Zurich Switzerland Tourism (2019) Travel Guide Top Places

Zurich Tourism

Zurich is the capital city of Switzerland. It is the heart of all commercial activities, and it holds an international reputation in the fields of banking and finance. Zurich, however, is much more than just that. It is a major tourist attraction, with tons of museums, art galleries, international shopping brands, and a history of more than 2000 years.

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, located in the north-central region of the country. Its history dates back to before it was even discovered by the Roman Empire. The range of activities on offer here is many, from museums and churches and theatres to the Lake Zurich and parks and outdoor activities. Not to mention, Zurich is one heck of a place for a party, with some of the best nightclubs you'll find anywhere. Zurich's long and vast history means that it is also home to pieces of architecture at different times, made with different styles. The Old Town of Zurich is where the Romans settled when they took over the city. It's museums house artefacts more than 1000 years old, and some of the buildings themselves are over a thousand years old. If that's not enough for you, a hike on the Uetliberg mountain is possible too, giving you access to a truly breathtaking experience.

Places to Visit In Zurich

Uetliberg

Swiss National Museum

Altstadt (Old Town)

GrossmÙnster Church

Kunsthaus Zurich

Lake Zurich

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Zurich Packages

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Zurich Customs

The Swiss are a formal and private people. Greetings are sufficed by a handshake for new people, and air kisses if you're close to the person. Dress smartly whenever you're going out, and don't mind the odd bump when you're out on the streets. Giving tips is not considered compulsory in Zurich. All the charges are mentioned in the bill. Tips of around CHF 5 - 10% are enough in restaurants and hotels if you do feel like it, while rounding up and small change is enough for porters and other help.

Language of Zurich

German is the official language of Zurich, more specifically Swiss German. Verbally, various dialects of Swiss German are spoken, such as Zurich German and Allemanic German.

History of Zurich

Zurich is a historic Swiss city, with the first settlements in the region dating back to more than 2000 years. It was a tax collection station for the Roman Empire for the first few centuries. After the fall of the empire, the Germans began settling near Zurich, and was taken over by King Louis the German. Zurich first attained the status of an independent city in 1218, after the end of the Zahringer Family. In the 14th century, Zurich acceded to the Swiss Confederacy, taking the Confederacy to a strength of 5 cantons. The Swiss reformation was started in Zurich in Grossmunster Church, and the Roman Catholics fell, as a consequence of which huge changes in the city followed. During the 30 years of war of the 17th century, Zurich did not get involved, and built extensive walls around the city to protect itself. Also, in 1648, Zurich declared itself a republic. After the Helvetic Revolution of 1798, Zurich fell again, and lost a great amount of it's power and privilages. In the 19th century, Zurich slowly consolidated it's position as the federal captial of Switzerland and, with time, grew into the economic and financial global hub it is today.

Nightlife in Zurich

Nightlife in Zurich will not let you down. It's never too late to decide you want to go out, with parties going on throughout the night. Catering to all requirements, Zurich has some high end clubs, chilled out bars, and some really buzzing lounges. Be careful though, you'll need to put aside quite a lot of money, since the clubs in general are expensive. Clubs like Plaza, Kaufleuten, and Mascotte are just a few of the numerous options available.

Shopping in Zurich

Zurich is a great shopping destination. Bahnhofstrasse is known for it's collection of expensive and luxurious brands, boutiques, and of course, watches. Other places such as Niederdof in Old Town have relatively smaller and more inexpensive options for you.

Currency in Zurich

The Swiss Franc is the official currency of Switzerland. However, being a global and European financial hub, Euros are also accepted at most places. All major cards are accepted.

Exchanging Money in Zurich

Options to convert your currency in Zurich are numerous. Foreign exchange companies like SBB and Travelex have various offices throughout the city. However, the easiest way to convert your cash in Zurich is through withdrawals at ATMs. Do enquire about international transaction costs from your bank first though.

Daily Budget for Zurich

Zurich is definitely an expensive city. Since most of the crowd are either businessmen or bankers, the city and it's costs are laid out accordingly. Buying the ZurichCARD is a great help. It covers transportation and majority of the museums. A single day pass is for CHF 24 and a three day pass is for CHF 48. A budget trip, in which you'll be dining out at inexpensive restaurants, and sticking to the sights of the ZurichCARD, expect to spend just north of CHF 130 - 140. Mid range trips can go up to CHF 200 - 250, because of more paid attractions and better restaurants. And as luxurious as the city is, going to clubs, shopping, eating at expensive restaurants, your daily budget can be expected to be anything higher than CHF 400.

Religion of Zurich

Christainity.

Restaurants and Local Food in Zurich

The local cuisine of Zurich, as indeed Switzerland, is influenced greatly by the countries around as well. Cheese, as famously known, is centra to the Swiss cuisine. Some dishes you just have to try whilst you're in Zurich include Rosti, cheese fondue, ólplermagronen among many others, and of course don't forget to indulge in the various kinds of Swiss chocolate.
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Best Time to Visit Zurich

Commuting within Zurich

Zurich Photos

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Top Hotels In Zurich

Le Bijou MH6 Jacuzzi Penthouse at MÃ¼nsterhof / Paradeplatz

9.6 (33 reviews)

CHF 680 onwards

Lake Side Location Bellevue

9.4 (60 reviews)

CHF 270 onwards

Atlantis by Giardino

9.3 (341 reviews)

CHF 331 onwards

Le Bijou LQ82 Spectacular Limmatview Penthouse

9.3 (44 reviews)

CHF 435 onwards

Widder Hotel - Zurichs luxury hideway

9.3 (284 reviews)

CHF 377 onwards

Baur au Lac

9.3 (490 reviews)

CHF 540 onwards

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How To Reach Zurich

Zurich is an extremely well connected city. It's importance globally and domestically makes it paramount that the city is easily accessible from everywhere.