I often mistake Zurich as the capital of Switzerland (it's actually Bern). Zurich is one of the largest cities in the country, but it didn't feel that way during my visit. It has a laid-back vibe and attractions that can fill your days.
Learn more about my trip to Zurich.
Travel Guide Budget and Itinerary for Zurich
Zurich has a long and storied past that dates to Roman times. Over the centuries, the small settlement got larger and larger because of its location as a trade route. By1351, Zurich was part of the Swiss Confederation that opposed the Habsburgs of Austria. Zurich played a huge role during the Protestant Reformation and offered asylum to refugees from France and Italy during the Counter Reformation. 20th and 21st century Zurich had its own problems such as banks laundering money for the Nazi Party, drug problems, and the financial and migration crises. However, Zurich is a thriving and buzzing city which you can add to your itinerary in Switzerland. There's plenty of things to do, historic neighborhoods, buildings, and monuments, a lot of food choices, and many open spaces for leisurely strolls.
How to Get a Schengen Visa
Switzerland is part of the Schengen group of countries. This means that when you get a visa for one member, you can use that visa to enter any member country. I got my Schengen visas from Austria, Poland, Italy, and Czechia. It took multiple trips to the region before I got a visa longer than one year. Depending on the passport you have, you'll need to apply for a visa first. I'm a Filipino passport holder that's why I need to apply for a visa before traveling to Europe.
You can read about my experience here: how to get a Schengen visa
How to Get to Zurich
You have a number of options on how to get to Zurich.
By Air
Zurich has an international airport for regional (within Europe) and global flights (everywhere else). I flew into Zurich from Manila via Dubai (Emirates). You can find good deals for flights that are still months away from your trip. Book as early as possible when you plan your budget and itinerary for Zurich.
By Land
You can get into Zurich (or any other city in Switzerland) by land from nearby countries. I've tried both the bus and train around Europe. Buses are the budget option for many travelers. I often go with www.flixbus.com whenever I'm in Europe. You can also check out Swiss Rail's website https://www.sbb.ch/en for schedules and prices.
Things to Do in Zurich
When you plan your budget and itinerary for Zurich, these are just of the places you can visit and things you can do.
Old Town
Zurich's old town is brimming with charm. The traditional buildings and quaint streets make for a good walking and wandering experience. You can also find plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops in this neighborhood.
Lake Zurich
This lake is a favorite of both locals and visitors alike. It has parks and promenades where everyone can have a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, exercise, and/or go on a cruise. You can also go swimming in the lake if you want to.
Zürichhorn Park
This park provides beautiful views of the lake and the mountains on a clear day. You can explore the Chinese Garden during your visit. The walk along the shore is also scenic. Zurich is the kind of city that has plenty of open spaces to let your thoughts linger and your mind relax despite being one of the world's financial hubs.
Zurich Opera House
This culturally significant and historic building has a fetching Neo-Classical exterior. It dates to the late 19th century. It is a popular cultural events venue.
Banhofstrasse
The Banhofstrasse is a pedestrian-friendly street that starts from the main train station to the area of the lake. You'll see plenty of high-end shops, trees, art, and beautiful architecture (some buildings are over a century old). You can go shopping (or just window shopping) while here.
Fraumünster
The Fraumünster dates to the 9th century. The abbess of the convent had substantial influence and power over the city because the imperial court granted rights to the convent she managed. Some of the convent's rights included minting coins and collecting tolls. However, as the centuries went on, the abbess lost her rights and power until the dissolution of the abbey in the 16th century. Fast forward to today, the Fraumünster is one of the most recognizable buildings of the city's skyline. Inside the church you'll find typical religious art. One of the reasons the church is a popular attraction is because of the stained-glass windows that Marc Chagall created.
Lindenhof
Grossmünster
This centuries old church is a prominent fixture in the city's beautiful skyline. Its two towers are its most dominant features. The different architectural influences in its exterior and interior (namely Gothic and Romanesque) tell the story of its history and evolution over the centuries.
St. Peter's Church
This church is one of the oldest in Zurich. One interesting tidbit about the church is that it has the largest clock dials in the continent.
Try Local Food
Met friends while in Zurich. I met them while they were in El Nido, Palawan (Philippines).
I try to sample the local delicacies in the places I visit. You don't have to eat at the most expensive and fanciest places to get a taste of local cuisine. In many cases, locals don't eat at those places everyday anyway. During my visit, my friends took me to some local spots. Swiss food isn't the most amazing I've had (I'm biased to Asian food because of the diverse flavors), but I did like it. I tried the cheese fondue and raclette. Europeans know how to make their pastries and chocolate, and some of the best I've had were in Switzerland. The sweetness and texture of the cakes, chocolates, and other pastries were perfect.
Some other things to do and places to visit when you plan your budget and itinerary for Zurich include:
- FIFA Museum
- Zurich Zoo
- Swiss National Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Lindt Home of Chocolate
Getting around Zurich
Zurich is a walkable city and many of its attractions are within walking distance to each other. You have public transportation options such as streetcars, buses, and trains. You can use one ticket for all modes of transportation in the city. You can also get a Zurich Pass for a day or multiple days.
Where to Stay in Zurich
Zurich (Switzerland in general) is one of the most expensive countries to visit. You'll spend a lot on accommodation even if you're staying in hostel dorms. I frequently browse www.booking.com to find the best possible deals for places to stay like Zurich.
Budget for Zurich
Let's face it Zurich (the whole country actually) is an expensive place to visit. Even staying in a hostel dorm costs a lot of money. However, you can reduce costs as much as possible by planning your trip carefully. Switzerland uses their own currency which is the Swiss Franc or CHF. A budget of roughly CHF 120 a day includes a bed in a hostel dorm, budget meals or food from the supermarket, use of public transportation, and a few paid attractions. If you plan on doing day trips to the mountains and other towns or cities, you'll have to increase your budget accordingly.
Itinerary for Zurich
Here's a sample itinerary for your trip.
Day 1
Old Town
Banhofstrasse
Fraumünster
St. Peter's Church
Grossmünster
Lindenhof
Day 2
Lake Zurich
Zürichhorn Park
Zurich Opera House
Lindt Home of Chocolate
You can add or remove days based on how much time you have and interests.
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