Zurich Tourist Attractions

Zurich offers a blend of medieval history, vibrant lakeside culture, stunning Alpine views, and world-class arts and dining. Here are the top tourist attractions to explore in and around the city:

Iconic Historic Sites

Grossmünster

Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque cathedral featuring twin towers that dominate the Zurich skyline. Dating back to the 12th century, it played a central role in the Swiss Reformation.

• Climb Karlsturm tower for panoramic views of the city, the Limmat River, and Lake Zurich.

• Tour the 11th-century crypt and admire the stained-glass windows added by Augusto Giacometti in the 1930s.

Fraumünster Church

Located just across the river, Fraumünster Church was originally founded in 853 by Charlemagne's grandson as an abbey for noblewomen.

• Highlights include the five stunning, vibrant stained-glass windows created by artist Marc Chagall in the 1970s.

• Explore the historical crypt museum beneath the choir.

Shopping & Culture

Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s premier boulevard, running from the main railway station down to the lakefront.

• Lined with high-end boutiques, luxury watchmakers, and historic cafés.

• Stop by local, historic confectioneries like Confiserie Sprüngli for traditional Swiss chocolates and Luxemburgerli macarons.

Kunsthaus Zürich

Art museum

Kunsthaus Zürich is Switzerland's top art museum, housing an extensive collection of Western art ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

• Features major collections of Impressionism, modern classics, and post-war art.

• Showcases notable masterpieces by Alberto Giacometti, Claude Monet, and Edvard Munch.

Lindt Home of Chocolate

Museum

Located in nearby Kilchberg, the Lindt Home of Chocolate offers an interactive museum experience dedicated to Swiss chocolate heritage.

• Features a massive, 9-meter-tall chocolate fountain right in the entrance foyer.

• Interactive exhibits showcase the origin, history, and production process of chocolate, ending with generous tasting stations.

Nature & Views

Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich provides a scenic backdrop to the city, perfect for relaxing by the waterfront or taking to the water.

• Take a passenger boat cruise ranging from short city loops to full trips across to Rapperswil.

• The lakeside promenades and parks (such as Rentenwiese and Zürichhorn) are popular spots for walks, picnicking, and summer swimming.

Uetliberg

Mountain peak

Rising above Zurich, Uetliberg is Zurich’s local mountain, accessible via a short train ride from the main station.

• Offers sweeping panoramic views over the city, the lake, and the Swiss Alps.

• A favorite spot for hiking in the summer, tobogganing in the winter, and taking in the observation tower views year-round.