Things to Do in Zurich: - Ormina Tours Hidden Gems, Culture & Day Trips

Zurich Isn’t Just a Stopover: The Swiss City Worth Slowing Down For

An Insider Travel Guide to Zurich, Switzerland’s Culture, Dining and The Best Things To Do Nearby

Many travellers arrive in Zurich with a simple plan. They land, stay one night, and then head straight for the Alps. However, if you linger just a little longer, you’ll discover there are countless things to do in Zurich. Zurich is one of Europe’s most refined yet relaxed cities. In fact, art-filled restaurants, historic wine taverns and lakeside promenades define Zurich. Together, they make the city far more than a transport hub.

For anyone exploring Switzerland with Ormina Tours, Zurich offers the perfect introduction to the country’s quiet sophistication. So, here is why Zurich deserves more than just a quick stop.

A Gateway That Connects Switzerland to Europe

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest international gateway. Direct flights and rail routes connect it to major cities in Italy, France, Austria, and beyond. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Switzerland by rail. Scenic routes quickly connect Zurich to alpine resorts, historic towns and lakeside villages. As a result, many travellers explore Switzerland by train. The rail network is famously efficient and remarkably scenic. From Zurich, some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes are only a short journey away.

Read more about Why You Must Explore Switzerland by Train here.

Dining That Feels Like an Experience

Restaurant Kollenhalle, things to do and places to eat in Zurich Switzerland — Restaurant Kollenhalle

Zurich’s culinary culture reflects its personality: historic, elegant and quietly creative. Here are some of the dining spots we recommend:

One of the city’s most iconic restaurants is Restaurant Kronenhalle. Guests dine surrounded by original artworks from masters such as Picasso and Chagall. It feels as much like a private gallery as a restaurant.
For modern Swiss cuisine, Restaurant Spitz offers seasonal dishes with views over the Limmat River. Meanwhile, Zunfthaus zur Waag delivers classic Swiss flavours inside a beautifully preserved guild house.
Vegetarian travellers should not miss Haus Hiltl, recognised as the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, operating since 1898.
Meanwhile, Restaurant Kindli remains a beloved local institution, serving traditional Swiss cuisine in a historic setting.
For a glass of wine after dinner, step into Oepfelchammer. It is the city’s oldest wine bar. Or choose to dine in one of Zurich’s many open-air bars.

Art, Culture and Timeless Streets

Zurich’s Old Town is a joy to wander, with narrow medieval streets lined with boutiques, cafés, and centuries-old architecture. Nearby, the stained glass windows of Fraumünster Church remain one of the city’s most striking artistic treasures.

Meanwhile, museum lovers are equally spoilt. For example, Museum Rietberg houses a remarkable global art collection. Also, the interactive FIFA Museum explores football in a playful and immersive way. And for a quintessential Zurich stroll, Bahnhofstrasse offers window-shopping along one of Europe’s most famous streets.

Lakeside Living and Sweet Swiss Traditions

Life in Zurich flows naturally towards the water.

A cruise across Lake Zurich reveals sweeping views of hills and lakeside villages. At the same time, it offers a quieter perspective of the city. Many travellers combine this with a chocolate tasting experience, exploring the craftsmanship behind Switzerland’s most famous treat.

Just beyond the city, the lakeside town of Rapperswil hosts lively food markets and charming waterfront cafés. You can visit this charming town in our Charming Switzerland: Zurich, Lucerne & Saint Gallen Itinerary.

Historic Towns and Swiss Traditions Near Zurich

Zurich’s greatest advantage may be how easily it connects to these hidden gems or lesser-known destinations.

Abbey Library UNESCO listed, St Gallens - things to do nearby Zurich Switzerland, — Abbey Library – Image: My Switzerland

St. Gallen – 1 hour by train from Zurich
The historic city of St. Gallen is famous for its Abbey Library. It is one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. With its intricately carved wooden shelves and illuminated manuscripts, it feels like stepping into a living treasure. Trains depart frequently from Zurich’s main station. This makes visiting St. Gallen easy. Spend a day wandering the baroque old town and discovering boutique shops and cafés tucked into historic streets.

Appenzell – 2 hours by train from Zurich
This colourful village is the heart of Swiss traditions. Appenzell is renowned for its local cheese, hand-painted houses, and centuries-old crafts. The journey from Zurich passes rolling green pastures and charming villages. Here, it gives you a taste of Switzerland’s rural charm. Don’t miss sampling the famous Appenzeller cheese and strolling the lively town square.

Nature and Scenic Escapes Within Easy Reach

Rhine Falls, day trip, things to do in Zurich, Switzerland

Rhine Falls (Schaffhausen) – 50 minutes by train from Zurich
Nature reaches its most dramatic form at the Rhine Falls. Learn more about the Rhine Falls here. It is the largest waterfall in Europe by flow. The train journey from Zurich is straightforward. The train ride is straightforward. You can experience boat trips right up to the roaring falls, scenic walking trails, and panoramic viewpoints. It’s a spectacular, sensory day trip that feels worlds away from the city streets. Explore Rhine Falls on our Best of Zürich and Scenic Surrounds Private Itinerary.

Rheinau – 45 minutes by train from Zurich
A riverside gem, Rheinau is known for its historic monastery and tranquil streets. The journey from Zurich along the Rhine is as scenic as the destination itself. A stroll through the monastery grounds in Rheinau reveals centuries of history. Riverside cafés are perfect for a quiet lunch or coffee break.

Baden – 25 minutes by train from Zurich
In winter, the spa town of Baden charms visitors. You’ll find intimate Christmas markets, thermal baths, and historic streets. It sits only a short train ride from Zurich. As a result, it offers a quieter alternative to the city’s festive crowds.

Take these day trips on our Best of Zürich and Scenic Surrounds Private Itinerary.

The Best of Zürich and Scenic Surrounds

Experience the very best of Zürich and surrounding regions with private guides, local tastings, and scenic day trips.

View the Itinerary

Zurich Rewards Those Who Stay

Zurich, Switzerland Old Town, things to do

Zurich may first appear as Switzerland’s gateway city. Yet once explored properly, Zurich reveals something more compelling. Art, cuisine, lakeside living and cultural heritage quietly come together here. For travellers beginning their journey with Ormina Tours, Zurich is the perfect base. It offers you to slow down before venturing deeper into the landscapes of Switzerland.

Tailor your experience with our Zurich Itinerary.

Charming Switzerland: Zurich, Lucerne & Saint Gallen

Discover Switzerland’s vibrant cities, scenic lakes, historic towns, and iconic mountains on this immersive round trip from Zurich. Experience guided walking tours, UNESCO sites, local culture, mountain excursions, and authentic culinary tastings along the way.

View the Itinerary

With Ormina Tours, you won’t just pass through Zurich – you’ll experience it. From private cultural tours to carefully curated day trips, we design personalised itineraries that help you uncover Zurich’s hidden gems and insider treasures. As a result, your journey reveals the very best of Switzerland’s cultural heart. Start planning your Switzerland Journey here.