Our two-day detour to Zurich, Switzerland was more about meeting up with friends than visiting the city itself. However, that didn’t keep us from discovering the best sights of the Old Town on a Zurich Walking Tour!
We devised a Zurich Self-Guided Walking Tour that begins along the famous shopping streets, then moves on to a few churches and viewpoints. We also allow time for lunch, chocolates and beer!
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About Our Free Zurich Walking Tour
We love creating free walking tours in cities so we can set our own pace, make detours and stop at any places that catch our eye.
Why this is one of the best walking tours in Zurich is because we include a pin-drop for each sight – plus a overview map at the end of the article. This makes it easy for you to get a lay of land.
However, keep in mind that you will need connectivity. We use a Pocket WiFi device to stay on-line while traveling abroad. In fact, we would literally be lost without it!
Want this tour without the advertisements? You can buy the PDF version for less than a cup of coffee!
Zurich Self-Guided Walking Tour
Our Zurich sightseeing focused on the sights in the center of town. While there are many tourist attractions to consider, our list includes 10 top things to see in Zurich (plus 1 bonus stop at the end).
Our Zurich walking tour route is about 3 miles long, mostly flat and should take about 1-2 hours to complete without any stops.
Even if you only have one day in Zurich, this is a great way to get an introduction to the city!
#1 Bahnhofstrasse
{MAP} We start off at the Paradeplatz tram station in the city center. Heading north on Bahnhofstrasse, gawk at the expensive watches glittering in the window displays.
The area is flooded with fashionable retailers, posh boutiques, fine architecture and a bevy of Swiss Banks. The famous shopping street is a Zurich must see!
#2 Augustinergasse and Rennweg Street
{MAP} On our Zurich city tour, we were sidetracked more than once by the colorful streets in the center. We turned right down the bright and colorful Augustinergasse.
{MAP} At Widdergasse we turned left…and left again onto Rennweg. This was the main thoroughfare during the Middle Ages and features quaint craft houses.
There is a long history of chocolate production in the city – and at #22 Rennweg, you will find the luxury chocolatier Confiserie Madeleine.
The scent of cocoa floats out the door, but the interior is so beautifully decorated that it often looks more like a florist.
We splurged for a few decadent truffles – including the store’s signature Champagne Truffle…and they were divine. Then, we followed Rennweg north, where it meets back up with Bahnhofstrasse.
#3 Zurich Hauptbahnhof
{MAP} Ranking as the biggest train station in Switzerland and one of the busiest in Europe, it also marks the north end of Zurich Old Town.
If you are on a day trip and arriving by train, you can begin your Walking Tour of Zurich here. Continue from the station to the next stop – then visit the first 2 sights at the end of the tour!
#4 Central Polybahn
{MAP} From the main train station, continue our Zurich free tour by crossing the Limmat River on the Bahnhofbrucke Brigde. Then hop on the Central Polybahn funicular for a ride up to a lookout point.
Unfortunately, it was one of the few Zurich sights that was closed during our visit, so you will have to let us know how it was!
#5 Niederdorfstrasse
{MAP} Now make your way to Niederdorfstrasse (either on foot or back down on the funicular). This pedestrian street is filled with cafes and restaurants, which was perfect timing for us because we were getting hungry for lunch!
There are also tons of take-away spots selling kebabs, fried chicken and burgers. If you are looking for a deal, go to Äss-Bar.
No, that’s not a typo! This bakery sells “fresh from yesterday” pastries and sandwiches at incredibly affordable prices.
#6 Zurich Rathaus
{MAP}, Now walk back to the Limmat River and find the Zurich Town Hall (Rathaus). We couldn’t stop taking pictures of the idyllic waterfront building!
There, we were approached by a woman who told us that the flag flying above the front door indicated that the local government was in session. She also said that we were free to go in and watch the proceedings.
We passed through security and then walked upstairs to a balcony overlooking a beautiful room. It was filled with a (surprisingly) casual bunch of politicians.
Taking a peek inside the Rathaus is one of the best free things to do in Zurich. Hopefully, it’s still an option on your trip!
#7 Grossmunster
{MAP} Next up on our Zurich Walk: the Grossmunster. Built in 1220, the cathedral is one of the top Zurich tourist attractions.
The two towers were added in 1787 and, for a small fee, the 187 steps can be climbed for spectacular views.
The interior of the Grossmunster is rather plain, but has bright stained glass windows. A crypt beneath the altar houses an original sculpture from one of the towers.
#8 Lake Zurich and Opernhaus
{MAP} Continuing on, walk south to Lake Zurich and the Opera House (Opernhaus Zurich). As we strolled along the lakeside, a man played a traditional alphorn for tips!
Behind him, dozens of swans were gliding on the water and in the background the majestic snowcapped Alps completed the idyllic scene.
#9 Limmat Riverwalk and St. Peter Church
{MAP} While we could have continued walking along the lake, there were more Zurich Old Town attractions we wanted to see!
Crossing back to the west side of the river at Quaibrucke Bridge, we strolled along the water.
{MAP} We cut into the old city center near St. Peter Church, which has the largest church clock in all of Europe.
#10 Lindenhof
{MAP} We wound through the tangle of streets up to Lindenhof for the last official stop of our tour. A raised park (and former Roman fort) with views over the river, it’s one of the best places to visit in Zurich.
Two men played bocce ball and a younger group contemplated the next move on the giant chess board.
Several others sat along the wall enjoying the pleasant view of Zurich and the soaring Swiss Alps in the distance.
BONUS: Zeughauskeller
{MAP} We worked up a thirst during our ‘Zurich in a day tour’, so we headed to Zeughauskeller for a pint of local beer.
Built in 1487, it was originally used as an armory. Then in 1926, it was transformed into a place for socializing. That old-time, Zurich beer hall atmosphere still survives today!
Zurich Self-Guided Walking Tour Map
This map highlights the top places to visit in Zurich in 1 day. For a Zurich walking tour map with turn-by-turn directions, use this link.
Zurich Day Trips & Themed Tours
We have outlined an easy-to-follow Walking Tour of Zurich for those who like to discover at their own pace. That said, there are several other types of excursions that can enhance your visit!
Guided Tours of Zurich
Get an indulgent taste of the city while strolling the streets on this guided Chocolate and Sweets Walking Tour.
Alternatively, take a 2-hour Private Walking Tour and get to see all the highlights with the focused attention of a dedicated guide.
Travelers with weary feet can also opt for a private Zurich tour by Tuk Tuk! The 1.5-hour route features top Old Town sights in an eco-friendly ride.
Day Trips from Zurich
With mountains, lakes and picturesque towns, there are many opportunities to explore the surrounding region. These can be booked in advance with a trusted provider like Viator.
Some of the most popular Zurich day tours include a Swiss Alps Day Trip, a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch and a Lucerne and Lake Cruise.
Alternatively, plan your own day trip to Basel. The two cities are well connected and the train ride takes just about 1 hour. On the way you can read about all the Best Things To Do in Basel!
Travel Tips for your Trip to Zurich
Now that you know what to see in Zurich, we have some additional advice that will help you plan your getaway to Switzerland!
Zurich Card
The Zurich Card is available for 24, 48 or 72 hours and includes free or reduced admission into museums, as well as free public transportation and other discounts.
Where To Stay in Zurich
During our visit to Zurich, we stayed in a super Airbnb. In general, we have found that staying in apartments is less expensive – with the added benefit of a kitchen and more space.
That said, there are many Zurich hotels to choose from in the city center. Read our Top Tips on Finding Cheap Hotels and then begin your search on Booking.com, like we do!
You can also check rates and availability at these top-rated properties for your upcoming Swiss trip!
Getting To Zurich
Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying, we are JetSetting Fools after all! When we start our search for affordable plane tickets, we look for the best deals on Skyscanner.
To get between destinations when flights are not feasible, we usually rely on public transportation. That includes trains or buses – of which there are several to Zurich.
We aren’t keen on driving abroad, but renting a car can often save time and money. Before making a reservation, read all of our Car Rental Tips!
What To Pack for Zurich
Our final tips cover packing for your Zurich trip. You can also check out our complete packing list and read about our top packing hacks!
Walking Shoes
If you are embarking on a Zurich walking tour, you will need comfortable travel shoes! I wear these versatile, lightweight trainers. Kris prefers Merrell Trail Shoes.
Travel Camera
Zurich is a beautiful city – so make sure you bring a travel camera that will take exceptional photos.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It’s great set-up for beginners and the kit comes with heaps of accessories!
Day Pack
Whether traveling with a backpack or suitcase, we like to carry a day bag where we can stow our everyday travel items.
These include a water bottle and sunscreen – along with snacks and an umbrella. Find out which we prefer in our Best Day Pack for Travel article!
Switzerland Trip Insurance
Travel insurance may cover costs incurred from delayed flights, lost luggage and even illness abroad. If you haven’t obtained coverage for your European Trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Planning a Trip to Zurich, Switzerland
As you make reservations, be sure to keep track of the details. With our Printable Travel Planner you can get started right now!
Start planning your trip to Switzerland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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