Zurich Things to Do

Few transport methods capture old world romance as perfectly as an 1890s Classic Trolley and the nostalgic vehicles aren’t just confined to museums – replica trolleys are now a popular way for tourists to take in the sights.

Set on the glittering Lake Zurich against a dramatic mountain backdrop, few places are picturesque as Zurich and as the weather heats up, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Switzerland’s largest city . Here are some ideas for things to do in Zurich in summer.

Bringing the best of national and international Blues acts to Switzerland since 2003, the legendary Blues Festival Baden is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2013. A week of music concerts, all-ages workshops, pub performances and jam sessions, the Blues Festival has become one of the most anticipated music events of the year, with festival organizers also dishing out the prestigious Swiss Blues Award to the most notable homegrown act and crowds of music lovers pouring in from nearby Zurich.

With an incredible variety of museums and galleries to choose from, making a list of Zurich’s best museums is no easy task, but whether you’re into art, history or something a little different, here’s our pick of the best.

1. Museum Reitberg
Specializing in world art and history, the Reitberg Museum offers an eclectic mix of works amassed by collector Baron von der Heydt who donated his personal collection to the city of Zurich back in 1952. The varied pieces make for a fascinating permanent exhibition, showcasing a vast assembly of Islamic art and crafts, Chinese ceramics, Buddhist art, Armenian carpets and elaborately patterned African masks.

Zurich might not be the cheapest city to indulge in gourmet cuisine, but the city’s vast range of restaurants make it a great place to tuck into some Swiss specialties. Here’s a few ideas for what to try.

1. Zurich Geschnetzeltes
Zurich’s most famous traditional dish, Zurich Geschnetzeltes is made from thin strips of veal, cooked up in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce. Couple it with another Swiss special, Rosti – pan-fried grated potato cakes.

As the ski season slows down and the Swiss countryside returns to green, Zurich is an atmospheric place to visit. The warmer weather makes the perfect time for city sightseeing, with boat trips running along Lake Zurich, buskers lining the cobbled streets of the Niederdorf district and café seating spilling out onto the streets. Exploring the city’s natural attractions is a popular pastime in Spring – go bird watching in the Voliere park, home to over 150 species; cycle to the Wildnis Park Langenberg, home to an array of wildlife; or take a picnic to the blooming Botanical Gardens. As the temperature heats up, open-air swimming is also possible at a number of spots along the lake, as well as on the picturesque Werdinsel Island.