Swiss Excursion Pt. 5: Exploring Zurich
On the last leg of our trip, we circled back to Zurich (this is where we landed) as we wanted to spend some time in the popular city and take in what it had to offer. It was, for the most part much less busy than I expected, and by all means, that was a plus. It was great to take a stroll around the town and take in all the culture that this Swiss staple had to offer. Unfortunately, we were only here for a day and a half before heading back to NYC, so we tried to fit in as many things as we could.
Grossmünster in the distance
Things to Do:
Explore Zurich’s Old Town
Exploring (eating is right up there as well) is what I like to do most when I’m in a new city/country. Many of the city’s most iconic landmarks like the Grossmünster as well as Fraumünster and Clock Tower of St. Peter can be found in Zurich’s old town as well, so there are lots to see and do.
Start your day off by popping into one of the cafes, grabbing a cappuccino, and taking a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the old town. The Limmat River is not too far off and the many medieval buildings in the backdrop seemingly transform you to a different place and time. There are various small shops and restaurants that you can stop in on your travels as well.
Take a stroll through Bahnhofstrasse
Bahnhofstrasse is one of Switzerland’s most popular streets has tons of opportunities for shopping as well as being home to some of Switzerland’s most well-known banks. When you think of fancy and Zurich, this street comes to mind. it looks like something out of a classic European film.
Visit the Kunsthaus Museum
Art is one of my favorite interests so that always leads me to the nearest museum when I’m in a new place. With new works as well as many by the old masters, it’s definitely a place to stop by if you’re interested in the culture of art.
List of Additional Things to Do in Zurich
Where to Eat:
Confiserie Sprungli - A charming location for breakfast or brunch, with some of the best desserts in Zurich.
Zeughauskeller - A dining hall-style Swiss sausage experience. If you’re not a fan of being seated at a table with a bunch of other people you don’t know, this won’t be for you, but I quite enjoyed the dining hall experience and the food was amazing. Make sure to try the original "Kalbsbratwurst" sausage as well as the Zeughauskeller house beer.
Chasalp - If you love Fondue, this is your heaven! An extensive range of cheese fondues and a cozy atmosphere especially at sunset.
List of Additional Restaurants in Zurich
Where to Stay:
Hotel Adler Zürich - A cozy hotel situated in the middle of the old town, with Bahnhofstrasse and the Swiss National Museum in walking distance, it was perfect for what we were looking for. A pleasant and amenable staff made it that much better.
