This simple travel guide will give information on where to stay, what to see, and other practical travel tips that will save you money on your next trip to Zurich.
Transportation in Zurich
We flew into the Zurich Airport from Munich (we spent a few days there) and took public transit to our hotel. It was about a 10 minute transit ride from the airport. The hotel we chose to stay in is literally across the street from the Oerlikon train station. Ultimately, the walk from the train station to the hotel is pretty convenient. There are a few upward ramps to get to the main street, so be sure you don’t have tons of luggage.
If you choose to stay at Swissotel Zurich, there are two convenient transit lines that will get you there from the airport in 7 – 15 minutes. The prices vary from $2 – $18 depending on which line you take. You can purchase tickets here. You can also purchase them at the transit station. If you are staying somewhere else continue reading to check out my travel tips for other modes of transportation.
Where to Stay in Zurich
As you may have already figured, we stayed at Swissotel Zurich. It is in a great location as it’s conveniently located opposite the Oerlikon train station, close to Zurich’s business center, shopping, and entertainment. Although we were given an upgrade due to hotel membership, the rooms in this hotel tend to be small. Although the rooms are small, the view of the city is pretty nice and the service is good overall.
We are typically prepared for smaller rooms when we travel to Europe. Most hotels in Europe tend to have much smaller rooms than a typical American hotel.
Dining in Zurich
Food is extremely expensive in Zurich, especially meat dishes. If you are vegan/vegetarian you will do just fine in Zurich. We were lucky to visit during the Street Food Festival (month of May). Much of our late lunches/dinner, we spent at the Street Food Festival. Since there were so many options, we didn’t eat the same thing twice. As a matter of fact, it was hard to choose what to eat due to the abundance of choices. We found many people getting off work and coming straight to the Food Festival for happy hour.
Continue reading this travel guide and check out my travel tips on how you can save money on food while in Zurich.
Getting around the City
Swiss public transit in Zurich is clean, reliable and efficient. We used public transit most of the time while in Zurich. Tickets are purchased from vending machines before boarding.
Also, Zurich is definitely safe to walk. There are many places to discover on foot such as Old Town, the Lakeside promenade, and so many boutiques, cafes, and shoppes. The train station and all attractions are close by.
We used Uber once, but other than that we walked or took transit. Continue reading this travel guide and check out my travel tips on best modes of transportation.
During the free walking tour, we saw a few great sites.
Lindenhof Hill
This is my favorite spot in Zurich. It’s a perfect place to take photos and enjoy the view of the city.
Niederdorf
Not too far from Lindenhof, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the old town – Niederdorf. This area, you will find a ton of cafes and shops. Niederdorf can be seen from Lindenhof.
Fraumünster
Fraumünster is a smaller church with a rich history and an ancient crypt museum. It is set on the edge of the lively Münsterhof square. It is not very far walk from Niederdorf.
Fraumünster 
Fraumünster 
Münsterhof square 
“LIKE ALL GREAT TRAVELERS, I HAVE SEEN MORE THAN I REMEMBER AND REMEMBER MORE THAN I HAVE SEEN.”
–BENJAMIN DISRAELI
Water Fountains in Zurich
One thing I love about Zurich are its water fountains. There are around 1,200 water fountains in Zurich that provides a free source of mountain spring drinking water. The water is extremely fresh. Be sure to bring a water bottle. I also love the unique works of art.
After wrapping up the free walking tour, we took a tour of Lake Zurich.
Tour Lake Zurich
If you want a relaxing tour of the city, take a tour of Lake Zurich. You will pass beautiful neighborhoods, you will also see people swimming and fishing. It’s a perfect way to end the day. We purchased tickets at the gate while there. There are different tours on Viator you can purchase ahead of time.
Quick Money Saving Travel Tips
Switzerland is pretty expensive. Food and drinks can get pretty expensive; even over a two day span. So, I have found ways you can save money on your next trip to Zurich.
- Bring a water bottle. The water from the fountains is free and taste great.
- Limit your alcohol. Beer and wine is pretty expensive. If you must drink, purchase beer and wine at a local grocery. It’s much cheaper. Also, the hotel will sometimes provide drink vouchers for free alcohol during happy hour. Just ask the concierge.
- Take a free walking tour. Exploring a city on foot is the best way to understand it, and if you love architecture and history then this is a must. We always have great tour guides during the free walking tours. You tend to learn so much more about the city and the history behind everything. Be sure to tip your tour guide. The easiest way to determine the tip is to figure how much an average city tour costs (private tours) and tip 10-15%. Try and book your tour as early as possible. It’s usually a smaller crowd in the late mornings.
- Take Uber if you absolutely have to. It’s definitely cheaper than a taxi. Transit is ultimately the cheapest mode of transportation other than walking.
- If you are able to, purchase your own groceries. Eating out is extremely expensive. We lucked up and visited Zurich in May during the Food Festival. If you must eat out, eat your biggest meal during lunch as it’s least expensive. You can usually find lunch specials at local cafes.
This travel guide and travel tips are simple enough to follow and ensure you have a nice relaxing time in Zurich.
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