Everything you need to know when planning a trip to Zurich: Where Urban Cool Meets Lakeside Charm

Planning a trip to Zurich, Switzerland? Let the team at Ultimate Drives show you around Zurich, a city of captivating contrasts. While known for its flawless efficiency and financial prowess, it also boasts a vibrant cultural heart, a beautifully preserved Old Town, and a pristine lake perfect for exploring. This blend of urban cool and natural charm makes it a must-visit Swiss city. To truly appreciate its diverse character, we recommend spending a day or two exploring its stunning mix of medieval history, avant-garde culture, and pristine natural beauty.

Let’s look beyond the banks and discover the Zurich we, at Ultimate Drives, have come to love.

From Medieval Alleys to Designer Boulevards

Your exploration should begin in the Altstadt (Old Town). On the east bank of the Limmat River, the Niederdorf district is a delightful tangle of pedestrian-only lanes, filled with traditional restaurants, cafés, and quirky shops. Climb the tower of the Grossmünster, the city’s landmark cathedral, for a spectacular view over the rooftops and the lake beyond.

Cross the river to the west bank and you’ll find the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets. Whether you’re indulging in some retail therapy or simply window shopping, it’s an experience in itself.

Lakeside Living and Industrial Chic

Zurich’s quality of life is intrinsically linked to its lake. On a warm day, a boat trip on Lake Zurich is a must, offering picture-postcard views of the city and the distant Glarus Alps. The locals even flock to the badis (lakeside swimming baths) for a refreshing dip.

Dining and Drinks

From historic guild halls to chic rooftop terraces, Zurich’s culinary scene is world-class.

• The Historic Guild Hall: For a traditional Zurich experience, book a table at Zunfthaus zur Waag. Located in a beautiful historic building, it serves Swiss classics with refinement.
• The Rooftop Experience: For cocktails with the best view in the city, head to The Nest at the Storchen hotel. Overlooking the River Limmat and the Old Town, it’s the ideal spot for an evening drink.
• The Michelin Masterpiece: For an unforgettable fine-dining experience, Pavillon at the Baur au Lac hotel is a city icon. With two Michelin stars, its seasonal, contemporary cuisine is nothing short of spectacular.
• The Sweet Treat: No visit is complete without stopping at Confiserie Sprüngli at Paradeplatz for coffee and their world-famous macarons, known locally as Luxemburgerli.

Our Recommended Stays

Zurich’s hotel offerings are superb, with options for every taste.

• The Old Town Boutique (Our Premier Pick): The Storchen has been a bastion of hospitality for over 650 years. With an unrivalled location on the river in the Old Town, its beautifully renovated rooms and vibrant terraces make it a client favourite.
• The Hilltop Icon: For a resort-like feel, the Dolder Grand offers a commanding position above the city. It’s a destination in itself, boasting a world-class, 4,000 sq m spa and an impressive art collection.
• The Lakeside Retreat: Just outside the city, the Alex Lake Zürich offers contemporary, five-star luxury right on the shores of Lake Zurich, with a private marina and stunning suites that feel like your own private residence.

An Extra Day: Unforgettable Day Trips

Adding an extra day in Zurich opens up a world of possibilities just a short drive away.

• Europe’s Largest Waterfall: A trip to Rhine Falls near the charming town of Schaffhausen is a must. The power of the falls is immense, and you can take a boat right up to the central rock. Afterwards, explore Schaffhausen’s medieval old town, home to the IWC watch museum.
• The Golden Round Trip: Discover Lucerne, with its iconic Chapel Bridge, and ascend the legendary Mount Pilatus. The journey involves a boat across the lake, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, and a cable car descent, offering a true taste of the Alps.
• The Local’s Escape: For a quick escape and the best panoramic views of the city, lake, and distant Alps, take the train up Uetliberg Mountain. A network of hiking trails makes it the perfect half-day activity.

Why Zurich?

Because it constantly surprises you. It’s a city where you can admire a Chagall window in the morning, swim in a crystal-clear lake at lunchtime, and dine in a repurposed factory in the evening. Its compact size makes it wonderfully walkable, and its blend of the historic and the hyper-modern provides a fantastic energy.

Your Zurich Checklist:

• Climb the tower of the Grossmünster for the best city view.
• Enjoy a coffee and a Luxemburgerli at Sprüngli.
• Stroll down the luxurious Bahnhofstrasse.
• Explore the trendy shops and eateries in Zürich-West.
• Take a boat trip on the beautiful Lake Zurich.
• Take a day trip to the magnificent Rhine Falls.
• Experience the “Golden Round Trip” to Mount Pilatus from Lucerne.

If you’re looking for the perfect way to experience some of the greatest roads in the world, it’s hard to beat our Swiss Passes & Andermatt tour. Check it out here: Swiss Passes & Andermatt

Or how about an adventure through the heart of the Swiss Alps and into Northern Italy with the St. Moritz & Stelvio Tour, which you can book here: St. Moritz & Stelvio Tour