ZURICH MUST SEES
While Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is known for both banking and finance, it is also a beautiful place to visit! If you have never been to Zurich, here are a few of my favorite things you can’t miss:
Grossmunster
The Grossmunster is a Romanesque-style Protestant church in Zurich, and one of four prominent churches in the city. Legend has it that Charlemagne found the graves of the city’s patron saints Felix and Regula and had the church built on that spot. The church’s twin towers are one of Zurich’s most famous landmarks, and you have the opportunity to walk up to the top to soak in the views of this beautiful city.
Fraumunster
Another church of note is the Fraumunster, founded by King Louis the German in 853. Once inhabited by the female members of the aristocracy of Europe, it now welcomes locals and tourists from all over for both prayer and to marvel at the stained glass windows by Augusto Giacometti and Marc Chagall.
Altstadt (Old Town)
This charming car-free area is at the heart of Zurich. Walk the narrow cobblestoned streets to experience Switzerland’s highest concentration of clubs as well as traditional Swiss restaurants and little shops.
Lindenhof hill
This spot is a wonderful vantage point overlooking Old Town, Grossmunster, the Limmat River, and more. Now a scenic area, Lindenhof was also where many historical events took place. For example, a Roman fort once stood on Lindenhof in the 4thcentury. In the 9thcentury, the grandson of Charlemagne built a palace here. (And this is also the place where CJ slowly fell backwards and I just stood there because I have terrible reflexes, but that is not written in history books yet!)
Uetliberg
If you’re looking for a bit of nature, head to Uetliberg, Zurich’s very own mountain for biking and hiking in the warmer months, and sledding during snowier times. At 2,850 feet above sea level, Uetliberg offers incomparable panoramic views of the entire city and Lake Zurich. From Zurich’s main station, take the S10 train 8 stops to Uetliberg, about a 20-minute ride.
Lake Zurich
Seeing Lake Zurich from Uetliberg is a must, but getting up close and personal is also a great way to experience the lake. Take a round trip boat ride from Burkliplatz for 90 minutes, two to three hours, or even a longer trip that will last four hours. CJ and I took a 90 minute round trip boat ride and sat on the back of the boat and it was so peaceful and beautiful.
Zurich has so much to offer, from the medieval buildings of Old Town to Uetliberg and shimmering Lake Zurich, you will be able to appreciate this city no matter what you decide to do!