Zurich City Guide

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland with a population of over 375,000. According to several surveys it is the city with the highest quality of life in the world. It is surprising that it is not the capital of Swizerland, but it is considered the most important culturally.

Located around 30km north of the Alps, the city sits on the river Limmat and Lake Zurich surrounded by hills. With an interesting and attractive layout, the mountains are visible in good weather from some areas.

A number of train stations are situated in the city, the main being the Zurich Hauptbahnhof, which provides transport to and from many major European venues. International travel is also provided by the city’s airport, located 10km north-east in Kloten.

Internally, city is served by the S-Bahn (local trains), bus and tram. Away from dry land, boats operate along the river and lake and the city has a funicular railway as well as a cable car. The transport system is very frequent and efficient, which is not a surprise when looking at the national systems throughout Switzerland.

Whilst in the city, there is the feeling that everything is working perfectly. Generally, Switzerland feels safer than many other European countries and Zurich is no exception. The buildings are not as extravagant as those in other venues like London, Paris or Madrid but Zurich is attractive in the way it is set out.

Various attractions are in the city including a number of churches. The most important of these are the Grossmunster, built in 820, the Fraumunster, built in 874 and renovated in 2004 and the St Peter, which has the largest church clock face in the world.

Lake Zurich is a large attraction. Around this, various parks can be found, creating nice places to relax in, especially if the weather is good. There are also suitable swimming areas, however the water can get cold at times.

Switzerland has a reputation for being expensive, and in places it is. If you buy food in large global chain restaurants, the value is not as good as in local food venues. Despite the higher prices compared to many other cities, it is worth visiting Zurich as this clean city has beautiful views and a friendly vibe – making it a fantastic destination.