20+ fun things to do in Zurich, Switzerland

In my opinion, Zurich is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland, known for its stunning scenic views and unique culture.

While famed for its world-leading financial institutions, delectable chocolates and luxury watches, I love that there is more to Zurich than just its financial prowess. 

It’s a city where you can explore the immense history of the old town, embrace the local culture at various museums, and enjoy the natural alpine beauty that surrounds the city.

I found one of the best things to do in Zurich is to visit the old town, a charming area of the city characterised by narrow streets, old buildings, and beautiful architecture.

A perfect place to explore on foot, take in the sights and sounds of the city, and experience all it has to offer.

Foodies like me will feel right at home in Zurich, sampling some of the finest Swiss cuisine on offer and a cheeky chocolate or two!

See what I got up to on my trip to Zurich along with other recommendations from fellow travellers. Here you can discover the best things to do in Zurich for a truly unforgettable stay.

1. Explore the old town (Altstadt)

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Tours and tickets: 

• Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours
• Zurich: 2-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Zurich: Private eTukTuk City Tour

Zurich’s old town (Altstadt) is a charmingly picturesque part of the city, enticing visitors from across the globe.

You’ll be greeted with narrow streets, historic buildings and stunning architecture – as well as a host of cafés, restaurants and local businesses.

I would argue that one of the best ways to experience the old town is to join a walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide.

With an organised tour, you can delve that little bit deeper into the history of the area and its significance. 

The stunning stained glass windows of the Fraumünster Church and the towering spires of Grossmünster Church are must-sees in this part of Zurich.

I just love that you’ll find iconic Swiss landmarks around every corner in the old town. 

As well as the plethora of historic buildings and landmarks, the old town is also home to several museums and galleries.

The Swiss National Museum is one of my favourites, offering a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Switzerland.

Good to know: I’d recommend getting the Zürich Card which gives you free public transport use and free or reduced admission to many attractions in the city.

You can get 50% off the cost of the Old Town Walking Tour with this card and much more. 

2. Visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate

Opening times: 

• April to October: daily 10:00 – 19:00
• November to March: daily 10:00 – 18:00

Prices: 

• Adults: CHF 15
• Concessions: CHF 13
• Students & apprentices (under 16): CHF 13
• Children aged eight to 15: CHF 10
• Children under eight: free

Tours and tickets: Zurich: Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket

If you’re a chocolate lover like me, no trip to Zurich could ever be complete without a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate.

This attraction, located in the Kilchberg district, offers you a chance to learn about the history of chocolate and the process of chocolate making – and more importantly, sample the goods.

Upon arrival, you are greeted by a giant chocolate fountain, which I honestly think is what dreams are made of!

The tour begins with an enticing short film. You then move on to the chocolate-making demonstration, where you can watch the master chocolatiers at work.

After the demonstration, you have the opportunity to explore the interactive exhibits. These include a chocolate tasting station and a virtual reality experience.

There is also a large chocolate shop on site, where you can purchase the infamous yet delicious Lindt chocolates to take home.

I find that the Lindt Home of Chocolate is a wonderful Zurich attraction to visit for families with children, as there are plenty of hands-on activities and exhibits that are sure to keep kids entertained.

For the chocolate lovers among us, this trip is pretty much a non-negotiable!

Good to know: As you can imagine, the Lindt Home of Chocolate is a hugely popular place to visit. So I’d always recommend booking in advance to secure your spot. 

3. See the Grossmünster

Opening times: 

• March to October: Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 18:00; open Sunday after the service
• November to February: Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 17:00; open on Sunday after the service.

Prices: 

• Adults: CHF 5
• Children aged six to 16: CHF 2
• Entry is free for Zürich Card holders.

The Grossmünster is a Romanesque-style Protestant church dating back to the 12th century. It’s a prominent landmark in the city and beyond.

The church is known for its grand towers, and you can actually climb to the top of one of the pair. 187 steps later, you’ll be met with stunning views of Zurich from the top – which I think are well worth the effort.

Inside the church, take a moment to admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the impressive organ, which was built in 1960.

The church also houses a Reformation Museum in the cloister that displays artefacts from the church’s history.

The Grossmünster is located in the heart of Zurich’s old town. It’s easily accessible by various modes of public transportation. You can take a tram or bus to the nearest stop and walk a few minutes to reach the church.

Good to know: Legend says that the Grossmünster stands on the former burial place of the city saints Felix and Regula.

4. Relax in Park Platzspitz

Opening times: Daily but closes at night

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I find that one of the most relaxing things to do in Zurich is to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. So be sure to spend some time in the beautiful Park Platzspitz.

Located in the heart of the city, this park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists as a haven within the city.

The park is situated on an island in the Limmat River next to the National Swiss Museum. It offers gorgeous views of the city and the surrounding alpine vistas.

Here, you’ll find a variety of flora and fauna, including ducks, swans, and other waterfowl. You can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s many paths beside the river and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

For those looking for a bit more activity, the park offers a range of sports facilities. These include a football pitch, a volleyball court, and a basketball court for you to enjoy.

There is also a playground for children, making it a great spot for families.

Good to know: Dogs are allowed at Park Platzspitz, so feel free to bring along a furry friend. 

5. Explore the Swiss National Museum

Opening times: 

• Tuesday to Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
• Thursday: 10:00 – 19:00
• Friday to Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00

Prices: 

• Adults: CHF 10
• Concessions: CHF 8
• Children under 16: free 
• Entry is free for Zürich Card holders.

Tours and tickets: N/A

Located in the heart of Zurich, the Swiss National Museum offers a fascinating insight into Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage.

Housed in a beautiful neo-Gothic building – which I find to be an architectural masterpiece in itself – the striking building was designed by Gustav Gull and was completed in 1898.

You can explore a vast collection of exhibits that cover Swiss history from prehistoric times to the present day.

Expect to see everything from ancient artefacts and mediaeval weapons to modern art and contemporary design. A real highlight of the museum for me is the collection of Swiss watches and clocks.

Switzerland is famous for its precision timepieces, and the museum has an extensive collection of watches and clocks from various periods in history.

Sadly they’re behind lock and key, so you won’t be able to try them out for yourself!

Good to know: The Swiss National Museum hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year. So I’d recommend checking out what’s on during your trip.

6. Enjoy a Lake Zurich boat cruise

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Tours and tickets: 

• Zurich: City Sightseeing Tour with Lake Cruise
• Zurich: City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit

I don’t think there’s anything quite like experiencing the beauty of the city by taking a boat cruise on Lake Zurich. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Zurich.

The crystal-clear water is surrounded by imposing mountain scenery and picturesque towns. It’s a wonderful way to capture the juxtaposition of the city. 

There are several companies that offer boat cruises on Lake Zurich. These range from short but sweet sightseeing tours to longer excursions that take you to nearby towns and villages. 

No matter which company you choose to sail with, you’re sure to enjoy a relaxing and scenic boat ride on Lake Zurich.

Be sure to bring your camera to capture the simply lovely views that will surround you. 

Good to know: Some companies offer cruises on Lake Zurich under the golden hues of the setting sun, making for an unforgettable (and Instagram-worthy) experience.

7. See a Candlelight Concert

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Prices: From 49 CHF

Tours and tickets: Zurich concerts

For an evening of accessible classical music in a breathtaking setting, I’d really recommend attending a Candlelight Concert. 

Created by Fever, these concerts involve local musicians performing familiar tracks in a space illuminated by thousands of candles. 

You can choose from a variety of different programmes, depending on whether you’re after the classics or a more modern twist. 

From works by the great composers, such as Chopin, Mozart and Vivaldi, to famous movie soundtracks and tributes to popular artists like ABBA, Ed Sheeran and Queen.

While I didn’t manage to catch a Candlelight Concert in Zurich during my visit, I did attend a Hans Zimmer by candlelight performance in London and it was a truly fantastic evening.

Check the Zurich schedule of events before planning your trip to see whether any of the performances take your fancy.

8. Ascend the Uetliberg for panoramic views

Opening times: Daily but closes at night

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Ascending the Uetliberg – known as Zurich’s mountain – offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city, the azure Lake Zurich and the surrounding Swiss countryside.

Standing at a huge 870 metres above sea level, I think it’s the perfect spot for breathtaking views of Zurich and the Alps in the distance.

To reach the top of the peak, you can easily take a train from the main station in Zurich to Uetliberg station – which takes just 20 minutes.

From there, it’s a short walk to the summit, where there is an observation tower that provides 360-degree views of the Swiss country.

Once you’ve reached the top of the snow-covered peak, I recommend enjoying a delectable meal and a refreshing drink at the Uto Kulm restaurant, which is located inside the observation tower.

The restaurant offers a range of tasty Swiss and international dishes, as well as a selection of Swiss wines and other beverages.

For those who enjoy hiking and more of a challenge, there are several trails that lead to the top of the Uetliberg. These trails offer incredible views of the natural beauty of the area.

Good to know: There are two official bike trails that take you up the Uetliberg: the Triemli and the Höckler.

9. See the art at Helmhaus Zürich

Opening times: 

• Tuesday to Wednesday: 11:00 – 18:00
• Thursday: 11:00 – 20:00
• Friday to Sunday: 11:00 – 18:00

Prices: Free

Tours and tickets: N/A

In the heart of Zurich’s old town lies Helmhaus Zürich, a contemporary art museum dedicated to celebrating Swiss artists and the dynamic art scene in Zurich.

The museum features a wide range of contemporary art, from delicate paintings and sculptures to bold installations and multimedia works.

The exhibitions are curated by a team of experts who are proud to showcase the very best of Swiss and international art.

Here, you can see pieces by some of the country’s most famous and celebrated artists, including Ferdinand Hodler, Alberto Giacometti, and Pipilotti Rist.

In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. 

Good to know: The temporary exhibitions showcase the work of both established and emerging artists – giving you a unique opportunity to experience the latest trends in contemporary art.

10. Have a cocktail at Jules Verne Panorama Bar

Opening times: 

• Tuesday and Wednesday: 17:30 – 23:00
• Thursday: 17:00 – 23:00
• Friday: 17:00 – 00:00
• Saturday: 14:00 – 00:00

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Offering simply breathtaking views of the city, it’s no wonder why the Jules Verne Panorama Bar is a firm favourite social spot for locals and tourists.

If you’re looking for a touch of elegance with your after-sightseeing cocktails, this is the place to be and one of the best things to do in Zurich.

With a sophisticated atmosphere and extensive cocktail menu, you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable evening.

Add in Swiss alpine views while sipping on your tipple of choice and I don’t there’s anything more you could need. 

One of the bar’s signature cocktails is the Jules Verne Martini, which is made with gin, vermouth, and a touch of absinthe. Personally, I like my cocktails to punch me in the face, so this sounds right up my street!

Another fan-favourite drink is the Swiss Mule, which is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with Swiss vodka and ginger beer.

Good to know: The bar also serves a selection of small plates, such as charcuterie and cheese boards, as well as desserts. The prices are on the higher side, but I think the view makes it worth it.

11. See the art at Kunsthaus Zürich

Opening times: 

• Tuesday, Friday to Sunday 10:00 – 18:00
• Wednesday to Thursday 10:00 – 20:00

Prices: 

• Adults: CHF 23
• Concessions: CHF 18
• Children under 18: free
• Zürich Card holders: 20% discount

Tours and tickets: N/A

Kunsthaus Zürich is one of the most popular art museums in Switzerland and houses a vast collection of art from the Middle Ages through to contemporary times.

Here, you can explore the museum’s extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations from world-renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

The museum also has an impressive collection of Swiss art, including works by the celebrated Ferdinand Hodler and Alberto Giacometti.

I’d recommend taking advantage of the museum’s guided tours, which provide an in-depth look at the collection and exhibitions.

The museum also offers educational programmes for children and adults, including workshops, lectures, and courses.

Good to know: Fans of architectural design won’t be disappointed when you see the building that houses the artwork.

12. Visit Cabaret Voltaire

Opening times: 

• Tuesday to Thursday: 17:00 – 22:00
• Friday to Saturday: 13:30 – 22:00
• Sunday: 13:30 – 18:00

Prices: 

• Regular: CHF 14
• Cabaret Voltaire members: CHF 8
• Zürich Card holders: 50% discount

Tours and tickets: Zurich: E-Bike City Tour

I’d recommend Cabaret Voltaire as a must-visit for art-fanatics and anyone interested in the history of the iconic Dada art movement.

The venue was founded in 1916 by a group of artists – including Hugo Ball and Emmy Hennings – hoping to create an alternative to the mainstream culture of the time. 

Today, the venue still hosts exhibitions, performances, and events that celebrate the spirit of the world-famous Dada movement.

You’ll find a collection of impressive Dada art and literature, as well as a range of temporary exhibitions to explore in the Vaulted Cellar. 

In addition to the museum, you can also attend performances and events at Cabaret Voltaire.

The venue hosts regular concerts, readings, and other cultural events, providing a unique opportunity to experience the spirit of Dada in a contemporary context.

Good to know: You can find a bar in the Historic Hall and the Artists’ Bar in the entrance area for refreshments.

13. Go on a bike tour

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Tours and tickets: Zurich: E-Bike City Tour

One of the best ways to explore Zurich is by bike. With its flat terrain and extensive network of cycle paths, I love that the city is a cyclist’s paradise.

There are several bike rental shops in the city, making it easy to rent a bike for a few hours or a whole day.

My favourite bike tour route is along the deep-blue shores of Lake Zurich, which offers stunning views of the lake and the nearby peaks.

The route takes you through the charming Swiss towns of Kilchberg and Rüschlikon, where you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat in one of the many local cafés.

Another popular route takes you through the historic old town, where you can see some of Zurich’s most iconic landmarks.

For those who prefer a more guided experience, there are several bike tour companies in Zurich that offer bike tours with local guides. 

Knowledgeable guides will take you to some of the city’s hidden gems and provide you with interesting insights into Zurich’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Good to know: It’s easy to get carried away on bike rides, so I’d recommend taking a picnic and stopping off at one of the top Zurich attractions for a well-deserved break. 

14. Spend an afternoon at Flussbad Oberer Letten Badi

Opening times: Daily, 09:00 – 20:00

Prices: N/A

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Flussbad Oberer Letten Badi is a popular swimming spot in Zurich, located on the banks of the winding Limmat River. I think it’s one of the best things to do in Zurich during the summer months.

Soak up the sunshine and take a dip for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature and the stunning Swiss scenery.

The swimming area itself is 400 metres long and features diving boards for the more adventurous among us.

The water is clean and refreshing, and there are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available for visitors to use.

In addition to swimming, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy at Flussbad Oberer Letten Badi.

You can play beach volleyball, table tennis, or even try your hand at slacklining. Plus, I love that the book boxes provided by the Bühl Foundation mean you’re never far from a good story. 

Good to know: There is also a restaurant on site, serving a variety of snacks, drinks, and meals.

15. Admire the views from Lindenhof

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Lindenhof is a hill located in the centre of Zurich’s old town, offering unrivalled panoramic views across Zurich, Grossmünster Church and over the Limmat River.

There’s a giant chess board located on the hill and you can play life-sized chess, which I find certainly adds to the charm of the place.

To reach Lindenhof, you can climb up the stairs or take the elevator located near the St. Peter’s Church. If you’re able to, the climb is worth it as the views from the top are breathtaking. 

Lindenhof is also a historical site; it was once a Roman castle and later a royal palace. Here, you’ll glimpse the remains of the castle walls and the old lime trees that give the hill its name.

Good to know: The walk to reach the top of Lindenhof can be steep, so may not be suitable for everyone. But if you can, I really believe that seeing the views from this gorgeous spot is one of the best things to do in Zurich. 

16. Relax at Hürlimannbad & Spa Zürich

Opening times: Daily 09:00 to 22:00 (spa closes at 21:30)

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Hürlimannbad & Spa Zürich is an oasis of relaxation, uniquely combining modern and traditional architecture to create a calming atmosphere. 

The spa features a large indoor pool, outdoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. The outdoor pool is open year-round and is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.

While the rejuvenating saunas and steam rooms provide a variety of temperatures and fragrances, allowing you to choose your perfect experience.

The spa also offers a range of treatments, including luxurious massages, relaxing facials, and body treatments – I’d definitely recommend treating yourself while you’re here!

Good to know: In addition to the spa facilities and treatments, Hürlimannbad & Spa Zürich also has a restaurant that serves healthy and delicious meals. 

Discover my pick of the best spa resorts in Switzerland.

17. Stroll through the Zurich Botanical Garden

Opening times: 

• Monday to Friday: 07:00 – 19:00
• Saturday to Sunday: 08:00 – 18:00
• Tropical greenhouses are open daily, 09:30 – 16:45

Prices: Free

Tours and tickets: N/A

The Zurich Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city that is home to over 7,000 plant species, including rare and exotic plants from all over the world.

Each area of the gardens has its own charm, but the Alpine Garden is my personal favourite, with its collection of plants from the Swiss Alps.

The Palm House is also definitely worth a visit in my opinion, with its tropical climate and diverse range of plants from around the world.

In addition to the array of plants, the Zurich Botanical Garden also has a range of sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the beautiful grounds.

These add an extra dimension to the experience and make the garden a true feast for all of the senses.

Good to know: While the gardens are best viewed in the spring or summer, I think the tropical greenhouses are still worth a visit in poorer weather conditions. 

18. Explore the city by segway

Opening times: N/A

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Tours and tickets: 

• Zurich: Public City Segway Tour
• Zurich: Private Guided Segway Tour

For an utterly unique and exceptionally fun way to explore Zurich, consider taking a Segway tour.

Segways are two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicles that are easy to ride and provide an exciting yet efficient way to see the city.

Ride through the old town to see the quaint charm the place holds or travel along the shores of Lake Zurich for incredible lakeside views.

Another popular segway tour takes you through the Zurich West neighbourhood where you’ll see street art, hip cafés, and cool shops.

I love that segway tours are a great way to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time, and they’re suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. 

19. Go shopping on Bahnhofstrasse 

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Bahnhofstrasse is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world – and I can see why!

It stretches from the Zurich train station to Lake Zurich and is lined with luxury boutiques, well-known department stores and high-end jewellers.

If you’re looking for designer clothing, Swiss watches, or expensive jewellery, this is the place to be. The street is home to some of the world’s most famous luxury brands, including Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.

The shops are housed in beautiful, historic buildings with ornate facades and elegant window displays.

Even if you’re not in the market for a new handbag or watch, it’s worth strolling down Bahnhofstrasse to admire the architecture and opulence on show – I know I love a bit of window shopping!

There are plenty of Swiss chocolate shops and souvenir stores selling traditional Swiss products like cowbells and cheese.

You can also find high-quality Swiss-made watches at more affordable prices than the luxury brands.

Good to know: It’ll be no surprise to know that shopping on Bahnhofstrasse can be expensive. The luxury brands charge premium prices, and even the more affordable stores are still pricey.

However, if you’re looking to treat yourself or someone special, Bahnhofstrasse is the perfect place to do so.

20. Visit Zurich Opera House

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Zurich Opera House (Opernhaus Zürich) is one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in Switzerland.

The building itself is a masterpiece of neo-classical architecture, and the interior is adorned with intricate decorations and luxurious plush seating.

It is also renowned for its acoustics, which are considered to be among the best in the world.

Visitors to Zurich can choose to take a guided tour of the Opera House, which I’d really recommend. It gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the building’s history, architecture, and operations.

During the tour, visitors can explore the main hall, stage, orchestra pit, dressing rooms, and other areas that are normally off-limits to the public.

The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the Opera House, and they provide fascinating insights into the world of opera and theatre.

Of course one of the best things to do in Zurich is to see a performance at the Opera House. It hosts a wide range of productions throughout the year, including operas, ballets, concerts, and plays.

As you’d expect, the performances are world-class, featuring talented artists and musicians from around the globe. 

Good to know: If you’re a student or under 26 years old, you can take advantage of discounted tickets through the Opera House’s “Junge Oper” program.

21. Go swimming in the rivers and lakes

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Zurich is a city that is famous for its serene lakes and rivers: the water is clean, clear, and refreshing with many different places where you can jump in and take a dip.

One of the best places to go swimming in the city is Lake Zurich. The lake is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens.

There are many different beaches and swimming areas around the lake, and you can easily find a spot that suits your needs.

Another great place to go swimming is the Limmat River which runs through the city and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

If you are looking for a more natural swimming experience, then I’d recommend heading to the Uetliberg mountain.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll find a stunning natural swimming pool that is fed by a mountain stream and surrounded by unforgettable scenery.

Good to know: In addition to swimming, there are many other water-based activities that you can enjoy in Zurich. You can rent a kayak or a paddleboard and explore the lakes and rivers, or you can take a boat tour and enjoy the sights from the water.

22. See the views from Felsenegg

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Tours and tickets: Zürich: City Highlights Tour by Coach, Cable Car, and Ferry

Felsenegg is a mountain located in Zurich that offers birds-eye views of the city and the surrounding Swiss areas.

One of the best things to do in Zurich is to take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain. Here you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the dedicated observation deck.

I love that the cable car ride itself is an experience, as it passes over the treetops and offers breathtaking views of the countryside as you rise among the snow-capped peaks.

At the top of Felsenegg, visitors can take a leisurely walk along the hiking trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

There are also several restaurants and cafés where visitors can relax and enjoy a scrumptious meal or a drink while taking in the views.

Good to know: One of the most popular activities at Felsenegg is paragliding. Take to the skies on a tandem paragliding flight with a licensed instructor and experience the thrill of flying over Zurich and the surrounding areas.

This is a great way to get a once-in-a-lifetime view of the city and the beautiful Swiss countryside.

Let me know any of your Zurich recommendations or questions in the comments! You can also watch my travel vlog to see what I got up to on my most recent visit to Zurich:

For more Zurich inspiration, discover my pick of the top luxury hotels in Zurich or unearth the best day trips from Zurich.

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