zurich history tour

Navigate to myswitzerland.com

Destinations

Your swiss holiday time.

Holiday destinations

• Summer holiday destinations
• Winter sports & ski resorts
• Family destinations

Attractions

• Top attractions
• UNESCO World Heritage sites / biospheres
• Travel by train, bus or boat
• Top museums
• Swiss Parks
• Scenic nature

Experiences

Additional content about subnavigation experiences.

• Family excursions
• Food & Wine
• Group excursions
• Guided tours

Summer & Autumn

• Bicycle & Mountain bike
• Adventure & Sports Summer
• Zoo & animal experiences
• Ski and snowboard
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoe and winter hiking
• Tobogganing
• Winter excursions
• Christmas in Switzerland

Cities & culture

• Parks, Gardens and Squares
• Architecture

Experience Tour

• Car, motorcycle - Grand Tour
• Train, bus, boat – Grand Train Tour
• Mountain excursions

Accommodation

• Typically Swiss Hotels
• Wellness & Spa
• Family Hotels
• Bike Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Inspiring Meeting Hotels
• Swiss Historic Hotels
• Luxury hotels
• Winter sports hotels

Other types of accommodation

• On the farm
• Bed and Breakfast
• Mountains huts
• Group accommodation

Transport & Stay

• Travel to Switzerland
• Barrier-free travel
• Tickets public transport
• Service & support
• Money and shopping

About Switzerland

• General facts
• Custom and tradition
• History of Switzerland
• The Swiss Art and Culture Scene
• Health Travel
• Sustainability

Weather & Climate

• Climate in Switzerland
• Snow Report
• Water and pool temperatures
• City offers
• Touring offers
• Wellness offers
• Nature and outdoor offers
• Offers for families

Where are you from?

• België (Nederlands)
• Belgique (Français)
• Deutschland
• Netherlands
• Russia (Россия)
• Schweiz (Deutsch)
• Suisse (Français)
• Svizzera (Italiano)
• Switzerland (English)
• United Kingdom
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• China 中文简体
• China 中文繁体
• Gulf countries العربية
• Japan 日本
• Korea 한국어
• United Arab Emirates
• New Zealand
• International

Language, region and important links

• Slovenština

Service Navigation

• Help & Contact

Zurich's Old Town

Zürich Tourismus Im Hauptbahnhof 8001 Zürich Phone  +41 (0)44 215 40 00 zuerich.com

Zurich's Old Town is the historic center of the city. Here you can stroll through narrow alleyways, houses steeped in history and picturesque sights.

Zurich's Old Town is the historic center of Zurich and a cultural heart of the city. It consists of narrow streets, historic buildings, guild houses and picturesque squares that tell a rich history.

The Old Town is home to numerous sights, including the Fraumünster  (Minster of Our Lady), the Grossmünster  (Great Minster) and the Peterskirche (Peter's Church) with the largest clock face in Europe. The Old Town is also lined with cozy cafés, restaurants and stores that invite you to stroll and linger. Some of the best photo spots for souvenir albums are also here: the Münsterbrücke or the Rathausbrücke. Lake Zurich and the Alps in the background - simply perfect!

*** Leading

Crowd prediction

Discover the surroundings.

Zürich Tourismus Im Hauptbahnhof 8001  Zürich Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)44 215 40 00 [email protected] zuerich.com Show Route

Zürich Tourismus Im Hauptbahnhof 8001 Zürich Phone  +41 (0)44 215 40 00 zuerich.com Show Route

Advertisement

Travel information: zurich, destination.

Zürich Tourismus Im Hauptbahnhof 8001  Zürich +41 (0)44 215 40 00 [email protected] Website

• Hotel booking
• Holiday rentals
• Swiss Hostels
• Bed and breakfast
• Railway timetable

Local Information

• Restaurants
• Parks and Squares
• Request brochures

Winter sports

• Swiss Ski School
• Lakesides / Swimmingpools
• Climatic data
• Swisstravelcenter Hiking Maps
• Swisstravelcenter Mountainbike Maps
• Swisstopo Hiking Maps

Current Offers

Zurich city tour: richard wagner in zurich.

The Dolder Grand, Zurich Grand Tour of Switzerland adventure

Price per double room valid: 27.06.2024 - 31.10.2024

Hotel City Zürich, Zurich Stay in the heart of the city

Price per double room valid: 27.06.2024 - 31.08.2024

The Dolder Grand, Zurich Grand Tour of Switzerland - Zürich

Zurich zurich-west tour, zurich reformation in zurich tour, zurich “zurich’s oasis, schanzengraben” city tour, zurich city tour: made in zurich, zürich tourismus, zurich zürich card, zurich dada art movement tour, discover zurich.

• Top Destinations
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Tokyo, Japan
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• London, United Kingdom
• All Destinations
• Upcoming Experiences
• Private Walking Tours
• Small-Group Tours
• Tours for Kids
• Museum Tours
• Food, Wine and Market Tours
• Newly Added Tours
• Audio Guides
• Pre-Trip Lectures
• Admin Dashboard
• My Favorites
• Cookies Preferences
• Client Orders
• Monthly Commissions
• My Advisor Profile
• Advisor Toolkit
• Guide Dashboard

Credit Balance

Transactions are based on current exchange rates and performed in USD. There maybe slight variations in the price estimates.

Introduction to Zurich Tour

• St. Peter's Church
• Lindenhof Zürich
• Fraumünster Church
• Grossmünster Church

• Get acquainted with Zurich's main sites, history, and neighborhoods
• Led by an expert in history or local culture

Sites Visited 

• Old Town neighborhood
• St. Peter's Church (interior and exterior) 
• Fraumünster Church (interior and exterior - interior visit not possible on Sunday morning tour) 
• Grossmünster Church (interior and exterior - interior visit not possible on Sunday morning tour)
• Guild houses (exteriors)
• 3 hours with a Ph.D. or MA level guide 

Itinerary Detail

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ .

Book a Tour

• Our Experts
• Working with Context
• View All Cities
• Sustainable Tourism
• Refer a Friend for $50
• Travel Updates
• Advisor Login
• Expert Portal

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Privacy Statement & Security
• Cancellation Policy

HISTORICAL TOURS

•  Every Saturday and Sunday at 11am (and more dates ), meeting next to Credit Suisse at Paradeplatz
•  See Paradeplatz, St. Peter, Lindenhof, Augustinerkirche, Rathausbrücke, Fraumünster and many more.
•  2 hours tour
•  Free tour, please sign up

Historical tour

Special tours available as private tours:, war, terror and revolution tour (paid, on demand tour), jewish tour (paid, on demand tour), the reformation in zurich (paid, on demand tour).

Free Walk Zurich does not assume any liability for accidents, thefts or any other damage during the walk. © (copyright) by Free Walking Tours Zurich. Free Walking Tours Zurich is a non-profit organization registered as an association under Swiss law. Free Walking Tours Zurich is a climate neutral organization. Free Walking Tours Zurich is part of Free Walking Tours Switzerland. Impressum .

One Day in Zurich – A Walking Tour of Old Town

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks in advance for your continued support!

When I headed to Zurich for a weekend the beginning of April, I had low expectations. I had only previously spent an extended period of time in Geneva and did not like it at all. So when I saw cheap flights to Zurich, I was quite hesitant – would I actually like the city or would it be like Geneva all over again? Much to my surprise and happiness, I fell head-over-heels in love with Zurich. I think it’s due to the German nature of the city but every corner I turned was even more picturesque than the last. It also helped that German is spoken in this region of Switzerland, making it infinitely easier for me to communicate compared to Geneva. Because I only had a weekend in Zurich (and decided to take a day trip from Zurich to Lucerne), here’s a guide on how to spend one day in Zurich!

Contrary to popular belief, Zurich is not the capital of Switzerland (that title is held by the city of Bern). However, Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland. Even though it is the largest city in Switzerland, it is totally possible to visit Zurich in one day. As mentioned above, Zurich is in the “German” part of Switzerland, and thus the language spoken is Swiss German (in my opinion, a very amusing dialect of German after having been taught High German!). Zurich consistently ranks in the top ten in terms of cities with the best quality of life and after visiting, it’s easy to tell why!

Table of Contents

History of Zurich

Although there were settlements during the Bronze Age and Neolithic Age, the city of Zurich rose to prominence during the Roman times with major reforms occurring under the rule of Emperor Constantine around 300 AD. Germanic tribes settled in the area around 500 AD although the Roman structures were still standing in the 7th century. In 835 AD, Louis the German (grandson of Charlemagne) founded the Fraumünster abbey for his daughter Hildegard. The abbey played an important political role in the city – collecting taxes, printing money, holding markets, and appointing mayors.

In 1218, Zurich became a free imperial city and by the 14th century, the power of the abbey began to wane after Zurich became part of the Swiss Confederacy in 1351. One of the biggest changes came in the 1520s, when Zwingli started the Swiss Reformation in Zurich – changing both the religious and civil life for the city. For the next few centuries, the city developed an isolationist attitude and reinforced the city’s fortifications. After experiencing a rise, fall, and rebirth in the 19th century, Zurich grew rapidly due to industrialization and long-distance transportation options. Following neutrality during World War II, the city experienced rapid growth due to the financial and international business sectors. This booming economy continues to exist today – making Zurich one of the wealthiest city’s in the entire world.

One Day in Zurich

When I booked my ticket to Zurich, I had no intention of falling in love with the city. The allure of round-trip tickets for under 50 Euros convinced me to visit the city that so many people rave about during their travels. I arrived on a Saturday morning and departed on a Sunday evening. Even with this short time frame, I had no problem visiting Zurich for one day. Instead of going straight to the city, I decided to take a day trip from Zurich to Lucerne, hopping on a train at the Zurich airport that took me directly to Lucerne. While I found Lucerne gorgeous, I’m really glad I decided to base myself in Zurich during my day there.

The old town of Zurich is divided in half by the Limmat River, which ends up emptying into Lake Zurich. I stayed to the east of the river but found both sides equally charming! While this guide only covers the old town area of Zurich, two days in Zurich would allow you to explore other neighborhoods.

Below is the ultimate old town walking tour of what to see in Zurich in one day and things to do in Zurich in one day!

This tour starts at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Zurich Main Train Station). Everything is 100% walkable so there is no need to buy tickets for public transportation. After arriving at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof, cross Bahnhofsbrücke (Train Station Bridge) – if you go over a river, you’re going in the correct direction 😉 Keep going straight until you reach Niederdorfstr. – then turn right onto the street!

Niederdorf and Oberdorf

Fondly referred to as “Dörfli” by the locals, these streets (which run into one another) are parallel to the Limmat River. The street starts out as Niederdorf and changes into Oberdorf after passing by the Rathaus (Town Hall). As a pedestrian zone, the entire area is lined with shops, restaurants, café, and adorably old buildings. One of the older areas of Zurich, the narrow cobblestone streets have a plethora of hidden alleys and colorful buildings. During the summer months, outdoor seating and cafes pop up in this pedestrian zone.

While Niederdorf and Oberdorf entice shoppers during the daytime hours, the area turns into party central with DJs, bars, and a great nightlife! Make sure not to miss this area during the daytime and nighttime.

While walking along Niederdorf and Oberdorf, take a quick detour to the Limmat River to view Zurich’s Rathaus. Built in the 1690s, the Rathaus looks like it was built into the water. Don’t mistake the Rathaus with the Stadthaus (City Hall) – the Rathaus houses the legislative chambers and Parliament whereas the Stadthaus is home to Zurich’s executive branch.

Even though the Rathaus was built almost 330 years ago, the building itself is in its original condition. While the building was mainly built in the Renaissance style, elements from the Baroque style were also incorporated into this building. Before the current-day Rathaus was built on this spot, an old wooden Rathaus stood on this exact spot for almost 400 years.

Grossmünster

Right across from the Rathaus is one of Zurich’s four iconic churches – the Grossmünster. Built on the site of an old Carolingian Church (commissioned by Charlemagne himself!), the present-day church dates to 1100. As a monastery church, the Grossmünster was in constant competition with the Fraumünster across the river for superiority. As the Grossmünster was commissioned by Charlemagne and the Fraumünster was commissioned by Charlemagne’s grandson Louis the German, the Grossmünster wins out in terms of superiority. Legend has it that Charlemagne chose this spot for a church as this was the location of Felix and Regula’s tombs, the patron saints of Zurich (a theory supported by the discovery of a Roman burial site under the church!).

The Grossmünster is most famous for its role in the Swiss Reformation initiated by Huldrych Zwingli. It was from this church that he started the Swiss Reformation in 1520. He removed most of the ornate interior decorations, including the organ – this accounts for the plain interior of the church even today.

The two towers of the Grossmünster are the most iconic landmark in the entire city and easily seen from most vantage points. For an incredible view of Zurich, make sure to climb to the top of these towers! While your legs won’t be too happy about the climb, your eyes (and camera!) with thank you for this gorgeous view.

Wasserkirche

Located right next to the Grossmünster and directly on the Limmat River is the second of Zurich’s four most important churches – the Wasserkirche. First mentioned in the 1250s, the church was built on an island in the Limmat River. However, the island was connected to Zurich’s mainland in 1839.

Although the church was mentioned in the 1250s, the church probably dates to the 10 th century and has a dark past. The original building on this spot centered around the worship of a stone, leading to cult-like meetings. Legend states that the Romans executed Felix and Regula, the patron saints of Zurich, on this stone. Regarded as particularly holy, the Swiss Reformation labeled the Wasserkirche as a “temple of idol worshippers.”

Secularized in the 1600s, the first public library opened here in 1643 – contributing to the founding of the University of Zurich in the 19 th century. Following a decline in its importance as a library, the church was renovated and reopened in the 1940s as a Protestant church, which it continues to be today.

Bellevueplatz and Quaibrücke

A crossroads for transportation, Bellevueplatz (Bellevue Square) borders Lake Zurich, right where the Limmat River empties into Lake Zurich. While the square itself isn’t very pretty, head over near the opera house and sit on the bank of the lake on a beautiful day. Although I visited at the beginning of April, I was lucky to have extraordinarily warm weather – the perfect opportunity to sit along the banks of the lake, dip in my toes, and watch all the sailboats. Make sure to stop at Lake Zurich and take in the breathtaking site of the lake with the mountains in the background!

To get to the other side of Limmat River and explore that side of Zurich, just take the Quaibrücke – a pedestrian and roadway bridge right at the mouth of where the Limmat River enters Lake Zurich. This not only gives you fabulous views of the Limmat River and Zurich on both sides, but also gives great views of Lake Zurich (like below!).

Fraumünster

If you make a right-hand turn once you get off Quaibrücke and walk along the water, you’ll go straight into the Fraumünster. An abbey was founded here in 853 AD by Louis the German (grandson of Charlemagne) for his daughter Hildegard. Although the abbey and subsequent Fraumünster underwent several changes and renovations before reaching its present-day form, this spot has always had a religious significance.

In 1045, the Holy Roman Emperor Henry III gave the Fraumünster the right to hold markets, collect taxes, and mint coins. Thus, it became the de-facto ruler of the city, and rose in prominence and power. By the 1300s, the role of the abbey waned due to the separation of religion from daily politics and the abbey was dissolved in 1524 due to the Swiss Reformation.

Today, the Fraumünster is a Protestant church and best known for its Chagall windows. As someone who absolutely loves anything and everything by Chagall, this church was one of the main reasons why I wanted to visit Zurich. Although I was unable to get pictures of the windows themselves, you can view them here .

St. Peter Kirche

If you continue along the water, you’ll run into St. Peter Kirche, a more secluded church that has undergone both several renovations and several religious changes! It is located right next to Lindenhof and there’s evidence that an original smaller church structure was built on this site in the 8th or 9th century. Throughout its 1,000-year history, the church has been rebuilt several times in different architectural styles including early Romanesque, late Romanesque, and Gothic. The present-day church was consecrated in 1706 as the first church built under Protestant rule in Zurich.

Oddly enough, the nave of the church is owned by the Protestant church of Zurich while the steeple is owned by the city of Zurich. The steeple was previously used for fire and police duties, hence why it is owned by the city. Additionally, the clock face on the tower/steeple is the largest church clock face in all of Europe!

Augustinergasse

When you reach St. Peter Kirche, take a right and you’ll wander onto the gorgeous Augustinergasse – a street that’s impossible to miss due to its colorful buildings and endless amount of flags (something this American loves seeing!). As one of the oldest, most gorgeous historical streets in all of Zurich, Augustinergasse connects St. Peter Kirche with the major Bahnhofstrasse, the main shopping street.

Augustinergasse is known for its well-preserved bay windows which served as a way for residents to see who was knocking at their door! An additional bonus of these windows was the massive amount of light it allowed into buildings. Today, the Augustinergasse is lined with local shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse is Zurich’s most exclusive shopping street and one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world! For reference, Bahnhofstrasse is the 9th most expensive street in the world for retail property. While it’s unlikely I’ll be buying anything from this street anytime soon, it’s still lots of fun to meander down Bahnhofstrasse and partake in a bit of window shopping!

Head back to the water by taking the adorable old street of Rennweg. Similar to Augustinergasse, it is filled with old shops, historical architecture, colorful buildings, and lots of flags! It used to be one of the most important streets in Zurich during the Middle Ages and is the second most exclusive shopping street in Zurich behind Bahnhofstrasse.

Lindenhof is one of the most popular areas in all of Zurich, best known for Lindenhof Hill and its incredible views of Zurich. The area has had a human presence for almost 2,000 years. It was initially the site of a Roman castle and tax collection location. By the 9th century, the castle was in disarray and was rebuilt as a residence for Louis of German. By the 13th century, this residence was no longer used and the bricks of the residence were used to build other buildings in Zurich.

Today, Lindenhof Hill is used as a social gathering place that provides fantastic views of the entire city!

The artisan’s district of Zurich, Shipfe might be my favorite area in Zurich. It is located on the other side of the Lindenhof Hill from St. Peter Kirche (between Lindenhof Hill and Zurich Hauptbahnhof). It is believed that this was the old harbor area during the Celtic-Roman times and it is considered the oldest area in all of Zurich. It is extremely picturesque with small artisan galleries and independent shops lining the narrow streets.

By this point, you’re almost back at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof – right where you started the tour! If you spend your time leisurely walking and exploring some of the locations, this walking tour of Zurich should take between 4-6 hours! If you’re in Zurich for more than one day, check out how to extend your stay below into two days in Zurich as well as the best day trips from Zurich.

Bonus Location: Schanzengraben

Although I never made it to Schazengraben on my trip to Zurich, it’s high on my list when I return! Located behind Lindenhof and Schipfe, Schanzengraben is a moat and one of the last remaining Baroque fortifications in Zurich. It is also one of Zurich’s official city parks with a promenade along the water.

Two Days in Zurich

The Zurich walking tour above is the perfect itinerary for one day in Zurich. While it mainly focuses on the old town area of Zurich, these are some of the best things to see in Zurich in one day and things to do in Zurich in one day. Below are a few ideas on what to do with two days in Zurich.

Zurich West

The new “it” neighborhood in Zurich, everyone told me I had to visit Zurich-West. Unfortunately, I ran out of time to head over to that area of Zurich, but it’s lined with hip shops, night clubs, restaurants, cafes, and bars. As the former industrial area of Zurich, this area has been entirely gentrified and is now one of the coolest areas in the entire city. Next time I’ll definitely make it here!

Museums of Zurich

I didn’t have a chance to pop into any of Zurich’s museums but there are a few I’d love to visit on my next trip to Zurich – the FIFA World Football Museum, Kunsthaus Zurich (art museum), National Museum Zurich, Museums Löwenbräu-Areal (contemporary art museum), and Museum of Design.

University of Zurich

Maybe it’s because I was a perpetual student for so many years but I’d love to come back and just explore the grounds of the University of Zurich. I’m always so fascinated on how universities are organized and laid out, and this one is particularly interesting because it is so close to the old town of Zurich.

Best Day Trips from Zurich

There are so many places easily reachable from Zurich – here are the best day trips from Zurich! Even better, if you’re flying into Zurich, you can hop on a train to these places at the Zurich airport without even having to stop in Zurich. Here are some of my favorite excursions for Zurich day trips.

The easiest, best, and one of the prettiest day trips from Zurich. Lucerne is only about an hour train ride away from Zurich airport and there is ample luggage storage at the Lucerne Bahnhof (train station).

Lucerne is one of the most picturesque towns in all of Switzerland. Located on Lake Lucerne and famous for its  Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) , the city has been around for at least 1,500 years. In the 12th century, the Habsburg dynasty exerted rights over the city. However, less than 100 years later, the city became a city-state, ruling over itself. While the Reformation was occurring in Zurich, Lucerne remained mainly Catholic and this played an important role in the city’s history.

Best idea for a day trip from Zurich to Lucerne? Starting at Lake Lucerne, walk along both sides of the Reuss River admiring the colorful buildings, lively city center, and absolutely gorgeous views! It’s an easy city to walk in less than 6 hours and a great day trip from Zurich!

A few fun facts about Kapellbrücke, the wood bridge above. The bridge is the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe as well as the oldest surviving truss bridge in the world. The bridge is most famous for the ornate interior paintings dating back to the 17th century. Unfortunately, a catastrophic fire hit the bridge in 1993, destroying over two-thirds of it. There are varying theories as to how the fire started but it is mainly attributed to two ideas – either a boat with a fire on it going under the bridge spread the fire, or a cigarette butt was not properly discarded on the bridge and it started the fire. Regardless, the bridge was swiftly restored in all sections possible, and the other sections not salvageable were rebuilt.

Mount Pilatus & Titlis

If you’re wanting something a bit more outdoorsy, consider a day trip from Zurich to either Mount Pilatus or Mount Titlis. Both are fairly close to Lucerne, with it possible combine a day trip from Lucerne with Mount Pilatus as well (Mount Titlis might be a bit of a stretch). If you’re big into skiing, make sure to take full advantage of Mount Titlis and the amazing winter activities offered in the region.

Packages for a day trip to Mount Titlis   as well as a list of other  day trips from Zurich .

How to get to Zurich

Getting to Zurich is quite easy, especially by plane and train. Like most western European locations, public transportation is excellent and efficient.

Zurich is well-connected to surrounding countries including Germany, France, Austria, and Italy. With extensive roadways, it’s easy to reach Zurich – just make sure to check the roads in the wintertime to make sure some of the smaller routes or mountain passes aren’t closed due to snow. In terms of parking (which is always difficult and expensive in a European city), I’d recommend parking your car when you arrive in Zurich and not touching it until you leave. Zurich is a walkable city and most of the older streets aren’t conducive to cars anyways.

The Zurich Hauptbahnhof, located right next to old town Zurich, is the largest train station in all of Switzerland. With almost 3,000 trains departing a day from Zurich, it makes it one of the busiest train stations in the world. There are hundreds of long-distance and short-distance trains connecting to all other regions of Switzerland as well as popular cities in France, Austria, Italy, Hungary, and Germany.

As Zurich is such an important station for all of Europe, even the slightest delay can cause the rest of Switzerland (or the continent) to have their train schedules thrown off. Thus, there are strict rules in terms of how long trains in Zurich can wait before departing (usually a maximum of 3 minutes).

With reasonable priced tickets and one of the nicest airports I’ve ever visited, I opted to fly from Hamburg to Zurich. The ticket was around 50 Euros with a flight time of about an hour. Exiting out of the Zurich Airport is swift although I did find the train station in the airport a bit confusing. Regardless, there are always individuals available to help and everyone speaks impeccable English, French, and German! The trains from Zurich Airport to Zurich Hauptbahnhof run every 5-10 minutes from 5:00 am to 12:30 am. Travel time is 10-15 minutes and a ticket costs around CHF 7.00.

The cheapest but slowest travel option is by bus. Flixbus , one of the main bus companies in Europe, connects Zurich to several other countries including France, Italy, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Poland, etc. If bought in advance, bus tickets can cost less than CHF 20.00. Do note that buses in Europe are known for being rather late so plan accordingly!

Where to Stay in Zurich

Recommended.

Hotel Adler – Out of all the hotels in Zurich, I would highly recommend Hotel Adler. It’s where I stayed and I absolutely loved my time here. The location is central, the area is quiet but still lively, the breakfast was over-the-top delicious, and the building was the home of a former artist. Best of all – the price was insanely affordable! I’d 100% stay here agin.

Check availability for Hotel Adler

Budget (Under CHF 100)

On a tight budget and looking for affordable options under CHF 100? Check out the two hostels below – my favorites in Zurich!

Oldtown Hostel Otter  – Not only is this hostel located in the old town of Zurich, but it is only a few steps away from Lake Zurich. Everything in Zurich is walkable from this location and there are options for private or shared rooms. The breakfast buffet is quite large and it has an attached bar.

Check availability for Oldtown Hostel Otter

City Backpacker Biber  – Located 300 meters away from the Grossmünster, this hostel has a secret location – its rooftop bar! A short distance from all the main tourist attractions, there are options for private and shared rooms. Additionally, there is a large common area that’s great for chilling and meeting others.

Check availability for City Backpacker Biber

Mid-Range (CHF 100 – CHF 300)

25Hours Hotel Zurich West or Langstrasse  –  Whether you decide to stay in the hip Zurich West location or right by the main train station, 25Hours Hotel has you covered with cool and luxurious amenities at an affordable price. They also include tasty on-site restaurants as well as a free sauna!

Check availability for 25Hours Hotel Zurich West or Langstrasse

Motel One Zurich  – Located right next to the old town area of Zurich, Motel One is a chic European hotel chain that offers a high standard of service and amenities at a reasonable price. The breakfast buffet has a large array of food options and the interior has a warm, rustic charm to make you feel right at home.

Check availability for Motel One Zurich

Greulich  – The original design and lifestyle hotel in Zurich, the hotel already catches your eye initially from the quirky exterior. The rooms are styled in a bright, airy manner that mimics a simple yet modern Scandinavian style. The bar and terrace are cozy meeting places or areas to enjoy by yourself!

Check availability for Greulich

Marktgasse Hotel  – Smack dab in the middle of Zurich’s old town area, the rooms have high ceilings, large windows, and the comfiest looking beds! Besides the breakfast and dinner options, there is a terrace with views of the entire city.

Check availability for Marktgasse Hotel

Luxury (CHF 300+)

Widder Hotel  – One of the premier hotels in all of Zurich, this 5-star hotel is spread out between 9 adjacent buildings decorated by famous artists such as Andy Warhol. No two rooms are the same – every room is individually decorated and furbished. Awarded 15 points by the Gault Millau guide, the hotel’s restaurant serves traditional Swiss cuisine year-round.

Check availability for Widder Hotel

Baur Au Lac  – Situated in its own private park, Baur Au Lac is the crème de la crème when it comes to luxury accommodations and fine dining. The two restaurants have won several awards including 18 points by the Gault Millau guide and a Michelin star. The views are magical from this hotel and the decor is both elegant and colorful.

Check availability for Baur Au Lac

Budgeting for Zurich (and Switzerland)

I’m not going to lie – Switzerland is expensive. But I really didn’t find it that much more expensive than most other western European countries. As with all travel, the further ahead you plan your travels to Switzerland, the cheaper it will be.

As of writing this post, the exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and Swiss France is equal – this makes calculating prices so much easier!

• 1.00 USD = CHF 1.00 .

In my opinion, I would splurge for lodging over food in Switzerland. Because of my limited amount of time in the city and because there were so many places to visit in Zurich, I wanted a centrally located hotel. Due to traveling solo, I knew I wouldn’t spend that much time eating in restaurants anyways. Some of the best food I ate in Switzerland came from food stands and grab-and-go locations. Additionally, I bought a pre-packaged sandwich from a local grocery store for lunch (so good!) and had breakfast included in my room rate (it was a massive buffet breakfast!). This both saved me money and time.

Compared to Germany, I actually found the train prices quite reasonable (then again, German trains can be so expensive!!!). Round trip from the Zurich Airport was about CHF 15.00 and round trip from Lucerne was about CHF 50.00. Tickets can be bought cheaper in advance to Lucerne but because I bought the ticket day of, I paid the most expensive price (which, for over an hour train ride each way, still seemed reasonable to me). While in Zurich, I walked everywhere and spent nothing on public transportation!

Best time to visit Zurich

It’s hard to pick the best time to visit Zurich because the city is just so gorgeous year-round! I visited Zürich the beginning of April and had the best spring weather – light jacket in the mornings and evenings, and lots of sunshine during the daytime. I think March and April are some of the best months to visit Europe in general because the continent is warming up yet you’re not fighting hoards of tourists. To be honest, it felt empty in Zurich, especially when walking the side streets (many times, I was completely alone). Additionally, I think I got an amazing hotel deal due to traveling in the off-season.

If I hadn’t visited Zurich in the springtime, I definitely would have gone in wintertime. I’m a sucker for cold weather, snow, skiing, and fondue (Dad, if you’re reading – sorry I’m not sorry!). With so many ski resorts easily reachable from Zurich, it would have been heaven for me. Luckily, I’m headed back to Switzerland in a few weeks to explore the Christmas markets in Basel and Bern – I’ll be sure to get my winter fix there!

Final Thoughts on Zurich

I overlooked Zurich so many times due to my poor experience in Geneva and my fear of how expensive I thought it would be. By planning ahead of time and going in the off-season, I was able to save a significant amount of money – making Zurich no more expensive than London or Paris. Additionally, Zurich is nothing like Geneva. I think I liked Zurich so much more than Geneva because it has a more German feel – something that immediately makes me feel more comfortable in any location. I was able to read the signs, navigate, and communicate – something I was totally unable to do in Gevena due to my lack of French.

Don’t be scared off by the prices and reputation of Zurich – it’s such a charming city with so much to do even if you only have one day in Zurich!

Like The Post? Share It!

Happy 5th Birthday, Wayfaring With Wagner

Music City Hamburg – Beatles to the Reeperbahn Festival

Related posts.

Hints & Tips for Visiting Pearl Harbor on Your Own

The Perfect Big Island Itinerary for 7 Days // Hawaii

20 Signs That You’re a Type-A Traveler

15 comments.

We spent a glorious week on the French side of Switzerland, but I wish we’d spent a whole month exploring the country!

Beautiful! Never been to Swiss. Now I have to visit! Unlike you, I’m not a big fan of cold weather, so I might consider Springtime as you suggested. 🙂

If you could have stayed longer, how many days would you recommend?

I’ve heard already form many people that they like Zurich more than Geneva, now I am curious to check this city out too. So, I guess if I made it financially in London then I’ll make it in Zurich too :))

Wow, I didn’t realise that there was so many amazing things to see and do in Zurich! I always thought Geneva was the place to go (but who says you can’t do both, right?). Gorgeous photos as well! #WanderfulWednesday

It looks like a beautiful city – so colourful and so many beautiful buildings. It seem you got to know it pretty well in a short time. I totally agree with you about Chagall. I am so happy to see anything by him too. #WanderfulWednesday

Zurich looks beautiful, bright, and like you said… very Germanic! I’m glad you decided to give it a second chance 🙂 I have never been to Zurich myself but would love to visit whenever I get some extended time in Europe again.

I loved Zurich. We only had 2 nights but I had such a great time! So beautiful!

It’s been many years since I visited Zurich, but I loved it!! I really had no expectations, but was so surprised it gave off a “small town” feeling. Would love to go back! #wanderfulwednesday

Great photos and information! Wow, you packed a lot into this post – I’m impressed! I was only in Zurich for a very short amount of time but I also loved it. It’s such a beautiful place!

Sounds like we had a similar first impression of Switzerland, except I went to Basel rather than Geneva, and just didn’t like it very much at all. Must admit that Zurich looks really pretty in your photos, might have to give Switzerland a second chance too.

This is such a comprehensive guide/post! I would have loved this when I was planning for Switzerland way back then. I do have funny memories of Zurich, as I was there a lot during Eurocup 2006 when Switzerland hosted and it was just nuts, as you can imagine. I remember not getting any sleep because a drunk guy was singing the first lines to “Seven Nation Army” over and over under my window 🙂 But it was really beautiful, so there’s that.

Zurich it’s so beautiful and very clean!! I can’t believe that it’s so pretty, definitely one of my favorite places in Europe, hope that next year can make a trip to know it in person! I love your pictures by the way!

Zurich looks like a page out of a fairy tale. Thanks for sharing this

You had an amazing time in Zurich indeed. Love the photos you have taken and appreciate it for the share. There are so many things to do in Zurich, so it’s wise if you can manage to stay longer there.

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

By using this form, you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. For more information and a disclaimer, see the Privacy Policy (English) or Datenschutz (German). *

Notify me of new posts by email.

English, Spanish, German, Swiss German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian

& French

EXPERT Private Tours in Zurich & Beyond

Welcome to the zurich insider, where your tours are lovingly curated experiences navigating through the immersive cultural landscape of zurich & switzerland, we're memory architects dedicated to assisting you in crafting unforgettable journeys tailored to your discerned taste for cultural immersion, from private tours in zurich through breathtaking swiss landscapes and charming villages and self-guided  hand-picked itineraries . your tours with us transcend the ordinary, going beyond the manufactured tourist attractions, from hidden gems and secrets to chocolate-scented strolls through zurich's cobblestone streets and the scenic wonders of switzerland's countryside.  welcome to a world where travel isn't just a destination—it's your most memorable trip through switzerland, where you arrive as a guest and leave as a cherished friend.  , be curious, start with a wish, find  your journey.

Original Curated Experiences

Original Zurich Tours

Curated Experiences is a collection of tours in Zurich centered on various topics of interest that you can tweak to fit your schedule, interests, and desires.

Explore here >>

Exclusive Designed Itineraries

Imagine exploring Switzerland at your own leisure, with the freedom to discover breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems. With our assistance, a curated itinerary will guide your journey and make your Swiss dream a reality.

See an example here. >>

Exclusive Itineraries

Discovery Layovers & Transfers

Discovery layover & transfers.

On a layover in Zurich and want to make the most of your time in this charming city? Do you need a smooth private transfer to your hotel in any location in Switzerland? Our team is dedicated to providing hassle-free transfers from Zurich Airport and making your voyage smooth and seamless. 

Inquire here >>

YOU ARE IN THE RIGHT PLACE!

Half, full & multi-day tours.

Tours from Zurich through the wonders of Switzerland, tailored to your wishes and interests. We go Beyond!  Guided Multi-Day Journeys starting from anywhere in Switzerland. 

Explore your possibilities here >>

Swiss Journeys

True luxury lies in the small, hidden details that make your Experience unforgettable. We take pride in providing a truly exceptional tour, from the delight of discovery to the peace of mind that comes with knowing your tour was carefully curated to your specific desires. We understand that leaving room for delightful  surprises is important, so we expertly blend our insider knowledge with your individual wishes to create a journey perfectly tailored to you .

WHY CHOOSE US?

Locally Owned and Operated A Zurich-based female-owned company  deeply rooted in local culture yet with int ernational flair. We highly prioritize flexibility on our tours, as well as maintaining discretion.

Global Insight, Local Heart  Our team's eclectic passions and interests create a powerful fusion of global wisdom, Swissness, and authentic connections to local destinations. We share our stories in English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese & Russian.   

Personalized Excellence Embark on a Swiss Tour of a lifetime, where our dynamic hosts go above and beyond to tailor each tour to your unique interests and wishes. Arrive as a guest, leave as a friend, and experience an unforgettable Swiss Adventure.

Diverse Expertise, United Commitment Our team, with backgrounds in tourism, diplomacy, management, and more, is united by a shared commitment to delivering unparalleled service and memorable Swiss Tours.

Growing Together As a business rooted in the local Swiss community, we are committed to investing in the talent and creativity of our team and local partners. We strive to expand our offers for our guests continuously. 

Customer Satisfaction Priority 

We take pride in exceeding your expectations. Our commitment to guest's satisfaction is reflected in every aspect of our service, ensuring your journey with us is not just any trip but a delightfully enriching experience.

OUR BESTSELLER TOURS

Private Walking Tour of Zurich

Layover Tour in Zurich

Experience in Zurich

Meet the Founder, Samantha

☞ your local experience designer & guide - travel companion - friend, dear traveler, welcome to what promises to be a truly memorable holiday i am samantha, and i'll be your personal contact throughout your journey in zurich & beyond. i'm here to ensure you have an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. with my insider knowledge, i'll curate your tours based on your preferences, interests, and wishes, ensuring that every moment is perfectly tailored to you. so, what makes me good at what we do well, it's simple – i am passionate about travel, sharing my knowledge, cracking a joke or two, making new friends, and dedicated to providing exceptional service. i'm thrilled at the opportunity to show you zurich and switzerland in an entertaining, knowledgeable, and unique way, and i can't wait to meet you. keep exploring, and i look forward to hearing from you soon. warmly,  samantha samantha founder, host & friend in zurich.

LATEST STORIES

Your Personal Guide to Zurich & Switzerland

Zurich's Celtic Past

HERstories - Women History in Zurich - Volume 2

HERstories - Women History in Zurich - Volume 1

Our Ecstatic Travelers Tell it All

We had a phenomenal experience with Samantha. We all had arrived from a full day of meetings after a transatlantic flight, and I was slightly low energy and unsure if booking this team building experience tour had been a good idea. Enter Samantha with her incredible energy, joy, knowledge and humor. Within minutes, we were all energized and thoroughly enjoyed this unique and fun Experience. Samantha was incredibly accommodating to our needs as I changed the meeting spot on her several times and is such a good communicator. I would highly recommend spending a couple of hours with her to learn more about the beautiful town of Zurich

Ulrike K., United States

Rumor  has it !

@ THE ZURICH INSIDER

YOU CAN ALSO FIND US & LOVE US HERE:

Grüezi! Bonjour! Ciao! Allegra!

Welcome to zurich.

Are you willing to avoid the "tourist bubbles" and to discover the charm of the tiny cobblestone streets in the Old Town, to walk through the parks and pedestrian zones, to feel the smells, to hear the bells, to fill your bottle with fresh water at one of the 1200' fountains that Zurich has to offer, to hike in the nearby nature oases?

Cultural or Natural? Medieval or Modern? Onshore or on Water? Express or Extended? We offer you the best tours in Zurich and the most photogenic locations on different private and small-group tours!

ON SHORE, ON WATER, IN THE AIR

Duration:5-6 hours, adult - 75 chf / child - 40 chf, the best sights of zurich, duration: 2-3 hours/small-group, adult - 45 chf / child - 25 chf, a mix of culture and nature, duration: 4 hours/small-group, adult - 60 chf / child - 35 chf, lindt home of chocolate, cruise on lake zurich and old town walking tour.

1-Hour Cruise on lake Zurich

Audio Tour and Unlimited Tasting at LINDT Home of Chocolate

Small-Group ZURICH Old Town Walking Tour

110 CHF per Adult and 50 CHF per Child (All Inclusive)

BE THE GUEST OF THE QUEEN - VISIT MT. RIGI

Mount Rigi's majestic peninsula on Lake Lucerne is the perfect setting for an authentic Swiss mountain experience with unforgettable views of over 13 lakes and the spectacular snow-capped Swiss Alps. Located in the heart of Switzerland, Mt. Rigi can be quickly and easily reached from Zurich. It is the Swiss people's favorite mountain destination and can be accessed via Europe's first-ever cogwheel train.

CUSTOMIZED PRIVATE TOURS IN SWITZERLAND

For a more personalized experience, we offer Private Tours and You are the Boss ! Whether you're an incentive travel company, a solo traveler, or a family looking for a more child-friendly experience, we are glad to be your choice.

 High above the clouds on Top of Europe ? Rotating or Cabrio gondola? A trip with the steepest or with the first Alpine cogwheel train? Hiking or swimming? A walk on Europe's highest-elevation suspended bridge or a stroll around the biggest waterfall?

You dream it, we'll bring it to life!

Badge of Excellence

The Badge of Excellence is awarded to experiences and tours that are meeting the highest quality standards on Viator and TripAdvisor and well-reviewed by travelers.

Local Experienced Guides

Our guides are young, dynamic but patient, punctual, and well organized. They are knowledgeable, multi-language speaking, and ready to answer any of your questions.

Environmentally Friendly

We take our responsibility to the environment very seriously. Most of the time we are getting around on our "own power" and by excellent electrified Swiss Public Transport.

WHAT MAKES ZURICH CHARMING AND SPECIAL

Because Zurich is well known as the country's economic and cultural hub and one of Europe's main financial and industrial capitals, it's easy to forget that it's also a delightful and fascinating place for tourists. Its many attractions include dozens of museums, a well-preserved old town filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings, nature at every corner, and enough art - both in and out of museums. Traveling to Switzerland? Planing an excursion to Zurich? Make sure you're not missing these sights and activities.

Swimming in the Lake and River

There are plenty of great places in Zurich where you can swim and cool down during the hot summer days. Many of these open-air baths are free of charge, some are perceiving a small fee of 8 CHF but you’ll benefit from a wardrobe, locker, etc. You can choose a […]

Lindenhof – an Oasis in the Heart of Zurich

Lindenhof is an oasis at the heart of the city that offers glorious views of the Old Town, Grossmünster, City Hall, the Limmat river, the University of Zurich, and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. Lindenhof was also the scene of numerous historical events. In the 4th century, a Roman […]

Hidden Gems of “Dörfli”

“Dörfli” is the local name for the eastern side of the Old Town and runs parallel to Limmatquai (the street along the river Limmat). On the Maps and Guide Books, you’ll find this area under the name “Niederdorf” and is a pedestrian zone. During the day, the many stores, which […]

Polyterasse – Top Views Overlooking the Old Town

The Polyterasse is located between ETH and University and offers top views over Zurich’s old town. To get there, you have to take a short ride with the nostalgic Polybahn funicular from Central. The pictures below, will help you to locate the funicular easier. Since opening in 1889, the Polybahn […]

Grill and Chill on the Lake Banks

The stunning Lake Zurich is perfect for a stroll year-round, thanks to its tranquil atmosphere. Backing lower Lake Zurich is a tangle of parks and gardens, collectively known as the lake promenade, that makes for a picturesque place to spend a couple of hours, especially during the sunny summer days. […]

Üetliberg – the Local Little Mountain

Uetliberg is Zurich’s very own “mountain”, from where you have beautiful views of the city and lake – and perhaps even a glimpse of the Alps. At 2,850 feet above sea level, Uetliberg towers over the rooftops of Zurich. The little mountain affords an impressive panoramic view of the city, […]

Waid – Breathtaking Views

The view from Waid is simply breathtaking. The best times to take the most beautiful souvenir photos are sunrise and sunset. Waid is a vantage point on Zurich’s Käferberg, which lies above the urban quarter of Höngg. Those who wish can walk in an hour or two from the city […]

WOW ZURICH TOURS MEETING POINT

Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zurich (Frontside of LANDESMUSEUM/Swiss National Museum)

WOW Vibes and Gems of ZURICH

Things To Do In Zurich: History, Culture, and Swiss Delicacies

Are you ready for the trip of your lifetime? From lively cultural havens to classic European traditions, Zurich is a city like no other—and it’s bursting with unforgettable things to do. Zurich offers many things to do, from immersing yourself in the Old Town, relaxing at a thermal bath, checking out Bellevue & the Opera House, or exploring Lake Zurich. With so many options, you’ll never run out of things to do in Zurich .

So, let’s get started planning the perfect trip to Zurich!

Key Takeaways

Explore Zurich with its trains, buses, trams, and river/lake cruises.

Discover unique shops, cafes, eateries, and iconic landmarks in the Old Town of Zurich.

Enjoy various activities from watersports to cable car rides, shopping, museums, art galleries, and more!

Table of Contents

How to Get Around in Zurich

Public transport is the best way to get around Zurich – Switzerland’s largest city. Trains are the most punctual way to get around in Zurich, with a single ticket costing CHF 4.3.

Although if I am honest, walking is the best way to get around. I only jump on a tram or train if I have walked too much! Downtown (old town, lake, etc) Zurich is so compact you rarely need to worry about public transport unless you go further afield.

The Zurich Card

To make the most of your time in Zurich, consider getting a day pass at CHF 8.6 or a Zurich Card , which costs CHF 27 for a 24-hour pass and CHF 53 for a 72-hour pass.

The Zurich Card comes with amazing benefits. You get free or discounted entry to various museums and activities. Plus, you can get discounts at certain restaurants. And for a fun day out, why not add a Limmat River boat cruise or a short trip on Lake Zurich?

Related Reading

Zurich card: everything you need to know, bike rentals.

If you want to roam the city on two wheels, Züri Rollt is the bike rental service in Zurich. Show your ID and put down a 20 franc deposit at the bike station near the main train station and you’ll be ready to go. Return the bikes to the same station you got them from at the end of the day and you’ll get your deposit back.

Where to Stay in Zurich

Picking the right accommodation is key to having an enjoyable trip. With Zurich’s varied areas , from the bustling city center to the tranquil Old Town, there is a lodging option to fit every traveler’s needs.

For luxury travelers, quite a few 5-star options are available – from the Storchen on the Limmat and Park Hyatt Zurich to the Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich and star-studded Baur au Lac. Mid-range hotels such as Seegarten Swiss Quality, Motel One Zurich, and Hotel Adler offer great value for money. Budget-minded visitors also have plenty of options, with Pension fürDich, Kalkbreite Pension & Guesthouse, and Hotel Hottingen providing comfortable stays.

Accommodation in Zurich can certainly be expensive, but finding a place to suit your budget is possible without sacrificing quality. Prices vary depending on the location and type of hotel but generally range from luxurious to low-cost.

Immerse Yourself in the Old Town

The Old Town of Zurich is a historic city center that’s been around since the 9th century . It’s a great place to start your tour of Zurich, and there are plenty of cool tours that you can take, such as

the Old Town Walking Tour

the eTukTuk City Tour.

You can wander the winding streets and discover the unique shops, cafes, and eateries or enjoy the beautiful river and lake views. With its massive clock face, the iconic Grossmünster double towers and Peterskirche (Peter’s Church) are must-see landmarks in the Old Town. And a big part of the old town, which spans both sides of the river, is Niederdorfstrasse…

Niederdorfstrasse

It’s an artsy and trendy area in District 1 (Old Town) that the locals call Dörfli. This area is a great spot to explore, as its backstreets are filled with unique shops, cafes, and eateries. So, don’t just walk down the street, turn left, and get lost in the back alleys (use Google Maps to get back again!)

Must-visit spots include

Café & Conditorei 1842 (for great cakes or hot chocolate)

Cabaret Voltaire (for art lovers)

Every year, Niederdorf hosts the Dorflifascht festival at the end of August. It’s the perfect time to enjoy street food, shopping stalls, live music and shows. Don’t forget to try the local traditional dish, zürcher geschnetzeltes (one of many must-eat foods in Zurich ). It’s veal in a wine and cream sauce, and you can grab a plate at Zeughauskeller.

Limmatquai Riverfront

The Limmatquai Riverfront is a scenic lake promenade along the Limmat River right next to Niederdorfstrasse. It’s a great starting point for your trip to the city as you can take in the stunning views of the river and Lake Zurich, with the Rathaus and Grossmünster in the background.

During your stroll, you can check out the boats lined up along the river, plus the restaurants and cafes on the promenade. I recommend taking a break for a drink or coffee at any of these.

Hotel Storchen (it’s 5 stars, with views of the Grossmunster, but you can enjoy it for way less)

Grand Cafe Motta (the other side of the river, but great people watching)

Terrasse (sit outside on a sunny day, close to Bellevue and Lake Zurich)

You can also go for a dip in the river or even take a boat tour. Head up to the Uetliberg and admire the panoramic cityscape for an even better view.

Lindenhof Hill

Lindenhof District is an area located in Altstadt (the Old Town). Here, you can find a hill and a public square with one of the best views in town . You can see right over the old town and the Limmat River from up here, and it’s a great spot for those jealousy-inducing Insta-shots!

Many a local can be seen playing a huge chess game here. So, you can also spend some time just people-watching or just chilling, especially in summer, as the trees keep this place cool.

Lindenhof Zurich: History, Highlights, Viewpoint

Fraumünster.

Fraumünster Church is an important landmark in Zurich , set up by Louis the German in the 9th century. It’s got some stunning frescoes, an organ, and stained glass windows made by Marc Chagall.

You can take an audio-guided tour of the church and the crypt for CHF 5, with a free audio guide included. The tour takes you through the church’s history and lets you admire the frescoes and other artwork.

Grossmünster

Grossmünster is a centuries-old Romanesque cathedral that was the starting point of the Reformation in Switzerland, led by Huldrych Zwingli, and the church cut ties with the papacy in 1523. According to legend, Felix and Ragula were beheaded here and they picked up their heads and walked up forty steps before they eventually dropped dead. Charlemagne then ordered the building of Grossmunster on the spot.

The Romanesque portal, with its columns, carvings and stained glass windows done up by Swiss artist Alberto Giacometti in 1932, are stunning features of the cathedral. Climb up the Karlsturm tower for a fantastic view of the city, the Alps and Lake Zurich. It only costs around CHF 5, and you get some views I rarely see anywhere else in Zurich.

Entry to the cathedral is free, but the “special parts” like the tower and back areas cost. Opening hours are 10 am to 6 pm, though they’re slightly reduced from November to February.

Grossmünster Church In Zurich (A Must-see Attraction?)

St. peter’s church.

St Peter’s Church is Zürich’s oldest church and it has Europe’s biggest clock face . This 8th-century church is a must-see if you visit Zurich, with its stunning Romanesque architecture and beautiful carvings. The outside wall of the tower is home to something special: the 14th-century tomb of Rudolf Brun. He was Zürich’s first independent mayor.

The clock on St Peter’s Tower has a diameter of 86,64 meters, making it the largest in Europe. Plus, it’s free to visit, giving you the perfect opportunity to take in its grandeur. So head to St Peter’s Church in the Old Town of Zurich.

The Opera House

The Opera House is an excellent cultural spot in Zurich with great shows, art galleries, and more. It is on the far end of Sechseläutenplatz at Bellevue, an excellent spot for a break. You can grab an ice cream at Movenpick or even a coffee. Takeaway is great because the square is full of free seats you can move around to your own perfect spot!

Visiting the Zurich Opera House is a must if you are looking for culture. It’s been around since the 1890s and was designed by Fellner & Helmer. It has a wide variety of shows, from opera to ballet to concerts. Tickets for the Opera House range from CHF 30 to CHF 230, depending on the seat and show. You can purchase tickets online, at the box office, or by phone.

Explore Lake Zurich

Lake Zurich is one of Zurich’s most popular attractions. With its crystal blue waters backed by distant snow-capped peaks, it’s no wonder why people flock here for a day or two of relaxation. On the lake, you can go swimming, paddleboarding, sailing, or kayaking in the summer and ice skating (on rare occasions) or hit up a sauna in the winter. Locals also love to sail, swim, plunge, and surf. Take a boat cruise for a more classic way to explore the lake.

You can also ride the cable car up to Felsenegg for a stunning view of the snow-capped mountains. If you’re not up for a boat ride, take a scenic stroll along the lake promenade for a romantic picnic lunch. You can also explore the Limmat River on a river cruise, grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants, or even take a cable car up to the Uetliberg as a finale to your day. More on that later!

There’s no shortage of things to do in the area, whether you’re visiting Zurich for the first time or you’re a long-time resident.

Lake Zurich Cruises: Everything You Need to Know

Shop on bahnhofstrasse.

Bahnhofstrasse is a street in Zurich that starts at the Hauptbahnhof railway station and ends at Lake Zurich. It is known for its international luxury brands like Prada, Chanel, Burberry, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, as well as its famous square, Paradeplatz – which is the banking center. Of course, there used to be both UBS and Credit Suisse here, but soon it will be just one!

Want To Save This For Later?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!

When on Bahnhofstrasse, you can take your time to look around in one of the world’s most expensive shopping streets. Remember that the lower end is more “normal” shopping, while the luxury stuff is at the lake end. So, if you don’t want to walk the whole way, catch the tram to Paradeplatz!

Don’t forget to stop for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate at Café Sprüngli , which is on the corner of Paradeplatz too. It’s also the perfect spot to grab one of Sprungli’s famous Luxemburgerli macaroons!

You can also have a short stop at the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum , which is home to an insane collection of navigation instruments, pendulum clocks, automata from the 16th and 17th centuries, pocket watches, and even a preliminary version of the first quartz wristwatch from the ’60s.

Head Up the Uetliberg

It’s Zurich’s mountain , located in the city itself. Uetliberg is the perfect spot for a day trip out of the city and can be reached by taking the S10 on the SZU from the Hauptbahnhof or a 25-minute train ride from Zurich. From the top of Zurich’s home mountain, you can get a great view of the city, its two rivers, and Lake Zurich, and you even have the Alps in the background. At least on a clear day!

You can also hike in the woods, take the cable car between Felsenegg and Adliswil, enjoy a scenic promenade, or go tobogganing on the slopes if it’s winter and snowy. I find winter is the best time to visit Uetliberg, when the peak above the fog tends to envelop the city’s shores, and only the tallest buildings poke through.

Uetliberg, Switzerland: Guide To Zurich’s Mountain

Relax at a thermal bath.

Hürlimannbad & Spa Zürich is the perfect spot to relax and unwind, with many facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, submerged wood barrels, steam baths, and massages. It’s a chill spot in the city’s heart, with healing mineral waters and epic views thrown in. It is right around the corner from the large area where Google works in Zurich. And the building is a restored brewery with some great accommodation at the B2 Hotel right next door.

The highlight of this thermal bath is the huge rooftop pool with incredible underwater jets and a fantastic view of the city skyline. Visitors should take note of the no-photo policy at the Zurich Thermal Bath and leave their camera and phone in a locker before entering.

The Zurich Thermal Bath is reasonably priced, so visitors can enjoy its healing waters without breaking the bank.

Swim at A Badi

One of Zurich’s most popular places to swim in summer is the Obere Letten. It is just a few minutes from the main train station and a downstream part of the Limmat River.

Such a “Badi” (as they are called locally) is the perfect place to cool off in the summer heat and spend some quality time with family and friends. A Badi offers indoor and outdoor pools, slides, and a beach volleyball court, so there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to do some laps in the pool or relax on the beach, there’s something for everyone.

Grab your swimsuit and head to one of Zurich’s traditional Badis for some fun in the sun. You can find river pools such as

Frauenbad am Stadthausquai (female-only)

Männerbad Schanzengraben (male-only)

Unterer Letten and Oberer Letten Pools

Seebad Utoquai along Lake Zurich

Seebad Enge on the other side of the lake

Immerse Yourself in Zurich Museums

The many and varied Museums in Zurich offer a unique opportunity to explore Switzerland’s long history and the local art scene. From the Kunsthaus Zurich and Swiss National Museum to the FIFA World Football Museum , Zurich is a city full of must-see gems for the museum-lover.

Whether you’re looking to explore the Middle Ages, delve into the history of football, or want to find out more about Switzerland, there’s a museum in Zurich that’s sure to satisfy your curiosity.

Most museums offer free admission once a month or sometimes on a particular day of the week, so check the museum’s website for the latest info on hours and prices.

FIFA Museum Review – A Journey Through Football’s History

It’s an art gallery with a pretty impressive collection of art in Switzerland. The Kunsthaus Zurich is the perfect place for art lovers, or anyone looking to explore the art of the Middle Ages to now. The gallery holds 4,000 paintings and sculptures. It also boasts 95,000 prints and drawings, covering almost 1,000 years. Notable works include pieces by Claude Monet, Edvard Munch, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Swiss artist Alberto Giacometti.

With a Zürich Card, visitors get 33% off their ticket, and if you’ve got a Fraumünster ticket, you can get a CHF 5 discount. It’s a great way to explore the city’s art and culture.

Swiss National Museum

It’s also known as the Schweizerische Landesmuseum and has exhibits about Switzerland’s history. The Swiss National Museum offers visitors a chance to explore the country’s culture and history from the Middle Ages to today. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, weapons, tools, pottery, decorative arts, and more.

You can also explore the Simply Zurich collection, which offers insight into Zurich’s history and diversity. The museum offers free admission with a Zürich Card, and they also have an events calendar with concerts and other events happening all year round.

Museum Rietberg

It’s an art museum in Zurich that focuses on non-European art. Museum Rietberg has 23,000 objects and 44,000 photos spanning architecture, costume and textiles, decorative and industrial arts, paintings, and sculpture. It’s one of the few museums in Switzerland dedicated to non-European art and the large collection of artifacts and photographs highlights its importance.

The museum also offers special guided tours focusing on different parts of the collection, such as its Asian art collection.

Many Other Museums

Apart from those mentioned in the previous sections, several other museums in Zurich are worth exploring. The Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum , located at the Lindt & Sprüngli factory on the shores of Lake Zurich, is an interactive museum where you can learn the history of chocolate-making and even try out some chocolate treats.

The Zoological Museum is a great place to get up close and personal with some of Switzerland’s native wildlife, and the Petting Zoo at the Fluntern Zoo offers a chance to feed animals and learn about animal conservation.

Zurich is also home to the FIFA World Football Museum , the Pavillon Le Corbusier , and the Swiss Science Center Technorama. For those looking to explore more of Zurich’s culture, there are many other museums to choose from, such as the Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst and countless other Zurich Museums !

Discover Zuri-West

It’s a trendy spot in West Zurich, or as the locals call it, “Zuri West”. Here, you can explore the Viadukt, an old railway viaduct turned into a cool spot with designer shops and a market hall. Viadukt has it all – Swiss fashion boutiques, designer home stores, urban bike outlets, and secondhand stores. It’s also near the legendary Freitag Tower and Frau Gerold’s Garten !

You can easily get there by bike – a great 15-minute ride along the river. So, Zuri West is the place to be if you’re looking for a unique shopping experience and some alternative fashion.

Freitag Flagship Store & Tower, Zurich

Explore zurich’s seedier side at langstrasse.

Langstrasse is pretty cool – it’s got an awesome vibe and is affordable compared to other parts of Zurich’s Old Town. The street is long and spans various neighborhoods.

You can start at Limmatplatz by catching a tram or walking from Zurich HB. Then, gradually make your way along Langstrasse. But honestly, the gems of Langstrasse are not on the street itself but on its many backstreets. You can find endless cheap but tasty restaurants and upcoming coffee stores .

I eat there regularly and some of my favorite restaurants include:

Chin Chin for Vietnamese

Josef for a varied dinner of small plates or just a drink

Lily’s is great for quick and cheap Asian food

The Bite for a tasty burger

Tenz for sumptuous Momos

Other Activities in Zurich

One thing people often miss is a trip with the Polybahn cogwheel train up to the terrace of ETH University for some awesome views. It’s also where Einstein used to teach and the home to some fun museums. And, at sunset, you can see the whole city at its best!

The Rote Fabrik, further down Lake Zurich, is great for catching concerts and events, and there are plenty of bars and clubs around. It allows you to explore Wollishofen and maybe even include a trip to the Lindt Chocolate Experience (Museum and Factory).

Some other ideas include:

• visit the many Zurich chocolate shops
• sampling some delicious Swiss fondue

attending the infamous Street Parade in August

exploring the insanely large Zurich Zoo

or take a day trip out of Zurich

If you want to get out of the city for a day, consider a tour of Mount Titlis, where you can take in the panoramic view, stroll along Europe’s highest suspension bridge, or visit the charming town of Lucerne. Zurich Zoo is one of the oldest in Europe and is home to over 300 species living in almost natural habitats, perfect for a family outing. The University of Zurich Botanical Garden is free and has over 8,000 plant species in indoor and outdoor displays. The Chinese Garden in Zurich is a picturesque temple garden with ponds, a palace, and a small island.

Zurich is an amazing place for families to explore, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages.

Zurich is the perfect destination for a captivating winter getaway. With its modernity and flair, it offers a variety of sights and attractions to make your trip unforgettable. From exploring the medieval quarter in the old town to the unique boutique shops, restaurants and back streets around Niederdorfstrasse to shopping on Bahnhofstrasse – Zurich has something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking to hit the ski slopes in the Swiss Alps, go tobogganing on Uetliberg or paddle boating on Lake Zurich, or explore the art and culture of Switzerland through its galleries, churches and museums, Zurich will not disappoint.

Be sure to immerse yourself in the beauty of this great city during your visit and reap all its rewards.

Plan Your Trip to Switzerland

Frequently Asked Questions

What is zurich known for.

Zurich is most renowned as the financial capital of Switzerland and a prime tourist destination. Its well-developed banking sector and vibrant cultural scene make it one of the most popular cities in Europe, offering visitors an unforgettable experience every time.

How many days should I visit Zurich?

You need at least two days to really experience Zurich! A weekend is a great time to explore the beautiful city, unwind in parks, or take advantage of a range of cultural and historical activities.

But if you have more time, why not stay for even longer?

Do they speak English in Zurich?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Zurich and throughout Switzerland. A large percentage of the population speaks English, with it being more common in larger cities like Zurich.

It’s definitely possible to use English for almost everything while in Zurich.

Is Zurich more fun than Geneva?

Overall, it depends on what type of atmosphere you prefer. Geneva is a great option for travelers wanting to enjoy numerous cultural opportunities with plenty of activities in the city and beyond. Zurich has more in terms of traditional Swiss culture and many picturesque attractions. Therefore, whether Zurich is more fun than Geneva is ultimately up to the individual.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get Our Free Swiss Tips Guide

Popular destinations, important pages, on social media, travel planning, certified swiss travel expert.

Biggest July 2024 concerts in Phoenix, from Janet Jackson to Blink-182

July is packed with opportunities to see live music in Phoenix, from huge arena tours to local acts in local bars.

New Kids on the Block are playing at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, which also features shows by Kenny Chesney , Cage the Elephant, Niall Horan and a Queens of R&B nostalgia tour with Xscape and SWV.

If you were thinking of something more indoors than that, Blink-182 and A Day to Remember are at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, which also has an Old School Block Party with 112, Too Short, Stevie B., Digital Underground and 2 Live Crew, to name a few.

Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix also has some big tours coming in: AJR, Hootie & the Blowfish , Ateez, Aventura and Janet Jackson .

Here are the best concerts coming to metro Phoenix in July 2024.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

To plan further ahead, be sure to give our constantly updated concert announcements a look.

Queens of R&B: Xscape & SWV

Xscape and SWV have reunited for The Queens of R&B Tour with special guests Mya, Total and 702. Xscape sent three songs to the top of Billboard's R&B charts in the '90s: "Just Kickin' It," "Understanding" and "Who Can I Run To." Soul Train Lady of Soul Award winners SWV topped Billboard's Hot 100 with the triple-platinum "Weak," their first of three chart-topping entries on the Billboard R&B charts, followed by "Right Here (Human Nature)" and "You're the One."

Details: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 2. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix. $41.30 and up. 602-254-7200,  livenation.com .

This is the trio’s second metro Phoenix date since Tom DeLonge rejoined the fold after a nine-year absence. The reunited pop-punk veterans played a sold-out show at Footprint Center in 2023, treating fans to  a dizzying blend of dirty jokes and big hits . They're joined on this year's One More Time Tour by Pierce the Veil and Hot Milk. The tour is named in honor of their first new album with DeLonge since 2011’s “Neighborhoods."

Details: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 2. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale. $95 and up. 623-772-3800,  desertdiamondarena.com .

Iron & Wine

Sam Beam is touring the States with the Emmy-winning performance collective Manual Cinema, whose members will perform live shadow puppetry and handmade animations alongside the band, creating a visual world to complement the music in support of "Light Verse," a breathtaking gem of an album that features a soulful duet with the great Fiona Apple on "All in Good Time." Paste magazine responded to the album with "No longer the lone troubadour, Beam is backed by a group of LA musicians whose expert subtlety bolsters Beam’s magnetic quietude — even when Hollywood strings swell or the accompaniment reaches near cacophony."

Details: 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 2. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. $59 and up. 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com . 

Details: 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 2. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix. $25. 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com .

Totally Tubular Festival

The Totally Tubular Festival features artists who captured the pop culture zeitgeist in the early to mid-1980s thanks primarily to the high rotation of their music videos on MTV. Like, oh my God! How rad is that?! The lineup features Thomas Dolby, the Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Modern English, Men Without Hats, the Tubes, Bow Wow Wow and the Plimsouls' Eddie Muñoz. The Tubes, of course, have deep roots in the Phoenix music scene . A portion of proceeds from ticket sales will go to food banks in each market.

Details: 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $53.50 and up. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

Cage the Elephant

"Only Ghosts" was a compelling argument in favor of returning metal to its roots, from the Black Sabbath-worthy psychedelic sludge of such highlights as "No Air" and "The Smell of Sound" to an opening number that filtered the punkish intensity of Motorhead through a melodic sensibility closer in spirit to Queens of the Stone Age. And the follow-up, "Arrows," was just as impressive. As Consequence sized it up, "Red Fang didn’t alter their signature sound so much as enhance it for Arrows. Everything in the mix is sludgier, heavier and more accentuated."

The Grammy-winning alt-rockers are touring in support of “Neon Pill” with Young the Giant and Bakar. In a press release, singer Matthew Shultz said, “‘Neon Pill’ is the first record where we were consistently uninfluenced, and I mean that in a positive way. Everything is undoubtedly expressed through having settled into finding our own voice. We’ve always drawn inspiration from artists we love, and at times we’ve even emulated some of them to a certain degree. With this album… we just found a uniqueness in simply existing.”

Details: 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 5. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix. $48.65 and up. 602-254-7200,  livenation.com .

New Kids on the Block

The multiplatinum pop sensations are joined on the Magic Summer Tour by Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff. Reimagining the smash 1990 tour of the same name, Donnie, Joey, Jordan, Jonathan and Danny have promised to bring back the magic for fans old and new. The set will be a mix of greatest hits, unexpected fan favorites and surprise songs on their first primarily outdoor-venue tour in 15 years.

Details: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 9. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix. $41.75 and up. 602-254-7200,  livenation.com .

Lyndsey Gunnulfsen and her bandmates are touring the States in continued support of "Evergreen," a 2023 release that continues the evolution of their sound into a synthesizer-driven brand of alternative dance-rock as emotionally intense as anything they managed in their screamo days with hints of hip-hop in the mix. Gunnulfsen has said the album of "a reclamation of control in our post-pandemic culture, posing a complex discussion on fame, technology, spectacle, and female autonomy."

Details: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 9. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. $48 and up. 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com . 

Alejandro Escovdeo

When he was in the Nuns, he opened the Sex Pistols’ infamous final show at San Francisco’s Winterland. But that’s before he moved to Austin and became a roots-rock icon, launching a solo career after playing with ’80s alternative-country heroes Rank and File and True Believers. In 1998, No Depression named him artist of the decade. And he’s still playing to his strengths. His latest album, "Echo Dancing," is, as Uncut noted, bold, brilliant and experimental," with an emphasis on the experimental part of that equation, deconstructing 14 classics he's recorded through the years.

Details: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 9. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. $44.50-$49.50. 480-478-6000,  mim.org .

A Day to Remember

The fantastically titled Least Anticipated Album Tour brings the Florida metalcore veterans, who won Best Live Band at 2015's Alternative Press Music Awards, with kindred spirits The Story So Far, Four Year Strong and Scowl. This is A Day to Remember's first U.S. tour in more than a year, including festival appearances at Welcome to Rockville, Hangout Fest, Sonic Temple, Four Chord Music Festival and When We Were Young.

Details: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 10. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale. $50 and up. 623-772-3800,  desertdiamondarena.com .

Cole Swindell

The Win the Night Tour finds the country singer joined by Dylan Scott and Restless Road. Swindell topped Billboard's country charts with "Chillin' It," his triple-platinum breakthrough, in 2013. Since then, he's sent eight singles to the top of Billboard's country airplay chart while being named New Artist of the Year by the Academy of Country Music in 2015. Swindell's biggest hits include "Ain't Worth the Whiskey," "You Should Be Here," "Middle of a Memory," "Single Saturday Night," "Never Say Never" and "She Had Me at Heads Carolina."

Details: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 11. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $86.75 and up. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

Francine Reed birthday concert

Francine Reed is turning 77, and together with We3 (Renee Patrick, Suzanne Lansford, and Nicole Pesce), Grammy-winning bassist Mel Brown and internationally acclaimed drummer Dowell Davis, she’s marking the occasion with an evening of music and memories. Reed was one of the Valley's most popular jazz and blues vocalists from the mid-1970s until she left for Atlanta in the early '90s. By the time she left, she was a member of Lyle Lovett’s Large Band . Reed has also recorded duets with Willie Nelson and Delbert McClinton in addition to releasing her own music.

Details: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 11. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. Sold out. 480-478-6000,  mim.org .

Their first arena tour is in support of last year's "The Maybe Man," which All Music praised for the way they "continue to turn their personal pain and anxieties into universally relatable pop anthems." AJR explained the inspiration for the album in a statement: “In your mid- to late twenties, you start to think about your life. There’s endless potential, but it’s also scary because you don’t know who you’re going to be. This album examines that personal existential crisis and the prevalent question of, ‘Who am I?’”

Details: 6:45 Friday, July 12. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Resale ticket prices vary. 602-379-7800,  ticketmaster.com .

Adored by millions, the iconic Spanish rockers bring their 40 Aniversario Tour to Phoenix. Hombres G have been called the "Spanish Beatles" more than once. Their sound, in fact, is rooted in the music of the early Beatles and the British New Wave movement, which makes sense considering they formed in 1982, breaking through with 1985's "Devuélveme a mi chica," which was later celebrated on a list of Las 100 + Grandiosas Canciones En Español by VH1.

Details: 8 p.m. Friday, July 12. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $86.50 and up. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

Tunes that passed through town: Doobie Brothers Phoenix concert rocked every hit that stirs your '70s soul

Hootie & the Blowfish with Darius Rucker

Fronted by country star Darius Rucker, these '90s rock veterans have sold more than 25 million albums, largely driven by their 22-times-platinum breakthrough, "Cracked Rear View," which remains among the 10 best-selling albums in U.S history. Their hits include three Top 10 entries on the Hot 100 from that first release: "Hold My Hand," "Let Her Cry" and "Only Wanna Be With You." The Summer Camp with Trucks Tour also features special guests Collective Soul and Edwin McCain.

Details: 7 p.m. Saturday, July 13. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $29.75 and up. 602-379-7800, ticketmaster.com .

This tour in support of “Think Later” finds the Canadian pop singer playing the biggest venues of her career thus far, including her first headlining show at Madison Square Garden. The album was executive produced by hitmaker Ryan Tedder, whose previous clients include Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. In 2021, McRae was the youngest musician featured on the Forbes magazine 30 Under 30 list. Her hits include "You Broke Me First" and "Greedy."

Details: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 14. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. Resale ticket prices vary. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

Streetlight Manifesto

The Jersey ska-punk veterans are headed our way on the Myth of Monsters Tour. In announcing the tour on their website, they wrote, "We are like caged animals, about to break out of our confinement once again, make a beeline for the backstage snack table and then stomp onto the stages of America (and two cities in Canada, eh? ;-) to once again rock your sweet little faces clean off. GET READY PEOPLE, WE DO THIS. OKAY? OKAY!"

Details: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 14. Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Ave., Tempe. $49.62-$92.76. 480-829-0607, luckymanonline.com .

This is part of the Escape to Crescent Ballroom Summer Matinee Concert Series of bargain-priced concerts. These local indie-rockers recently released a six-song EP of music that should speak directly to fans whose favorite records are emo. It helps that singer Dylan Fay has the dynamic range to take you from the vulnerable near-whisper of the title track's opening scene ("you're living like a Polaroid, just tucked away inside a drawer) to the emotional intensity required when he hits the chorus as the band kicks in, repeating the opening line at full volume.

Details: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, July 14. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix. $10; $8 in advance. 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com .

The Kid LAROI

The Australian rapper brings the First Time Tour to downtown Phoenix with special guests Glaive and Chase Shakur. His U.S. hits include "Without You," which features Miley Cyrus on the remix, and "Stay" with Justin Bieber. A review in the Guardian a few years back said, "At the first of two headline shows at Brixton Academy, he sweats out his setlist like a fever, tearing through two-minute tracks titled like confessions of teen rage."

Details: 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 15. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $43 and up. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

Signed to Playboi Carti's label in 2019, the Atlanta rapper is headed to Phoenix on the Chaos Tour in support of "A Great Chaos," Carson's first Top 20 entry on the Billboard album chart. Pitchfork called it "a creative breakthrough, flipping the script on Atlanta rap production" while "funneling his hedonistic tendencies into joyously unholy music." Vibe said it found the rapper "hitting on all cylinders."

Details: 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 16. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. Resale ticket prices vary. 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com . 

These multiplatinum classical crossover phenoms were originally brought together in 2003 by Simon Cowell. They've undergone some lineup changes in the course of selling more than 30 million units worldwide while earning 160 gold and platinum records in 35 countries. The current lineup features Swiss tenor Urs Bühler, French tenor Sébastien Izambard, America tenor David Miller and America baritone Steven LaBrie. They're touring the States in support of a 10th album, “XX: 20th Anniversary Album."

Details: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. $69.50-$189.50. 480-644-6500,  mesaartscenter.com .

Pedro the Lion

David Bazan and his bandmates are headed to Phoenix in support of "Santa Cruz," the third installment in a trilogy (so far) of musical memoirs he began to release in 2019 with "Phoenix," on which he memorably set the scene with “On a desert Christmas morning, 1981 / One month shy of  6 years old in the Valley of the Sun.” Phoenix also rates a mention in the title track to "Santa Cruz," where the new kid shows up for the first day of eighth grade with "the stupidest backpack," riddled with buyer's remorse as he steps out of the car. "I loved it in Phoenix at the mall with my Grandma," he sings. "So I’ll never be cool here." His ability to get inside those feelings in such vivid detail is one of Bazan's greatest strengths. And don't be late or you'll miss Danielle Durack, another brilliant storyteller with Valley roots.

Details: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix. $27.50-$40. 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com .

Bethany Home

In the event that the name didn't give it away? These guys are local. They released a debut album titled "Made With Love" in March. If you're into emo, you should check it out. Their singer has the perfect voice to make you feel a lyric as emotional as "And I cried the whole ride home and thought about how everyone dies someday," as he does on the opening track, a nearly seven-minute track called "Lightbulb." They're joined by Malaise, Beset and Twinstar.

Details: 8 p.m. Thursday, July 18. Rebel Lounge, 2303 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. $12. 602-296-7013, therebellounge.com.

The Happy Together Tour

The Happy Together Tour returns to Arizona in its 15th year of bringing nostalgia with a smile. In addition to dusting off '60s pop classics as timeless "Happy Together," “Elenore,” "She'd Rather Be With Me" and "You Showed Me," the Turtles will once again host with Jay and the Americans, the Association, Badfinger, the Vogues and the Cowsills rounding out the lineup.

Details: 8 p.m. Friday, July 19. Talking Stick Resort, Loop 101 and Pima Road, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. $30 and up. 480-850-7734,  talkingstickresort.com .

These local rockers are celebrating the release of "Same Science." There's a jokey bio on their Facebook page that says "let alone is a Goldilocks Rock band from Phoenix, bringing a sound that's not too hard, not too soft, jusssttttt the right rock to sustain human life." It is just right, though. Their sound is a masterful blend of intensity, drama and an emotional vulnerability conveyed by a singer whose elastic vocal range allows for some breathtaking moments of beauty and transcendence while his bandmates scale majestic heights with urgency to spare. These guys are ready for the big leagues and this album sounds like it could take them there. They're joined by Good Terms, Celebration Guns and Mattstagraham.

Details: 8 p.m. Friday, July 19. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix. $15-$17. 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com .

The Marías

Since breaking through in 2021 with "Hush," a song that topped the Billboard Adult Alternative Airplay chart, the Marías have opened Halsey's Love and Power Tour and collaborated with Bad Bunny on his "Un Verano Sin Ti" album. They're touring with special guests Automatic in support of “Submarine," their second album, which Stereogum declared "the soundtrack of the summer." It's still summer, people. Don't miss out.

Details: 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $54.50 and up. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

The Decemberists

Colin Meloy and his bandmates are headed to Phoenix in support of the masterful "As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again," a sprawling masterstroke that opens on as beautiful a throwback to the folk rock of the '60s as you'll likely hear in 2024 (with backing vocals by James Mercer of the Shins!) and signs off with a 19-minute indie-prog epic called "Joan in the Garden" where the music and lyrics both demand repeated listens. MusicOMH.com hailed it as "one of the Decemberists’ finest albums," adding that "even at this stage of their career, where they can comfortably be described as veterans, Colin Meloy and company still have the power to enchant and inspire." It was definitely worth the six-year wait between releases and quite possibly the best release in 18 years.

Details: 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. $64 and up. 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com . 

Celebration of Life for Michael 'Bam-Bam' Sversvold

Michael "Bam-Bam" Sversvold was a legendary presence on the Phoenix underground, having powered his way into the spotlight as the hyperactive force of nature attacking his drums at age 14 with the reckless abandon of a young Keith Moon for skate-rock-icons-in-the-making JFA, who hit the scene in 1981. His JFA bandmates will perform acoustically at this celebration of his. Other friends performing include Fat Gray Cat, Medieval Knievels, the Sleaze and Tony Karaba doing Rabid Rabbit songs with his group Peace Through Power. All proceeds will be donated to Sversvold’s mother, Joanne.

Details: 1-6 p.m. Saturday, July 20. The Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. $15.  rhythmroom.com .

Vieux Farka Touré

The son of Malian music legend Ali Farka Touré is often referred to as the Hendrix of the Sahara, a title meant more to convey the point that the man is a brilliant guitarist than to suggest that there's anything remotely Hendrix-esque about his playing. He's an altogether different kind of awe-inspiring. His playing is clean, fast and fluid, as brilliantly showcased in a Form Arcosanti performance with his world-music trio that had the crowd singing along in African and dancing wildly.

Details: 7 p.m. Sunday, July 21. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. $44.50-$54.50. 480-478-6000,  mim.org .

Sarah Shook & the Disarmers

Shook is touring the States with the Disarmers in support of "Revelations," an album Paste magazine praised for injecting "some serious punk rock attitudes into a well-worn infrastructure of venerable country tunes," adding "the guitar tones are crisp, the pedal steel sounds like a million bucks." The punk-rock attitudes lead to highlights as inspired (and disarming, as promised) as one whose title we can't share and "Backsliders," where Shook rhymes "I'm a real piece of (expletive) and you're a vixen in a dress" with "I thought we was movin' on but I was wrong I guess."

Details: 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Rebel Lounge, 2303 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. $18. 602-296-7013, therebellounge.com.

Last year's "Breaking the Balls of History," their first release in 10 years, found the great Sam Coomes and Janet Weiss effortlessly playing to the psychedelic strengths that made them such beloved indie icons in the first place, stirring up a proper racket as they honored the 30th anniversary of their self-titled cassette debut by adding to their legacy. So what do they do for an encore? They're revisiting their classic third release, 1998's "Featuring 'Birds,'" in its entirety for the first time ever on tour. Sometimes odds decision are the best decisions.

Details: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 23. Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. $25; $22 in advance.  valleybarphx.com.

Kenny Chesney

Chesney is known for his stadium shows . That's where his No Shoes Nation comes together at its most powerful. But long before the man became the only country artist in Billboard’s Top 10 Touring Acts of the Last 25 Years, he captured the imagination of young people coming of age across America in smaller, more intimate venues, including outdoor amphitheaters. In a press release, Chesney said, "There is nothing like being out on the lawn with your friends, or even under the pavilion, on a clear night hearing the music and just being in the moment. You can do some things in that environment you can’t at a stadium. It’s less production, less massive, but there’s a real sense of connection that is undeniable.”

Details: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix. $122.50 and up. 602-254-7200,  livenation.com .

The Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism famously labeled these K-pop sensations "4th Generation Leaders." Their latest album,"Golden Hour Pt. 1," is the biggest-selling K-pop album of the year and they recently became the South Korean artists with the most new top 10 albums in the U.K. in the course of a single year, a title previously held by BTS. This year also saw them turning in stellar a Coachella performance, acclaimed by the music press and festivalgoers alike.

Details: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Resale ticket prices vary. 602-379-7800,  ticketmaster.com .

Jeezy: Playlist Concert

The Artist Formerly Known as Young Jeezy arrives in support of "I Might Forgive... But I Don't Forget." He topped the rap and R&B charts in 2005 with "Soul Survivor," the breakthrough single from his platinum debut. His biggest hits include "And Then What," "I Luv It," "Go Getta," the double-platinum "Put On" (which featured Kanye West and put Jeezy back at the top of the rap charts), "My President" (featuring Nas), "Lose My Mind" (featuring Plies), "Leave You Alone" (with Ne-Yo), "R.I.P." (with 2 Chainz) and "Seen It All" (with Jay-Z).

Details: 8 p.m. Thursday, July 25. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. $71 and up. 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com . 

Nick Cartell: A Thousand Spotlights

Currently starring as Jean Valjean in the North American tour of "Les Misérables," a role he's played more than a thousand times, Cartell returns to Scottsdale for a hometown performance at ASU Kerr to celebrate the release of "A Thousand Spotlights," his new album. He shares stories of time on the road with "Les Miz," Broadway runs of the 2012 revival of "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Scandalous: The Musical" and "Paramour" interwoven with songs from the album, which features Broadway, Disney. and even some jazz.

Details: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 26-27. ASU Kerr, 6110 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. $10. 480-596-2660, asugammage.com .

Old School Block Party

As old-school as promised, this block party features sets by such crowd-pleasing veterans as 112, who topped the Billboard R&B charts with "It's Over Now"; Too Short, whose hits include "The Ghetto"; Stevie B., who topped the Hot 100 with "Because I Love You (The Postman Song)"; Digital Underground ("The Humpty Dance"); 2 Live Crew of "Me So Horny" fame; Debbie Deb, Trinere, Club Nouveau, Nocera, Freestyle and Connie.

Details: 7 p.m. Saturday, July 27. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale. $39 and up. 623-772-3800,  desertdiamondarena.com .

Samantha Fish

This award-winning blues guitar hero isn't strictly blues, incorporating elements of bluegrass, country, funk and rock. She's picked up 22 awards at the Independent Blues Awards since 2016, when her honors ranged from Artist of the Year, which she's won twice, to the Road Warrior award, which she's won four times. Her latest effort, last year's "Death Wish Blues," is an album-length collaboration with Jesse Dayton.

Details: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27. Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. $29-$99. 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre.com . 

What's on TV?: Here's this year's host and the full schedule

Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore

These roots-music legends earned raves in 2018 — and deservedly so — for an album called "Downey to Lubbock" whose title track found them exploring the thousand miles that separate their individual stomping grounds of southern California, where Alvin formed the Blasters, and west Texas, where Gilmore launched the Flatlanders. The other tracks were mostly covers, from the Youngbloods' "Get Together" to Woody Guthrie's "Deportee" and the oft-covered New Orleans R&B barnburner "Lawdy Miss Clawdy," written and originally cut by Lloyd Price. Now they're touring together at the helm of Alvin's band the Guilty Men.

Details: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. $49.50-$59.50. 480-478-6000,  mim.org .

Romeo Santos, the "King of Bachata," has reunited his group Aventura for a U.S. tour titled Cerrando Ciclos. This tour is said to be the last time Santos and Aventura will join forces on stage, offering an opportunity to relive the hits that defined an era in Latin music. Aventura took bachata to new heights while blending modern rhythms with the authentic essence of the genre. In a message to fans on social media, Santos said, "I want you to join me on a journey where I will be definitively closing cycles. Because it is not the same to remember beautiful times as it is to be a prisoner of the past. We cannot stagnate in the nostalgia of yesterday, but rather move forward, discover new horizons and show other facets.”

Details: 8 p.m. Monday, July 29. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $61 and up. 602-379-7800, ticketmaster.com .

Janet Jackson

The final U.S. date on the legend's Together Again tour brings the five-time Grammy-winning Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee back to Phoenix with special guest Nelly. The highest-selling tour of Ms. Jackson's career earned raves in 2023, including a review at azcentral headlined “Janet Jackson's sexy, powerful Phoenix performance proves she's still the Queen of Pop.” The Together Again tour also celebrates Jackson's 50th anniversary in entertainment and milestones for three of her most critically acclaimed albums — 25 years of “The Velvet Rope,” 30 years of “Janet” and 35 years of “Rhythm Nation.”

Details: 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 30. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $54.95 and up. 602-379-7800, ticketmaster.com .

Joshua Bassett

This is the opening night of a tour in support of "The Golden Years," a debut album due to be released four days before the tour launch. Last year, Bassett sold out dates around the globe on a headlining run while reprising his role as Ricky on Season 4 of “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.” He's joined in Phoenix by special guest Thomas Day.

Details: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 30. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $53 and up. 800-745-3000,  ticketmaster.com . 

Niall Horan

This is the One Direction singer's first headlining solo run since 2018’s Flicker World Tour. He’ll be performing songs from all three of his solo albums, including last year's "The Show." Horan was a huge fan favorite when TikTok brought its live In the Mix event to Mesa , where he proved he hasn’t lost the unassuming charm, much less the winning smile, that made him such a heartthrob in his boy-band days.  He even dusted off a One Direction hit, “The Story of My Life" in the course of a set where nearly every song he played felt like it could’ve been a massive pop hit. 

Details: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 31. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix. $29.50 and up. 602-254-7200,  livenation.com .

Hermanos Gutiérrez

The Gutiérrez brothers formed this Latin instrumental band in Zurich in 2015, earning raves for 2022’s “El Bueno y el Malo” and this year’s “Sonido Cósmico,” both of which were cut in Nashville with Dan Auerbach of Black Keys fame producing. In reviewing the newest one, Uncut raved, “While the album is rooted in Ennio Morricone's dusty spaghetti western soundtracks and Daniel Lanois' high-lonesome ambient, songs like the spacy 'El Fantasma' and the kaleidoscopic title track ground their psychedelic drift in the intense chemistry between the two brothers and the way they play off each other supernaturally."

Details: 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 31. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix. $62 and up. 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com . 

Top 10 Places to Visit in Zurich

Obviously, there are far more than 10 tourist attractions in Zurich, but this list points out the absolute highlights, nobody should miss. Visit the places in Zurich that tell the exciting history of the city, see the beautiful parks and green spaces in the middle of the Old Town and enjoy the breathtaking views from the numerous overlooks, and you will experience Zurich’s true character and beauty. 

Art lovers may also want to visit the Rietberg Museum , Switzerland’s biggest museum of non-European cultures.

Grossmünster

Fraumünster

Bahnhofstrasse

Lake Zurich

Zurich Opera House

National Museum Zurich

Kunsthaus Zürich

Other Stories You Might Like

Multifaceted Zurich

Zürich Card

All benefits, information, and prices at a glance.

The Seasons in Zurich

Which is the best season to visit Zurich? This is Zurich in spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Zurich Old Town on Foot

The most popular tour through Zurich´s old town reveals the city´s colorful history.

Restaurants in Zurich

Feasting in Zurich: Swiss cuisine, gourmet restaurants and international street food.

site categories

Lil nas x drops ‘beverly hills cop: axel f’ theme song ‘here we go’, breaking news.

Sabrina Carpenter VR Concert Set For Meta Horizon Worlds, The Latest “Feather” In Her Cap

By Patrick Hipes

Patrick Hipes

Executive Managing Editor

More Stories By Patrick

• TPG Back In Talent Management Game, Acquires Majority Stake In Untitled Entertainment
• No Strike This Summer? IATSE And Studios Reach Tentative Deal On Area Standards Agreement
• Caitlin Clark Tops Espy Awards Nominations List; Patrick Mahomes, Shohei Ohtani Among Double Nominees

EXCLUSIVE: Sabrina Carpenter , who is prepping for the release of her new album Short n’ Sweet in August and the launch of her North American tour after that, will headline Sabrina Carpenter: A VR Concert . The exclusive event will premiere Friday, July 19 at 5 p.m. PT exclusively in Meta Horizon Worlds’ Music Valley.

Related Stories

Tyler, The Creator Cancels Lollapalooza & Outside Lands Headlining Shows; Megan Thee Stallion & Sabrina Carpenter Fill Slots As Latter Reveals Tour

Jake Gyllenhaal Channels Fred From ‘Scooby Doo’ In Gross-Out Commercial For Apple Face ID Featuring Sabrina Carpenter

The Carpenter concert was filmed in Los Angeles and builds on the momentum of her Coachella performance in April, when she played both weekends. A teaser trailer of the VR concert (watch it above) shows off the distinctive baby blue motel set in 180 degrees.

See other first-look photos below. RSVP for the concert here .

Meta says replays will be available for another couple weeks of the concert, which serves as the marquee kickoff of a summer of new music, games, challenges and rewards in Meta Horizon Worlds , accessible via Meta Quest 3 headsets.

“It’s truly a privilege to witness and produce Sabrina at the height of her powers, especially after her phenomenal performance at Coachella,” Gunpowder & Sky CEO Van Toffler said. “Experiencing her in such an intimate setting offers a unique and unforgettable moment for her fans, highlighting her immense talent and charisma up close.”

Carpenter’s music career has been going full-tilt since opening for Taylor Swift during Eras Tour stops in Mexico, Argentina and Brazil in 2023 and in Australia and Singapore in February and March. Following Coachella, she was the musical guest on the season finale of Saturday Night Live in May.

Most recently, she was tapped as a headliner at Outside Lands on August 10 in San Francisco ahead of her album drop; Short ‘n Sweet is her sixth studio album. Her North American tour kicks off September 23 in Ohio and wraps with two shows in Los Angeles in November.

Check out the Sabrina Carpenter: A VR Concert photos below.

Must Read Stories

‘quiet place’ eyes franchise record $53m+ open; ‘horizon’ seeing $11m+.

‘Roseanne’, ‘Clue’ & ‘Fernwood 2 Nite’ Actor & Comic Dies; Career Gallery

Alec baldwin criminal trial will go ahead next month, judge rules, ‘firebrand’s jude law on daniel day-lewis performance that lit his fuse.

Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.

Read More About:

Deadline is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. All Rights Reserved.