Zurich, Switzerland City Guide 🇨🇭

A home away from home. 🏨

THE TOP PICKS FOR A PLACE TO STAY IN ZURICH.

Somewhere to rest your head.. Hotels in zurich are as standard as they come for people travelling with families or for business, I've included three options here based on budget however long your stay.

Zurich Marriott Hotel

@michaelpunch

If the sun is shining this hotel is right on the river for you to enjoy and a five minute walk to Zurich HB.

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Sorell Hotel St. Peter

@michaelpunch

A solid, comfortable mid range place to stay in Zurich.

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Oldtown Hostel Otter

@michaelpunch

a budget friendly stay central to everything you want to see in Zurich!

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Plug it to my veins. ☕️

MY FAVOURITE CUP'S OF COFFEE IN ZURICH.

You'll find yourself surrounded with coffee shops in the city, the locals work hard and like to keep themselves caffeinated all day long. I've picked my favourite places that also work hard to create the best cup of joe possible. 

Babu's

@michaelpunch

Babu's bakery and coffeehouse is the place to check out in the city. Unless you're here bright and early you may have to hip n' shoulder the locals for a seat, but it's always well worth the wait. Get your breakfast/brunch fix with a big window, people watching view. I'd suggest any combination of pancakes and berries with an iced coffee to really let the A.M know it's had its time and you're day is ready to move on. Very 'instagrammable' plates!

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COFFEE

@michaelpunch

If you were walking along and looking at your phone to change a playlist, you might miss this unassuming pearler of a coffee spot. This was my to-go spot when exploring the city. The baristas always available for some back and forth joking while they make a killer flat white. If you happen to be here in the afternoon, another one of my recommended places to grab a beer straight across the street at Bierlab (also listed!)

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MAME

@michaelpunch

The multi award winning Mame will give you the fix you're craving when it comes to a hot cup of morning brown. They have a rotating lineup of bean varieties and styles. Having won several accolades and nods I would ask the barista for their options on the day, from single origin filtered coffee to heartwarming latte's, the team here will take good care of you. This place is casual without much seating so I would get a cup to go and begin your Zurich adventures!

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More than just a plate, it's a personality trait. 🍽️

THE TOP PLACES FOR EATING IN ZURICH.

This menu features a variety of restaurants i found to have the most flavour and quality of service. Zurich is an international city with a lot of different cultures giving their influence to the culinary scene. 

LILY'S ORIGINAL

@michaelpunch

Lily's, a local favourite restaurant nestled in the beating cultural heart of Zurich. It offers an relaxed dining experience along with its diverse and unpretentious Asian menu, Lily's caters to the discerning palates of both locals and visitors alike. Thai noodle curries are one of my favourites here here to order. The restaurant's prime central location adds to its allure, as it becomes a bustling hub of activity, attracting food enthusiasts from all walks of life. A lively place for gathering with friends, Lily's offers an ambiance that is both vibrant and intimate, making it an irresistible destination for all who seek a remarkable, flavoursome meal.

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Yardbird Southern Fried Chicken

@michaelpunch

Arguably the most flavoursome fried chicken in Zurich. a popular local spot unassumingly just down the street from Weidikon Station, only open in the evenings it fills up quickly with the after work crowd looking to satisfy their tastebuds, known particularly for spicy hot sauced chicken as well as seasonal specialties. a great place for a fix after a few beers from any of the breweries i've listed!

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Ooki

@michaelpunch

Some of the best Japanese flavour’s I’ve tasted in all of Europe. Ooki offers a wide ranged menu of more than just excellent ramen, their curries are fully packed with flavour. Their sister restaurant Ikoo focuses on seasonal ramen bowls with a special menu I always love (Ikoo also offers vegetarian and vegan options so there’s something for everybody in the casual space.) Ooki is a local hotspot so it’s worth booking in advance and coming in hungry!

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Brisket Southern BBQ & Bar

@michaelpunch

Owned by the Von Matt group, I would put this southern bbq venue up there with the flavours I have tasted in the USA. a large popular space with smaller plates and staples of burgers, wings and lots of treats, balanced against moreish bbq plates with brisket (duh), pulled pork, fried chicken and all the flavoursome accompanying toppings. They aren’t too shabby with their cocktails either. A must visit for any slow cooked meat fan!

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Raclette-Stube

@michaelpunch

It would be frowned upon if you were to spend any time in Zurich (or even worse Switzerland) without delving into the bottom end of a large pot of melted cheese. Raclette and Fondue are staples and highlights of swiss cuisine, here you'll find a popular family run place to indulge completely in a venue that melts over 18 tonnes of gruyere and vacherin cheese annually.

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Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer

@michaelpunch

If you're looking for the staple beer and burger, this might be the best place to grab a seat. located centrally in the shopping streets of Zurich, this large venue has a wide ranging tap list of beers to enjoy but they're known for their over the top and indulgent burgers. They also have a speciality for absolutely obscene sized milkshakes with toppings that look to topple over at any minute, enjoy yourself..

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Old Inn

@michaelpunch

My latest favourite in Zurich. The newly opened Old Inn features a spectacular indoor dining space with an old pub interior that is stunning. The popular lunch menu features classic pub dishes with sandwiches, fish & chips, steaks and other regulars that all have been cooked in a modern way, absolutely packed with flavour. I can’t recommend the NYC Reuben sandwich enough. In the evenings the venue steps up their game with a menu that has some staples but mostly features fine dining dishes, a step above the pub grub. Highly recommended!

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Gaijin Izakaya

@michaelpunch

An Asian Fusion restaurant that last year received a nod from Michelin. Arguably the best seafood in Zurich given it’s a landlocked country, wander here for a well put together menu that’s welcoming for both foodies and casual diners. Their menu regularly changes so they're always working with seasonal ingredients.

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La Taquería (Kreis 4)

@michaelpunch

A popular local Mexican jaunt, it’s a no-frills popular local hangout with everything you would expect from a Mexican eatery - taco’s, nachos, burrito’s.. you get it. One of the best parts of the hangout is they make their own hot sauces in house all layed out at each table for you to choose your heat and flavour. also has a great fridge filled with mexican and south american beers.

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Bindella

@michaelpunch

Pizza and pasta places are a dim a dozen in Zurich, so if you’ve got some spending money, check out the best southern Italian brasserie Zurich has to offer. Seafood lovers have raved about this place and it’s clear the food is fresh and prepared remarkably well.

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Hiltl Sihlpost

@michaelpunch

Tibit's is a multi location Vegan/Vegetarian Buffet style restaurant. To put it simply you grab a plate, pick and choose everything you wish, pay by the weight and enjoy! Even being a meat eater I enjoy the food here its delicious and you can get a little taste of everything.

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It's five o'clock somewhere. 🍻🍷🍸

THE BEST PLACES TO QUENCH YOUR THIRST IN ZURICH.

I have to admit I've extensively explored the city's emerging craft beer scene, and by proxy the wine and cocktail spots too. Take a break from cheap domestic lagers and premade cocktails to immerse yourself in the refreshments zurich can offer you. 

CRAFT BEER.

Bierwerk Züri

@michaelpunch

Stroll along the europalle from Zurich’s main train station and you’ll be walking by my favourite hangout in the city. You’ll see the wooden tables and chairs spread out in front of the fountain in the summer with the perfect people watching platform. Bierwerk’s lineup has a rotating mix, from collaborations with other breweries to in house trials, but this venue is known for its helles. my favourite I have had a few to many of here on a sunny afternoon. A confident nod also goes to their wheat beers, evident of the influence Swiss-German tastes have had. The venue also features some fresh, focaccia breads at certain times of the day, just in case you haven’t enjoyed carbs enough.

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The International Beer Bar

@michaelpunch

Only a short stroll from Bierwerk if you’re still feeling thirsty, a must visit is the international beer bar. A consistent rotating tap lineup of local and international treats has regular locals coming back. Big fans of Lervig and other European hop forward beers sit alongside Zurich’s best one-off’s from local breweries perfectly. If you need a break from the carbonation this team also has a great stock of whiskey and gin for those feeling in the spirit. Iconic, badass, welcoming.

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BIERlab

@michaelpunch

A local brew pub whose beer titles always reflect a musical influence. bierlab is an unpretentious, comfortable place to come enjoy a locally brewed beer off the main strip of Zurich. Catch a five minute train to Wiedekon station from Zurich HB and a short walk will bring you to the pub, if they have their NZ Pilsner on tap do yourself a favour and enjoy a large glass.

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Poli Bar

@michaelpunch

Not a brewery but a cosy bar a short stroll off the main tourist streets of Zurich. A locals hangout featuring great local craft beer, fresh tap options and also some cans/bottles in the fridge. Unpretentious by nature this is one to check out!

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MODERN VINO.

Smith & Smith Ltd.

@michaelpunch

Located off the tourist track this venue is mostly known for take home sales but regularly has some of the best wines in town and won't mind sharing some tastings with you if the moment strikes..

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169 West

@michaelpunch

a more wine-focused atmosphere from the afternoon and during the evening. With a basic design and the furniture mostly made of organic material such as stone and wood, the bar clearly shows its focus on a natural approach in every aspect.

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Mövenpick Wein-Bar

@michaelpunch

With different daily specials, such as Big Bottle Day or Champagne Tuesdays, and their bar food menu with classics such as steak tartar, Ceasar salad and club sandwich, the bar presents the perfect spot for a quick glass or a sit down, proper session.

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SHAKEN, STIRRED, BLENDED.

Widder Bar

@michaelpunch

Located at the Widder Hotel, Widder Bar may be Zurich’s most famous bar. You will be amazed at the Library of Spirits set up behind the bar containing over one thousand bottles, 250 of which are their famous international malt whiskey collection. So, obviously the cocktail list is long and varied

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Raygrodski

@michaelpunch

The bar only opens in the evenings and consequently focuses on beverages that are appropriate to this time of day. They have compiled a great drinks list (with categories such as pre- and after-dinner cocktails) and succeed in giving even the much-loved classics a special Raygrodski influence.

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Kasheme

@michaelpunch

A cosy boozy hangout central to Zurich, a great spot for music lovers to grab a drink and relax while shuffling through the endless vinyl records this place has, when a DJ is setup and playing you might get lucky and they’ll play your choice.

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SO MUCH MORE ROOM FOR ACTIVITIES 🌇⛰️

THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO SEE IN ZURICH.

In between all the lovely food and drinks its my assumption that you would also like to see some of the city, thats a given. Here's a list of all the things to check out while visiting. 

Niederdorf

@michaelpunch

when travelling around Zurich you'll undoubtedly come across the old town streets connected together with cobblestones and century old buildings. Niederdorf is worth the walk along seeing the shops for any souvenirs you may like as well as different knick-knacks, jewellery, clothing, etc. name it you'll find it. While walking both sides of the limmat river be sure to check out the famous churches and cathedrals Grossmunster, St. Peters Church and Fraumunster Church.

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Flussbad Oberer Letten

@michaelpunch

The local summer hotspot. A stretch of riverside hangout that features two bridges for people to jump into the water, a couple of eatery’s for food and takeaway drinks, but mostly important is the beautiful river to swim in or relax by. Everyday through the summer you’ll see expats and locals lined along the river sunbathing and enjoying their day.

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Kunsthaus Zürich

@michaelpunch

Museums are a treat for people travelling to Zurich. the famous Kunsthaus would be my top pick as well as the Museum Rietberg and Landesmuseum. Not just for classic art lovers!

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Zurich Thermal Baths & Spa

@michaelpunch

Bathe in century-old vaults that are full of peace and relaxation. The thermal bath area has been redesigned and refurbished in 2022 and now shines in all its new splendour. On the roof, theres a spectacular infinity pool offers a panoramic view over Zurich. Well worth the visit!

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Lindt Home of Chocolate

@michaelpunch

Popular with tourists and chocolate lovers (we’re only human). A modern museum of chocolate history and how Lindt became one of Switzerlands iconic brands. Great for families! Worth the trip for some free samples and a well stocked gift shop.

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Uetliberg

@michaelpunch

At 2,850 feet above sea level, Uetliberg towers over the rooftops of Zürich. The mountain affords an impressive panoramic view of the city, the lake and the Alps. The Uetliberg is particularly popular in November, as its summit is often above the blanket of fog that can cover the city at this time of year. You can easily reach the short walk up by train and enjoy a drink and meal at the top. On days with clear skies you can even see the famous alps on the horizon.

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FIFA Museum

@michaelpunch

Along with the original FIFA World Cup Trophy, the Museum displays over one thousand items of memorabilia and apparel. A further highlight is the giant pinball machine, which invites visitors to test their own ball skills in a playful manner – guaranteeing plenty of fun, including for non-soccer fanatics. Worth the visit!

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TRIP NOTES & TIPS:

Sunday's in Switzerland are known as a rest day with very few businesses open, so if planning a weekend trip check ahead for anything you don't want to miss out on! 

Luckily Zurich has some of the best public transport in the world, so getting around by tram or train very easy and recommended over renting a car. Simply visit the SBB (Swiss public transport) website and choose what option is best for your budget:

Https://www.sbb.ch/en/leisure-holidays/inspiration/international-guests/swiss-travel-pass.html

Zurich is a modern place with WIFI available almost everywhere you will go, so it’s not absolutely necessary to pick a SIM card up, if you’re a little prepared and map out your days it’s avoidable. If you do wish to purchase one, my recommendation is to check out SALT for your mobile needs. They will have deals from 2€ per day. You can find stores in the Airport shopping area or in central zurich:

Https://www.salt.ch/en/mobile/plan/prepay.

ENJOY.