Zurich isn’t typically on a ‘top 10 places to visit’ list in Europe. Whilst being more well known as a hub of financial services, there is still plenty to enjoy in Zurich for any traveller. It’s also an incredibly useful hub for connecting flights. So if you do find yourself in Zurich during the summer, here’s five things that kept us occupied when we visited.
1) Wander/swim in the river
The Limmat river runs through the city, ultimately into Lake Zurich. During the summer, the river is the beating heart of the city. Take a stroll from anywhere along the river. You’ll be greeted with people out and about, swimming, walking, running or skating in or near to the river.
We went for a wander just after work. Not our work obviously, but those hard working Zurich types! I loved seeing the folks who who had wrapped up for the day, thrown everything in a waterproof bag and jumped into the river. Seriously, what a great way to end your day and begin your evening. Sign me up. The current drags you down the river, making for an effortless post-work cool down. And if you’re not working, a great cool down to ease the pressure on the feet of a weary traveller!
2) Have a drink by the river
If you can’t be bothered swimming or walking, stop and have a drink. In most instances, once people have wrapped up a swim, they’ll jump out at a bar for a drink. It is the perfect set up to cool down and enjoy the afternoon and evening. Enjoy watching the swimmers and the world go by. Get a few drinks under you’re belt and I’m sure you’ll join the chanting at the swimmers to dive off the bridges!
3) Visit the old Town
A wander along the river should take you into the Old Town. The Old Town has plenty to admire including cobblestones and beautiful Swiss buildings. If you’re a coffee drinker, you’ll find plenty of places for that caffeine fix.
4) Have a currywurst at Sternen Grill
Whilst in the Old Town, find Sternen Grill to ease your hunger pangs. Sternen Grill provides some cheap bratwurst and beers (by Zurich standards anyhow). Pull up a chair, smash a currywurst and drink and people watch. It’s a great spot for either lunch or dinner.
5) Check out the crazy Freitag store in Zurich West
Freitag managed to get my money for my only souvenir to date on this trip (a new iPhone cover). Our hotel, 25Hours Zurich West provides a free Freitag for use during your stay. The brand is a Swiss icon. Freitag recycles truck tarps into bags, purses and in the case of my souvenir, mobile phone cases.
Aside from the cool products it sells – which aren’t cheap – the flagship store is impressive. Continuing the recycling theme, the store is made from disused shipping containers. You can climb to the top of the containers for a view over Zurich too. Best bet to do this before jumping in the river, because you will work up a sweat!
Zurich might be a financial hub, but there is plenty more than that to tie you over for a visit. Safe travels!