Taking a cruise on Lake Zurich is a great way to introduce yourself to this quintessential Swiss town. Cruises typically depart from Bürkliplatz, with some tours or services stopping at other ports around the lakeshore. Take in Alpine air, admire Zurich’s unique cityscape, and relax as you enjoy the view.

Zurich’s Old Town (Aldstadt) is among the prettiest parts of the city. Walking tours typically offer an intimate glimpse of the area’s top landmarks, including Lindenhof, St. Peter’s Church (originally built before 900 AD), and the Fraumünster Church, and history buffs will love learning about the area's unique history and culture of Switzerland’s biggest city.

When in Switzerland, do as the Swiss do and dive into a bowl of melted cheese. There are many fondue options in and around Zurich, from tuk-tuk tours serving onboard fondue to full-day excursions that combine sightseeing with a fondue dinner. If you’re after the full dining experience, head to Chalet Züriberg in District 7, where you can tuck into local fondue fare in a traditional wooden chalet setting.

Located on the city's border, the Uetliberg mountain is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Its summit offers panoramic views of Zurich, Lake Zurich, and the Alpine landscape beyond, while the Planetenweg Trail connects the Uetliberg to the Falsenegg summit through a family-friendly, 2-hour hike. Look out for city sightseeing packages that include an Uetliberg stop or take the S10 train directly from Zurich HB.

No visit to Switzerland would be complete without a taste of the country’s chocolate. The Lindt Home of Chocolate on the outskirts of Zurich is the premier destination for sweet-toothed visitors, while more central schoggi (“chocolate” in Swiss German) attractions include Confiserie Sprüngli and Max Chocolatier. Or choose a chocolate walking tour where you can eat chocolate along the way while learning about local landmarks.

Zurich’s Industriequartier, also known as District 5, is a thoroughly modern neighborhood with a bohemian twist. Here you can sample some of the area’s up-and-coming gastronomic trends, learn about its unique social history, or discover the neighborhood from an LGBTQ+ perspective.

Maintained by the University of Zurich, the Old Botanical Garden is home to a cluster of striking bubble-esque tropical greenhouses that make it a year-round possibility when in the Swiss city. During good weather, you can make the most of the open lawn space or grab a snack at the on-site café before entering the greenhouses for a better look.

The city’s top destination for retail therapy, Bahnhofstrasse is considered one of the most exclusive shopping streets in the world. Luxury malls and designer stores line the pretty promenade, with several global banks headquartered on the street’s central Paradeplatz. For the story behind the wealth, consider a behind-the-scenes tour of this powerful financial center.

Cap off a busy day with dancing, drinks, or a little of both. Zurich is renowned for its nightlife, with Langstrasse’s lively bars particularly popular among the city’s international community and finance workers. Niederdorf is the place to go for queer-friendly clubs and bistros, while Zurich West boasts alternative spaces and laid-back restaurants and bars like Rimini.

If you have time for a day trip, make Appenzelland your destination. This rural region provides a fascinating glimpse of Switzerland’s unique heritage, with lovely towns, working dairies, rolling pasturelands, and Alpine mountains offering plenty to explore. If you only have time to do one thing here, make it Säntis—the highest mountain in the Alpstein massif of the Appenzell Alps. Embark on the Säntis der Berg trail and witness some breathtaking views.