Zürich, Switzerland-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Old Town and Lake Zürich

Morning

  • Start at Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world
  • Visit Fraumünster Church, a beautiful church with stunning stained-glass windows
  • Walk along the Limmat River and explore the old town’s charming streets and alleys

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll around Lake Zürich, enjoy the views and fresh air
  • Visit the Swiss National Museum to learn about Switzerland’s history and culture

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Zeughauskeller
  • Stay at Hotel Europa Style, a comfortable hotel in the heart of the old town

Tips

  • Buy a Zürich Card for free public transportation and discounts on attractions
  • Try some Swiss chocolate at Teuscher, a famous chocolatier

Transportation

  • Take tram 4 or 15 from the main station to Bahnhofstrasse
  • Walk or take a short tram ride to most attractions in the old town

Day 2: Uetliberg Mountain and the West Side

Morning

  • Take the train to Uetliberg, a mountain with stunning views of the city and lake
  • Hike to the top for breathtaking views or take the easy route to the lookout point

Afternoon

  • Visit the Zürichhorn area, known for its beautiful gardens and scenic views
  • Explore the trendy Wiedikon neighborhood, with its boutiques and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Geronimo, serving modern Swiss cuisine
  • Stay at Hotel Engimatt, a stylish hotel in the Wiedikon neighborhood

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the hike up Uetliberg
  • Try some local craft beer at Bier Factory, a popular brewery and bar

Transportation

  • Take the S-Bahn (S10) from the main station to Uetliberg
  • Tram 5 or bus 31 will take you to the Wiedikon neighborhood

Day 3: Kunsthaus Art Museum and the East Side

Morning

  • Visit the Kunsthaus Art Museum, one of Switzerland’s most important art museums
  • Explore the nearby Oberdorf neighborhood, with its charming streets and cafes

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Rieterpark, a former industrial site turned park
  • Visit the Museum of Design, showcasing Swiss design and architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Markthalle, serving international cuisine in a lively atmosphere
  • Stay at Hotel Krone, a cozy hotel in the Oberdorf neighborhood

Tips

  • Check the Kunsthaus museum’s schedule for special exhibitions and events
  • Explore the street art scene in the Oberdorf neighborhood

Transportation

  • Take tram 2 or 4 from the main station to the Kunsthaus museum
  • Tram 11 will take you to the Rieterpark area

Day 4: Rhine Falls and Winterthur

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall (train S-Bahn S2 from Zürich Hauptbahnhof)
  • Explore the charming town of Schaffhausen, with its picturesque old town and castle

Afternoon

  • Visit Winterthur, a historic town with a stunning castle and beautiful parks
  • Explore the Swiss Science Center, an interactive museum for all ages

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Schwanen, serving traditional Swiss cuisine in Winterthur
  • Stay overnight in Winterthur or return to Zürich

Tips

  • Take a boat tour to get up close to Rhine Falls
  • Explore the charming old town of Winterthur and its many museums

Transportation

  • Take the S-Bahn (S2) from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Schaffhausen and then bus 633 to Rhine Falls
  • Return to Zürich or stay overnight in Winterthur

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit Jelmoli, one of Switzerland’s most famous department stores

Afternoon

  • Depart from Zürich Hauptbahnhof, with easy connections to the airport or other destinations in Switzerland

Tips

  • Don’t forget to buy some Swiss chocolate or cheese as souvenirs
  • Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for easy travel throughout Switzerland

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities, giving you a well-rounded experience of Zürich and its surroundings. Enjoy your trip!