outside of the hustle and bustle (meaning it’s not walking distance). Don’t let that deter you though – this hotel is incredibly GRANDE perched high up on an estate overlooking the city. The historic facility dates back to 1899 when it opened as a seasonal hotel originally. I can only imagine how spectacular and exclusive it was to stay here back in the day.
If you are looking for a 5 star experience with a spa and golf course, this is your hotel!
Marktgasse Hotel
Marktgasse Hotel was another option we considered for its location in Aldstadt and affordability for a one day trip to Zurich. It is located on a tiny street – no cars allowed! Featuring two great restaurants – delish for more casual fare and IGNIV for a fine dining experience. The rooms are minimalist and simple, beautifully designed with wood floors and trendy decor.
Where to Eat in Zurich (and drink)
The Zurich dining scene is one of the hottest in all of Switzerland. Known for their Swiss cheese and chocolates, the chefs of today are offering up much more than that. We’re big foodies so I always share the best places we find to eat!
Trattoria Sempre
Trattoria Sempre is where we had dinner during our one day in Zurich. This Italian restaurant is on a pedestrian only street with indoor and outdoor seating either on the front sidewalk or back patio. We loved the gnocchi and ceviches!
Montmartre Cafe
Montmartre Cafe is a charming, French cafe and bistro along a pedestrian only street. Perfect for breakfast or lunch with salads, quiche, croissants, yogurt, and mimosas! There are cute outdoor tables so you can people-watch.
Ristorante Bindella
We had lunch at Ristorante Bindella. It’s an Italian restaurant located along a narrow street with ample outdoor seating under umbrellas. It was super busy at lunch on a weekday with what seemed like many locals on lunch meetings – dressed in business attire. Expect great seafood and lots of pasta options!
Tokyo Tapas
Tokyo Tapas is the place to go if you are craving upscale sushi. They have inventive cocktails, dumplings, sushi, nigiri, stir fry and more!
Bridge
Bridge is a local and trendy food court style experience. There are restaurants, cafes, grocery markets, local products, and bars. A great place for a unique souvenir.
Bund 39
Bund 39 is the best Chinese in town serving up ramen, wontons and all your chinese favorites from an Asian chef.
4 Tiere Gin Bar Zurich
4 Tiere Bar is a great place to stop in for cocktails before or after dinner. They offer more than 650 different gins from around the world. They even do gin workshops if you are a big gin aficionado!
MAME Coffee Shop
MAME is a trendy coffee shop located in a more locals part of town – Zurich West.
San Gennaro
San Gennaro is a favorite for their pizzas. I asked a local food blogger for her top recommendations and this was one of her picks! You can enjoy outdoor dining as the terrace is right up against the river.
Frau Geralds Garten
If you find yourself in Zurich West, Frau Geralds Garten is such a fun atmosphere for lunch or dinner. It’s essentially a beer garden with dining outlets, markets, and local shops.
What to Wear in Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is not only Switzerland’s financial hub but also a vibrant tourist destination, meaning you’ll encounter a mix of professional business attire and casual, stylish outfits throughout the city. While many locals, especially those in the business district, tend to dress in polished suits and elegant dresses, tourists and most locals alike often embrace smart-casual fashion.
When visiting Zurich, I recommend dressing smart yet comfortable. Opt for fashionable pieces that are versatile enough for both sightseeing and dining out.
A chic jacket or coat is always a great choice, particularly in cooler weather, and layering is key for fluctuating temperatures.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must—Zurich is best explored on foot, and the city’s cobblestone streets can make it tricky to wear anything too high. If you’re set on wearing heels, go for a wedge style for more stability.
In the summer, Zurich can get quite warm, so light, breathable fabrics are ideal. Dresses paired with sandals or sneakers are perfect for sightseeing, offering both comfort and style.
You can easily dress these up for dinner by adding a nice jacket or accessories, making them versatile for day-to-night wear.
During the cooler months, layering is essential, with cozy sweaters, stylish scarves, and a well-fitted coat that will keep you warm as you wander through the historic streets. Don’t forget a good pair of jeans for a more casual day or evening look.
Zurich Travel Tips + FAQ
Sharing a few travel tips and answering your most important questions!
Zurich is a city steeped in history and one day is definitely not enough. However, it can be done to give you a good taste of the city and leave you wanting to return. If you have a layover or time to stop here during a trip through Switzerland, I highly recommend it!
Yes! Zurich is very walkable, especially through Aldstadt (old town) on the many narrow pedestrian streets. There are tons of restaurants, cafes, shops, and tourist attractions that you can walk to.
Yes, Zurich is absolutely worth visiting if you are flying through their airport or planning a trip to other parts of Switzerland. The old town has stunning architecture, immense culture, and great restaurants.
Switzerland has lifted all pandemic related restrictions. Travelers are allowed entry without the need to test or show proof of vaccination. Rules are ever changing so be sure to consult their government or tourism website before you travel.
The main tourist attractions in Zurich are:
1. Aldstadt / Old Town
2. Fraumünster Church
3. Grossmünster Cathedral
4. Lake Zurich / Limmat River
5. Zurich Opera House
6. Lindernhof
7. Niederdorf
8. Augustinergasse
9. Museum Reitberg
10. St. Peter Church
11. Zurich West
Google Map Zurich
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