Travelers Best

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is regarded to be the financial heart of the world. The city ranks at the top as one of the best cities in terms of quality of living. Its many shopping areas, restaurants and cafes, and excellent means of public transportation, will appeal to many visitors.

While there be sure to visit the botanical gardens located at the university area, and shoppers will appreciate the ultimate shopping experience at the Bahnoffstrasse. Be sure to also visit the historical Grossmünster and Fraumünster Churches, and after a day of sightseeing and shopping relax at the Tiefenbrunnen beach.

A trip to the older parts of Zurich should definitely also be on the agenda, to feel the unique atmosphere of walking the cobblestone streets, which invoke the impression you are walking inside a picture postcard. Many small stores are located in the alleys, along with bistros and restaurants. From Zurich’s central station it is within walking distance, but the tram will also take you there if walking is not to your liking.  The old part of Zurich is perfect for exploration by foot, as you visit nostalgic guild houses that still show the old Zurich of times long gone. Cobblestone streets on one hand, while a beautiful riverside setting on the other, provide spectacular scenes, worthy to be printed on a postcard. This part of Zurich houses many shops selling antiques, and for relaxation there are many cafes along the riverside of the Limmat.

The central station of Zurich also holds a large shopping mall, which was built underground, and is open seven days of the week, and therefore a good location to visit on days when regular stores are closed. In the old parts of Zurich there also exists a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs where you can dance, party or just relax. It should be mentioned that the old scene also serves as the heart of the gay club scene, and while most clubs cater to all, some are exclusive to gay people.

A good time to visit Zurich is around the second half of April, as this is the time for the famous Six Ringing Festival. The original theme of the holiday is the celebration of the return of the spring season and is part of the local tradition of Zurich.

Winter time is also a good time to visit the city, especially during December, as the city is host for the traditional Christmas markets, which the city is famous for. Visitors at this period will experience the unique atmosphere of Zurich during the holidays, which is unique in the world and definitely something one should experience at least once in their life.

Besides being the financial and business center of the world, Zurich is rich with culture and well worth a visit. From the past Zurich had a reputation of being expensive, but this no longer holds true. Zurich can be an excellent holiday location on a budget, if you cater to your needs in the old parts of the city. Especially when eating and drinking are concerned, we can highly recommend the restaurants down the riverside of the Limmat, where you can eat and drink at reasonable prices and enjoy quality food and drinks.
M.A.H.