Lakeside Zurich

Zurich is located on Lake Zurich and is the largest city of the Swiss Confederation. It is the financial centre of Switzerland and home to the headquarters of many international companies. Zurich has theatres, museums, art galleries and a wide range of bars and restaurants. It is often called the "portal to the Alps" because of its proximity to the Swiss Alps.

Seasons plus attractions and tips

Zurich is a year-round travel destination with the best time to visit being June through to mid-August. The weather is cool and mild in Spring and Autumn, and it can be hot in the Summer. Winters are cold and tend to be foggy in November and December. Visit for holidays and festivals and enjoy the local culture. The medieval 'Sechseläuten' festival is usually held in  April, with a parade and the symbolic burning of Winter in the form of a "Böögg" effigy. There is a street parade, part of a techno festival in August, and in the second week of September is 'Knabenschiessen', a target shooting event.

Zurich pre-travel tips

Zürich is a multilingual city with German, English and French being spoken. The cost of living in Zürich is approximately 20% to 40% higher than in London. A cheap meal costs around 25 Fr.

After arriving in Zurich

Zurich Airport is Switzerland's largest and busiest airport. Regular trains run to Zurich Central, a 12 minute journey away. Trains depart from level 2 at the airport by the shopping area and opposite arrivals. A single ticket to the city centre costs around 6.60 Fr. Tram 10 travels from the airport to the main station and takes 40 minutes. A ticket costs around 6.60 Fr, the same price as a train ticket. Buses travel from the airport to the city centre. Buses and tram stops, are on the airport ground floor, level 1. A taxi costs around 70 CHF.

The range of accommodation is wide   Hostels are inexpensive and cost from 34CHF per night for a shared room.  Hotels cost about 120 Fr. per person per night.

Central Zürich is quite compact and visitors can walk or cycle. However, the public transport system is efficient and a ZürichCard is available for the extensive transport network. The ZürichCard offers discounts for some museums and attractions. Cards are valid for either 24 or 72 hours.