Zurich
Switzerland
- Lake Zurich
- Bahnhofstrasse
- Grossmünster
- Fraumünster
- Kunsthaus Zürich
About Zurich
Zurich lies at the northern end of Lake Zurich, where the Limmat River leaves the lake, and is Switzerland's largest city. Dating back to Roman times, it became a centre of the Reformation in the 16th century.
The lakefront, the old town on both banks of the river, churches, museums and its role as an international financial centre shape its character.
How many days do you need?
Two days are enough: one for the old town, the Grossmünster, the Fraumünster and Bahnhofstrasse, and one for the Kunsthaus and a lakeside walk or boat trip. A third day can go to the Uetliberg hill or a day trip to Lucerne.
Where to stay
- Altstadt — On both banks of the river, within walking distance of most sights.
- Around the main station — Convenient for trains, with direct services to the airport.
- Zurich West — A former industrial area with restaurants and nightlife.
From the airport to the city
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is about 6 miles north of the centre. Trains from the airport station reach the main station (Zürich HB) in about 10 to 15 minutes, and a tram line also runs into the city.
Getting around
Trams, buses, S-Bahn trains and lake boats share the ZVV fare system. The centre is easy to explore on foot, and in summer swimming spots open on the lake and the Limmat.
Good to know
- Switzerland is expensive; plan your budget accordingly.
- Most shops close on Sundays, though those in the main station stay open.
- The local language is German (Swiss German), and the currency is the Swiss franc.
Useful links
- Zürich Tourism zuerich.com
- ZVV (public transport) zvv.ch
- Zurich Airport flughafen-zuerich.ch
When to go?
Best time to visit for the weather: May–October. The warmest month is July (average high 74 °F); the wettest is July (5.9 in).
Monthly climate
| Month | Avg. high °F | Rain in | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 37.2 | 3.73 | Cool or rainy |
| February | 40.5 | 2.87 | Cool or rainy |
| March | 48.6 | 3.50 | Cool or rainy |
| April | 57.0 | 3.67 | Cool or rainy |
| May | 63.5 | 5.85 | Good |
| June | 70.9 | 5.63 | Good |
| July | 73.8 | 5.93 | Good |
| August | 72.5 | 5.93 | Good |
| September | 66.6 | 4.11 | Good |
| October | 59.0 | 3.72 | Good |
| November | 47.1 | 3.50 | Cool or rainy |
| December | 38.7 | 4.41 | Cool or rainy |
Source: NASA POWER (MERRA-2 reanalysis), 2005–2024 monthly averages of daily high temperature and total rainfall. Values are estimates for an area of about 50 km and may differ from the city-centre weather station.
Public holidays 2027
- New Year's DayJanuary 1
- Good FridayMarch 26
- Easter SundayMarch 28
- Easter MondayMarch 29
- Ascension DayMay 6
- PentecostMay 16
- Whit MondayMay 17
- BundesfeiertagAugust 1
- Federal Day of Thanksgiving, Repentance and PrayerSeptember 19
- Christmas DayDecember 25
- Boxing DayDecember 26
Sources: date-holidays and python-holidays open data projects; for Northern Cyprus, its public holidays law.
Practical info
- CurrencySwiss Franc (Fr.)
- Dialling code+41
- Plugs & voltageType C, J · 230 V · 50 Hz
- Emergency112 · Police 117 · Ambulance 144 · Fire 118
- DrivingOn the right
Sources: IEC plug types, Wikidata, Wikipedia; unverified details are left blank.